H Stories

The engine is running as the anticipation rises. Our upcoming road trip takes us on the Ruta Cumpleta, the most comprehensive tour of the Alpine Circle, over the most scenic roads through the cantons of Graubünden and Ticino. Join us on a journey crossing grandiose passes while stopping at magnificent hotels and restaurants.

Whether seeking Alpine adventures, culinary delights, or simply looking to dive into Switzerland’s inspired natural beauty, the Engadin has it all. With its stunning landscapes, pristine lakes, and charming villages, it’s no wonder the region consistently ranks as a top destination for travellers seeking unforgettable experiences.

Tartare in the bowl, non-alcoholic dog vodka, and Basler Leckerli treats galore: at the Grand Hotel Les Trois Rois, our columnist’s black Labrador enjoys five-star service fit for a king.

A colourful evening with fondue, fun and friends in the company of a colour-blind Labrador: despite this apparent contradiction, we spend a delightful time at the ultra-stylish Carlton Hotel in St. Moritz.

A welcome refuge from Zurich’s hustle and bustle and the arctic chill voutside, I didn’t exactly expect a female DJ when I first checked into the cool, calm and collected La Réserve Eden Au Lac. No big logos or signs announce the imaginary yacht club entirely designed by Philippe Starck. In the designer’s own words, ‘This hotel is like rock ‘n’ rolling with the Queen of England; everything is traditional yet resolutely unconventional.’ I was immediately intrigued to find out more.

The perfect destination for an urban art safari à pied, Switzerland’s largest city and cultural epicentre beckons art enthusiasts from near and far with its miscellany of world-renowned galleries, public art installations, pop-ups and the country’s largest art museum.

Time-honoured traditions embrace modern sophistication amidst the serene waters of Lake Zurich and the enchanting cobblestone alleys of the Old Town. Zurich is a dynamic city pulsating with world-class culture, art, and gastronomy—a captivating symphony of contrasts waiting to be explored.

‘A delicious breakfast bowl is the best way to start your day,’ says Janina Brucker. Her smile reaffirming her words as she sits at Kasa Kaisin with her sister Gioia. Both have demanding jobs; Janina manages the hip eatery Lumière, while Gioia works as a creative at one of the city’s leading communication agencies. Making the most of their free time, they take us on a typical day off through the streets of Zurich.

A trip to a thermal spa with a water-loving Labrador – what could go wrong?

Offering a plenitude of options for families in a paradisiac setting, guests of Ascona’s elegant Hotel Eden Roc enjoy culinary delights, lakefront entertainment and the highest level of five-star hospitality. Earthly pleasures abound await guests both big and small.

A hidden gem nestled along the sparkling shores of Lake Geneva, where culture, nature, and history intertwine. Wander through its charming streets, experience its rich arts scene, and savour the finest Swiss cuisine, all while basking in the breathtaking vistas of the Alps.

Let’s saunter around the Lavaux Vineyard Terraces, drink wine from this sun-soaked region, visit Freddie Mercury in Montreux, explore the boutiques, cafés, museums and parks of lively Lausanne, and relax in the finest spas and hotel suites Lake Geneva has to offer. Summer comes easy around here.

Whether you are relaxing in the spa, indulging in fondue outdoors, having fun at the Krönchen Kids’ Club or dining in style in the Arven-stube, the whole family will be entertained by everything the Grand Hotel Kronenhof in Pontresina has to offer.

Falling for Luna: Author Titus Arnu checked into the Tschuggen Grand Hotel with his canine pal and watched a heart-warming winter’s love story unfold before his eyes.

The evolution of Zermatt from a farming village to a renowned holiday destination started with a man named Seiler. Get ready for a journey through time that’ll take you back more than 150 years!

The capital city of Switzerland oozes charm. Or ‘cachet’ as the French would say. There is always something new to discover when exploring this hidden gem with Medieval roots.

You know the feeling you get when time seems to stand still, in the most beautiful way? That’s what arriving at the Grand Hotel Zermatterhof in your horse-drawn carriage feels like. And taking a spa break while the Matterhorn teases you behind its demure curtain of clouds just might be the best possible way to experience this timeless mountain getaway.

If you follow the Matter Vispa river upstream, you will find yourself facing the Matterhorn. At the foot of this mighty peak, dozens of natural springs were the reason for Zermatt’s original name: Praborno, “meadow among natural springs.”

A weekend in Zermatt is like a weekend in Wonderland! You’ll be bewitched, beguiled and possibly a little bit bewildered. My survival tips:

Labrador of luxury: writer Titus Arnu took his dog with him to stay at The Chedi in Andermatt, an elegant hotel with a fine dining menu for our four-legged friends.