18) Badrutt’s Palace – St. Moritz
Perched high above Switzerland’s Engadin valley, imparting a touch of alpine glamour to the quaint St. Moritz, the legendary Badrutt’s Palace, adorned with fairy-tale turrets, was inaugurated by Caspar Badrutt in 1896. Over the years, this opulent mountain retreat has become synonymous with a captivating blend of skiing, socializing, and observing the elite. Suite 501, a favorite of film director Alfred Hitchcock, beckons movie enthusiasts. The hotel’s grand wood-paneled lobby, Le Grand Hall, facing the Alps, is rumored to be where Hitchcock conceived the idea for “The Birds.”
The allure of Badrutt’s Palace lies in its fusion of Old-World charm and modern opulence, evident in the meticulously designed common areas, as well as its 157 spacious guest rooms and suites. Attention to detail is paramount, with considerate gestures such as Swiss chocolates and Engadiner Nusstorte during turn-down service, and a warm water bottle tucked between high-thread-count sheets. While the hotel caters to indulgent tastes with its lavish dining, renowned spa, and chauffeured Rolls-Royce transfers, the ultimate luxury lies in the breathtaking views—opt for a room with a balcony overlooking the lake.
Culinary experiences abound with six on-site restaurants, offering everything from signature Japanese-Peruvian cuisine at Matsuhisa to bistro classics at King’s Social House by British chef Jason Atherton. Pizzeria Heuboden tempts with pies laden with reblochon. The Renaissance Bar, enveloped in a genteel ‘jacket and tie required after 7:30pm’ ambiance, invites guests to savor expertly crafted drinks and live music amid the lingering scent of cigar smoke.
Beyond skiing, the hotel offers winter delights, including its own natural ice rink. Guests can enjoy a large heated outdoor pool, saunas, and indulge in designer shopping throughout the resort. For a romantic touch, consult the hotel concierge to arrange a horse-drawn carriage ride around the lake. Keep in mind that the hotel shutters its activities during spring and autumn.
