I truly define any place that I travel to by the people I observe when I’m there. Near the end of my trip to Andermatt, Switzerland, after taking in the visitors who seemed right at home among the snow-covered mountain caps and cozy restaurants lit up by wood-burning fireplaces, I started to think to myself, This place is the definition of quiet luxury.
Wearing clothing that Loro Piana and the Ralph Lauren Polo Bear would approve of, I was taking styling notes from everyone around me. If you couldn’t tell by now, I was enamored by the people I discovered along this journey. My itinerary is also one that can’t be missed. Below, you’ll discover what I wore, did, and ate in Andermatt.
Before I embarked on this adventure, I asked a Swiss friend what I should wear in the Alps. She told me that my usual obsessive outfit planning wasn't necessary here, as the vibe was cozy yet sporty. She let me know that it’s a place to be comfortable during the day, as most people are dressed for exploring nature. This led me to purchase a new, simple cashmere sweater for my adventures.
When I realized I wouldn’t be heading out to Switzerland until April, I thought the snow would be long gone, but Andermatt stays powdery for nearly half the year. From December to April, deep snow covers every inch of the Urseren Valley, and as someone who’s never really skied before, I knew this was my opportunity to finally give it a try. Perfect Moment has been on my radar for years in the skiwear department and I ended up picking out a look from the brand for this adventure.
Everyone who knows Switzerland knows about The Chedi Andermatt. It just might be the most fabulous yet understated resort I’ve ever stayed in. (Ahem, quiet luxury vibes again.) This black dress with gold details instantly reminded me of the old money aesthetic that's all over my Pinterest board. When I dressed up for dinner in the hotel—a place so fabulous that many visitors want to live here—I knew a dress like this would be right for the location.
Spa Day at The Chedi Andermatt
One of the highlights of staying at The Chedi Andermatt was the incredible spa experience the property boasts. My first visit to the spa included an incredible deep-tissue massage. I returned for the hydrotherapy cycle which took me from a sauna to a cold plunge to a hot plunge and back around. After an amazing workout or morning spent skiing, I truly can’t imagine a better escape. If you visit Andermatt and are unable to stay at The Chedi, I highly recommend booking at least a day pass at its spa.
Skiing on Nätschen
As someone new to skiing, I can’t think of a more perfect place to do it than in Andermatt. If you already have an Ikon Pass, you’ll be on a gondola in no time. I was pretty nervous to go all out and shred the slopes for the first time, but there were plenty of people around, including children as young as 3 years old on the same slope as me. (That gave me the much-needed confidence I needed to carry on and go on my first run.)
Glacier Express
Something that truly amazed me about Switzerland was its train system. It was polished, technologically advanced, and clean. As a New Yorker, this was steps above the daily commute I take at home. On this trip, I had the opportunity to experience the Glacier Express and felt transported to a different time. The first-class train experience includes a decadent meal and large windows revealing the snowcapped mountains and stunning landscapes that make up the many towns that it runs through from Zermatt to Saint Moritz. It’s an experience that I’ll truly never forget.
Gütsch by Markus Neff
Whether or not you’re a fan of skiing, you’ll have an excuse to head to the top of a mountain when you visit Andermatt, as Gütsch is located in the heart of the Swiss Alps. Actually, it's the one Michelin-star restaurant I insist you eat at. Every bite I tasted was just as good as the views and ambiance that came along with it.
Fondue-Burg Hospental
There’s something about fondue that screams special occasion. It brings people together through shared plates that are worth passing around. I’m someone who only indulges in fondue on rare occasions and doing it in Switzerland was amazing. The locals swear by Fondue-Burg in Hospental, and they were right.
The Chedi Restaurant
Have you ever been to a restaurant that has a room just for cheese? I’m very happy to report that I can now tell you I have, and I’m recommending it to everyone I know. The restaurant at The Chedi is a mix of Asian and European cuisine with four kitchens that allow you to watch the chefs prepare your food. The menu was also incredibly extensive. I'll be dreaming about this place for some time.
