Four new boutique hotels in Zurich, Switzerland
Cultural heritage and a lakeside location inspire the Swiss city’s newest luxury hotels.
The Penthouse with views at Alex Lake Zurich.
1. Ruby Mimi
Adding to its ever-growing coterie of hotels, Ruby Hotels threw open the doors of its latest darling on Zurich’s central Beatenplatz last year, just minutes from the Old Town. The hotel breathes new life into the striking Haus du Pont, an art deco building dating back to 1913 and home to a cinema for more than 100 years. Naturally, cinematic glamour inspires the decor, combining Hollywood touches with the pared-back luxury that defines each Ruby hotel. The 208 guest rooms span seven floors, with public areas including a library and private cinema, complete with red velvet curtains and a popcorn machine. A highlight is the 24-hour Mimi Bar: settle into one of the plush banquettes for cocktails and Italian-inspired food as a playful, oversized neon sign reading ‘Stars are born, not made’ gleams above the black-and-gold bar. The hotel’s dark and moody public areas are a stylish contrast to the much lighter and brighter guest rooms, which pair subtle art deco fittings such as arched wood panelling with thoroughly modern amenities, including Marshall amps — yes, you can even hire an electric guitar for your room — as well as views over the river and Old Town. Opt for one of the cosy ‘Nest’ rooms, a spacious ‘Loft’ room or one of the covetable ‘Star’ rooms, with furnishings sumptuous enough for even the most discerning of Hollywood divas. From CHF186 (£150).
Mimi Bar at Ruby Hotel.
2. La Reserve Eden u Lac
After an extensive renovation, this hotel reopened in 2020 with interiors by Philippe Starck. He drew on the hotel’s waterfront position for a yacht club-style concept, with luxurious, nautical-inspired interiors. Head to the Eden Kitchen & Bar for a Swiss take on international dishes. From CHF495 (£400).
3. Alex Lake Zurich
This striking glass-and-stone building on the shores of Lake Zurich goes big on the city’s reputation as a capital of design; studios and penthouses are decked out with an abundance of artwork. Unwind in the spa’s vitality pool or dine on the waterfront terrace of the restaurant and bar. From CHF430 (£348), B&B.
Bouillabaisse served at Baur au Lac.
4. Baur au Lac
Dating to 1844, this legendary grande dame has welcomed everyone from Marc Chagall to Audrey Hepburn. It’s home to a clutch of lavish restaurants and bars, including two-Michelin-starred Pavilion and Baur’s, a new brasserie. While still open, the hotel is currently undergoing renovations until June 2022. From CHF695 (£562).
Published in the April 2022 issue of National Geographic Traveller (UK)
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