The charming village of Adelboden has a plethora of hotel options, but there is only one choice in beauty and luxury – The Cambrian. This fantastic hotel sits in the middle of town, on a slope at the base of one of the majestic Alps that surround the area. Constructed from local materials native to Switzerland and fusing the traditional with the modern and design-centric – you just can’t get much more perfect.
The Swiss villa which houses the central part of the hotel was built in the 19th century. There are adjoining chalets that consist of the majority of rooms – all parts to the puzzle coming together seamlessly. Ladened with dormers and windows that look-out to the most spectacular scenery imaginable, The Cambrian knows where to put emphasis, letting nature do all the talking. Walking into the lobby you’re greeted by one of the young and friendly staff, noticing smooth stone and wood textures married together in the floor and furnishings. A soft fire burns in the distance and silver bowls of fresh apples sit waiting to be plucked by guests for their enjoyment.
The interiors were designed by Peter Silling who cleverly nods to local culture with murals of trees, birds, statues of oversized feet and installations of chopped wood turning each corner into an art gallery. Even in rooms, sleek furniture such as the cool steel curves of Barcelona chairs reference the mountain peaks visible while seated in them. Wandering throughout the hotel you’ll notice that Silling’s detail is evident everywhere. “Green” touches appear on every floor, like when lights automatically turn off in hallways, subsequently illuminating when they sense movement. The muted and soft carpet runners gliding along the wood plank floors add a touch of warmth where needed. Bathrooms have anti-fog mirrors and radiant heat in the floors.
The Cambrian is a full-service hotel offering a fantastic spa with treatments based on local ingredients and renowned techniques – from massage to facials. The space is a respite after skiing or hiking in Adelboden’s valleys. You’ll find attractive attendants showing you the way to a changing area where you can prepare for an evening of relaxation. An incredible indoor pool which reflects the lighted stars in the ceiling above makes for the perfect swim. A resting room with hot tea, dried fruit, nuts and snacks is set just next to a sauna area which features a steam room and large Finnish sauna for your use. And, of course, the crowning gem in The Cambrian’s spa’s crown is the outdoor infinity thermal pool. This pool is heated to 90 degrees where you can rest against timed jets and relax while peering over the edge at the otherworldly mountains before you. There’s nothing like it.
The Cambrian also offers a wonderful watering hole, Scott’s Bar, and a gourmet restaurant serving local and international seasonal dishes. Staff members know you by name and will assist you in organizing a rental of their complimentary mountain bikes after dinner or a day hiking along the river. The Cambrian knows how to make you feel well-looked-after and right at home. Whether checking-in during the winter season or summer – there’s no bad time. Hotelier Grant Maunder did an excellent job of creating a place that you will just never want to leave.