Hotel review: An opulent stay at the Grand Hotel Kronenhof in Pontresina, Switzerland

A grand Swiss hotel with resplendent interiors, a sumptuous spa, unforgettable dining and impeccable hospitality – surrounded by the kind of breathtaking scenery you can only find in the Swiss Alps.

Sounds good right? Well, that’s exactly what I found at the Grand Hotel Kronenhof in Pontresina. ‘Grand’ is certainly an appropriate name for this luxurious hotel in the heart of Switzerland’s Engadin Valley. 

I spent a long weekend staying at this exceptional five-star hotel in October – here I share my honest review of my stay.

If you prefer video then you can watch my vlog of our stay at the Grand Hotel Kronenhof:

Design & rooms

The imposing Neo-Baroque exteriors of this 19th-century hotel are a mere hint at the grandeur to be found inside the hotel.

I couldn’t help but think I’d stepped onto the set of Wes Anderson’s Grand Budapest Hotel – in fact, I had several people message me on Instagram asking if that was the case!

Step inside the hotel and I challenge you not to gasp. The palatial lobby lounge is the picture of grandeur with its high ceilings, grand piano and magnificent chandelier.

All framed by large windows which offer up jaw-dropping vistas of the surrounding mountains.

My room was a splendid suite complete with a wonderfully comfortable king-sized bed, inviting lounge area and sizable walk-in wardrobe.

While contemporary in design, it still felt cosy and sophisticated, and as though it belonged in the hotel.

The glossy, bathroom was a luxurious delight, with twin sinks, a frosted glass shower and a generously proportioned bath.

I loved the window above the bath that looked out across the room and onto the vistas outside – so the mountains are always within sight. 

Dining

As you’d expect from a hotel with such impressive credentials, the dining options available were exceptional.

Grand Restaurant

Our first meal was in the Grand Restaurant – and grand it was. Located in the original ballroom, it’s a lesson in old-world elegance and Swiss opulence. 

It’s a formal fine dining experience with silver service and a strict dress code that I think is absolutely necessary for such a sumptuous setting.

But it’s not stuffy or overbearing – staff were friendly, attentive and catered for every need, including dietary requirements. 

The food was delicious and the wine was excellent. Plus it was all enjoyed while being serenaded by a pianist on the grand piano, which fit perfectly with the environment and atmosphere.

Kronenstübli

My favourite restaurant at the hotel was Kronenstubli – but then I cannot resist a cosy chalet-style restaurant with wood-panelling, vintage skis and candlelit tables. 

This award-winning restaurant is less formal than the Grand Restaurant and offers a mouth-watering selection of Italian-Mediterranean and French dishes.

I opted for the sharing special ‘Canard à la Presse’, which involves a theatrical preparation of a classic duck dish that uses the leftovers to create a delectable sauce.

It was an incredibly unique experience that I haven’t seen elsewhere and the duck was, of course, delicious!

Le Pavillon

For some alfresco dining and hearty dishes, I’d highly recommend Le Pavillon. It may not be one for inclement weather, but it’s absolutely dreamy when the sun is shining.

Surrounded by epic mountain vistas, tuck into some classic Engadin dishes or indulge in a decadent cheese fondue.

Or for a sophisticated meal, try the fresh oysters washed down with some ice cold Moët Champagne. 

In winter, the area in front of the restaurant is transformed into an ice rink. So Le Pavillon makes the perfect spot for refuelling after taking to the ice. 

Spa

For me, the real highlight of this hotel is its spectacular spa. I’ve been lucky to experience some truly amazing spas through my travels, but I can confidently say that I have never seen a spa with such breathtaking views. 

Nothing makes me feel at ease more than being in the mountains, and the spa at Grand Hotel Kronenhof has been seamlessly designed to make the most of its setting. 

The spa itself covers an area of over 2,000 square metres, complete with a generously sized swimming pool, a hydrotherapy pool, steam baths, saunas, a salt water grotto, a relaxation room, fitness areas and treatment rooms. 

It has everything you could possibly need to completely unwind and relax, restoring your naturally body-soul balance.

I was treated to an unforgettable massage at the spa too – honestly I’m sure my therapist had magic hands! It was utter bliss. 

We also enjoyed a brilliant pilates class which was the perfect way to start the day, especially when it’s against the backdrop of such impressive panoramas.

Discover more of the best spa hotels in Switzerland.

Location

The hotel is located in the breathtakingly beautiful village of Pontresina. You’d be forgiven for not having heard of it before, as it’s often overshadowed by its glamorous sister, St Moritz – just six kilometres away. 

What Pontresina may lack in terms of glitz, it certainly makes up for in charm and tranquillity. It’s a true haven in the Swiss Alps and, in my opinion, the most idyllic place for a spa break. 

That said, if you’re the type who gets restless lounging by the pool then let me assure you that there is plenty to do for the adventure enthusiast. 

Read my guide to the best luxury ski resorts in Europe.

Things to do in the area

If you’re visiting in autumn like I did then you cannot miss out on some spectacular walks in the area.

The golden colours at this time of the year are simply jaw-dropping, especially when paired with the backdrop of snowy mountain peaks and bright blue streams. 

In winter, the area becomes a winter playground for snow-based activities. Skiers, of course, will be in their element – but both Pontresina and neighbouring St Moritz are also great ski resorts for non-skiers. 

Opt for snowshoeing, guided winter hiking, horse-and-carriage rides, tobogganing, curling or a spot of ice skating on the hotel’s own ice rink. All sound a bit too active? Well, there’s always the spa!

For the thrill-seekers, you simply cannot miss the world-famous Cresta Run for an unforgettable skeleton bobsled. Or try the Olympic bob run at St Moritz-Celerina for a 75-second adrenaline hit.

In the summer months, the area is a magnet for hikers and mountain bikers. Or you can go mountaineering, goat trekking (yes, really), golfing, paragliding or take to the lakes for swimming, sailing, surfing and kiting. 

Final words

I have nothing bad to say about the Grand Hotel Kronenhof. It’s one of those hotels that will leave an indelible mark in your memory – one of fondness that beckons you to return time and time again. 

Book your stay

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