Wednesday 03 / June / 2026
MUSCAT: Nestled between tranquil lakefront vistas and snow-capped Alpine landscapes, Zurich, located in the heart of Europe, is arguably one of God’s finest creations.
From wandering through the historic lanes of the charming Old Town to strolling along the world-famous Bahnhofstrasse and relaxing by the picturesque shores of Lake Zurich, every corner of the city offers a memorable experience.
The unique blend of a vibrant metropolis, pristine nature and breathtaking mountain scenery makes Zurich a destination unlike any other.
Like many people, I grew up immersed in fairy tales. Even as adults, we often carry a quiet desire to experience those magical worlds we once imagined while turning the pages of our favourite childhood books.
I thought I had already seen some of the world’s most remarkable places. But it was not until I arrived at Zurich’s iconic Dolder Grand that I felt as though I had stepped into a real-life fairy tale.
Perched high above the city, the Dolder Grand has been synonymous with exceptional hospitality since 1899. Originally conceived as a sanatorium and wildlife park connected to Zurich by a funicular railway, it has evolved into one of Switzerland’s most celebrated luxury city resorts. Today, it combines world-class dining, a renowned art collection and one of the country’s finest spas, all set against a backdrop of spectacular natural beauty.
What captivated me most was the way Swiss culture seemed woven into every aspect of the property. The living gallery, displaying over 100 original artworks by 90 globally renowned artists across its public spaces, complements the contemporary design and tells its own story.
Yet it was often the simple moments that stayed with me — standing by my window and gazing across Zurich, Lake Zurich and the distant Swiss Alps, a view that looked as though it had been lifted directly from the pages of a storybook.
Throughout my stay, I found myself thinking of Heidi, Johanna Spyri’s beloved tale of a young orphan girl growing up in the Swiss Alps.
Published in 1880, the novel remains one of Switzerland’s most enduring cultural treasures. Remarkably, despite the passage of time, modern development and growing tourism, Zurich still possesses the rare ability to transport visitors to another era. There is something precious about a place that can make you feel connected to a world that existed more than a century ago.
I visited the Dolder Grand as summer was beginning to unfold in full splendour. The gardens were in bloom, outdoor terraces were buzzing with life and the hotel’s St Tropez-inspired summer celebration had officially launched the season in style.
The resort truly comes alive during the warmer months. Guests can enjoy al fresco dining, outdoor wellness experiences and a wealth of leisure activities, all accompanied by panoramic views of the city, lake and mountains. It is easy to understand why visitors from across the Middle East and beyond are drawn here year after year.
For nature lovers, the Dolder Grand is an ideal base. Surrounded by forest, it offers access to scenic hiking trails and e-bike routes where visitors can encounter local wildlife, discover charming country inns and even explore medieval castles hidden within the landscape.
Sports enthusiasts are equally well catered for. During my stay, I learned about the nearby Dolder Golf Club Zurich, one of Switzerland’s oldest golf clubs, as well as Le Club Lacoste Zurich, a newly redesigned tennis facility inspired by the brand’s rich sporting heritage. The nearby Dolder Bad, with its outdoor swimming pool, volleyball courts and recreational facilities, provides another excellent option for active travellers.
Wellness is clearly central to the Dolder experience. The hotel offers outdoor breath work sessions, yoga and Pilate’s classes, meditation escapes and even forest bathing — the Japanese practice of reconnecting with nature to promote mindfulness and wellbeing.
The spa itself is a destination in its own right. Spanning more than 43,000 square feet, it ranks among the largest in Switzerland. From personalised fitness programmes and detox treatments to holistic therapies designed to rejuvenate both body and mind, every detail reflects a commitment to wellness. The latest addition to the spa menu includes a selection of luxurious La Prairie facial treatments and the innovative Day and Night Experience, combining skincare expertise with restorative rituals.
Dining proved equally memorable. Summer menus focus on fresh, refined flavours, served in elegant outdoor settings. The Spa Terrace Bar offers healthy dishes and light bites, while blooms showcases creative vegan and vegetarian cuisine in a garden setting.
One of the highlights was learning about the culinary vision of Chef Fine Dining Heiko Nieder, whose acclaimed restaurant holds two Michelin stars. Guests can savour his inventive creations on the Krug Terrace or enjoy the newly introduced Chef’s Table experience, offering a more intimate glimpse into his culinary artistry. Elsewhere, Saltz welcomes guests for its popular brunch service, while Miyu introduces elevated Japanese-inspired dishes through its seasonal pop-up concept.
Beyond the hotel, Zurich itself was bursting with energy. Summer brings an exciting calendar of cultural events, including food festivals, open-air concerts, art exhibitions and public installations throughout the city.
I spent time exploring the cobbled streets of the Old Town, watching locals enjoy the lake and river pools, and admiring the city’s effortless blend of history and modernity. Bahnhofstrasse, one of Europe’s most prestigious shopping streets, offered plenty of opportunities for retail indulgence, while the surrounding mountains beckoned with endless day-trip possibilities.
For guests seeking a personalised experience, the Dolder Grand’s concierge team can curate bespoke itineraries tailored to individual interests, both within Zurich and across Switzerland.
As my stay came to an end, it became clear that the Dolder Grand’s appeal extends far beyond luxury accommodation. It offers a rare combination of history, culture, wellness, gastronomy and natural beauty — all wrapped in the timeless charm that has defined it for more than a century.
For anyone planning a Swiss summer escape, the Dolder Grand offers an experience that feels both indulgent and deeply authentic. And for me, it delivered something even more memorable: a fleeting but unforgettable return to the fairy-tale world I thought I had left behind long ago.
