ULTIMA HOTEL GSTAAD
Arriving at Ultima Hotel Gstaad in the dead of Swiss winter feels like you’ve entered a billionaire's winter retreat—which, to be fair, is not far from the truth. Located in the exclusive alpine village of Gstaad, this is the kind of place where luxury and privacy go hand in hand, with a touch of modern opulence designed for those who prefer their ski holidays with a side of world-class pampering.
You pull up to the Ultima Hotel Gstaad, and it’s clear from the outset that this is no cookie-cutter alpine lodge. Imagine sleek lines meeting traditional chalet architecture—there’s plenty of stone and timber, but the way it’s all arranged whispers contemporary sophistication. This isn't your typical Swiss mountain lodge. The building itself exudes exclusivity, with deep wood accents contrasting against the white snow, complemented by floor-to-ceiling windows that glow warmly from within. The exterior feels more like a private estate than a hotel, designed for those who want to step into another world the moment they arrive.
The heated driveway? Of course. And the understated entrance? It’s the kind that keeps paparazzi at bay but lets every guest feel like they've entered a fortress of elegance. It’s minimalist but with enough grandeur to let you know you've just arrived somewhere special.
Once inside, you’re greeted not with the usual bustling hotel lobby, but with the kind of intimacy you’d expect from a private residence. There are no grand, oversized spaces designed to impress with sheer scale; instead, the common areas are intentionally understated but meticulously detailed. It’s cozy fireplaces, plush seating and a color palette that screams luxury—muted tones of cream, beige and deep forest green, with modern art adorning the walls.
There’s a sleek bar area where you can sip an expertly crafted cocktail or fine wine while catching up with fellow travelers or just indulging in the art of doing nothing. For the winter season, it’s all about creating a warm refuge from the icy world outside, but make no mistake—this is not about rustic charm. Every corner oozes sophistication, right down to the perfectly arranged designer furniture and curated lighting that adds a soft glow to the space.
THE ROOMS
This uber-boutique hotel is made up exclusively of eleven suites and six private residences. These spaces at Ultima Gstaad are designed to be your personal retreat, and the word "room" doesn’t quite do justice to what you’re getting here. Each accommodation is a stunning combination of the comforts of home with the extravagance of a luxury hotel.
Let's start with the suites, which range from the Junior Suite to the ultra-exclusive Presidential Suite. The Presidential Suite is where things truly get interesting, with a staggering 160 square meters of space. You’re not just getting a bedroom; you’re getting a lavish living room, a marble-clad bathroom that feels more like a private spa, and a dining area for those nights you’d rather dine in. Every suite has the latest tech, from the customizable lighting system to the state-of-the-art entertainment setup. But beyond the gadgets, it’s the design that sets these suites apart—dark wood paneling, marble finishes and custom-made furniture all add to the sense of exclusivity.
For those who need even more privacy, there are also private residences, like the four-bedroom chalet designed for the ultimate ski retreat. Each residence has its own entrance, giving you the option to pretend you're a local—if locals lived in the lap of luxury, that is.
For families, while the hotel doesn’t lean heavily into being a family destination, there are provisions to keep younger guests entertained. Babysitting services can be arranged, and KAX can organize kid-friendly activities like sledding or ice skating, giving parents the freedom to indulge in the spa or enjoy a quiet dinner.
DINING
Now, let’s talk food. Ultima Gstaad may be relatively small in terms of guest capacity, but it doesn’t skimp on dining. In the hotel’s singular dining space, it’s all about an elevated fusion of international (mainly, Asian) flavors with a local Swiss twist. The menu brings together the best of gourmet cuisine, using fresh, seasonal ingredients sourced from the region to create dishes that feel indulgent but grounded in the local landscape. It’s the kind of place where you can enjoy a sophisticated meal without the formalities—you’re in a mountain retreat, after all. Swiss salmon tartare? Gyozas and ponzue? Stuffed chicken with black truffle? Yes, chef!
The restaurant’s atmosphere mirrors the rest of the hotel: elegant, relaxed, and intimate. Whether you’re sitting down to a multi-course dinner or enjoying a casual bite, the experience feels luxurious without being over-the-top. Each dish showcases the chef’s attention to detail, blending culinary traditions with modern touches, ensuring every meal feels special yet comfortable. It’s the perfect spot to unwind after a day on the slopes or simply enjoy an unforgettable evening without leaving the property.
After dinner (or let’s face it, before too), head to the on-site bar, with a flair for the 1920’s and cocktails crafted by master alpine-style mixologists.
For those who prefer a more intimate dining experience, the hotel also offers private dining options, where a chef can prepare a custom meal for you and your party in the comfort of your suite or residence.
WELLNESS
It wouldn't be an Ultima property without an over-the-top spa, and this one does not disappoint. The spa space is nothing short of a temple for relaxation. While your friends may be hitting the slopes, you could be here, soaking in the indoor pool that’s more like a reflective, tranquil oasis than a place to do laps.
There’s also a finnish spa, sauna, and both indoor and outdoor jacuzzis (an oversized timber hot tub to be exact) that you’ll want to sink into after a long day. For those in need of serious rejuvenation (and let’s face it, who isn’t?), the spa offers bespoke treatments that range from traditional massages to full-body detox programs, all featuring Agustinus Bader and Seed to Skin products for an even more ‘ultima’ luxury. It’s not just about pampering, though; Ultima takes wellness seriously. They even offer a few new age and cutting edge treatments like a DNA analysis, reiki and more.
ACTIVITIES
Of course, skiing is the big draw here, and Gstaad has some of the best slopes in the world. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a beginner, you’ll find pistes that suit your level. But if skiing isn’t your thing, or if you’re simply looking to take a break from the slopes, Ultima Gstaad has plenty more to offer.
For those who enjoy staying active off the slopes, KAX can arrange everything from snowshoeing treks to helicopter tours of the surrounding Alps. Imagine flying over snow-covered peaks with a bird's-eye view of the glaciers below. For a more grounded experience, winter hikes and sledding through the scenic landscape are also a big draw.
For the après-ski crowd, there’s plenty to enjoy in the surrounding town of Gstaad. The village itself is a postcard-perfect alpine destination, known for its upscale boutiques, gourmet restaurants and cultural events. Don’t miss the chance to explore Gstaad’s art galleries or enjoy a hot chocolate in one of its many cozy cafes.
Ultima Hotel Gstaad is not the kind of place where you simply rest after a long day on the slopes. It's a destination where the alpine experience is elevated to new heights—whether you’re soaking in the spa, dining on world-class meals or retreating to your plush suite. The ski season in Gstaad has never looked so enticing, and Ultima Hotel is the reason why.
