Zinal, Switzerland
Renovated
2013
Price
$
Rated for
Design Local ClassicOutside the door
The house
Swiss Alpine ClubStainless-steel alpine refuge
This off-grid shelter sits at 3,256 metres, gathering climbers around communal refectory tables before predawn ascents.
What it’s good at
Remarkable
Corrugated stainless-steel panels wrap an angular timber frame perched above the Turtmann Glacier.
Tucked away
A place apart: the property is the destination.
The Col de Tracuit sits a five-hour climb from Zinal, bordering the Turtmann Glacier beneath the Bishorn.
The rooms
Dormitories are lined with untreated wood and fitted with simple bunk platforms, with communal washbasins instead of showers.
At the table
The wood-clad refectory serves half-board meals along pine tables, beneath sloped windows looking out toward the Weisshorn.
How it began
Stone walls from the original 1929 cabin were preserved during the 2013 reconstruction to shelter the terrace from ridge winds.
The app
Like this one? There are so many more.
Swipe any city’s hotels and heart the ones you love. The app gets your taste.
Our shorthand
How we rate hotels.
The medals
Gold
Extremely rare. Sets the global standard.
Silver
Brilliant execution. And we’re picky.
Bronze
They did this well. You’ll notice.
Listed
A defining trait. Makes the hotel what it is.
The eight vibes
Design
Built around a vision. Even the door handles have a designer.
Luxe
Cared for at every turn. The bath is drawn before you ask.
Local
It could only be here. You wake up knowing where you are.
Social
Where the city goes out. The bar is full and the night is young.
Heritage
A building with a story. Once a palace, a monastery, a station.
Wellness
You leave feeling new. Rest, sweat, soak and sleep like a stone.
Classic
The city grew up with it. Same rituals, same regulars, same bar.
Resort
A world of its own. Something to do from breakfast to nightcap.
The scene
Lively
Where things happen: restaurants, shops, people.
Central
Well-located: walkable to some things, a short ride to more.
Quiet
Away from the crowds. Getting around takes intention.
Secluded
A place apart: the property is the destination.