Review: The Chedi Andermatt

It has been a decade since the Chedi Andermatt opened its doors to guests from around the world. Our editor-in-chief, Marina S. Haq, had the wonderful opportunity to spend a couple of days at this beautiful five-star deluxe hotel.

Location
The Chedi Andermatt is nestled in the charming town of Ursern Valley at 1447 meters above sea level. Surrounded by the beauty of the Swiss Alps, the hotel lies between the Oberalp, St. Gotthard and Furka passes. It is a 70-minute drive from Zurich or a scenic two-hour train ride. Upon arriving in Andermatt by train, the hotel is only a short and scenic walk away from the train station. In fact, there is a side entry to the hotel that lies only across the street from the train station, making it easy for travelers to bring their luggage.

Ambiance
From the outside, the five-star deluxe hotel looked like an enormous version of a modern Swiss chalet, harmoniously nestled in the alpine landscape. Upon entering The Chedi, a different world revealed itself—a fusion between alpine chic and Asian design, creating an international flair. Designed by Kuala Lumpur-based Jean-Michel Gath, this harmonious Swiss and Asian fusion was enhanced with traditional materials like warm wood and natural stone, as well as warm shades of brown, fur cushions and many soft couches and armchairs surrounding the fireplace, creating an intimate and charming ambiance amid the high ceilings. Although The Chedi exudes elegance and luxury, it is warm and welcoming, making you feel at home.

Grand Deluxe Room
Among the 119 elegant rooms and suites at The Chedi Andermatt, I had the opportunity to stay in the Grand Deluxe Room. “Room” is a bit of an understatement, as it felt like a suite. This luxurious room had more than I had expected. The warm shades of brown and wooden features continued in the rooms. Upon entering our room, I was astonished to see a very comfortable couch underneath a grand, beautiful painting hanging on the wall. I knew that I would spend my evening writing my articles here, as it was situated across the bed on the other side of this 55-square-meter room. Right in front of our leather couch, there was a low table with a welcome card and gift, beautifully set up with surrounding cushions to sit comfortably on the floor. Furthermore, the room entailed a big bed for two people. Next to the bed, there were two nightstands, one of which had an iPad on it, which could be used to control the blinds, the curtains and the electric fireplace, which could be seen from inside the room as well as from our own private balcony on the other side. The balcony offered stunning views of the surrounding alps as well as the beautiful, charming town of Andermatt. This was the perfect place to enjoy a snack, tea or coffee, provided by the coffee machine in our room. Moreover, the large bathroom was set up like a mini spa with a big tub and candles, creating a cozy atmosphere, especially during the winter. It was the perfect way to end the day.

Service
The service at The Chedi Andermatt is excellent. The moment we entered the hotel, we were greeted by the concierge and accompanied to the reception, where we checked in. Throughout our stay, the enormously hospitable and smiling hotel personnel spoke German and English, and in the warm conversations with many individuals, it turned out that they came from different countries. This multicultural background is a true enrichment for the hotel. Throughout our stay, the hotel staff were very helpful and kind, making us feel at home.

The Spa & The Pool
The wellness area of The Chedi consists of 2,400 square meters and includes The Spa, which offers a range of treatments, a pool and sauna area, as well as the Tibetan Relaxation Lounge. The Health Club at The Chedi includes a picturesque 35-meter-long indoor pool and a 12-meter-long outdoor pool, which offer impressive views of the surrounding alpine landscape. Especially in winter, the indoor pool, covered by a steel-framed glass house, becomes cozy while it is snowing, creating a contrast between the warmth inside and the coldness outside. This ambiance carries outside as well, where guests can also enjoy the heat of the outdoor jacuzzi-style pool. Besides pools, The Chedi also offers The Spa, where guests can choose from different treatments according to their personal needs. In my hotel room, a fluffy, warm bathrobe was waiting for me alongside comfortable slippers before I headed to my spa appointment. At The Spa, I enjoyed an incredible, relaxing one-hour Balinese massage, which I highly recommend. It is both a great way to start or finish the day.

Dining and Drinks
The cuisine was impeccable. The first thing we received upon entering the hotel was The Chedi Tea, an incredible blend of herbs that embodies the warmth needed for a cold season. It was one of the best teas I have had in my life. Furthermore, we enjoyed a delicious lunch while sitting on comfortable couches featuring small tables in The Bar and Living Room. I had never eaten lunch while lying on a high couch before, which was a memorable experience. It was quite relaxing as we could remain lying on the couches, drinking a wide range of drinks, including mocktails, coffee, and tea, and enjoying the atmosphere even after. In the evening, we had a five-course meal at The Restaurant, which was awarded 14 GaultMillau points. We enjoyed the delicious «The Asian Sharing Menu,» which consists of multiple courses and covers many delicacies from various parts of Asia, such as Thailand, Japan, China, and India. Some of the dishes included dim sum, spring rolls, and Murg Makhani. Along with the food, we enjoyed a wide range of drinks. What surprised me is that among the vast amount of wine offered in their renowned The Wine Library, The Chedi also featured non-alcoholic options, which they kindly referred to as «sober» wines. Among the ones I tried with dinner were the «Flein Juice» made from Sauvignon Blanc, the «Träublein» from Schliss Vaux, and the «Granatapfel Well Edition Sommelier» from Obsthof Retter. The following morning, we enjoyed a delicious brunch at «The Restaurant,» which served food from salty to sweet. Among the delicacies were freshly baked bread, fruits and vegetables, egg dishes, nuts, ginger shots, smoothies, cereals, and jams. Guests could also enjoy the wide range of cheese in the five-meter-high cheese cellar. There was also a small breakfast stand featuring donuts, chocolate milk, and more just for children – a cute addition. Overall, the cuisine at The Chedi did not disappoint at all. Just like the design of the hotel, there was a blend of European and Asian influences, which created culinary artistry.Favorite Place in the Hotel
Although The Chedi offers a great variety of amenities, I have to say that the room I stayed in was fantastic. I could have spent my entire stay lying on the incredibly comfortable bed, taking in the beautiful view of the Alps from our private balcony, enjoying the warmth of the fireplace, which can also be seen from outside, or indulging in a relaxing bath in the spacious tub.Unique Experiences
The most unique experience I had at the hotel was the opportunity to go llama trekking. Whether in summer or winter, The Chedi Andermatt offers guests the chance to go on a walk with llamas. This experience is organized in collaboration with Bristenlama, located just a twenty-minute drive away from the hotel in Uri.Why I Would Go Again
Secluded in the mountains, The Chedi Andermatt is a charming getaway from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Upon arrival, I felt like I was stepping into a different world, characterized by elegance and relaxation. Although the hotel is luxurious, it has a cozy ambiance that makes you feel at home. Therefore, I would describe it as a «home away from home.»