Travel

Luxury Reborn: 7 Swiss Hotels & Resorts Pioneering Sustainable Splendor

Embracing Luxury and Responsibility For Conscious Travellers

September 11, 2024
Written by ConsiderBeyond
Cover Photo by
Unsplash
Written by

In order for a clothing material to be used in a piece of clothing, considerable time is spent to extract these raw materials, process them into fabric, and patch them up as a garment. Hence, a material can be deemed sustainable if it contributes to reducing the environmental impacts during this life cycle. We introduce five fibers we can choose from that help make an item of clothing more sustainable.

Switzerland has long been associated with natural beauty and luxury tourism. In recent years, the Land of Milk and Honey has taken significant strides to merge its renowned hospitality with modern sustainability practices. The finest resorts are redefining what it means to experience opulence, all while keeping a keen eye on their environmental impact. From innovative architecture that blends seamlessly with the natural surroundings to culinary experiences that emphasize local sourcing, these hotels exemplify the perfect balance of luxury and environmental stewardship.

1. The Dolder Grand

Instagram | @thedolergrand
Address
| Kurhausstrasse 65, 8032 Zürich, Switzerland Google Maps
Reservation
Website 
Contact
| +41 44 456 60 00

Dolder Hotel AG, founded in 1894, operates the five-star Dolder Grand, the four-star Dolder Waldhaus, and other properties, with Dolder Eis & Bad AG under its management. Both companies are committed to sustainability, certified by EarthCheck and ISO 9001:2015, and are members of the "Responsible Hotels of Switzerland" and Switzerland Tourism’s "Swisstainable Leading" program. Their efforts include significant reductions in CO2 emissions, energy efficiency projects, the use of geothermal energy, and sourcing sustainable materials and food. The Dolder Grand also achieved the Forbes "VERIFIED Responsible Hospitality Badge" and actively promotes eco-friendly mobility options and community engagement through its D-Impact Team.

Photo by The Dolder Grand

2. Storchen Zürich

Instagram |  @storchenzurich
Address
| Weinpl. 2, 8001 Zürich, Switzerland Google Maps
Reservation
Website  
Contact
| +41 44 227 27 27

This historic hotel, nestled in the heart of Zurich, has made significant strides in reducing its environmental footprint. As part of The Living Circle, Storchen Zürich prioritizes locally sourced and seasonal products, ensuring that ingredients for their gourmet cuisine are not only fresh but also sustainably procured. The hotel has also achieved "plastic neutral" status through a partnership with CleanHub, which systematically reduces single-use plastics. Additionally, Storchen Zürich is EarthCheck certified, demonstrating its commitment to high environmental and social sustainability standards. 

Photo by Storchen Zürich

3. The Alpina Gstaad

Address | Alpinastrasse 23, 3780 Gstaad, Switzerland Google Maps
Reservation
Website  
Instagram
@thealpinagstaad
Contact
| +41 33 888 9888

This luxury resort in Gstaad is known for its innovative and comprehensive sustainable hotel concept that blends luxury with environmental responsibility. Built using recycled materials and locally sourced wood and stone, the resort is powered by a mix of ecological sources, including electricity and heating generated from a community plant fueled by wood chips. The Alpina Gstaad’s commitment to sustainability has earned it a gold certification from EarthCheck. From its innovative gastronomy concepts to its Six Senses Spa, every aspect of the resort is designed to inspire guests to embrace a more responsible lifestyle.

Photo by The Alpina Gstaad

4. Tschuggen Grand Hotel

Address | Zeltweg 7, Zürich, Switzerland 8032 Google Maps
Reservation
Website  
Instagram
@tschuggen_collection
Contact
| +41 44 576 92 92

The Tschuggen Collection has received Green Globe certification, recognizing it as a premier example of eco-friendly hotels in Switzerland. This suite-only hotel offers a perfect combination of relaxation and sustainability with eco-friendly practices that extend to its culinary offerings. Their signature Moving Mountains program aims to offer guests a holistic experience by fostering a connection with nature and encouraging them to engage in activities to promote “move, play, nourish, rest, and give.” With striking views of Lake St. Moritz and dedication to luxury, the Tschuggen Collection provides an unforgettable Alpine experience that doesn't compromise on environmental responsibility.

