The Omnia

Where most ski lodges seem to miss out on the fine points of design, relying upon the surrounding snowy peaks to make an impression, the Omnia is the kind of ski hotel that doesn’t shy away from an architectural challenge: in this case the challenge of taking on some of Switzerland’s most dramatic Alpine scenery, with no less a monument than the Matterhorn looking over its shoulder.

It’s still recognizably Alpine in style, constructed in wood and stone, with canted roofs and big picture windows; it’s just a very modern sort of Alpine. And the ski lodge’s comfort-first philosophy is very much in evidence here as well: in the common areas leather sofas sit around the fireplace, and rooms are spacious and bright, with lounge chairs and sunny balconies.

The location is at once central and quite comfortably removed from the bustle of town — guests enter through a tunnel in the rock and ride an elevator up to the lobby, high above Zermatt’s rooftops. And you don’t have to be a skier to enjoy it: this is a year-round resort town, with all manner of outdoor activities, as well as some fine upscale shopping and dining. The new trans-Alpine rail tunnel makes it more accessible than ever since only electromobiles and horse-drawn sleighs are permitted in Zermatt. Those travelling by car must leave their vehicles in nearby Täsch.