Driving up through the Bernese Oberland, you’ll come across the picture-perfect resort Gstaad, home to Ultima Gstaad – the jewel in the crown and a modern take in this age-old and exclusive resort for the rich and famous –reportedly Madonna’s favourite winter destination… and who could blame her.

Ultima Gstaad is a collection of three Swiss chalets set back from the road in a private and exclusive part of town. With 11 suites and 6 private residences, there is no shortage of space. Even the smallest suite is generously proportioned and all include marble bathrooms, state-of-the-art digital technology and large balconies overlooking the alpine scenes.

Invigorated from a day of skiing but desperate to unwind? Head down to the Spa for a swim in either the black-marbled indoor pool or jacuzzi or venture outside to the luxury outdoor pool where the steam rises and the snow falls…There is also a steam room, sauna and well-equipped gym. We loved the in-house snow machine to cool down after deep steam and the massages on offer in the spa were second-to-none. We also loved the detox bar where we enjoyed an invigorating smoothie and a great chat with the masseur…

Fancy stretching your legs? In just a fifteen-minute stroll, you’ll hit the main drag in Gstaad– a pedestrianised cobbled street with world-famous luxury fashion houses… think Prada, Louis Vuitton and Ralph Lauren. There is also the world-famous concert series held annually and hosting some of the biggest stars in classical and country music – book early to avoid disappointment! Oh… and did we mention the skiing? Ultima is at the base of one of Gstaad’s ski lifts and in a region boasting some of the best skiing, the Swiss Alps have to offer.

Ultima can only be described as a haven of un-apologetic excess. From the well-stocked mini-bars to the welcome gifts from Swiss Perfection and the complimentary wine and canapes, Ultima has thought of everything. The fine toiletries (Bvlgari), in-suite Nespresso machines and disappearing pop-up televisions were particular highlights. We loved the way traditional Swiss chalet design features had been preserved alongside some really modern touches and artworks.

The service at Ultima was flawless. Kind and helpful staff who were efficient, sensitive and locally knowledgeable. If you want a reservation at one of Gstaad’s exclusive restaurants at short notice, they will do their best to make this happen. We were also offered a complimentary travel card for use in the Gstaad area on arrival, as well as assistance with unpacking our luggage and reservations for the hair salon on arrival.

And the food? The gastronomic Ultima Restaurant, located within the hotel, serves international cuisine alongside a world-class wine list. The breakfast features locally sourced ingredients and a great selection of teas and coffees.

The hotel’s ethos is “Where Timeless Swiss Quality Meets the Mountains” – we only wish the time could have passed more slowly!

Boutique and Luxury Hotels Gstaad