Hotelchain: Sandoz hotels
Location: Zermatt – Switzerland
Classification: 5 star hotel
Official website: riffelalp.com

Located at 2222 metres above sea level, the Riffelalp resort is a five star hotel making part of the Leading hotels of the world. Europe’s highest tram way leads to the hotel, what a unique way to reach this exceptional hotel! The views from the hotel to the surrounding mountains and the majestic Matterhorn took my breath away!

The Riffelalp Resort truly is an exclusive ‘resort’ with a tennis court, a bowling lane, outdoor playgrounds, etc. Last year, they totally renovated the hotel and today it still is a five star superior hotel with Europe’s highest wellness center. The hotel refitted in strict accordance with their prestigious past and their many individual features, each with its own style and character.

We were warmly welcomed by the staff. I noticed that everybody seemed to be happy to be there and that they only want to offer the best to their guests. That does make a difference. I must say I loved their mountain style decoration througout the entire hotel!

 

Each room at Riffelalp is luxuriously appointed and distinctive and individually designed. The charm and magic of the mountains was noticeable throughout the room we stayed in. They used a lot of wood and high quality materials to decorate their rooms which make them really cozy and comfortable. You can tell that the hotel has been renovated recently as the room looked pretty new. I loved the private panoramic terrace with Matterhorn views.

Bathroom was spacious with separate bathtub and walk-in rain shower. There was a separate toilet, always a bonus! Again, the bathroom looked brand new. I loved the modern design! Premium l’Occitane toiletries were the best!

 

Getting bored at the Riffelalp resort is impossible! Since this hotel is located in such an amazing area, they offer a lot of outdoor activities. We climbed the Breithorn for example with their amazing guide, Yann. But even if you are not into hiking, skiing, etc. guests can enjoy billiard, bowling or just experience some me-time at their amazing wellness center. Their outdoor pool with scenic views is amazing!

Riffelalp has one of the highest spa centers in Europe! Trust me, spa facilities in such a mountain environment is pure indulgence. The hotel offers several saunas, whirlpools, an indoor and an amazing outdoor pool with gorgeous Matterhorn views as mentioned before. I must admit that those pool views are among the best I have ever seen! Truly unique! The Chriiter cave with its saline baths and waterfalls is a must visit! I got to experience the Lomi Lomu Nui treatment which is an unusual Hawaiien massage with ancient roots and traditions. The therapist used a lot of oil and made me feel relaxed in just seconds. This 85’ treatment definitely is a must try when you are experiencing stress and want some me-time.

There are three restaurants at the Riffelalp Resort: Ristorante Al Bosco, Restaurant Alexandre and Restaurant Walliserkeller which is open during the winter season only. I would classify the main restaurant Alexandre as their signature restaurant offering an international cuisine. The thing I liked about Ristorante Al Bosco – besides their outstanding menu – is the large outdoor terrace with panoramic views. We had dinner at Al Bosco and started with a delicious beef filet carpaccio. The carpaccio was served as it should be with delicious parmesan cheese and garden rocket. The Grilled rib-eye-steak with café de Paris butter was outstanding and the warm apple strudel with vanilla sauce as dessert was to die for!

 

As mentioned before, the staff was very friendly and kind making sure we enjoyed ourselves. Their high level of hospitality was noticeable throughout our stay.

The Riffelalp Resort is a luxurious five star resort with a unique location. This hotel made me feel relaxed and pampered. The unique views of the majestic Matterhorn are just incredible! Cannot say enough good things about this hotel!