To give you inspiration, Relais & Châteaux presents the Routes du Bonheur: suggestions for travel itineraries that you can fully personalise according to your wishes and the experiences you would like to discover. Our consultants are available to help customise your route and assist you in making reservations at our properties. It is up to you to reserve any recommended activities on-site or nearby that might interest you.
*Total price provided for information only, based on accommodation for two people in a double room for the number of nights per property as indicated on this page, exclusive of recommended activities, properties that cannot be reserved online and restaurants.
Restaurant and hotel in the mountains. Skiing on the world-renowned slopes of Crans-Montana is not the only pleasure in store for you at this chalet. The different suites have open fireplaces, jacuzzis and views of the snow-covered mountain peaks. The chalet has a Spa. The beautiful interiors feature wood and stone walls. In a cosy atmosphere, the Bistrot des Ours gives pride of place to local flavours, whilst Chef Franck Reynaud invites you in the gourmet restaurant to savour a selection of vegetables, milk-fed lamb, bass, mullet, venison and other culinary treats. Do no leave without admiring the painting of Felix, Pas de l’Ours’s former resident donkey. ... Learn moreless
With panoramic views of the Matterhorn and Mont Blanc, the Crans-sur-Sierre golf club is undeniably one of Europe’s most spectacular. Since the mid-20th century it has hosted the Swiss Open (now the European Masters), one of the most prized tournaments on the European Tour calendar. Winners include: Severiano Ballesteros, Sergio Garcia, Colin Montgomerie, Ernie Els, Lee Westwood, etc. In September, all eyes in the golf world are fixed on this incredible course!
A favourite spot for cross-country skiers, the Plaine Morte glacier dominates the plateau of the same name. At an elevation of over 2,750m, the glacier extends over almost 10km2 and in places is as much as 200m thick. In good weather, you can take in unrivalled views over the Valais Alps and Mont Blanc. In summer and in winter, guides will take you hiking at this UNESCO World Heritage site.
Every year since 1957, on the last Sunday in July, the Gemmi Pass has served as the meeting point for shepherds and their sheep with the inhabitants of Bern and Valais. Around 800 sheep are herded around the Daubensee Lake to the sound of traditional yodelling and local choirs. After the traditional open-air mass, the infinite landscape is the scene for tug-of-war and flag tossing by the shepherds and a meal of Gläck, a mixture of bran and salt, for the sheep.
Leukerbad is famous for its spas and for over 150 years, an entire world dedicated to the thermal springs has been created here. People come from far afield to take to the 51°C waters that are rich in calcium, sulphur and gypsum. The amazing footbridge crossing the Dala gorges winds for nearly 600m among the surrounding rock faces. At the end of the crossing, a 35m high waterfall crashes down into a natural pool with enchanting light.
Hotel and restaurant in the mountains. Large chalets surrounded by evergreen trees, a heavenly view over the mountains, this family hotel in the small ski resort of Kandersteg makes for a postcard perfect setting. Summer or winter, you are invited to savour the delights of the surrounding nature directly accessible from the hotel or to enjoy the many spa facilities (swimming pool, sauna, baths, relaxation area…) built to the latest environmental standards. The rooms are lovely arranged and offer expansive views of the forest or of the mountains. The fine reception, the warm atmosphere, and the wonderful traditional cuisine contribute all the more to reinvigorating the body and soul. ... Learn moreless
Time to move up a gear or two as you tear down the slopes at full speed! From May to October, the Oeschinensee summer toboggan run is one of this region’s most popular attractions. If only for a few moments, be a kid again! This ride delivers a sudden adrenalin rush and at its finish, you can survey the stunning lush scenery featuring orchids and edelweiss...
Accessible by walking or taking the gondola from Kandersteg village, the amazing Oeschinen Lake draws fishing fans to an altitude of almost 1,578m. Glacier-fed streams flow into this natural lake dominated by sheer rock faces and large numbers of rainbow trout and Arctic char live in its waters. Fishermen spread out all along the banks and some even venture out into the middle of the lake in small boats to cast their lines... Day permits can be purchased. In winter you can even bore through the ice for a spot of ice fishing!
Hotel and restaurant in the mountains. A first spa hotel, called Bad Lenk, had been built at the end of the 17th century, downstream of the richest Alpine sulphurous source, Balmen. Today, this spring is an integral part of the architecture of Lenkerhof gourmet spa resort which is a magnificent hotel, with an extensive range of well-being treatments. The “7 sources beauty & spa” is named after the spot where the river Simme rises and draws its inspiration from its flowing water. It offers true rejuvenation in natural timber and stone surroundings. This hotel provides, amidst fabulous landscapes, the perfect opportunity to enjoy all that the mountains have to offer whatever the season. ... Learn moreless
At an elevation of 1,068m, the tiny village of Lenk looks out onto the impressive Wildstrubel mountain range. A spa resort and also the starting point for a very great many options for hiking (in winter, this site is extremely popular for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing). The village is famous for its Alpine festival, as well as for its farmers’ market in the Boltigen municipality. The descent of the cattle from the high alpine pastures to St Stephan village is another big event for local families in the region.
The Simmental valley is known as the “water valley”. In summer, hikers head to its many waterfalls. There are also natural springs and high altitude lakes with crystal-clear waters. Exiting Lenk, on the climb to the source of the river Simme (Seven Springs, altitude: 1,102m), you can also take in the view of wonderful Iffig Falls.
