SINCE first opening its doors in 1848, the Grand Hotel Kronenhof has been a star attraction in the Engadine, a pictureseque Alpine valley region in the south east of Switzerland. Located in the peaceful mountain village of Pontresina, the five star property makes up the heart of the community, its outstanding Neo-Baroque looks making it a landmark of the area.
Intricate architrcture of the Grand Hotel Kronenhof yard
Getting to the property from Zurich involves a romantic train ride that takes you up the UNESCO World Heritage-listed railway to Pontresina. It’s a truly stunning vista and the experience of being so immersed within nature is thrilling.
The natural beauty only continues at the Grand Hotel Kronenhof. The 112-room property, which honestly looks as though it belongs in a fairytale, is surrounded by sprawling pine and larch forests which provide breathtaking views. The glaciers of the Bernina are not far behind.
The stunning view from Grand Hotel Kronenhof over Swiss forests and the Alps
Although the guest rooms, which are wonderfully cosy spaces, provide excellent views, the real knock-out panorama is revealed from the hotel’s spa. An award-winning operation (the hotel was named best spa resort in the country at the 2016 World Luxury Spa Awards), this wellness haven is certainly reason alone to pack your bags and head to Pontresina. At over 2,000 square metres, it boasts a number of heat and water therapy rooms and outdoor grounds, all of which are flanked by a huge central swimming pool. The treatments on offer (massages, facials) are carried out by expert therapists and, combined with the freshest Alpine air, they will make you feel truly rejuvenated.
The luxurious spa at the Grand Hotel Kronenhof
Other than a fantastic wellness offering, the beauty of the Grand Hotel Kronenhof is based around its elegant interior spaces that really do feel a bit one-of-a-kind. What is so nice about the property is the tremendous amount of space that is available to you. And yet the atmosphere is that of a big old country house rather than an intimidating castle. The Kronenhof Bar, with its wood panelled walls and leather seating, opens up to the lobby area, where you can find classic red velvet sofas and sparkling chandeliers. I enjoyed afternoon tea and evening drinks in these spaces, both of which were charming (and deeply relaxing) experiences. The crowds here certainly aren’t boisterous, and the pianist who performs in the lobby towards the end of the day beats loud tunes via iTunes.
Mesmerising interiors of the Grand Hotel Kronenhof lobby lounge by night
At the other end of the ground floor is the Grand Restaurant, where proper old-school glamour is served up. The vaulted painted ceiling, dating from 1872, is definitely something special and the sense of history can no doubt be sensed. Offering an elegant dinner service, guests also take breakfast here. Suffice to say, it’s likely the most luxurious setting you will experience when chomping on bircher muesli and toast.
My personal dining favourite, however, was Kronenstübli, the hotel’s gourmet offering which possesses 16 Gault Millau points, basically meaning that it is an epicurean’s dream. The restaurant is tucked away in an intimate historic part of the hotel, effectively functioning as a Swiss pine parlour, with its pale blond wooden panels and rustic charm. Expect French classics made with the freshest ingredients.
Without a doubt, it was difficult to pull myself away from the magical Grand Hotel Kronenhof. The fabulous staff, so courteous and professional throughout, are a brilliant and invaluable asset. It doesn’t come as a surprise to discover that 60-70 per cent of the hotel’s guests are returning clientele. If you want a really special experience, where you will be taken care of, head to the Kronenhof.
by Derby Jones
Grand Hotel Kronenhof
Via Maistra 130, 7504 Pontresina, Switzerland
Tel: +41 81 830 30 30
Book online at www.kronenhof.com
Visit Switzerland Tourism for further information: www.myswitzerland.com
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