Now make your luxury travel plans to cross the world’s largest pedestrian bridge in Switzerland. Built by Swiss engineers, this new pedestrian bridge is named the Europaweg Skywalk. It’s the latest attraction to enjoy the magical Swiss Alps.

The impressive, new pedestrian footbridge measures almost one third of a mile long. Located near Zermatt, Switzerland the Europaweg Skywalk pedestrian bridge towers about 28 stories above a vast ravine. This pedestrian-only suspension bridge is another engineering marvel.

Extensive studies turned into an amazing bridge design. As a result, the Europaweg Skywalk pedestrian bridge utilizes guywires plus additional anti-sway technology. Therefore, the bridge does not sway as much as other bridges that are much shorter in length. Pedestrians who cross can have that extra feeling of safety. The mid-section of any suspension bridge can have movement. But for hikers who cross, there is only a slight bounce detected. The side to side sway is minimal at best.

Alpenwild is the top leader in adventure travel in the Swiss Alps of Switzerland. The travel company integrates the new Europaweg Skywalk pedestrian bridge into its travel itineraries. A few are Eiger to Matterhorn, Chamonix-Zermatt Haute Route and day hikes in Zermatt.

Greg Witt is the Alpenwild founder. He was quoted, “Hikers love it – it is a real adrenaline rush. As part of the Europaweg trail near Zermatt, the bridge has been an immediate sensation for trekkers on our trips, who previously had to make a three-hour detour to avoid the danger of rockfall.”. In addition, he adds, “The hike is best done in the morning, as the rising sun crests over the mountain and lights up the bridge. You’re sure to get some great photos – but you just can’t photograph adrenaline.

Europaweg Skywalk opened in July of this year. The construction cost of the pedestrian bridge cost just over $775,000. The construction project took only 10 weeks. The bridge measures 1,621 feet long. It towers 7,218 feet above sea level, over the rocky, Zermatt ravine. About 250 hikers can safely cross the bridge at a time. Another piece of trivia for you. The new bridge takes the place of one that was destroyed in 2010. It was a victim of a rockfall.

Talk about a bridge with a view! The Europaweg Skywalk offers incredible views of Weisshorn. This mighty peak measures 14,783 feet high. In addition, it is one of the highest mountain peaks in the Swiss Alps. You can also take in the gorgeous glaciers that surround the mountain’s slopes.

The Europaweg Skywalk got its name from its location at the end of a long-distance hiking trail, named Europaweg or Europe Trail. The impressive footbridge is made form steel. It also has a grated steel foot bed. Hikers can gaze down into the gaping chasm from above. Hope you don’t have a fear of heights.

Make your travel plans to Switzerland and hike the Swiss Alps. Be sure to cross the world’s largest pedestrian bridge – Europaweg Skywalk. You love sharing luxury travel updates in our luxury blog. Where do you want to go?

Photos: Alpenwild

The incredible Swiss Alps are wonderful to visit anytime of the year. If you do decide to travel to Switzerland, a stay at a Verbier chalet is a must. Verbier is a village situated in the south-western corner of Switzerland. The border of France is to the west and Italy to the south. Verbier resides at an elevation of about 1,500 meters high.

The Verbier chalet offers elegance and an impressive interior decor. Built in 2008, this Swiss chalet is located on the outskirts of Verbier, but close to the town’s center. This quaint village is a vacationers dream. Stunning views of the Alps are at every turn.

The three story chalet is spacious and features accommodations totaling 4 bedrooms. 3 of those bedrooms are convenient en-suites. The chalet can sleep up to 8 people. Located on the luxury Verbier chalet’s top floor is the master bedroom. It has an en-suite bathroom and roomy dressing area. Step out and take in the awesome views of the nearby rural pastures and Alps from the bedroom’s own private balcony.

Also on the top floor is a comfortable twin bedroom. It has an adjacent shower room. On the first floor, you will find 2 additional bedrooms. One has a queen bed and the other with twin beds. Both of these first floor bedrooms come with an en-suite. All beds in the 4 bedrooms are fitted with luxurious, White Company bed linen.

There are a total of 4 bathrooms, including 3 en-suites plus as separate bathroom. There’s also an additional W.C. on the lower floor of the luxury chalet. To match the bed linen, White Company towels can be found in all of the property’s bathrooms.

The primary living and dining area is located on the second or middle floor of the Verbier chalet. It’s an open plan that provides plenty of room for your family and guests. From the middle floor, you can go out onto either expansive balcony or terrace. Take time to soak in the 360 degree views of the Swiss Alps. Anytime of the year, it’s a magical VIP experience! For entertainment purpose, the Verbier chalet is equipped with an awesome Bose Home Entertainment System plus large LCD TV. Perfect for relaxing and watching a TV show or sporting event. In addition, select from a variety of your favorite videos for all ages, from the chalet’s own collection. Another nice feature is that all the bedrooms include iPod docking stations.

