Switch mode

Jean-Yves Blatt

5 questions

Swiss Deluxe Hotels Stories Summer 2020 Jean Yves Blatt 01 Fi7a6166 T115 Ecirgb Vertical

You love cars. Is it the thrill of speed that appeals to you?

We feel privileged to live here in Andermatt: six of the most popular mountain passes are right on our doorstep. Exploring the countryside in a car allows you to take in nature and the beautiful scenery along the winding roads. And yes, speed does appeal to me. I am an ambitious person, competing is in my blood.

Jean-Yves Blatt, a hotelier living life in the fast lane?

«The Chedi Andermatt, a hotel in the fast lane,» would fit, I think. We are young and energetic, and our lifestyle is unconventional. We, as a team, have managed to create a unique place in the last five years. We are different. Our ambition is to always be trendsetters, never trend followers. And going back to your first question, a car should not only be fast, but also beautiful.

Does that mean you consider yourself an aesthete?

When I was young, I had to choose whether I wanted to become a chef or a draughtsman. I opted for an apprenticeship as a chef, but my love for architecture and art has stayed with me throughout my life. Both play a leading part here at The Chedi Andermatt.

Where do you refuel? What keeps you going?

That is where passion comes into play. Passion cannot be created, it is either there, or it is not. We work with people, for people. And guests sense whether real passion is involved. They look for authenticity. We constantly strive to surprise our guests, and we will only be able to succeed if we are passionate about what we do. Today’s guests quickly unmask anyone who tries to feign passion, but they truly appreciate anything that comes from the heart.

You like to put your foot down. But cars also have a brake pedal. What do you do to slow down every once in a while?

I recharge my batteries when I am with my family, at home. Two years ago, Bella, our young dog, joined our family. My walks with her help me to keep a healthy balance. And, I travel to the Middle East twice every year. I go there to relax and to observe new trends that emerge in the melting pot between East and West.

Photo Nico Schaerer — Words Martin Hoch

Related Stories

Transformed into an exclusive Krug pop-up bar for a second year running, the terrace of the Dolder Grand is arguably one of the best vantage points to admire the awe-inspiring panoramic vistas over Zurich. The perfect place to catch up with Lisa Bader, Head Sommelier at the Dolder and GaultMillau Sommelier of the Year 2021.

Discover more

Specialising in turning brands and spaces into audible experiences, The Music Architect’s founder and creative director, former classical cellist Zoë Burnard, gives us a glimpse into her world of sights and sounds in ten questions.

Discover more

In the gourmet restaurant of Berlin’s legendary Adlon Hotel, Reto Brändli still fondly remembers the feeling when he first stood looking though the window out at the Brandenburger Tor.

Discover more

After studying medicine for three and a half years, Daniel Galvez Estrada decided to follow his dream and become a chef. As an ambassador for Peruvian cuisine, he takes his diners on a journey with his traditional ceviches and tiraditos.

Discover more

5 questions to Robert P. Herr, General Manager, Beau-Rivage Geneva.

Discover more

For Sapori Ticino’s founder Dany Stauffacher, great food and wines are not just earthly pleasures but also an education; a combination of culture, creativity and responsibility that brings forward conviviality, shared experiences and knowledge.

Discover more

A man of the mountains through and through, Hans-Jörg Walther is not known for mincing his words. True to form, the General Manager of the Riffelalp Resort says that his hotel is one of a kind. You could say the same about him.

Discover more