As the Head of Hotel Partnerships at Hotelcard, I get around a lot and know our hotels like no one else. On my travels, I often discover some real hidden pearls within our portfolio: hotels which attract little attention at first glance, but are characterised by a particularly high feel-good factor. Maybe because of their wonderful interior, the genuine hospitality of the staff, the excellent cuisine or a magnificent view from the balcony. Today I would like to reveal some of these secrets to you.
 

Stefan Sächerl, Head of Hotel Partnerships

1. Hotel Relais Bayard, Susten, Valais

The 3* Superior Hotel Relais Bayard in Susten delights with its renovated, modern rooms. Lots of wood and light colours ensure cosiness. Surrounded by a breathtaking mountain panorama, you can enjoy warm summer evenings on the large terrace. In the restaurant with Swiss and French specialities, in the Pizzeria and in the Bayard-Wy-Chäller, you can enjoy an outstanding cuisine.  

In addition, the spa and fitness area offer plenty of space for well-being. The hotel has been certified by Hotelleriesuisse as a Bike Hotel and is furthermore located directly on the Leuk golf course. Young guests will enjoy the beautiful playground.
 

Excursions  around Susten

Did you know that the largest pine forest in the Alps can be found nearby? It connects the German and French parts of the canton. The highlight of the Pfynwald is the 134-metre-long Bhutan bridge, decorated with prayer flags, which span the Illgraben.  

Simply immerse yourself in a different world? Between Sion and Sierre is Lac Souterrain, the largest underground lake in Europe. A boat trip on the mystical lake is a unique experience.

Further information: Lac Souterrains
 

@ www.lac-souterrain.com

2. Hotel Garni Feehof, Saas-Fee, Valais

The 3* Hotel Garni Feehof  is ideally situated in a sunny location in the car-free town Sass-Fee. The hotel was built in 2004 and is only a few steps away of the cable car. It offers spacious family rooms for 3-4 people as well as generous double rooms. The rooms are modern and well-maintained. Here you will experience the warm hospitality of a personally run hotel.

My recommendation: Book this hotel during week days and benefit of 50% discount.
 

Excursions around Saas-Fee

In southern Saastal you find the largest earth dam in Europe, the Mattmark Dam, which is used to generate electricity. It is embedded in the mountains in a wild and romantic setting. If you want to do some work out, you'll love the Via Ferrata on the Mittaghorn, at 3144 metres above sea level.

Things are much more relaxed on the Marmots Trail on the Spielbogen. From July 2021, you can set off on the new circular trail here with Eddie the marmot. Seven panels provide exciting insights into the lives of these cute animals and, with a bit of luck, you may even meet them in person.
 

Mattmark Dam © SaastalTourismusAG-levinstudio-01

3. Hotel Arvenbüel, Amden, St. Gallen

The 3* Hotel Arvenbüel in Amden, St. Gallen, is situated on a sunny plateau above Lake Walen. The bright and spacious south-facing rooms have a beautiful balcony where you can enjoy a great view of the mountains of Glarus.

A sauna and solarium are available for your well-being. There is a playroom for younger guests. Delicious, regional dishes are served in the restaurant, and the large terrace is a popular meeting place in summer. The hotel is surrounded by lots of nature. An ideal place for those who love spectacular views and plenty of peace and quiet.

This hotel offers the best discounts during the week.
 

Excursions around Lake Walen

Visit one of the highest waterfalls in Switzerland! At Betlis, the Seerenbach Falls plunge impressively into the depths in three cascades at a total height of 585 metres. The middle cascade is 305 metres high and is one of the largest free-falling waterfalls in the world. Even if the amount of water in summer is not always as impressive as at the time of the snowmelt, a trip is worthwhile even in summer. Not least because the Rin spring foams wildly right next to it.

A visit to Quinten is almost a must during a stay in the region. The car-free village can only be reached by foot or by boat. Surrounded by vineyards, in front of the glittering Lake Walen, the village shows its most beautiful side in summer.

Or how about some water sports? Discover Lake Walen on a Stand up Paddle. There are rental stations around the Lake.
 

© Heidiland Tourismus / Thomas Kessler

4. Hôtel de l'Etrier, Crans-Montana, Valais

The 4* Hôtel de l'Etrier in Crans-Montana impresses with its spacious, modern and bright rooms and luxurious furnishings. Lots of wood creates an alpine feel-good atmosphere. The view of the Valais mountains is fantastic. The Le Fer à Cheval restaurant serves regional cheese specialities and in summer fine grilled dishes. The wellness area will delight you with a sauna, a steam bath and an indoor and outdoor pool. The hotel is family-owned and run with a lot of passion.
 

Excursions around Crans-Montana

Indoor and outdoor action is on offer at the Alaïa Chalet. With an area of more than 5,000 sqm, it is the first indoor and outdoor action sports centre in Switzerland. Trampolines, indoor ramps with airbags, bowls and an outdoor skate park make the hearts of sports enthusiasts beat faster in all weathers.

At "Wine & Jazz", the focus is on enjoyment: every Friday, from 02.07. to 27.08.2021, from 17.00, the musical "Wine & Jazz" aperitif takes place in the gardens of Ycoor.
 

© Explore Switzerland

Leave everyday life behind and get ready for your next short break. Discover enchanting landscapes around the hotel pearls described here. Book today while rooms are still available. Our partner hotels are looking forward to welcoming you!