{ daydream destination } The Dolder Grand, Zurich

Posted: December 1st, 2011 | Author: Jennifer | Filed under: dream destination, The Travel Bug | Tags: europe, hotels, zurich | 2 Comments »

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The Location

Zurich is a picturesque city and also the largest in the Swiss Confederation. Zurich has long had a reputation as a boring banking city, but even here things are changing rapidly. Contemporary Zurich is affluent and trendy. It’s former warehouse district ‘Züri-West’ is now buzzing with numerous bars, restaurants and clubs giving it a similar feel to Mitte in Berlin. It’s annual Street Parade has also overtaken London’s Notting Hill Carnival as Europe’s largest annual street party and is filled with young revellers. Be sure to have some fondue and partake in some Swiss beer or wine at one of the numerous cafes.

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The Hotel

The Dolder Grand re-opened in 2008 after an extensive renovation. The 1898 building was completely transformed into a modern masterpiece by architect Sir Norman Foster – his first ever hotel design. The stunning building appeals to almost everyone. It really is one part castle and one part spaceship, making it a completely unique destination hotel – or “City Resort” as the hotel refers to itself. It’s one well worth staying at despite it’s location just outside of the city center.

The hotel is divided into three separate wings, one old and two new. However, sumptuous modern furnishings and amenities can be found in each. Every room in the Main building features a white marble bathroom with separate tub and shower areas, as well as an original balcony. The new Spa Wing and Golf Wing feature bathrooms with sandy limestone tiles and the rooms feature floor to ceiling windows instead of balconies.

All guest rooms are fully automated and feature a Bang and Olufson interface that controls everything: the lights, curtains, TV, DVD player as well as the Do Not Disturb notification. Bathrooms also feature separate televisons and free wifi is available throughout the hotel.

Most guest rooms are soothing but err on the cautious “hotel chic” side of design. However, the four sprawling luxury suites have each been designed by a different interior designer, giving each one a unique personality. These are some of the best rooms in Europe and come equipped with extras like whirlpool baths and steam showers. One suite even features a grand piano. If you are willing and able to truly splash out, this is the place to do it.

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The Extras

There are two restaurants at the hotel. The Restaurant serves gourmet cuisine from Chef Heiko Nieder, in a chic tailored space. The restaurant holds two Michelin stars and is a draw even for those not staying at the hotel.

The Garden Restaurant is open all day, every day and serves lighter European fare than the Restaurant. Chef Gion Fetz serves a seasonal inspired menu. An Amuse Bouche Menu is available for those on a business lunch, while in the evenings 4 to 7-course dinners are served, alongside a special vegetarian menu.

The hotel also offers a separate bar, lounge and lobby bar as well as a Spa Cafe as another dining options.

The Spa is the one of the best in Europe. It is over 4000 square metres and features separate men’s and women’s areas. It is fully equipped with the best spa features imaginable, including an indoor lap pool, plunge pools, steam baths, Sunaburo Pods (filled with warm Japanese mini stones) plus a room that snows. They also offer a huge array of services, from make up application to massage to medical procedures.

There is also a state of the art gym on the property, as well as a separate outdoor pool. If you visit during the summer months, the hotel offers mountain bikes on loan and there is also a mini-golf course for guest use. If you prefer real golfing, the 9-hole Dolder Golf Club Zurich is adjacent to the property.

The slightly out of town location means a stunning view of the city and lake below that can be seen from many of the rooms and public settings. But the hotel also offers hourly shuttles into the city in a vintage bus. But with so many amenities, maybe you won’t ever need to leave.

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The Dolder Grand
Kurhausstrasse 65
8032 Zurich
Switzerland

Rooms from $590 CHF per night.

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If you are looking to give your space a dose of style- whether you are splashing out or on a budget – drop me a line. Check out my Hire Me! page for more details.

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