The Swiss Alps' Chedi Andermatt Opens as the Country's Only Year-Round Resort

Photos Courtesy of The Chedi Andermatt Large comfy chairs, big furry blankets, and beautifully designed fireplaces are a few of the offerings at the new five-star Chedi Andermatt hotel and residences in the Swiss Alps. Guests and owners coming in from the snowy slopes are welcomed into the property’s stylish wood paneling which creates an environment perfectly suited for a cozy Switzerland experience.

Designed by Jean-Michel Gathy, Chief designer and advisor for Denniston International Architects & Planners Ltd., the resort and residences are an exclusive development in the Urseren valley. Gathy was careful to imagine a place that was both modern and traditional while at the same time not disturbing its surrounding landscapes. Built to MINERGIE Swiss Quality standards, the use of labor and materials all came from the local area and the hotel is based around an ecologically- and socially-sustainable model.

Since The Chedi Andermatt is the only resort open year-round in Switerzland, guests can experience both the white winter months and the lush green warmer seasons of the country. Skiers of all levels are welcomed and new developments are underway to connect the Sedrun ski domain to the hotel as well as to create over 74 more miles of slopes. During the summer, golfers can perfect their game at the 18-hole golf course, designed by Kurt Rossknecht.

Inside, the Alpine chic meets Asian nuances décor is highlighted throughout the property. Dark wood floors and soft leather chairs can be found in each of the 104 guest accommodations and minimal furnishings help to ensure an elegantly sleek feel to the rooms. The bathroom’s oversized soaking tub, heated natural stone floors and polished wood walls give off a serene Zen mood, one you may be thankful for after a day of skiing. Hotel guests can choose between standard guestrooms and two suite options.

Those looking for a more permanent stay at the luxury hotel can invest in one of 64 condos, 42 apartment residences, six maisonette penthouses or seven lofts. Owners will have exclusive use of a concierge service and access to the hotel’s facilities. The Chedi offers a 7,800-square-foot spa and wellness center, a temperature-controlled outdoor lap pool, wine and cigar room, and two fine dining restaurants. A state-of-the-art Technogym can be used by residents and guests or they can choose to participate in yoga classes or personal training.

Aptly named The Restaurant, the hotel’s all-day dining venue is headed by two-Michelin star Executive Chef Mansour Memarian whose gastronomic cooking takes center stage. Showcasing European, Swiss and Asian dishes, the restaurant explores a fusion of cuisines all under large twinkling chandeliers. In keeping with the spirit of the hotel, The Japanese Restaurant, open December through April only, offers Asian fare from Chef Hide Yamamoto. Make sure to make a reservation, however, because it only seats 40 guests at a time.

To get there, travelers can rent a car from Zurich Airport which will take about 90 minutes and 45 minutes from Buochs private airfield if traveling by private plane. Otherwise, the train from Zurich takes two hours. Hotel rates begin at around USD $728 per night and prices for residences can be obtained by contacting the property's sales team.