Octant Douro

Arriving in Wengen felt like stepping into a serene winter fairytale. This car-free village in the heart of the Jungfrau region is a peaceful retreat, where the only sounds are the crunch of snow underfoot and the gentle hum of Taxi Imboden or hotel electric vehicles navigating its narrow, postcard-perfect streets. As we stepped off the cogwheel train that winds its way up the valley, the magic of Wengen unfolded before us—snow-capped peaks towering on every side, charming chalets dusted with powder, and an atmosphere of pure Alpine tranquility. The Grand Hotel Belvedere, perched proudly with its historic Belle Époque façade, greeted us like an old friend—its presence a blend of elegance, nostalgia, and fresh promise.

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We arrived on the second day of opening and were the very first agents to experience this newly refurbished gem. While the hotel is still a work in progress, it’s clear from the moment you arrive that it is already on its way to becoming something extraordinary. The welcome was seamless and personal, with staff greeting us warmly and offering refreshing drinks infused with local mountain ingredients—a thoughtful touch that set the tone for our stay. As we were whisked inside, we felt the hotel’s unique charm: the perfect blend of Belle Époque history and modern Scandinavian elegance. Our room on the first floor felt fresh, warm, and refined, with a calming scent of cedarwood filling the air. The Grown Alchemist bath products in the bathroom, the clever window design offering glimpses of the bedroom and snowy vistas beyond, and the thoughtful storage space all demonstrated meticulous attention to detail. The beds were supremely comfortable, split perfectly into singles at our request, and even though we noticed a hint of music from the dining room below, other rooms we visited were blissfully quiet. The management team’s commitment to perfection is already evident, and we know exactly where to place our clients for an uninterrupted experience.

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That evening, we settled into the cozy Belvi Salon bar, where we were introduced to Alpanist gin, a beautifully crafted Swiss mountain spirit. The staff—hailing from Switzerland, France, and Italy—were both knowledgeable and engaging, making us feel truly at home. Dinner at Brasserie Belvedere was a highlight of our stay. We began with the Swiss Wagyu Bresaola Carpaccio, paired with wild mushroom tapenade and aged Sbrinz cheese, a perfect balance of rich, earthy flavors. For the main, the BBQ trout from Lake Blausee, served with a dill and parsley salsa verde, was flawlessly cooked—light, fresh, and bursting with flavor—a testament to the kitchen’s dedication to using local, high-quality ingredients. Watching the snow fall gently outside through the sleek wooden tones of the dining room created an atmosphere of cozy luxury, an experience we won’t soon forget.

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The next morning, we awoke to a generous breakfast spread that reflected the same attention to detail. Freshly baked breads, artisanal Swiss cheeses, seasonal fruits, and yogurt awaited us, along with small ceramic pots of bacon, sausages, and eggs served to the table. More options were available, but the spread alone was more than enough to fuel a day on the slopes. The hotel team arranged everything for us, from 10% off ski rentals at a local shop—where the service was friendly, knowledgeable, and professional—to helping us navigate the area’s ski runs. Wengen is perfectly positioned for exploring the Jungfrau region, with over 200 kilometers of slopes. We spent the day gliding through the blue and red runs, which were beautifully groomed and easy to navigate, with panoramic views of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau peaks. Skiing in this region felt magical, with polite skiers, quiet trails, and picture-perfect moments at every turn. Returning to the hotel after catching the final lift, we relaxed in our room, watched the snow fall from our balcony, and soaked in the calm, wintry atmosphere.

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Later that evening, we wandered through Wengen’s charming streets, stopping by cozy boutiques and enjoying the village’s timeless Alpine charm. The next morning, before our departure, we were given a private tour of the under-construction spa and new facilities, which promise to be truly exceptional. With its planned onsen-style pools, spacious treatment rooms, and panoramic relaxation areas, the vision for the spa is breathtaking and will no doubt become a standout feature. While not yet complete, what has already been achieved is exceptional, and the hotel’s management team deserves credit for their dedication and expertise.

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The Grand Hotel Belvedere may still be finding its final form, but what we experienced was nothing short of impressive. From the warm, genuine staff to the thoughtful design and extraordinary dining, this is a hotel with all the ingredients for success. Its location in Wengen, with seamless access to world-class skiing, scenic trails, and year-round adventure, only enhances its appeal. Whether for families, couples, or discerning travelers looking for an authentic and luxurious Alpine experience, this hotel is poised to become a true gem in the Swiss Alps. This visit was a privilege, and with a management team this dedicated, we have no doubt the hotel will reach its full potential very soon. We look forward to returning and experiencing it again as it evolves into one of Switzerland’s finest retreats.

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