The white castle rises majestically above Lake Lucerne. We dock on the shore in the hotel’s own boat and enter the exclusive but relaxed world of Park Hotel Vitznau. Just a stone’s throw away from Zurich, we immerse ourselves in a sanctuary that not only promises unpretentious luxury and true relaxation, but also stays true to that promise. We are warmly welcomed in the spacious lobby and once again enjoy the wonderful view of the lake through the large panoramic windows before making our way to our suite. In the glass elevator, we glide past paintings illustrating the themed worlds of the galleries with their 47 residences, suits and junior suites.
There are no dark abysses leading up to rooms at Park Hotel Vitznau – if a residence or suite isn’t occupied, it is simply closed with a glass door. The light from the doors illuminates the corridor whilst allowing you to peer into the individually designed rooms. This was made possible through a comprehensive, complex and costly renovation. The whole historic building was gutted and rebuilt from the inside out. Now guests have access to the latest technology, luxurious facilities and any amenity imaginable. Past and future meet in the most pleasing way. We end our first day with a visit to the hotel’s PRISMA restaurant. European cuisine from Philipp Heid with his Michelin star and 15 Gault Millau points impresses with his Asian influences. In the morning, we can choose from international dishes with seasonal sophistication in the focus restaurant (Patrick Mahler, 2 stars, 17 points) and the grill on the lakeside terrace (13 points). And we absolutely want to get to know the six outstanding wine cellar, which is worth millions and makes the Park Hotel a paradise for vintage wines, champagnes and rarities, especially from France, but also from the Old World and the New World. At sunset, you can admire the romantic view of Lake Lucerne, which runs through our entire stay like a thread. From all angles, it offers wonderful views of the lake, which is located at the heart of Switzerland and has blossomed into a posh hot spot in recent years. One more nightcap at Verlinde Armagnac & Cognac Bar Relais Gourmand, which gently ‘drops’ from the roof of the mouth before slipping down the throat, before we dream about what the next day has in store for us.
Today we continue our private little break. Even at breakfast there are beautiful details that Park Hotel Vitznau attaches great importance to. Fresh bread rolls come to the table in treasure chests, with the butter and jams hiding in the drawers, and ham comes from local organic farmers. We then go through the sumptuous menu, trying freshly prepared egg dishes, salty delicacies and sweet pastries. Later, we forego the many leisure activities in the area to visit the exclusive hotel spa, which is delightfully intimate with a lawn separated from the other garden and restaurant areas by a stream. A feeling of wellness envelopes us – it’s a place where we can immerse ourselves in both meanings of the word. The infinity pool appears to flow into the lake, and several saunas, jacuzzi, ice grotto, relaxation room and much more invite you to relax, with treatments using La Prairie products pampering both body and mind. The service at Park Hotel Vitznau is outstanding. This includes the many free services and offerings in this non-smoking, dog-free hotel (parking, shuttle service, tourist tax, etc.). A unique setting without any hassle. We’d quite like to take that feeling home with us.
