Huus Hotel, Gstaad, Swiss Alps - Explore & Book

"Gstaad is best known for traditional 5-star palaces, but Huus Hotel is something quite different. Designed by a Swede, it oozes laid-back Scandinavian charm from industrial-chic interiors. In the lounge, giant orange sofas sit alongside leather pouffes, statement lights, hand-picked coffee-table books and even the odd guitar hanging from the wall. The 136 bedrooms are similarly cool, with smokey-blue walls, toffee-brown cushions and copper lamps. It all combines to create a very stylish mountain retreat.The hotel attracts an all-encompassing crowd, from couples to families (there are dedicated play zones and family rooms); dogs are welcome, too. Skiing is the main attraction, with hundreds of kilometres of all-level pistes on the doorstep, but folk also come for other winter and summer activities in the surrounding Bernese Oberland, many of which are included in the rates. After a day of outdoor adventure, return for some pampering in the spa, a soak in the indoor pool, sophisticated food in the twinkling à la carte restaurant, or burgers and cocktails in the bar, all accompanied by sweeping mountain views. This gorgeous place has something for all tastes. Highs The lounge is a lovely buzzy hub, with its double height bar, bright orange sofas, bauble lamps and occasional live musicA daily activity is included in the rates - guided skiing, snowshoe walks and sledging in winter; hiking, mountain biking and more in summerLots of dining options: gourmet fare, informal buffets and tapas, bar food, even a fondue chalet in the groundsGreat for families, with connecting rooms and split-level 'gallery' rooms, an on-site kids club, and free ski sessions (including tuition) for younger kidsAn excellent spa with an indoor pool, an aromatic sauna, an ice fountain, a herbal steam bath and massages Lows It's larger than most i-escape hotels, but that doesn't mean it's short on characterGstaad is quite low, so it's not one of the most snow-sure ski resortsRestaurant service can be a little slow at busy timesBe prepared for DJ music and party vibes in the bar on Friday and Saturday evenings (until 11pm)" - Belinda Archer