Above the Clouds: A Tale of Two Swiss Icons at Bürgenstock & Riffelalp

Bürgenstock Resort

Bürgenstock Resort is a masterclass in Swiss luxury, history, and wellness, dramatically set high above Lake Lucerne. Arriving via the iconic funicular immediately sets the tone—this is not just a hotel, but a destination designed to elevate you, both physically and mentally. Once at the top, sweeping lake views, impeccably manicured grounds, and miles of scenic walking paths create a sense of calm that feels intentional and restorative.

Cozy up to the fire in your living room at Bürgenstock.

Spa

The Alpine Spa is a true standout and one of the finest in Europe. Indoor and outdoor infinity pools appear to float above the lake, complemented by serene relaxation rooms, saunas, and holistic treatments that draw from Swiss wellness traditions. It’s the kind of spa where hours pass unnoticed, and the views alone feel therapeutic.

Between spa time, guests can hike the surrounding trails, ride the historic Hammetschwand Lift, or simply wander the cliffside paths that trace the mountain’s edge.

Talk about a view. Spa infinity pool.

Dining & history

Dining at Bürgenstock is equally impressive, offering a range of refined experiences—from elegant fine dining to more relaxed, panoramic settings ideal for long lunches and sunset dinners. Each restaurant emphasizes quality ingredients, thoughtful presentation, and those ever-present lake views.

Adding to the experience is the resort’s remarkable legacy: for over a century, Bürgenstock has hosted royalty, world leaders, and cultural icons including Audrey Hepburn, Sophia Loren, Charlie Chaplin, and Winston Churchill. You feel that quiet prestige throughout your stay—a sense that you’re part of a long tradition of travelers seeking beauty, privacy, and inspiration.

Enjoy your tub time with a fire and a view.

Riffelalp Resort 2222m

Riffelalp delivers what many imagine as the quintessential Swiss alpine experience—romantic, pastoral, and deeply connected to nature. Accessible by a private mountain tram above Zermatt, the resort feels timeless and wonderfully removed from the modern world. One of the most memorable details was the sound of cows grazing nearby, their bells gently ringing as they moved across alpine meadows with the Matterhorn standing proudly in the background. It’s a sensory experience that stays with you.

Welcome to Riffelalp, highest train in Europe.

Days here are perfectly unhurried. Guests can step directly onto some of the region’s most beautiful hiking trails, relax in the outdoor heated pool with Matterhorn views, enjoy the spa with a massage, or simply sit with a coffee and watch the light change on the Matterhorn—it is, after all, right in front of you. You can even see climbers with their headlamps on in the early morning as they start the ascent of the Matterhorn.

Matterhorn views at your feet

Dining

Dining at Riffelalp is warm, authentic, and deeply rooted in Swiss tradition—most notably, enjoying fondue while gazing at the Matterhorn, which feels almost surreal in its simplicity and beauty. The experience is intimate, cozy, and soul-stirring, especially in the evenings when the mountain takes on a golden glow.

Riffelalp is ideal for travelers seeking authenticity with comfort—romantics, hikers, skiers, and those who value atmosphere over flash. It’s luxury with heart, where nature, tradition, and thoughtful hospitality come together effortlessly.

The resort is surrounded by mountains.

Who this journey is perfect for

Together, Bürgenstock and Riffelalp create a beautifully balanced Swiss itinerary—lake and mountain, refined elegance and alpine authenticity. I recommend this pairing for clients who want to slow down, immerse themselves in iconic landscapes, and experience Switzerland in a way that feels both elevated and deeply personal.

This is travel that lingers long after you return home, defined by quiet moments, breathtaking views, and memories that feel unmistakably Swiss.

Black sheep—go see them if you can (the real ones).

Riffelalp Resort offers views of the Matterhorn and with balconies, ensure you get one—because the cloud cover and the view of the Matterhorn can change in seconds. Having a room with a balcony allows you to grab a blanket from the room and sit outside and enjoy the view.

For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Switzerland page.