Stepping out into the wintry chill, on an expansive, panoramic balcony overlooking the quaint city of Zürich and the majestic Swiss Alps beyond, you could be forgiven for thinking you’d slipped into a daydream. Such is the awe-inspiring majesty of the Dolder Grand. Zürich’s most exclusive address since 1899, this haven of grandiosity and intentional comfort was first conceived as a ‘Curhaus’ — a spa and wellness facility — for the great and good of the Swiss financial capital. Perched atop the Adlisberg hill some 200 metres above the city centre, it was intended as a health-giving getaway with the utmost privacy and no small dose of luxury — principles that continue in full flourish even as this unique destination celebrates its 125th anniversary this year.
Nowadays, the Dolder is a blend of marvellously exquisite turn-of-the-century glamour and sleek, modern style — a brand-new and architecturally fascinating Norman Foster-designed wing was added to the original building in 2008, in a US$500 million renovation. Curving gracefully around the fairytale spires of the historic timber building, constructed in a traditional Swiss style, these two energies come together to perfectly characterise everything that this singular property stands for.
“The Dolder Grand is a destination distinguished by three qualities,” says the hotel’s general manager Markus Granelli. “Firstly, it stands for exclusive, multi-award-winning and world-class gastronomy that is varied and innovative with ever-new and inspiring concepts. Secondly, our idyllic location above Zürich offers relaxation in beautiful, natural surroundings with a delightful variety of leisure activities right on the doorstep, while also providing effortless access to the vibrant city and its rich cultural life. Thirdly, our renowned spa, with its extensive range of facilities and treatments spread over an area of 4,000 square metres, is the largest in Zürich.”
Indeed, the superlative experiences crafted by The Dolder Grand’s incredible team really are something special — even in a country such as Switzerland, where top-notch hospitality is taken for granted. Take, for instance, the magic wrought by noted Chef Heiko Nieder throughout the property. With four restaurants, two seasonal pop-ups and the bubbling atmosphere of The Canvas Bar & Lounge, there’s no shortage of culinary choices at the hotel — especially at the breakfast spread in refined all-day dining restaurant Saltz, which is a true delight. Its 15 Gault&Millau points come as no surprise, especially while perusing the sheer mind-boggling and tastebud-pleasing variety of innovative egg dishes on the morning menu.
But for a real ‘wow factor’ moment, two Michelin-starred fine dining destination The Restaurant must be experienced to be believed. With the sunset streaming through the windows into the elegantly set dining room and with the crystal-clear mountain air settling over the peaks beyond, there’s a sense of magic in the air as one takes a seat beneath the intricate paintings of the preserved, historic ceiling frescoes. What comes next is a culinary journey of exquisite proportions, a seemingly never-ending succession of extraordinary dishes, presented with a level of world-class precision and creativity only found in a handful of the world’s very top destinations. With flavours that range from the most traditional and locally-sourced to thoroughly surprising, it’s a rollercoaster ride of haute cuisine that won’t soon be forgotten — especially when taking into account the thoughtful drinks pairing from the Dolder’s extensive cellar.
Of course, no visit to a real Curhaus would be complete without some serious time spent healing, restoring and relaxing. Enter the Dolder Grand’s magnificent Spa. Clad in the local Jurassic limestone — the same material in which Zürich’s famed Kunsthaus art museum is dressed — it’s set into the very hill on which the hotel is constructed, and its curved, tunnel-like passageways give the sensation of making your way into the comforting heart of a hillside cocoon. From the warm, volcanic pebble-filled Sunburo loungers to the chill of the Snow Paradise room — which may feel obsolete when there’s a winter wonderland outside on the terrace, but is an unmissable summertime refresher — this Spa is 4,000 square metres of pure bliss.
“As part of the Dolder Grand’s tradition as a Curhaus, the spa embodies the principles of luxurious wellness and relaxation that have been key to the Dolder Grand philosophy for over a century,” says Markus. “Among the most distinctive features, I would say, are our private spa suites and separate areas for men and women, providing a tranquil space for guests to unwind. Each area boasts a sauna, steam bath, foot bath, aroma pool, steam pots, plunge pool and solarium. It offers extensive facilities and treatments for the ultimate in relaxation and rejuvenation. Our commitment to holistic wellbeing is further shown by our medical wellness services, making the Dolder Grand an ideal retreat for guests from around the world.”
