THE LOWDOWN: GSTAAD
“Come up, slow down” is the official tagline of Gstaad, the upscale ski resort
in the Swiss Alps and the subject of a new book by Assouline: Gstaad Glam.
I once worked in the resort and loved its unadulterated glamour, picture
perfect location and cheesy delights (from raclette to fondue). Central to
Gstaad’s appeal is a trio of posh hotels including Le Grand Bellevue, The
Alpina and the family-run Gstaad Palace, which opened in 1913 and belongs
to the Scherz family. Its spa, one of the best I’ve ever visited, has recently
introduced a high-tech CBD wellness experience with ID Botanicals, a Swiss
neuro cosmetic brand. (I am a fan of Valmont skincare, also Swiss, and
recommend the expert facials delivered at Skin by Olga which saves on a trip
to the Alps). As for the ski season in Gstaad, it runs until May and the cosy,
central four-star Hotel Bernerhof is a favourite with snow sport enthusiasts.
After a day on the slopes, enjoy a hot chocolate and people watching at
Charly’s. Don’t leave without a drink in the Pinte Bar, in Hotel Olden, a former
haunt of Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton – whose diaries make reference
to Gstaad and are a great accompaniment to any stay in this glossy spot.