Photo by Tschuggen Grand Hotel

5. Valbella Resort

Address | Voa Selva 4, 7077 Valbella, Switzerland Google Maps
Reservation
Website  
Instagram
@valbellaresort
Contact
| +41 81 385 08 08

Situated near the unique Grisons mountains, this resort integrates eco-friendly practices with luxurious hospitality. From the innovative use of air-source heat pumps for efficient heating and cooling, to reducing heating oil consumption, Valbella Resort’s commitment to minimizing its ecological footprint is unwavering. Additionally, the resort partners with local farmers to offer organic, regionally-sourced cuisine, and transforms their kitchen waste into renewable energy and biogas. Guests are also encouraged to bring their own bathing slippers to reduce waste, reflecting the resort’s dedication to sustainability. 

Photo by Valbella Resort

6. CERVO Zermatt

Address | Riedweg 156, 3920 Zermatt, Switzerland Google Maps
Reservation
Website  
Instagram
@cervozermatt
Contact
| +41 27 968 12 12

Cervo Mountain Resort has earned the esteemed ibex fairstay label, which is a testament to its comprehensive commitment to sustainability. Remarkably, Cervo meets nearly 95% of its energy needs through geothermal heat, underscoring its dedication to renewable energy sources. Visitors can partake in a range of amenities, including a state-of-the-art spa with natural hot water pools and saunas, gourmet dining options featuring locally sourced ingredients, and ski-in/ski-out access to the slopes. Beyond energy, the resort's "WIR" program directs 10% of water sales revenue towards educational initiatives in developing regions.

Photo by CERVO Zermatt

7. Rocks Resort

Address | Via Murschetg 157032 LaaxSchweiz Google Maps
Reservation
Website  
Instagram
@rocksresort
Contact
| +34 972 770 207

In the heart of the Swiss Alps, the rocksresort Design Hotel is part of the Greenstyle program which emphasizes a commitment to sustainability in a pristine alpine setting. Each apartment is a masterpiece of eco-friendly architecture, designed not only to provide comfort but also to minimize environmental impact. Guests can indulge in outdoor activities, from hiking to mountain biking, all while surrounded by impressive landscapes. The resort's dedication to sustainability extends beyond its architecture as it also promotes local culture and environmental stewardship, ensuring that every stay contributes positively to the community and planet.

Photo by rocksresort

Traveling through Switzerland reveals a refreshing truth that luxury and sustainability can coexist harmoniously. The resorts are more than just places to unwind, as they are also havens that invite guests to connect with the stunning landscapes around them while promoting a deeper respect for the environment. By embracing sustainable practices, they are leading the charge in the hospitality industry, showing that elegance doesn’t have to come at the expense of our ecosystem. For those seeking a getaway that combines adventure with responsibility, these Swiss retreats offer an unforgettable experience—one that nourishes the spirit and honors the beauty of nature. 

No items found.
More Things Conscious
View All
Travel
Travel

Luxury Reborn: 7 Swiss Hotels & Resorts Pioneering Sustainable Splendor

September 11, 2024

Switzerland has long been associated with natural beauty and luxury tourism. In recent years, the Land of Milk and Honey has taken significant strides to merge its renowned hospitality with modern sustainability practices. The finest resorts are redefining what it means to experience opulence, all while keeping a keen eye on their environmental impact. From innovative architecture that blends seamlessly with the natural surroundings to culinary experiences that emphasize local sourcing, these hotels exemplify the perfect balance of luxury and environmental stewardship.

1. The Dolder Grand

Instagram | @thedolergrand
Address
| Kurhausstrasse 65, 8032 Zürich, Switzerland Google Maps
Reservation
Website 
Contact
| +41 44 456 60 00

Dolder Hotel AG, founded in 1894, operates the five-star Dolder Grand, the four-star Dolder Waldhaus, and other properties, with Dolder Eis & Bad AG under its management. Both companies are committed to sustainability, certified by EarthCheck and ISO 9001:2015, and are members of the "Responsible Hotels of Switzerland" and Switzerland Tourism’s "Swisstainable Leading" program. Their efforts include significant reductions in CO2 emissions, energy efficiency projects, the use of geothermal energy, and sourcing sustainable materials and food. The Dolder Grand also achieved the Forbes "VERIFIED Responsible Hospitality Badge" and actively promotes eco-friendly mobility options and community engagement through its D-Impact Team.

Photo by The Dolder Grand

2. Storchen Zürich

Instagram |  @storchenzurich
Address
| Weinpl. 2, 8001 Zürich, Switzerland Google Maps
Reservation
Website  
Contact
| +41 44 227 27 27

This historic hotel, nestled in the heart of Zurich, has made significant strides in reducing its environmental footprint. As part of The Living Circle, Storchen Zürich prioritizes locally sourced and seasonal products, ensuring that ingredients for their gourmet cuisine are not only fresh but also sustainably procured. The hotel has also achieved "plastic neutral" status through a partnership with CleanHub, which systematically reduces single-use plastics. Additionally, Storchen Zürich is EarthCheck certified, demonstrating its commitment to high environmental and social sustainability standards. 

