Considered to be one of Europe"s highest villages at 2,000 meters above sea level, Chandolin is a largely undiscovered resort in the Swiss Alps with less than 100 all-year residents and a handful of fine dining and drinking establishments during the seasonal upswing. But the French-speaking village in the heart of Switzerland"s Valais canton has charm enough to warm the heart of any visitor, thanks in part to the opening of Chandolin Boutique Hotel, a suitably stylish abode to sooth even the most aesthetically-minded of souls. www.designhotels.com/chandolin-boutique-hotel
Amid the pines and larch trees of the Valaisian valley, the 25-room Chandolin Boutique Hotel is a holistic expression of archetypal Alpine luxury shot through with an environmentally conscious spirit. Designed by local architecture firm Kittel SA and housed in a typically Swiss grand chalet, the hotel"s architectural identity reflects the natural splendor of its surroundings, with a façade of linseed-oil-treated wooden slats, balustrades of larch wood and cedar, and opus incertum stonework. Sustainable technology such as thermal solar panels, dual-flow ventilation, and triple-glazing windows have been integrated into the building"s design, demonstrating that the hotel"s reverence of its locale goes beyond the aesthetic.
Inside, alternating natural stone floors and aged oak parquet flooring set the tone for an understated interior design that is also inspired by the hotel"s natural setting. Walls are embellished with monochromatic works of mountain sports photography, while furnishings range in texture from raw fabrics to natural leathers. Earthy color palettes in communal areas—with warmer beiges in rooms and suites—are complemented by fir wood detailing and unpolished stonework. Large windows ensure the Alpine-chic spaces are flooded with natural light in the day, while providing the perfect perch from which to take in the starry skies at night.
Situated in the Val d'Anniviers resort, Chandolin"s abundant powder, jaw-dropping views, and distinctly local flavor secures the region"s reputation as a unique skiing experience. Such sublime ski conditions naturally warrant an exceptional après-ski destination and Chandolin Boutique Hotel more than obliges. At the foot of the slopes,the property'sSunset Chalet Bar is an ideal spot for a post-piste raclette and the Moonclub lounge tempts merrymakers after dark with handcrafted cocktails in a convivial setting. The hotel"s Le Restaurant pays homage to the region"s natural bounty, serving local delicacies such as Val d"Hérens beef and freshly caught fish in a fireside setting. Oenophiles are well served at the Wine Bar, where a list of over 400 vintages has been curated by a world-class sommelier. With downtime in mind, Chandolin Boutique Hotel also plays host to the Wellness Altitude spa and the Salon des Étoiles, with complimentary hot drinks and impressive views of the surrounding mountains.
