Amid a record-breaking heatwave across much of Europe this summer, two luxury Alpine hotels—Badrutt’s Palace in Switzerland and Rote Wand Gourmet Hotel in Austria—offered distinct yet equally compelling options for travelers seeking respite in cooler mountain air.
Badrutt’s Palace, located in the resort town of St. Moritz, stands out as one of the region’s most prestigious accommodations. The family-owned hotel recently earned the highest score in La Liste’s World’s Best Hotels 2026 ranking. Known for its historic grandeur and opulent service, Badrutt’s Palace combines classic luxury with contemporary amenities. Guests arriving by train can even be chauffeured to the hotel in a vintage Rolls Royce, underscoring the property’s commitment to exclusivity.
Opened earlier than ever this year on June 5 due to increased summer demand, the hotel offers a quieter atmosphere during the warmer months compared to its renowned winter season. Visitors can take advantage of activities such as hiking, spa treatments, and boutique shopping at nearby high-end retailers including Brunello Cucinelli and Dior. The property recently expanded with the opening of the modern Serlas wing, designed by architect Antonio Citterio and featuring interiors by Loro Piana, adding 25 rooms and suites.
The hotel places a strong emphasis on personalized service, with staff attending to individual preferences and offering experiences like yoga on the lawn overlooking Lake St. Moritz, Swiss wine tastings, and private pastry classes. Culinary options include the famed Chesa Veglia complex, which houses several restaurants in a historic farmhouse dating back to 1685, notable for being the site where Romansche was declared Switzerland’s fourth official language in 1937.
Rote Wand Gourmet Hotel, situated in the small Austrian village of Lech am Arlberg, provides a contrasting yet equally refined experience. Run by the Walch family, the hotel fosters a warm, intimate atmosphere, with many guests returning year after year. All room rates include daily breakfast, lunch, afternoon cakes, and a four-course dinner, with a focus on homemade dishes crafted from local ingredients.
The culinary centerpiece is the two-star Michelin Chef’s Table, helmed by Julian Stieger, who offers an 18-course tasting menu celebrating Alpine flavors. Notable dishes mentioned include smoked eel with blueberries and an innovative take on käsespätzle. The hotel comprises 62 rooms across five interconnected buildings, characterized by rustic yet modern Alpine décor with natural wood furnishings and local artwork curated in partnership with the Kunstmuseum Liechtenstein.
Sustainability considerations are evident at Rote Wand, which foregoes air conditioning in its rooms to reduce energy consumption, while providing guest comfort through open windows and fresh mountain air. The underground spa features multiple saunas and an indoor pool, with opportunities for natural contrast therapy at the nearby Zug waterfall.
Both hotels offer amenities and atmospheres well-suited to solo travelers, with Badrutt’s Palace providing grand luxury and personalized attention, and Rote Wand emphasizing community and culinary exploration in a tranquil setting. The varied experiences at these two properties illustrate the diverse appeal of the Alps as a cooler summer retreat during increasingly intense European heatwaves.