We recently returned from a winter getaway to Zurich and St. Moritz, Switzerland. Based at the luxurious Dolder Grand and Badrutt’s Palace hotels, we enjoyed the best of both cities. Here are a few favorite places and experiences from our trip:

The Dolder Grand is the perfect luxury retreat in Zurich. We love the light and space of the rooms in the contemporary wings. Many have fantastic views over the city, Lake Zurich and the Alps in the distance.

An unforgettable meal at one of Zurich’s best fondue restaurants. Perfect for sharing!

A walk through the narrow streets of Zurich’s Altstadt (old town) is a great way to spend an afternoon.

First stop…Cafe Felix for some sweets and pastries by Teuscher, one of Switzerland’s most renowned confectioners.

Zurich is excellent for shopping. Many boutiques and specialty shops line the pedestrian-only streets of the old town.

Switzerland’s festive Christmas markets, which typically run from late November through December, are a wonderful winter experience.

Warming up with a delicious gluhwein (mulled wine) at the Christmas Market.

This father and daughter were selling Grittibaenz, a sweet brioche bread loaf baked in the form of a man. It’s a traditional holiday treat for celebrating St. Nicholas Day in December.

When in Switzerland, it’s always easy to eat more cheese! This time, it’s Raclette melted over potatoes and served with a side of cornichons and pickled onions.

Enjoying the cafe culture of Zurich with a coffee and Luxemburgerli cookie at Confiserie Sprungli on the Bahnhofstrasse.

The Dolder Grand has an incredible spa, as well as heated outdoor whirlpools that overlook the city, lake and mountains.

A five-course dinner and wine pairing at The Dolder Grand’s Michelin two-star restaurant. Absolute perfection.

Next, we were off to St. Moritz, a resort town in the Swiss Alps that hosted the 1928 and 1948 Winter Olympics. We traveled on the legendary Glacier Express train through dramatic mountain landscapes.

Affectionately called “The Palace” by the locals, historic Badrutt’s Palace is the place to stay for a luxurious getaway in St. Moritz.

We enjoyed the pleasant weather and sunshine on the veranda at Badrutt’s Palace. St. Moritz has over 300 days of sunshine per year!

The lobby area of Badrutt’s Palace, also known as “the living room of St. Moritz.” It’s a place to see and be seen.

The Madonna Room is a favorite for special occasions.

Apple strudel at Chesa Veglia, a restaurant run by Badrutt’s. It’s in an atmospheric old farmhouse next to the hotel.

The highlight of a stay in St. Moritz during the winter…incredible skiing! We loved having our own private ski guide from Badrutt’s help us navigate the best pistes at Corviglia, a ski mountain located directly behind the village.

Skiers and non-skiers alike can enjoy a gourmet lunch and incredible mountain views at Mathis Food Affairs, a chic and upscale restaurant headed by celebrity chef Reto Mathis. Easily accessed by funicular from St. Moritz, the restaurant is high on the ski slopes of Corviglia.

Apres-ski dessert at Mathis.

Walking off the pounds gained from our indulgent Swiss meals with a scenic walk around Lake St. Moritz…

…and window shopping in town to see the latest trends in ski fashion.

Our grand finale meal in Switzerland: a private “food safari” through the many dining venues of Badrutt’s Palace. First, we visited the wine cellar with the head sommelier to taste local wines paired with a Champagne risotto. Then, we walked through the kitchens to the formal dining room where the main course was served. We ended with…

…a behind-the-scenes visit to the pastry kitchen with the executive pastry chef.

The stunning view from our room at Badrutt’s Palace as the sun sets over St. Moritz.

Switzerland is a wonderful destination any time of year. Contact us to start planning a private Switzerland tour.