Let us introduce you to the enchanting Swiss resort of Andermatt this coming season, featuring two stunning hotels and a huge investment in new ski lifts and slope facilities, it is time to visit before the secret is out.

We’ve had our eye on Andermatt for a few years, knowing that the exciting investments in hotel facilities, private accommodation and ski infrastructure would create an exciting new opportunity for skiers. With the opening of the world-class Radisson Blu and The Chedi hotels we’ve created a programme for half term that will appeal to skiers of all levels; from the gentle nursery slopes of Natschen, newly linked by new ski lifts and served by new slope facilities, to the off-piste paradise of the iconic Gemstock, one of the most celebrated mountains for serious skiers in Switzerland. Andermatt is one to watch...

Andermatt sits at a dramatic crossroads between 4 valleys in the centre of the St-Gotthard Massif, at an altitude of 1437m, within convenient reach of Zurich by road and rail. It is surrounded on all sides by spectacular views of the high altitude passes which climb off in different directions: the Furka Pass, the Oberalp Pass and the St-Gotthard Pass. Thanks to these passes travellers have been journeying through these valleys since medieval times, enjoying a warm welcome and hospitality from the friendly locals in all weathers. With close associations to the Swiss military since the late 19th century the village was all but cut off as a garrison town until the end of the Cold War and it was generally overlooked by tourism. However, since the departure of the Swiss army and a significant investment and re-generation programme over the last decade thanks to the charismatic Egyptian-born billionaire Samih Sawiris, everything has changed. What awaits you now as you climb up the steep approach from Gotshenen past the historic ‘Devil’s Bridge’ is nothing short of a revelation.

Andermatt is part of Central Switzerland’s largest ski domain with a linked ski area of 180km between the areas of Andermatt, Sedrun and Disentis. Over the past couple of years the Scandinavian resort operator SkiStar has been involved in re-modelling the ski area and creating new lifts to connect the zones of Natschen and Sedrun and Disentis. The ski area has been rejuvenated to a level that can now rival other Swiss mega-resorts, and the sleepy, poorly-connected resort that time forgot for over 30 years is a distant memory.

The iconic Gemstock mountain that dominates the eastern skyline at 2963m offers steep descents for confident skiers and is home to some of the worlds best off-piste. The top station is one of the great Alpine viewpoints and gives you the option to break right and off towards the Bernhard Russi run (named after the famous ski-racing hero) and the famous off-piste routes such as Giraffe and Geisberg. Turn left from the cable-car and enjoy the beautiful St Anna Gletscher red run which drops 3.5km down to the base.

While you pick your line, younger skiers will be in their element on the Natschen nursery slopes, accessed by quaint mountain train up from the village, whilst improvers will make their way across the new ski terrain linked with Sedrun made possible by two large chair lifts which open up some great cruising terrain. For a full day adventure you can ski all the way to Disentis before taking the train back to Andermatt, enjoying a little après-ski on the way back home to complete a memorable day.

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The Radisson Blu, Andermatt

We’re very excited about the launch of our programme at the Radisson Blu Hotel as it has all the ingredients we feel are essential for families travelling at half term. The hotel describes itself as being based on the concept of a modern Swiss chalet combined with Scandinavian design influences. It has a warm and inviting atmosphere with a large open plan reception, lobby bar and lounge area leading through to a fantastic restaurant. You’ll love the huge indoor pool, gym and spa and all the modern conveniences you’d expect from an international hotel of this standing, it even has its own concert hall which plays host to international concerts and performances throughout the year.

But where the Radisson Blue really delivers is its choice of family accommodation. As well as traditional hotel rooms, they offer a vast selection of 1,2 and 3 bedroom suites and in the connected Residence wing, fully integrated with all the hotel facilities, you’ll have the choice of 1,2 or 3 bedroom Residence Apartments all with full fitted kitchens and stocked with everything from fluffy sofa throws to snuggle under as you relax, to your own fondue and raclette sets for those feeling adventurous!

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The Chedi, Andermatt

This 5-star deluxe hotel perfectly combines authentic Alpine chic with Asian design elements thanks to the stunning design of Jean-Michel Gathy. The Chedi plays host to a number of exquisite restaurants, luxurious bedrooms and suites, and a 2,400m2 spa, pool & health club that will blow your mind. This is a super-hotel, a bold and brave vision from another world, created in stark contrast to the sleepy village surrounding it, and so unusual it has to be experienced to be believed.

123 spacious rooms and suites in which traditional materials, such as warm wood, dark leather and natural stone create a stylish and intimate atmosphere. Large picture windows provide breathtaking views over the village of Andermatt to bring the magic of the mountain landscape into your room. Each set of rooms has its own fireplace and balcony, as well as a large bathtub and separate rain shower - everything about the Chedi experience is about your enjoyment and comfort.

With four restaurants and bars to choose from, you are spoilt for choice at the gastronomic Chedi. The exquisite ‘Japanese Restaurant’ is the only Michelin starred restaurant in Andermatt and offers up a six-course culinary delight. In ‘The Restaurant’ four show kitchens serving Asian and European fare tempt you with dishes prepared with theatre and passion. Executive Chef Dietmar Sawyere and Chef de Cuisine Armin Egli expertly oversee the whole gastronomic concept.

As you wander down to prepare for skiing on your first morning, the ski butler service takes care of your every need in the ski lounge - it’s the perfect start to your skiing and no surprise from a hotel that has quite literally thought of everything.