Tucked away in the Bernese Oberland, surrounded by the cinematic peaks of the Lenk–Adelboden region, lies the Lenkerhof Gourmet Spa Resort, a five-star retreat that marries heritage with contemporary alpine sophistication. As the oldest hotel in the area, yet one of the most forward-thinking, Lenkerhof captures the perfect balance between history and innovation. Having stayed here previously in the summer, I was truly excited to return and experience the resort under a blanket of snow. What had been a sun-soaked haven of mountain wellness became, in winter, a cosy sanctuary of warmth, comfort, and culinary delight.
We arrived on a crisp winter’s afternoon, our car packed with skis, boots, and the promise of adventure. Gustavo, the ever-cheerful Portuguese porter, greeted us with a broad smile and swiftly took charge of our luggage, whisking everything, including our mountain gear, straight to our suite. At reception, Elias, a charming Swiss host, made check-in effortless, offering helpful tips about the slopes and the hotel’s array of amenities. From the very beginning, it was evident that Lenkerhof’s true strength lies in its people: professional, intuitive, and genuinely warm.
Our Spectacular Alpine Residence
Our home for this winter stay was the Premium Corner Suite, a spectacular space that feels more like a residence than a hotel room. Spacious and beautifully designed, it combines the charm of chalet living with the elegance of a luxury apartment. The décor echoes the aesthetic of a chic urban bistro, featuring rich woods, geometric accents, and a neutral palette that is both sophisticated and inviting.
Floor-to-ceiling windows revealed breathtaking views of the snow-covered mountains of Lenk–Adelboden, a panorama that changed with the shifting light throughout the day. The open-plan lounge, complete with a real wood fireplace, became our evening refuge. After dinner, we would light the fire, pour a glass of wine, and sink into the plush sofa as snowflakes fell softly outside.
Practicality is another area where Lenkerhof excels. There was ample wardrobe space for our ski gear and winter clothing, and the large marble bathroom, with its deep soaking tub and luxurious amenities, was perfect for a long soak after a day on the slopes. Every detail of the suite felt considered, from the lighting to the layout, striking a flawless balance between comfort and refinement.
Dining in Style at Oh de Vie
Our first evening began at Oh de Vie, the hotel’s elegant Italian-inspired restaurant. Welcomed by Lena, who looked after us with exceptional grace, the evening unfolded beautifully. The restaurant blends fine dining with a relaxed, convivial atmosphere, where Mediterranean flavours are reimagined through Swiss precision and seasonal produce.
Each course was a delight, delicate, beautifully presented, and full of fresh, balanced flavours. From the handmade pasta to the perfectly seasoned main dishes, every plate spoke of craftsmanship and care. Lena’s attentive service, along with her thoughtful wine recommendations, elevated the entire experience, making it one of those dinners where everything feels effortlessly right.
The Showstopper: Spettacolo
The following evening, we dined at Spettacolo, the hotel’s celebrated Michelin-starred restaurant. With its open kitchen and elegant setting, it’s a space where culinary artistry takes centre stage. The new Executive Chef, Anja from Biel, brings an exciting energy to the restaurant. Her creative approach, blending Swiss traditions with subtle Asian influences, results in a menu that is both daring and deeply comforting.
Alejandro, the charming restaurant manager and sommelier from Mallorca, guided us through the evening with passion and expertise, offering perfect wine pairings that complemented each course beautifully. Alongside him, Marta from Barcelona and Camila ensured service flowed seamlessly, striking that perfect balance between professionalism and warmth.
The tasting menu was a symphony of texture and flavour, showcasing the best of Swiss ingredients with an international flair. Each course was a work of art, reflecting Anja’s distinct culinary voice, refined yet approachable, innovative yet rooted in tradition.
Fondue Dreams in the Tubbo Lounge
The most magical dining experience of our stay, however, was at the Tubbo Lounge, a charming igloo-style pop-up restaurant on the terrace that glows invitingly against the snowy backdrop. Stepping inside felt like entering a winter fairy tale, softly lit, cosy, and with sweeping views of the surrounding mountains.
Anita, our wonderful host from the Czech Republic, made the evening special from the start. The Tubbo experience centres around fondue, and the Champagne fondue here is truly exceptional, indulgent, velvety, and served with both warm potatoes and freshly baked bread. To begin, we enjoyed a light and flavourful beetroot carpaccio, beautifully presented and bursting with freshness, a delightful prelude to the rich, comforting fondue that followed.
Adam and I then reminisced about our day on the slopes over melted cheese and bubbles, the very essence of alpine contentment. The meal ended with a charming gingerbread dessert, perfectly spiced and paired with a glass of crisp white wine. Dining in the Tubbo felt intimate and festive, a celebration of winter and togetherness, an experience that perfectly captures Lenkerhof’s creative spirit.
Relaxation at the Seven Sources Spa
Between skiing and dining, much of our time was devoted to the 7 Sources Beauty & Spa, a wellness haven inspired by the natural springs that feed the region. After days on the mountain, it was pure bliss to unwind in this serene environment. The facilities are extensive, including thermal pools, saunas, steam rooms, and relaxation lounges, all designed with soothing elegance. My personal favourite areas were the dampfbad and the cold plunge pool, an invigorating combination that awakens the senses and leaves you feeling completely refreshed.
A Fond Farewell
All too soon, it was time to leave this alpine sanctuary. On our final morning, after a leisurely breakfast overlooking the snow-covered valley, Lorena handled our checkout with efficiency and genuine warmth. Gustavo was once again on hand to load our luggage and skis, his cheerful energy making departure feel a little less bittersweet.
As we drove away, I reflected on how Lenkerhof had once again exceeded expectations. Returning in winter offered a completely new perspective, the same welcoming atmosphere and familiar faces, but wrapped in a snow-dusted sense of magic.
Lenkerhof Gourmet Spa Resort is an exquisite blend of classic alpine hospitality, cutting-edge gastronomy, and restorative wellness. It is rare to find a hotel that can shine equally in both summer and winter, yet Lenkerhof does so effortlessly. Whether it is the Michelin-starred artistry of Spettacolo, the Champagne fondue beneath the stars in the Tubbo Lounge, or the quiet serenity of the salt grotto, each element contributes to an experience that feels curated and deeply personal.
For those seeking a mountain retreat that combines five-star indulgence with heartfelt service, Lenkerhof remains one of Switzerland’s most enchanting destinations, a place to return to, season after season.
Lenkerhof Gourmet Spa Resort
Badstrasse 20
3775 Lenk
Switzerland
