If ever there was a place where time slows, where the air is crisp with pine and powder, and where luxury has long been second nature, it’s Gstaad. An enclave of old-world charm and quiet extravagance, this storied Swiss village has drawn the well-heeled and the well-dressed for generations. And now, the famed alpine resort is about to welcome an icon of global hospitality: The Park Gstaad, soon to be reborn as a Four Seasons hotel.
Since its opening in 1910, The Park Gstaad has held the distinction of being the village’s first five-star hotel, an address frequented by aristocrats, artists, and those in the know. With its grand wooden façade, sprawling terraces, and panoramic views of the Bernese Alps, the hotel has long embodied the essence of Swiss elegance—understated, yet opulent. Its past is woven into the very fabric of Gstaad, a town where the phrase “Come up, slow down” is more than just a motto; it’s a way of life.
At the helm of this transformation is Dona Bertarelli, the distinguished philanthropist, investor, and sportswoman who owns the property. A long-time patron of Gstaad, Bertarelli has entrusted Squircle Capital with overseeing the extensive renovations, ensuring that the hotel’s rich legacy is preserved while bringing it in line with modern luxury standards. Four Seasons, renowned for its meticulous attention to detail and unparalleled service, has been appointed to operate the hotel, promising a seamless blend of Swiss heritage and contemporary refinement.
Bedroom © Four Seasons
Slated to reopen for the 2026-2027 winter season, the hotel is currently undergoing a meticulous transformation led by the acclaimed French interior designer Joseph Dirand. Known for his work at Four Seasons Hotel at The Surf Club, Dirand is a master at blending modern aesthetics with a deep respect for place and history. At The Park Gstaad, his vision will preserve the building’s traditional alpine elegance while introducing contemporary flourishes—think rich natural textures, warm woods, and softly lit spaces that feel both intimate and expansive.
Upon reopening, the hotel will feature 75 luxurious rooms and suites, a curated collection of Penthouse Residences available for purchase, and a full suite of world-class amenities. A destination spa and wellness center, complete with both indoor and outdoor pools, will redefine après-ski relaxation, while an array of new dining concepts promises to rival Gstaad’s already glittering culinary scene. The addition of an ice rink in winter, tennis courts in summer, and enhanced ski and biking services ensures that the Four Seasons experience will cater to both the adventure-seeker and the sybarite alike.
Lounge © Four Seasons
As Four Seasons prepares to unveil its first Swiss alpine property, it joins an elite collection of mountain retreats, including Megève, Jackson Hole, and Whistler. But in Gstaad, where tradition reigns supreme and luxury is measured in discretion rather than display, this debut feels particularly significant. The arrival of Four Seasons is not just the addition of another five-star hotel—it’s a statement. A statement that Gstaad, while steeped in heritage, continues to evolve as a destination for the world’s most discerning travelers. The countdown to winter 2026 has officially begun.
