The Chedi Andermatt

You wouldn’t know it by looking at the storybook-style mountain scenery, the adorably tiny ski cottages, or the steam trains chugging through the valley, but Andermatt was one Swiss ski resort in need of a facelift. The problem wasn’t aesthetic as much as historical: Andermatt is as pretty as any Alpine village, but it was also occupied by the military for a hundred years, complete with firing range and barracks to house 1,000 soldiers. Change isn’t easy. But sometimes an outsider — in this case, the Egyptian-born developer Samih Sawiris — is the right person to take on the challenge. The result is the sophisticated and ecologically friendly Chedi Andermatt resort, the first European hotel from the Chedi group, a luxury brand that’s well-established in Asia.

The resort development has doubled the size of the town — the soaring buildings dwarf the traditional chalets scattered around them. But that said, this is a resort that’s been carefully planned, employing a local staff, built using sustainable materials. Twin fireplaces lend the grand lobby a cozy atmosphere, despite the dimensions and the sleek Asian-inspired decor. 105 guest rooms and suites are strikingly outfitted in dark wood, natural stone and smooth leather, the picture windows positioned to offer expansive views of the Alps or of the village below. Many Deluxe Suites come with private balconies and outdoor fireplaces; the Furka Suite has a private kitchen and its own spa. For the rest of us, there’s the Chedi Andermatt’s state-of-the-art wellness center with an indoor swimming pool facing the mountainscape.

Elsewhere within the resort, The Restaurant features a towering cheese cellar and a menu of Swiss and international cuisine, while the Michelin-starred Japanese Restaurant specializes in sushi and sashimi. The low-lit Wine and Cigar Library has a walk-in humidor and channels the old-world charm of Andermatt. To truly appreciate that charm, though, you’ll have to hit the slopes and take in views of the village from the summit — this is some of the most exciting skiing around. After the journey down one of these legendary off-piste routes, join the beautiful people for après-ski around the indoor-outdoor fireplaces at The Bar and Living Room.