There is something undeniably magical about arriving in the Swiss Alps in winter, that moment when the mountains rise into view like a painted backdrop, and the world quietly exhales. Adelboden, with its groomed pistes and timeless chalets, has long been a favourite among those seeking a serene yet stylish ski escape. But this season, I discovered a retreat that elevates the experience to something truly memorable: The Cambrian Adelboden.
Located in the heart of the village, The Cambrian blends contemporary design with a comforting sense of Alpine tradition, an approach that resonates deeply the moment you step inside. Our welcome came courtesy of Nicholas from Bern, who looked after us with warmth from the very start. He handled check-in seamlessly before personally escorting us to our room, adding a thoughtful human touch that immediately set the tone for our stay.
A Junior Suite with a British Twist
We stayed in one of the hotel’s Junior Suites, a gorgeous space that struck the perfect balance between modern sensibility and cosy mountain charm. The first thing that caught my eye was the palette: deep hunting boot green walls, warm textiles and touches of tartan and woodland tones. There was something undeniably British about it all, an unexpected contrast to the dramatic Swiss vistas outside our balcony doors.
Opening those doors felt like stepping into another world. The mountains, dusted with snow, stretched endlessly before us as if reserved exclusively for our admiration. It is the kind of view that demands a moment of stillness, a deep breath and perhaps a quiet pinch just to be sure you are not dreaming.
Days on the Slopes
Adelboden in winter is not a place for staying still too long. The ski resort is vast, with gently cruising runs for beginners and rewarding terrain for more seasoned skiers. Each day we skied until our legs declared mutiny, gliding across wide slopes framed by pristine pines and craggy peaks.
And each afternoon, with limbs pleasantly tired, we would make our way back to The Cambrian’s spa, a sanctuary in every sense of the word.
Wellness with a View
The spa is spectacular, but it is the outdoor infinity pool that truly steals the show. Floating in steaming alpine water as the mountains glow in the afternoon sun is an experience that lingers long after you have towelled off. The pool alone is reason enough to visit.
Inside, a thoughtful selection of saunas provides blissful recovery after a day on the slopes. It quickly became our ritual: ski, sauna, steam, relax, repeat.
Dinner at Bryn Williams Restaurant
One evening, our adventures moved from the piste to the plate when we dined at the hotel’s Bryn Williams Restaurant. The ambience was elegant but relaxed, helped enormously by Anderson, our Brazilian waiter, whose cheeky humour and infectious warmth transformed dinner into a joyful event.
To begin, Anderson treated us to a mini tasting of three white wines: a crisp Heida, a Rhône blend and a lively Grüner Veltliner. Tasting them side by side showcased the restaurant’s thoughtful approach to wine and was such a fun way to start the evening.
For starters, the baked celeriac arrived earthy and fragrant, a winter dish that manages to be both comforting and refined. Adam chose the entrecôte with baked peppers, a beautifully cooked piece of meat paired with sweet, smoky peppers. I ordered the gnocchi with zucchini, which came pillowy and delicate with just the right touch of Alpine richness.
Dessert continued the theme of indulgent simplicity. Adam opted for the banoffee pie while I chose the tiramisu, light and creamy and exactly what you want at the end of a winter evening.
Just when we thought the night had reached its peak, Anderson reappeared with another impromptu tasting, this time a tawny port and a Portuguese white delightfully named Tears of Jesus, both excellent and presented with flair.
We were also thrilled to learn that the kitchen is led by Laura Magee from Cork, who became head chef in January 2025. Her influence is evident in the clarity of flavours and the confident seasonal style that lets each ingredient shine. It will be exciting to see how her menu develops over the coming seasons.
A Stay to Savour
Our days in Adelboden fell into a rhythm that felt almost tailor-made for winter happiness. We woke to pink-washed peaks, skied until the shadows grew long, then retreated to the spa before dressing for dinner. The Cambrian delivered the kind of hospitality that feels effortless but is anything but, thoughtful details, genuine warmth and an atmosphere that encourages you to slow down and savour each moment.
On our final morning, I lingered a little longer on the balcony of our Junior Suite. The mountains stood quietly in the early light, unchanged yet somehow altered by the memories we had made. The Cambrian Adelboden had been more than just a luxurious base from which to explore the ski resort. It had offered an intimate and restorative Alpine experience that stays with you long after the snow melts.
For those seeking a winter escape that combines design-led comfort, beautiful cuisine, and one of the most breathtaking spa views in Switzerland, The Cambrian Adelboden is a destination that truly delivers.
The Cambrian, Adelboden, a Member of Design Hotels
Dorfstrasse 7
3715 Adelboden
Switzerland
