Alpine mountaineering base
This 1855 inn runs like an alpine club, where guests gather beneath original timber beams surrounded by historic mountain relics.
“It’s a tidy Victorian affair with wrought-iron Juliet balconies and red wooden shutters which, in spring and summer, harmonize with the velvety geraniums in the window boxes.”
What it’s good at
Exceptional
Headquarters for pioneering mountaineers and geologists who launched the golden age of Alpinism.
What they say
Michelin Selected
Michelin
Also in Condé Nast Traveler.
The first iteration of the hotel now known as Monte Rosa was the first hotel in Zermatt, catering to mountaineers in search of adventure more than 160 years ago.
Right in the middle
Well-located: walkable to some things, a short ride to more.
Century-old larch chalets line the car-free street outside, and the Gornergrat railway is a five-minute walk away.
The rooms
Rooms come with antique furnishings and warm wools, and select suites look straight toward the Matterhorn.
The spa
Dogs stay too.
Edward's Bar-Café
Guests gather around the curved timber bar and tartan banquettes for alpine tapas and evening cocktails.
At the table
Breakfast is laid out along the sidewalk terrace, and carved wood-panelled dining rooms serve traditional Swiss plates.
How it began
English mountaineer Edward Whymper lodged here in 1865 before setting out on the first ascent of the Matterhorn.
Good to know
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Monte Rosa Hotel
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Zermatt
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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.