Photo by Storchen Zürich

3. The Alpina Gstaad

Address | Alpinastrasse 23, 3780 Gstaad, Switzerland Google Maps
Reservation
Website  
Instagram
@thealpinagstaad
Contact
| +41 33 888 9888

This luxury resort in Gstaad is known for its innovative and comprehensive sustainable hotel concept that blends luxury with environmental responsibility. Built using recycled materials and locally sourced wood and stone, the resort is powered by a mix of ecological sources, including electricity and heating generated from a community plant fueled by wood chips. The Alpina Gstaad’s commitment to sustainability has earned it a gold certification from EarthCheck. From its innovative gastronomy concepts to its Six Senses Spa, every aspect of the resort is designed to inspire guests to embrace a more responsible lifestyle.

Photo by The Alpina Gstaad

4. Tschuggen Grand Hotel

Address | Zeltweg 7, Zürich, Switzerland 8032 Google Maps
Reservation
Website  
Instagram
@tschuggen_collection
Contact
| +41 44 576 92 92

The Tschuggen Collection has received Green Globe certification, recognizing it as a premier example of eco-friendly hotels in Switzerland. This suite-only hotel offers a perfect combination of relaxation and sustainability with eco-friendly practices that extend to its culinary offerings. Their signature Moving Mountains program aims to offer guests a holistic experience by fostering a connection with nature and encouraging them to engage in activities to promote “move, play, nourish, rest, and give.” With striking views of Lake St. Moritz and dedication to luxury, the Tschuggen Collection provides an unforgettable Alpine experience that doesn't compromise on environmental responsibility.

Photo by Tschuggen Grand Hotel

5. Valbella Resort

Address | Voa Selva 4, 7077 Valbella, Switzerland Google Maps
Reservation
Website  
Instagram
@valbellaresort
Contact
| +41 81 385 08 08

Situated near the unique Grisons mountains, this resort integrates eco-friendly practices with luxurious hospitality. From the innovative use of air-source heat pumps for efficient heating and cooling, to reducing heating oil consumption, Valbella Resort’s commitment to minimizing its ecological footprint is unwavering. Additionally, the resort partners with local farmers to offer organic, regionally-sourced cuisine, and transforms their kitchen waste into renewable energy and biogas. Guests are also encouraged to bring their own bathing slippers to reduce waste, reflecting the resort’s dedication to sustainability. 

Photo by Valbella Resort

6. CERVO Zermatt

Address | Riedweg 156, 3920 Zermatt, Switzerland Google Maps
Reservation
Website  
Instagram
@cervozermatt
Contact
| +41 27 968 12 12

Cervo Mountain Resort has earned the esteemed ibex fairstay label, which is a testament to its comprehensive commitment to sustainability. Remarkably, Cervo meets nearly 95% of its energy needs through geothermal heat, underscoring its dedication to renewable energy sources. Visitors can partake in a range of amenities, including a state-of-the-art spa with natural hot water pools and saunas, gourmet dining options featuring locally sourced ingredients, and ski-in/ski-out access to the slopes. Beyond energy, the resort's "WIR" program directs 10% of water sales revenue towards educational initiatives in developing regions.

Photo by CERVO Zermatt

7. Rocks Resort

Address | Via Murschetg 157032 LaaxSchweiz Google Maps
Reservation
Website  
Instagram
@rocksresort
Contact
| +34 972 770 207

In the heart of the Swiss Alps, the rocksresort Design Hotel is part of the Greenstyle program which emphasizes a commitment to sustainability in a pristine alpine setting. Each apartment is a masterpiece of eco-friendly architecture, designed not only to provide comfort but also to minimize environmental impact. Guests can indulge in outdoor activities, from hiking to mountain biking, all while surrounded by impressive landscapes. The resort's dedication to sustainability extends beyond its architecture as it also promotes local culture and environmental stewardship, ensuring that every stay contributes positively to the community and planet.

Photo by rocksresort

Traveling through Switzerland reveals a refreshing truth that luxury and sustainability can coexist harmoniously. The resorts are more than just places to unwind, as they are also havens that invite guests to connect with the stunning landscapes around them while promoting a deeper respect for the environment. By embracing sustainable practices, they are leading the charge in the hospitality industry, showing that elegance doesn’t have to come at the expense of our ecosystem. For those seeking a getaway that combines adventure with responsibility, these Swiss retreats offer an unforgettable experience—one that nourishes the spirit and honors the beauty of nature.