Riffelalp Zermatt, Switzerland
Renovated
2016
Price
$$$$
Rated for
Wellness Resort LuxeOutside the door
High-altitude alpine resort
The resort runs as a self-contained world above Zermatt, where days unfold in alpine stillness directly opposite the Matterhorn.
“The setting borders a stone pine forest and is nothing short of enchanting. The hotel itself remains the epitome of luxury.”
What it’s good at
Notable
Matterhorn panoramas from Restaurant Alexandre and fireside piano cocktails at 2,222 metres.
What they say
Also in Condé Nast Traveler and AFAR.
Nearly all 70 rooms and suites at the slope-side Riffelalp Resort 2222 m.ü.M. have balconies with Matterhorn views, and the hotel’s spa is home to Europe’s highest outdoor pool.
Tucked away
A place apart: the property is the destination.
Stone pine forests surround the plateau, and the Gornergrat train reaches Zermatt village in twenty minutes.
The rooms
Timber-paneled walls line the rooms, and nearly all open onto private balconies facing the Matterhorn.
The pools
Bring a swimsuit.
The outdoor pool stays heated to 35°C opposite the Matterhorn, and an indoor pool sits under exposed timber beams.
The baths
A subterranean rock cavern holds a heated saline bath. Nearby, timber Finnish saunas reach 90°C.
The spa and gym
Curtained daybeds rest beneath a starlight ceiling, and an adjoining fitness room has cardio and weight equipment.
Dogs stay too.
Restaurant
Ristorante Al Bosco
The sunny stone terrace sits directly on the ski run, serving pizza and fresh pasta opposite the Matterhorn.
At the table
Restaurant Alexandre serves regional alpine cuisine beside panoramic windows, and guests gather for tastings in the stone-arched wine cellar.
How it began
A 1961 fire destroyed the original 1884 grand hotel. The founding Seiler family rebuilt and reopened the resort in 2000.
Good to know
Stay here
Riffelalp Resort 2222 m
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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.