Bergwelt Grindelwald

A design gem tucked up on the hill above Grindelwald village, the Bergwelt is ideal for those seeking a less traditional hotel with a great spa in the Bernese Oberland.

• The chic blend of high design and alpine aesthetics
• The homey loft-style rooms
• The Eiger views

Few hotels have attempted a marriage between artistic contemporary design and traditional mountain vibes. Fewer still have done it to the success of the Bergwelt, whose loft-style rooms marry raw wood and exposed beams, fur throw rugs and the occasional brightly colored plaid headboards with floor to ceiling windows, black marble bathrooms and, in some rooms, a floating fireplace. The effect: an atmosphere that is at once stylish and cozy, refreshing and alpine.

There is little doubt upon entering this tucked away four-star property that every piece of furniture, lighting fixture and even coffee mug was chosen with care. The lobby is a mishmash of seafoam leather couches, caramel and plaid ottomans, fuzzy purple chairs and black wood tables beneath a statement iron lighting fixture—and it all works. But there are always new design surprises in store. (For example, the main floor bathroom is plastered with vibrant wallpaper comprised of parrots and tropical flowers.)

There are two buildings connected via an enclosed bridge, with the outdoor pool and hot tub nestled in between. The 90 rooms vary in design depending on room category and building, but though the colors and amenities may differ, the overall design is consistent—the plaid headboards, jewel-toned chairs and throw rugs can be found throughout. Some rooms have lofted wood ceilings and others dining nooks, others have open-plan bathrooms (be sure to ask which, if this is a problem) and even telescopes, so guests view the mountains up close. We recommend choosing rooms with Eiger Views and a balcony if available—even in the winter, it is nice to sit out on the balcony in your robe, sipping a cup of coffee as sun shines on the surrounding peaks. The hotel also has a 3-bedroom residence or those seeking a more private experience.

The Fire & Ice spa is the best in the small mountain village. It includes an outdoor pool and hot tub, indoor pool, fitness center, cocooning room, sauna with options of a steam bath, salt crystal wall, fire sauna, ice fountain and more, as well as a treatment menu that is loyal to the “fire and ice” theme.

The main restaurant, BG’s Grill, serves what it considers “casual alpine soul food” amidst a mix of crushed ruby booths, burgundy leather and red and white plaid. In keeping with the rest of the hotel, guests will find their menu is a little different than other alpine menus in the area—they have a separate Middle East menu—and diners may find they are just as mesmerized by the ebony and sea blue stone plates as they are by the food on top of it. BG’s is also where the extensive breakfast buffet is served, with what feels like limitless locally-sourced options that are all helplessly tasty. The Seven Spirits Bar is great for a post-adventure drink, and Friday through Sunday the hotel offers a complimentary selection of cakes and pastries in the main lobby.

A short walk away is the secondary property, Hotel Pinte, which has its own restaurant with a more casual and classic vibe that is popular with locals.

Anyone seeking a more contemporary, alpine experience with excellent design and amenities