There are mountain getaways, and then there’s Villars Palace. Perched high above the Rhone Valley in the historic alpine resort of Villars-sur-Ollon, this newly reborn grand dame isn’t just another luxury stay in the Alps—it’s a palace with heartbeat and soul. Its where old-world charm meets contemporary living, elevated by cultural richness and a superior wellness sanctuary that speaks to today’s modern traveller. Think authenticity over excess, elegance with intention, and a view that never gets old.
Set in the heart of Villars-sur-Ollon, the hotel is part of the Villars Alpine Resort—an elegantly woven cluster of lifestyle properties redefining high-altitude hospitality. Once the haunt of European royalty, silent film stars, and wandering poets, the Palace (dating back to 1913) now reclaims its throne as the beating heart of this lesser-known Swiss village, thanks to a sweeping restoration and fresh cultural energy. Originally built on the site of the Grand Muveran, the Palace was for decades the social centre of Villars. Fast-forward a century, and a visionary trio—Denis Glatz (construction), Philippe Jacquier (architecture), and Ottavio Di Chio (interiors)—have revived the Belle Époque beauty into a world-class retreat. The result? A graceful marriage of Swiss simplicity and understated elegance, where antique chandeliers swing above sleek armchairs and modern art lines wood-panelled corridors like a gallery. And the rooms? Think refined: high ceilings, artful touches, and views so cinematic you half expect Julie Andrews to twirl by. You wake up feeling like you’re floating above the clouds—and sometimes, you actually are.
With its expansive in-house theatre and an arts programme curated by ACT 1895—offering everything from indie film nights to live jazz, DJ sets and photo exhibitions—the hotel is fast carving out its place as a true cultural alpine hub..
Bedroom © Villars Palace
The KAEA Villars Alpine Spa is a haven of water, silence, and light. Glide through a hallway illuminated with digital visuals of natural landscapes before reaching a sanctuary of saunas, hammams, and a heated outdoor pool overlooking the mountains. The spa’s signature? Treatments by KAEA Skincare—plant-powered, holistic, and seriously indulgent. Need to sweat it out? The state-of-the-art gym overlooks snow-capped peaks, while private yoga and training sessions are available for those who prefer their zen with a personal touch. The real highlight? That feeling of floating in the open-air pool with only the sound of wind, water, and cowbells in the distance. Alpine bliss, redefined.
Spa area © Villars Palace
Outdoor pool © Villars Palace
Dinner at Le 1913 is an experience that balances refinement with a deep sense of place. Under the direction of chef Christian Bertogna, the menu draws inspiration from Alpine terroir, subtly complemented by Mediterranean influences. The daily spit roast, thoughtfully selected and prepared with precision, is a highlight for meat lovers. Yet it is the atmosphere that completes the experience: warm wood interiors, subdued lighting, and elegantly presented plates that reflect the care behind each dish. Whether indulging in a multi-course meal or enjoying a quiet glass of wine by the fire, guests are welcomed with a sense of ease and generosity. After dinner, the Bar du Palace invites you to unwind with expertly crafted cocktails. At sunset, the terrace offers panoramic views of the Alps, bathed in golden light—a tranquil and unforgettable close to the day.
So, whether you’re here for the the plates, the powder, the spa or the stillness—Villars Palace delivers. And with a calendar of cultural events and a setting that feels pulled from an alpine fairy tale, it’s poised to become the next go-to for those in-the-know.
1913 restaurant © Villars Palace