Indeed, everything that the Dolder does goes way beyond the expected. A great example is the property’s dedication to art, boasting its own collection of important pieces scattered throughout the hotel. More than 100 works from 90 artists, counting Salvador Dalí, Joan Miró, Max Ernst and Keith Haring among their number, make The Dolder Grand as much living gallery as it is resort. The feeling of rounding a corner and unexpectedly coming face to face with an important work of art never fails to stop one in one’s tracks — but this seems to be a sensation that this modern-day fairytale destination takes great pleasure in.
" Since its foundation in 1899, it has welcomed important personalities including Albert Einstein, Winston Churchill, Walt Disney, Herbert von Karajan, Sophia Loren and the Rolling Stones "
It’s certainly charmed a whole host of well-known names, with its reputation as an exclusive celebrity hangout well deserved. Its lofty geographical location — accessible by the dedicated Dolderbahn funicular railway, or one of the hotel’s swish chauffeur-driven BMWs — means that you’re unlikely to simply pass by: this is a destination with a purpose. The warm welcome past the property’s imposing façade and into the sumptuous Belle Epoque lobby is expertly manoeuvred, and it’s little wonder that A-list celebrities such as Leonardo Di Caprio, Rebel Wilson and Diane Kreuger are all fans of this home away from luxurious home. And it’s not just during the past few years that big names have been attracted to Zürich’s premier address — as the property’s guest book reads like a historic who’s who.
“Since its foundation in 1899, it has welcomed important personalities including Albert Einstein, Winston Churchill, Walt Disney, Herbert von Karajan, Sophia Loren and the Rolling Stones,” says Markus. Quite the list of luminaries. And once stepping into the property’s superlative rooms, you’re left with little wonder as to why. In what must be some of the world’s most beautiful and thoughtfully executed suites, you’ll find a multitude of styles dedicated to the famed guests who enjoyed their bounty, with options ranging from huge, sweeping terraces to multiple bedrooms and ample entertaining space. From suites in the main building’s iconic tower to a more sleek and modern feel in the new extension, the choice is very much down to each guest’s individual taste — which brings us right to the Dolder Grand’s raison d’être.
“The quintessential Dolder Grand experience seamlessly blends rich history, modern luxury and exceptional hospitality,” says Markus. “Guests enjoy cutting-edge amenities and impeccable service, with their experience embodying the epitome of luxury, innovation and tradition, offering guests unparalleled service and a deep connection to Zürich’s dynamic cultural landscape.”
So good that it might be hard to leave — the Dolder Grand will always leave you wanting more. Whether taking in the cosy Christmas season or planning a summer trip to revel in the lush greens of the surrounding nature, this is a destination with something for everyone — and the best of Zürich, by far.
And on your wrist?
Maurice de Mauriac
While the Swiss watchmaking industry may be centred around Geneva, there’s one Zürich-based Maison that’s really made an impression over the years — Maurice de Mauriac. Founded in 1997 by the charismatic and now sadly departed Daniel Dreifuss — who moved from the high-stakes world of banking in New York City back to his home city with a mission to create the kind of mechanical watches he himself longed for — this proudly family-run business is still in the hands of Daniel’s three children, who continue his tradition of making watchmaking accessible, social and, above all, fun. At the Maurice de Mauriac atelier in Tödistrasse 48 there’s always a hot espresso and entertaining chat on the cards. Whether you bump into Massimo, Leonard, Masha or even the family dog Toto, you’re sure to have a great time with any member of the Dreifuss family.
So how about the watches? From the architecturally bold L-Series to the GMT GCC favourite City Dates — day-date timepieces inspired by the local Zürich dialect and the colours of the city’s tram lines — there’s something for everyone at the MDM atelier. Specialists in ultra-high-quality leather straps as well as distinctively striped NATO options, they’re the perfect complement to the impeccable small-scale horology of Maurice de Mauriac’s creations. If it were us? It would have to be the vibrant orange Züri Date, on a matching supple leather strap. A little slice of Zürich to take home and keep on hand — an absolute pleasure, any day of the week.
