Open Editor's Digest for free
Rula Khalaf, editor of the Financial Times, selects her favorite stories in this weekly newsletter.
This article is part of a guide to Zurich from FT Globetrotter
Zurich has a hotel problem: the problem is that there are not enough hotels like the Bellerive.
Switzerland's most populous city has a fine line at world-class mansions for the ultra-rich, and cozy back-to-back lodges for skiers and students. But there's surprisingly little in between, if we discount the ubiquitous Marriott hotel.
The Ameron Zürich Bellerive au Lac, opening in 2021, promises to fill this void. This is a well thought out four star hotel, excellent location, very well equipped, but its services have been pared back wisely enough so as not to break the bank in these most expensive cities.
The building dates back to 1928, and although the lobby itself isn't exactly large (a corridor leads to the street entrance thanks to ground-floor retail space), the décor is reminiscent of the charm of that era. Sometimes it's a little loud: Sitting by the reception desk — mirrored ceiling, houseplants, rattan, easy chairs — is like Death on the Nile as depicted by Stanley Kubrick. The restaurant and bar – which benefit from huge windows on the ground floor – look somewhat similar. But perhaps not unreasonably. The building has also served as a television and film studio, and last year the Zurich Film Festival moved its headquarters here.
Rooms
Most of the excellently appointed rooms have an unbeatable advantage: a wonderful view of the lake. It's worth paying the extra to make sure. Regardless, they are all spacious and comfortable. They feature well-stocked minibars and high-spec touches such as Marshall radios and speakers. The Steampunk design continues a bit into the 1920s, although it has been toned down and as a result is more successful than in the lobby area. Smart wood paneling in premium rooms makes them feel particularly luxurious. Bathrooms are relatively medium in size, but larger bathrooms have full bathtubs.
Restaurant and bar
The restaurant space is designed around the glass walkway at the front of the building, making it feel like a sunroom, even on a relatively bleak winter's day. The menu faithfully checks the quality, if somewhat unimaginative, standards of modern cuisine: venison fillet with truffle puree; Alpine trout fillets everywhere etc. But it's all very well executed. However, one feels that the clients of this hotel have probably done their research on the trendiest restaurants in town to spend their francs at. The bar area is somewhat more comfortable, if still very austere. A place to sit for a nice digestive.
In a glance:
Good for: Luxury on a budget
Not very good for: Lounging around
FYI: Utoquai's fantastic lake bathing facilities are located literally opposite the hotel entrance. Just a few minutes' walk away, you'll also find two of Zurich's best cafés: Mame and Monocle (above which is the headquarters of the lifestyle magazine that bears its name).
Rooms: 56 rooms, five suites
Spa and Gym: No spa; Gym 24/7
Prices: Double, from CHF 315 ($358/£283) including breakfast
website; directione
Sam Jones was a guest on Ameron Zürich Bellerive au Lac
Tell us about your favorite stay in Zurich in the comments below. And follow the FT Globetrotter on Instagram at @FTGlobetrotter
Cities with FT
FT Globetrotter, our insider guides to some of the world's greatest cities, offers expert advice on eating and drinking, exercise, art and culture – and much more.
Find us in Zurich, Milan, London, Tokyo, New York, Paris, Rome, Frankfurt, Singapore, Hong Kong, Miami, Toronto, Madrid, Melbourne, Copenhagen and Vancouver.
