BEAUSiTE Zermatt: A New Golden Age Beneath the Matterhorn

British mountaineering history, Swiss hospitality and a remarkable Alpine setting come together at one of Zermatt’s most distinctive hotels.

In July 1865, the British mountaineer Edward Whymper achieved what many had thought impossible: the first ascent of the Matterhorn. His triumph was overshadowed by tragedy when four members of the seven-man party fell to their deaths during the descent, but the expedition secured Zermatt’s place in the history of Alpine exploration.

The British had already been travelling to the Swiss Alps in growing numbers, drawn by the challenge of the great peaks and the extraordinary scenery. During the second half of the nineteenth century, Zermatt developed from a small mountain village into an internationally celebrated destination. Hotels followed the climbers, and in 1907 the elegant Hotel Beau-Site opened its doors.

More than a century later, the hotel has entered a new chapter. Now known as BEAUSiTE Zermatt, it remains privately owned by two local families, Aufdenblatten and Julen, and has undergone an extensive transformation that draws inspiration from the adventurous spirit of those early British visitors.

A hotel with history and a fresh outlook

The original Beau-Site was built during the Belle Époque, when grand Alpine hotels were becoming an essential part of European travel. Its architecture reflected the confidence of the period, with a prominent central tower and an elevated position overlooking the village.

The hotel has changed considerably over the years, but its connection with Zermatt’s mountaineering heritage remains central to its identity. A comprehensive renovation between 2019 and 2022 introduced striking new interiors, combining contemporary design with references to the golden age of alpinism.

The result is rather different from the traditional Swiss mountain hotel. There is colour, warmth and a certain playfulness in the furnishings, alongside the comfort and attention to detail expected of a leading Alpine property. British influences appear throughout, reflecting the hotel’s affection for the pioneers who helped make Zermatt famous.

Above all, there is the setting. From its position overlooking the village, BEAUSiTE enjoys exceptional views towards the Matterhorn, whose unmistakable pyramid-shaped summit dominates the surrounding mountains.

Rooms with a view

The hotel’s rooms and suites have been individually designed, with natural materials, comfortable furnishings and contemporary Alpine touches. Many enjoy views of the Matterhorn, while selected suites provide particularly generous accommodation for guests wishing to spend longer in the mountains.

For a special occasion, the Tower Spa Suite offers a rather extraordinary retreat. Arranged over two levels, it has its own private spa and access to a viewing tower with panoramic views across Zermatt and the surrounding peaks.

Yet one of the hotel’s greatest attractions is available to all guests: the opportunity to enjoy the mountains without necessarily setting foot on a ski slope.

The Spa & Recharge Zone includes a warm indoor swimming pool, whirlpools and saunas, together with an outdoor infinity pool looking directly towards the Matterhorn. On a clear winter afternoon, with snow covering the rooftops below and the mountain rising beyond, it must be one of the most memorable places in Zermatt to spend an hour.

Alpine food and Swiss wines

Dining is an important part of the BEAUSiTE experience, with a particular emphasis on regional produce and traditional cooking methods.

At The Grill, meat, fish and vegetables are prepared over a wood fire, with locally sourced ingredients playing a prominent role. The hotel’s close connection with the surrounding countryside extends to its own cattle and pigs, while regional cheeses, yoghurt and other produce feature across its restaurants.

For something more traditionally Swiss, the intimate Witch’eese Fondue Hut offers the pleasures of cheese fondue in a cosy Alpine setting during winter.

There is also the 1907 Bar & Terrace, named in honour of the hotel’s founding year, and the Wine Box, where guests can explore wines from Switzerland and elsewhere in Europe. Swiss wines remain surprisingly little known outside the country, making this an interesting opportunity to discover some of the country’s excellent vineyards.

Zermatt beyond the ski slopes

Few Alpine villages have a setting to rival Zermatt. Surrounded by some of Switzerland’s highest mountains, it has retained much of its traditional character despite becoming one of Europe’s most celebrated resorts.

The village is car-free, with visitors arriving by rail and continuing to their hotels on foot or by electric transport. Its narrow streets, old timber buildings, restaurants and shops make it an appealing place to explore, particularly when the roofs are covered in snow.

For skiers, the extensive mountain terrain is the principal attraction. But Zermatt has much to offer those who prefer to admire the scenery at a gentler pace.

The Gornergrat Railway climbs high above the village to a remarkable viewpoint overlooking the Matterhorn and surrounding peaks. The journey itself is part of the pleasure, passing through forests and open mountainsides before reaching the spectacular high-altitude landscape.

Winter walking, mountain restaurants and leisurely afternoons in the village provide plenty of alternatives to skiing. In summer, the same mountains attract walkers, climbers and visitors drawn by the Alpine flowers, clear air and extensive network of mountain paths.

BEAUSiTE is therefore a hotel for considerably more than the ski season alone.

Recognition for a distinctive Alpine hotel

The hotel’s transformation has attracted considerable attention. In the 2026/27 hotel ratings published by the Neue Zürcher Zeitung, BEAUSiTE Zermatt was named Switzerland’s best four-star holiday hotel.

It is a notable distinction for a property that has chosen to reinterpret the traditions of Swiss hospitality rather than simply reproduce them.

The combination of its historic origins, distinctive interiors, excellent facilities and remarkable position makes BEAUSiTE a particularly interesting addition to the Club’s selection of European hotels.

An exclusive advantage for CountryClubuk Members

Through the Club’s Preferred Hotels relationship, CountryClubuk Members may enjoy up to 20% off public room rates at BEAUSiTE Zermatt, subject to availability and applicable booking conditions.

Whether planning a winter skiing holiday, a few days enjoying the mountain scenery or a summer escape to the Swiss Alps, Members are invited to contact the Club for details and reservations.

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