Epic views, wide-ranging facilities and warm hospitality combine with sustainability at the Hotel Belvedere Grindelwald in the Swiss Alps
Breathtaking vistas of Alpine peaks and wildflower meadows, pine forests and pretty lodges – all made dazzling white with pristine snow in winter – greet visitors to Grindelwald in the Swiss Alps. At the heart of this lovely village, a warm welcome greets guests at the luxurious family-run Hotel Belvedere Grindelwald. Here, year-round pleasures range from enabling skiing and outdoor pursuits, to culinary delights across three restaurants, an Alpine spa and spectacular views from every room. The Hauser family’s hospitality also extends to embracing sustainability measures that benefit the beautiful environment, visitors and the local community alike.
“Ever since my great-grandfather founded the hotel in 1907, our family has wanted both visitors and locals to enjoy the region, so our facilities and approach have always been innovative and sustainable,” says Philip Hauser, who, with his sister Carole, is about to take over the running of the superior four-star hotel from their parents.
“As a child, I could walk up the valley and touch the Upper Grindelwald Glacier,” Philip continues. “Since then it has retreated miles up the mountain. It’s a stark reminder that the planet is warming.” Environmentally friendly measures at the Belvedere include providing charging stations for electric cars, sustainable air-cooling in every room and an energy transition to water pumps. The hotel further uses the best local ingredients at its award-winning 1910 restaurant, provides bikes to borrow and even repurposes decommissioned cable cars as cosy cabins for fun outdoor fondues.
“Our authentic spirit means we have welcomed generations of the same families and have longstanding team members, too. All become like family,” says Philip. The Hausers also support regional suppliers, provide jobs for locals and ensure accommodation for staff from elsewhere so they, too, can live in Grindelwald, while guests benefit from localised expertise. “Sustainability to us means supporting our community,” he adds.
With Grindelwald one of Switzerland’s prime holiday destinations, the family’s sense of inclusive responsibility has been making a difference for over a century – the hotel even served as an army hospital across the two world wars. “My sister and I will carry on this legacy,” says Philip, “ensuring the hotel continues to lead in luxurious Alpine escapes, while showcasing and sustaining this beautiful region and the communities within it.”
www.belvedere-grindelwald.ch