H Stories

There’s a reason the term Presidential Suite carries such weight in the world of luxury travel. Born out of a necessity to host dignitaries and heads of state in a manner befitting their status, these suites weren’t just about providing space; they embodied the prestige and gravitas associated with their respective occupants. In some ways, they’re not just places to stay—they’re backdrops to diplomacy, cultural exchange, and occasionally, high-stakes negotiations.

Crafting Timeless Elegance and a Heritage-Driven approach from Concept to Creation, this passion has become the essence of Iconia Group, a multidisciplinary interior architecture company.

Whether it be nature lovers, bikers, culture vultures, foodies or wine connoisseurs, Lugano attracts visitors all year round with its Mediterranean climate and diversity and it's a mere two-hour train journey from Zurich!

Hieronymus was a scholar and has become the epitome of medieval scholarship in lore. Albrecht Dürer portrayed him in deep contemplation in his writing room, surrounded by symbolically significant accessories of thought. This space for contemplation still serves as a guiding inspiration for the Hieronymus brand today. The passion for the black art of letterpress printing has been preserved to this day and the Swiss company dedicates its entire portfolio to paper and writing culture. Nostalgic? We asked Creative Director Thorsten Traber about this topic.

Zurich’s Dolder Grand hotel is celebrating its 125th anniversary this year, and has long stood as a beacon of timeless, casual luxury.

Presidents, prime ministers, the royals, half of Hollywood and London’s high society have all enjoyed the privilege of sitting at Anton Mosimann’s table. The only way to top this exclusive experience is to dine with him. Switzerland’s most famous chef is the perfect old-school gentleman and a walking history book. We had the privilege of accompanying him on his rally through half of Switzerland – in the slipstream of his fiery red Jaguar XKR8.

I don’t know about you, but I always feel ambivalent about oh-so-attractive and apparently-super-duper-exclusive upgrade offers – be it at a hotel, fashion store, rental car company, fine dining restaurant, on a webshop or per Instagram DM.

I’m honestly kind of surprised that – having survived the wonderful yet energy-zapping years of early child rearing, parents’ evenings from hell and moody teenagers – I find myself in a Zurich café with my editor and friend, Evelyn, launching into a caffeine-fuelled monologue about my younger daughter Lily that leaves us both somewhat jittery, exuberated and slightly in need of a lie-down.

When it comes to nightlife and bars, the heartland of Swiss tourism at Lake Lucerne is a real dark horse. During our visit, we meet a bar chef who tickles our taste buds, bravely order a cocktail with a bite, and dine in what is probably the most exclusive Japanese restaurant in Switzerland.

Discover how to prepare for your first marathon.

With its imposing neo-baroque architecture and sprawling, verdant gardens, the Palace, as it is known locally, has remained a sought-after destination for over 160 years for those seeking an indulgent experience in one of Switzerland’s most breathtaking settings.

Vevey and Lake Geneva seen from the iconic Terrace on Mont Pèlerin – today it would never be possible to build it as wide and impressive. A veritable piazza on the mountain.

Over 360 Alpine bends lie ahead of us. My fingers are tingling. My hands would now rather be clutching the slim handlebars of a road bike and not the padded car steering wheel.

A story written by one family, and an address that stands for old-world luxury: it’s hard not to feel the thrill of history when staying at the legendary Badrutt’s Palace. Especially if you’re here for a 24-hour spa break with bells, whistles and one incredibly comfy bathrobe.

Luxurious experience – gosh, I hate this marketing phrase so much. In my humble opinion, it is nothing but an over-used wannabe statement, a hollow battle cry to pimp mediocre products, and a shamelessly sneaky attempt to add some posh spice to a bland brand.

Etiquette rules for visiting the hotel pool and sauna.

Bern is generally thought of as a picturesque, easy-going and tranquil place. A short, exhilarating stay in Switzerland’s capital is enough to confirm all this. It will further lead to the realisation that Bern is also home to a cosmopolitan and innovative local bar scene with wonderfully tasty creations.

The search for the perfect winter sports destination ends here and if it’s action you’re after, this is THE place to be. Upbeat but down-played.

Once upon a time, the magnificent Bellevue Palace, in the heart of the Swiss capital, Bern, was sold for 1 Swiss Franc. You might think: what a shame I couldn’t buy it myself! But the Swiss did find a clever way to do it, and therefore today, they technically own it. A smart move – maybe it’s not a coincidence that Einstein used to live five minutes from here!

Lucerne is a city that whispers tales of time, where the azure waters of the eponymous lake flirt with quaint urban spires, all under the vigilant gaze of the majestic Alps. But there’s a vantage point, an apex from which this narrative unfolds most splendidly: the grand suites at the Mandarin Oriental Palace, Luzern.