Zurich: ancient charm and modern flair with stunning lake views

In an age of transformation in which we are all striving for efficiency and sustainability and looking for new paths, the restaurant industry is no exception. Even in the fine dining scene, concepts are being reconsidered and structures adapted in order to move with the times. One remarkable discovery in this regard is blooms, the new garden restaurant at the Dolder Grand Hotel in Zurich.

Late in the evening when the last guests have left, Priska Thuring likes to sit on the terrace of her restaurant Stara Skola (meaning Old School) under an old mulberry tree looking across the sea over green forests and vineyards.

Swiss Deluxe Hotels, in concert with its partners Audi Switzerland and Prestige Magazine, brought together an eclectic mix of entrepreneurs, visionaries, and forward-thinkers from various sectors to spark stimulating conversations on the topic of transformation.

Hailed as one of the most significant gourmet festivals by food connoisseurs and enthusiasts alike, S.Pellegrino Sapori Ticino reflects the culinary wealth of one of Switzerland’s most loved regions. Charmingly close to the Mediterranean style yet deeply anchored in Swiss traditions, the region serves as the base for an annual feast of flavours combining the best of gastronomy with high-end hospitality.

The Widder Hotel is a fascinating amalgamation of townhouses from the 15th century spread across nine medieval buildings in the centre of Zurich’s old town. These structures have been skilfully combined to create space for 48 distinctive rooms and one exceptional Penthouse Suite.

With its riveting mix of trendy venues and innovative world-class restaurants, Switzerland’s gastronomic capital has firmly established itself on the map of culinary destinations for well-travelled gourmets and lovers of sundry cuisine.

Zurich is the largest Swiss city – with vineyards. At the beginning of the 20th century, there were 400 hectares of vineyards across what is now the city. Today there are still 14 hectares planted with all kinds of varieties. Of course, there used to be many more.