Switzerland is nothing without its mountains, but trekking up to a high altitude isn’t rewarding just for adrenaline junkies. Scattered around the Alps and as typically Swiss as chocolate and cowbells, you will find an abundance of charming mountain huts offering wining and dining that rivals anything you’ll find in a big city.
The ultimate choice for a wilderness getaway that doesn’t compromise on quality, many of our favourite mountain huts also offer accommodation so you can enjoy an immersive mountain experience. Complete tranquillity, stunning views and delicious menus – we promise, it all adds up to a potent high you won’t want to come down from.
Othmar’s Skihütte, Zermatt
Perched at a lofty 1900m, Othmar’s Skihütte in Zermatt is a firm favourite for a spot of winter lunch. It’s up to you whether you get there on skis, by carriage or on foot, but a warm welcome awaits regardless.The hut’s cosy interior and soaring views of the Rothorn will make Othmar’s an instant hit whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned Zermatt aficionado.
Surprisingly for an eaterie that’s so far from the sea, what makes Othmar’s unique is its salmon specialties. Inspired by a love of Alaska, where hosts Irene and Werner Frauenfelder live for half the year, the menu whispers of icy northern seas despite its mountain surroundings.
From cold-smoked sockeye salmon to sides of king salmon, salmon tartare, Alaskan red crab, caviar and shrimp in delectable combinations, you’re sure to find the right fishy delicacy to fuel your afternoon runs.
A sunny terrace and the chance to enjoy some of Zermatt’s finest views round off a delightful mountain dining experience.
The Walig Hütte, Gstaad
If you’re looking for a unique wilderness getaway, nothing fits the bill better than this charming hut, which nestles above Gsteig at 1700 meters and offers breath-taking views of Gstaad and the Saanenland.The Walig Hütte was built in 1786 and acted as a summer home to farmers bringing their cows up to pasture. Very few of these mountain residences remain, so the Walig Hütte has been lovingly restored to preserve the simplicity and charm of the original.
The hut now offers an exceptional venue for a simple lunch for 4 – 80 people, an intimate dinner for 4 – 14 or rustic overnight accommodation for up to 2 adults and 2 children. You will immediately be captivated by the beauty of the setting and the peaceful feeling of being in touch with centuries of Swiss Alps heritage, and you’ll find yourself loathe to leave this magical spot.
La Marmite, Corviglia-St.Moritz
For epicures wishing to treat themselves to something special in an exceptional setting, La Marmite is the place to be. Sitting at an altitude of 2,486m, Europe’s highest gourmet restaurant is found on Corviglia in the St. Moritz ski region and has a menu that far surpasses most common or garden ski fare.The menu is liberally sprinkled with decadent entries like Beef Carpaccio with truffles ‘Robespierre’ and Corviglia Snow (the finest caviar on delicate puréed potatoes), which transport the dining experience to a more heavenly plane.
Organic fish and meat from selected regional breeds demonstrates the kitchen’s passion for quality, while the exciting fusion flavours and exotic ingredients showcase their creativity. As a result, dinner at La Marmite is a true delight for culinary connoisseurs.
And of course, it’s not just about the food: what distinguishes La Marmite is its warm hospitality, and of course, the omnipresent all-round panorama overlooking the Engadine mountain world. Leaving the cares of daily life behind will never have seemed so easy.
Berghaus Erika, Klosters
Berghaus Erika is a rustic mountain house at the entrance of the Schlappiner Walsersiedlung above the village of Klosters. Nestled among the scenic splendour of lakes and mountian peaks, this authentic restaurant offers a cosy ambiance to enjoy whether you’re traveling alone, as a couple or with friends.A beautiful terrace offers wonderful views of the Schlappinersee, while the kitchen has everything you need to satisfy the voracious appetite that tends to come with exposure to pure alpine air.
Inside, wooden décor and warm hospitality will make you feel immediately at home as you tuck into homemade dishes that celebrate Swiss tradition and the high quality of locally available ingredients.
If you want to make the most of your visit, the Berghaus also offers accommodation that will soon have you embracing the virtues of the simple life – with no TV or internet, you’ll find yourself with no choice but to spend your holiday soaking in the views in blissful peace and quiet.
