Switzerland - Andermatt and Lake Lucerne
Having stayed at Chedi Chiang Mai (now Anantara) and visited Chedi Muscat, I was confident Chedi Andermatt would be just the treat we were after and it more than matched expectations. At the heart of the beautifully dramatic Alps, and to the edge of quaint and unassuming Andermatt, the hotel successfully fuses Asian influences with an Alpine setting to create a tranquil, contemporary and elegant feel. There’s a feeling of exclusivity but without pretensions, and the service is impeccable, friendly and welcoming. We really loved it.
Our journey from Zurich Airport was around 2 hours by train, with incredible scenic views along the way. The train network is efficient, clean and timely – as you would expect from the Swiss – and with station information points available to provide printed route planners and timetables it was very straightforward. On arrival at Andermatt station we were met by a friendly Chedi driver who whisked us to reception, and shortly afterwards we re-joined our bags in our stunning Grand Deluxe Room.
Our large and welcoming room was fitted out with all mod cons, balanced with sumptuous furnishings to sink into (very welcome after a fairly long travel day). A swanky glass fireplace connects lounge to balcony, from where there are incredible views across the village rooftops to snow-capped mountains – what better way to spend our first evening than enjoying the balmy Swiss mountain air with a glass of red, a few delicious Swiss choccies and stunning views. Perfect, in every way.
A very delicious breakfast set us up well for a busy day 2 and a day trip to Lake Lucerne. Our Swiss Railpass covered all train journeys throughout our stay and the 2 hour or so journey whizzed past as views went from snow-topped peaks to alpine village to lakeside views. The pass covers most forms of public transport so we were able to enjoy a steamboat cruise across the lake, gondola from lakeside to Pilatus, 2132m above, and cable car rides all the way back down; a wonderful and fun way to take in the scale of the lake and its surrounds with spectacular views along the way. With a delicious lakeside lunch thrown in for good measure, and sunshine throughout, we couldn’t have asked for more.
Day 3 was all about enjoying our immediate surroundings both at the hotel and Andermatt village. After a short walk around the village the clouds continued to roll in which gave us the perfect excuse to hide away in the wonderful spa area of the Chedi, relaxing poolside to rejuvenate after yesterday’s exertions. Once again every detail has been thought of and the facilities and furnishings are spot on, creating a calm and relaxing space.
The clouds cleared early evening allowing for a lovely stroll through the old village’s charming, traditional streets, accompanied by the sound of the river racing through the heart of the village, and a few cow bells jangling from a field above. I was half expecting Heidi to wander past at any moment! We were heading to locals’ favourite, Gasthaus Ochsen, to enjoy one of the best fondues in town in a traditional guesthouse. The atmosphere was charming, the food delicious and our trip was rounded off perfectly!
