Villars Palace

We had a lovely November weekend stay at Villars Palace. Before we arrived the concierge helped us with dinner reservations outside of the hotel and ensuring we had what we needed in the room. Upon arrival Kevin at the front desk helped to check us in, show us our room and made our stay very special, thank you Kevin! During our stay we very much enjoyed our room and view as well as the pool and sauna. Breakfast was a pleasure and well recommended. Checkout was quick and easy

Villars Palace – End of October Stay (off-season) The hotel was completely refurbished about three years ago and is beautifully decorated. They have preserved the original 1913 structure, which gives the property real character and charm. The mountain views are magnificent. We were upgraded to a junior suite instead of the superior panorama room we had booked, as there was a mix-up at check-in and we had to wait for the room to be ready. The suite had no fridge and no bathtub, but two showers. The bed and pillows were far too firm, and we didn’t sleep well. Breakfast (CHF 65) on the first day was below 5-star expectations: short-staffed service, only four types of bread and two jams (with no indication of provenance), fresh fruits that seemed imported (berries, pineapple, strawberries), and Eggs Florentine that were bland. There was no bread grill, and it took a long time to get toast when requested. On Sunday, breakfast was moved to the stunning ballroom, which created a much more pleasant atmosphere. There were also more bread options, a bread grill, and a better overall selection — a noticeable improvement. Unfortunately, the Eggs Benedict remained tasteless. There is no room service, which is surprising for a hotel in this category. Only one restaurant (“Le 1913”) was open during our stay, with limited vegetarian options, and the bar menu was also quite restricted. On the positive side, Fanny, at the spa reception, deserves special mention for her kindness and professionalism. She helped us organize our treatments and provided excellent advice even before our arrival. The fitness area is spacious and well equipped. We booked a private coaching session (CHF 200 for 50 min) — expensive, but professional. Afterwards, we enjoyed a 90-minute deep-tissue massage, which was excellent. Special thanks to Céline and Katerina, both highly skilled masseuses who made the experience memorable. Unfortunately, we couldn’t fully enjoy the sauna and jacuzzi — they were crowded, and there seemed to be only one person in charge of cleaning and replacing towels and slippers, so the area didn’t feel as pristine or relaxing as expected for a 5-star spa. As for Villars, it’s a charming alpine village, but in the off-season it loses much of its winter atmosphere — many shops and restaurants are closed. It might be worth returning in peak season when the resort is livelier, though prices — already high — will likely rise further.

The Villars Palace Hotel is set in a stunning location in the Swiss Alps, with breathtaking views all around. The food quality was truly exceptional — every meal was a highlight. However, during our stay, it seemed that much of the staff was in training or on internships, and that did affect the overall service experience. Another concern was the security deposit policy — being charged eight nights’ worth for just a one-night stay felt excessive and could be a real barrier for some guests. With improvements in staff experience and a more balanced deposit policy, this hotel has the potential to be top-tier.

I was met by the most excellent Angelo, who welcomed me with respect and kindness and valeted my car (rarely done now in Europe). |The Hotel is very large and nicely historic. 120 years old, it brings one back to the days of the Tsars, the Kings, the era of the true 'haves' and 'havenots'. Both good and bad. I reminded me of the Grand Tour of the 1800s and 1900s where the truly well-off visited the great cities and the mountains, the lakes and the coasts. They would have stayed, often for weeks, in establishments like the Villars Palace.|The staff here are particularly well-trained and professional, in the most gentle and welcoming way. I must mention Jules who looked after me at breakfast, and Charles who runs a quietly efficient, warmly hospitable front desk.|I was only here for two days, but I would love to come back. For the beauty of the location nestled high above the Rhone valley, sure, but more because of the old building - so well modernised - and ultimately, because of the staff.

I myself work at a 5 star Hotel and came here for a short stay. Rooms were modern, super clean and comfortable, the only negative is that there is no AC in the rooms. My favourite part is the Breakfast which is absolutely amazing !! The food is delicious and the 3 live stations make it even better. The highlight for me were the Eggs benedict. Wonderful stay thank you.

Wonderful stay at this charming hotel. The room was clean and cozy with a breathtaking mountain view—sunrise to sunset, sunny and rainy, pure magic. Staff were warm and attentive, even in the quieter May season. So glad we visited before peak crowds; the peaceful vibe made it even more special. On rainy afternoon, the well equipped fitness center offers the perfect indoor escape —so serene, time just slipped away.

This is a wonderful hotel with beautiful rooms. The staff at all levels are fantastic, with every person going the extra mile for us. The room was large and very well appointed. Whilst in the centre of town it is quiet and has a very relaxed atmosphere. We will go again.

As a tequila connoisseur, I was truly impressed by the waiter’s knowledge of tequila. I spent my spring in Baja, and wow—I was amazed by the outstanding service and expertise. I am in absolute awe of the experience. Please come to The Palace and ask for Gianluca and Edoardo they are is the absolute best!