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Kempinski Palace Engelberg is set at the foot of Titlis Mountain, in the heart of the Swiss Alps, not far from Lucerne. After five full years of construction, the palatial building high up in the mountains was re-opened in 2021 and re-interpreted for the next generation as a unique hotel reminiscent of the Belle Epoque era. In harmony with nature, history and the modern era, the building is something truly special in its environment. As the first and only international five-star superior hotel in the largest winter and summer holiday destination of Central Switzerland, Kempinski Palace Engelberg is a retreat for all seasons.
This historic century-old building, completed in 1904 and originally known as Grandhotel Winterhaus, laid the cornerstone for the structure we see today. After extensive renovations, combined with the new five-story hotel, it now forms one perfect architectural unit. The hotel is easily reachable all-year-round by by car, train or via a 75-minute drive from Zurich Airport. The 129 rooms and suites feature state-of-the-art facilities and offer a unique view of the breathtaking mountain landscape.
The rooms and suites stand out with their warm atmosphere thanks to the use of materials such as brushed oak and luxurious light-brown leather. The sleeping area is surrounded by wooden panels reaching down to the parquet wood flooring – for luxury and comfort. Soft green and blue tones provide a feeling of mountain freshness. Different textures are playfully combined – either jagged and sewn or woven and quilted.
The bedrooms in the new part of the hotel as well as the Belle Epoque part all feature the same colours and materials, though each one has its own character. Most of the new rooms also have their own balcony, which allows guests to relax like nowhere else.
The Palace Bar
The Palace Bar has two important focus points – the fireplace lounge and the horseshoe-shaped bar. This spacious salon – which is now a bar – has been a popular meeting place ever since the hotel opened in 1904. The semi-circular panorama building with the huge sash windows breathes history: contracts were once negotiated here, political goals defined and records set. And something grand and unspoken still resonates when you sink into an armchair, listen to the crackling fire, follow the meandering melody of the pianist and the recommendations of the barman – and take a little more time for yourself than usual.
In the warm summer months, The Palace Bar includes the terrace with a view over the Kurpark: here, too, comfortable lounge furniture invites you to linger under expansive parasols. With its surprising snacks, the menu often gives you reason to stay a little longer – and one day you’ll never want to leave again.
Wintergarden
This room, which was once known as the “Winter Hall”, used to be a boots room, in which visitors used to take off their skates after ice skating in the spa garden. Although the magic of the Wintergarden is at its peak when the snowflakes dance in front of the large panoramic windows, perhaps the most sensual room at Kempinski Palace Engelberg is worth a visit even in bright sunshine. Especially in the afternoon, when afternoon tea is celebrated – with home-made cakes and freshly baked pastries, exquisite coffee and famous tea specialities.
Cattani Restaurant
The Cattani Restaurant reveals a modern charm of its very own with its high ceilings and double-height windows, which offer spectacular views over the mountains. The ever-changing Alpine light is reflected in the marble walls and extensive mirrors. A large tailor-made and modern-looking chandelier forms the centrepiece of the restaurant. Each one of the crystal ‘icicles’ is handmade, and the overall appearance of the chandelier reflects the shape of the Titlis. A large oil painting made by Willy Amrhein in 1914 can also be seen hanging in the Cattani Restaurant. The mysterious mural on canvas shows a south-facing view of the valley from Engelberg.
Cattani Restaurant combines French passion with Swiss influences in an authentic and seasonal menu. Here, lovers of French cuisine will find themselves in heaven. Every bite takes you on a culinary journey, which you may also enjoy on the terrace with the breathtaking mountain vistas during the summer season.
Infinity Pool
Swim high above the rooftops of Engelberg into seventh heaven: from the 15-metre-long infinity pool, enjoy five-star views of the mountains through panoramic windows. Or experience the thrill of the whirlpool: it’s worth not keeping your eyes closed for too long, as the harmoniously designed pool offers a clear view of Engelberg’s local mountain, the Hahnen.
Kempinski The Spa
The 880sqm Kempinski The Spa is located on the top floor and offers a captivating view of the mountains through its panoramic windows. Relax and unwind in the heart of the Swiss Alps.
About
Created in 1897, Kempinski Hotels is Europe’s oldest luxury hotel group. Kempinski’s rich heritage of impeccable personal service and superb hospitality is complemented by the exclusivity and individuality of its properties. Today the Kempinski Group operates 82 hotels and residences in 35 countries and currently has more than 34 prestigious projects under development around the globe. Each five-star hotel reflects the strength and success of the Kempinski brand without losing sight of its heritage; each one imbues the quality guests have come to expect from Kempinski while embracing the cultural traditions of its location.
Kempinski Palace Engelberg
Address: Dorfstrasse 40, 6390 Engelberg, Switzerland.
Contact: +41 41 639 7575
Website: www.kempinski.com/engelberg