Zurich is a great city that has a lot to offer, both in winter and in summer. In summer we love exploring the nearby mountains and lakes and when it gets hot, boating and swimming on Zurich lake.

In winter Zurich is a very elegant city, with locals looking sharp in their cashmere jackets and fancy fur coats. Browsing little lanes of the old town, shopping on Bahnhofstrasse and sipping hot chocolates in the outdoor cafés is a great way to spend a winter day.

Zurich is also a gateway to many ski resorts – take your pick from ultra-glamorous St Moritz and Gstaad, Zermatt and Andermatt. All within an easy reach by car or train from the city. Some travellers go to the ski slopes straight from the airport (Swiss rail system connects Zurich airport with most ski resorts), while we recommend to combine a couple of days in the city with the mountains.

There is only a handful of exquisite five star hotels in Zurich and Savoy Hotel Baur en Ville is one of them. Spectacular location on Bahnhofstrasse, main street of Zurich, ensures that all luxury shops, beautiful cafes and restaurants as well as Zurich Lake are on your doorstep.

Accommodation

The Savoy offers just over 100 rooms and suites, a lovely intimate size hotel with a history that dates back 180 years. This wonderful hotel managed to maintain old world charm and combine it with the modern luxuries.

As a family we stayed in Paradeplats Suite number 409, joined with a single room 410. Both together provided us with two bedrooms, spacious living room, 2.5 bathrooms and balconies, that open up to pretty views of the city centre.

Rooms offer atmosphere of classic luxury through a selection of traditional furnishings, rugs and marble bathrooms.

Modern day technology is not forgotten either and large flat screen TVs and coffee machines are amongst many treats designed to spoil the guests.

Interestingly, Hotel Savoy still offers single rooms, which one doesn’t find anywhere else, but Europe. They are small rooms with a single bed, designed for single business travellers. An economical option for the budget conscious.

Dining

Savoy Hotel Bauer en Ville Zurich has two exquisite restaurants and a trendy Savoy bar. On the first night we tried Orsini– exquisite Italian restaurant, very popular with the locals, which is always a good sign. By 9pm there wasn’t a table free and the restaurant was buzzing. Exceptional menu and silver service make Orsini a ‘must visit’, even if you are not a hotel guest. Without exaggeration – the menu is so seductive, that I was tempted to order every single dish.

Second restaurant Baur is also excellent. Perfect for a business lunch or a hearty evening meal to warm up on a cold day. The longstanding German chef is exceptional – for our lunch we felt like seafood and the chef has suggested a trio of delicate white fish accompanied by artichokes and chanterelle mushrooms. I couldn’t have asked for a better meal and didn’t even have to read through the menu. When the chef reads your mind – it is a true luxury for me.

Breakfast is served à la carte with ham, cheese and bread delivered to the table. Hot dishes like pancakes and eggs can be ordered from the kitchen and are also part of the set breakfast. I would’ve liked to see more fruit and vegetables on the menu together with some healthy options like green juices and smoothies.

Facilities

There is no gym or spa in the hotel, but guests receive a complimentary pass to use the large fitness centre nearby.

The Lux Traveller Loves

Superb location in the very centre of the city, surrounded by the glamorous boutiques and a short stroll to the lake.

Classic luxury style with a mix of old world charm and modern technology.

Exceptional dining.

Splitting Hairs

On a very cold day the room might get chilly. I would suggest increasing the heating settings in winter. Also a small buffet would be appreciated during breakfast to complement the hot dishes.

All In All

Hotel Savoy is not a part of a big chain and I love that – it is one of a kind little gem, with lots of character. The service is very personal and I am sure repeat guests receive a very warm welcome. If you are looking for old world charm, European flair, exceptional dining and central location, Hotel Savoy Bauer en Ville is a great choice.