Verbier is a an amazing, year round destination. There is so much to do and see in this village and its surrounding area. During the popular winter months, the town really comes alive. Verbier is part of whats commonly known as the “Four Valleys” ski area. The three others are Nendaz, Thyon and Veysonnaz. Enjoy tremendous, world-class skiing and snowboarding for all skill levels.

During the balance of the year, enjoy a variety of outdoor activities including – hiking, golfing cycling and swimming. At the nearby Verbier sport centre, there’s an indoor as well as outdoor swimming pools. Get fit playing tennis or using the exercise facility. After a busy day, relax and unwind at the luxury sauna. There are plenty more things to do for both children and adults.

Make your next luxury vacation a memorable one. Plan a trip to Switzerland and stay at this luxury Verbier Chalet. Our travel specialists can assist you with all of your itinerary details. Return again soon to follow this luxury blog for the latest travel industry news.

As one of the largest lakes in Western Europe, Lake Geneva actually resides in both Switzerland and France. The stunning Lake Geneva region offers visitors both diversity and natural beauty. It’s a popular destination all year long.

The Lake Geneva region of Switzerland encompasses the following cantons of Vaud, Geneva and Valais. A canton is generally described as a small territorial division of a country, or a city and its surrounding community.

Spring is finally here and the weather is warming up in Switzerland. The Lake Geneva region is getting ready for another busy tourism year. There many things to see and do locally. We wanted to share 6 reasons to visit the scenic, Lake Geneva region this year.

1) Moderntimes Hotel
The Moderntimes Hotel is located in Saint-Légier Switzerland – the heart of Swiss Riviera. This luxury hotel can be found near near Chaplin’s World (see below for more details). This contemporary Swiss hotel features 145 sleek rooms. The Moderntimes Hotel is a 4-star design property. Enjoy a wonderful dining experience at Times Grill restaurant or get a good workout at the hotel’s fitness room.

Photo: Charlie Chaplin Museum
2) Chaplin’s World – The Modern Times Museum
Located in Corsier-sur-Vevey, Chaplin’s World opened last year on April 17. Chaplin’s World pays tribute to the amazing and talented Charlie Chaplin. Chaplin was both an actor and filmmaker. The museum is located in the museum, where Charlie Chaplin lived between 1957 and 1977 – the year he died. The mansion resides on 34 acres of beautiful gardens and pathways. The terraces provide stunning views of the iconic Swiss Alps and nearby Lake Geneva. The museum is a door into the incredible life of Chaplin. There is 32,000 square feet of exhibition space for a truly interactive experience. A cultural center features a series of exhibits and of course his famous films.

3) Hotel Royal Savoy
This luxury hotel can be found in Lausanne and re-opened after a $100 million expansion and renovation project. Now a five-star luxury property, the Hotel Royal Savoy first opened way back in 1906. Originally named the Art Nouveau hotel, this palatial property was long a favorite place to stay for royals. The expansion project added a new addition to the hotel. Fans of the gorgeous, grand facade will not be disappointed as it still remains. The Hotel Royal Savoy offers guests 196 rooms. The Sky Terrace on the hotel’s rooftop is new. Enjoy panoramic views all across the beautiful city of Lausanne. In addition, you can see the Alps and Lake Geneva. Get pampered in VIP style at the hotel’s luxury spa.

4) An Alpine Night in a “Love Yurt”
For a unique experience for lovers, consider staying in a Mongol yurt. A yurt is the name for round tent that c is portable. It’s typically surrounded by felt fabric or skins to insulate it. This ultimate getaway at Rochers-de-Naye provides tremendous views at an elevation of 6,500 feet. You can see the Alps and Lake Geneva n all their glory. You can reach the “Love Yurt” easily by a short train ride from Montreux. Enjoy a romantic night on the mountain summit. The price for a Friday/Saturday package is only $265 or CHF 260 per couple. In addition to your accommodations, the package price includes a roundtrip train ride, breakfast plus a 375-ml bottle of champagne.

5) Summer Music in Vaud
2016 is the 50th anniversary of the popular Montreux Jazz Festival. This event runs from July 1 to 16. This year’s Montreux Jazz Festival will feature the English band – Muse who won a 2016 Grammy Award. The full list of bands performing will be released on April 14. Every five years, the Federal Music Festival rotates to a different Swiss town. This’s year festival will be in Montreux and runs June 10-12 and 17-19. The 200,000 plus visitors can expect to listen to around 25,000 musicians. They consist of orchestras, brass bands, as well as marching ensembles. Each August, the Roman amphitheater in Avenches comes alive with rock music. The Rock Oz’Arènes festival will run from August 3 to 7. This year will be the popular event’s 25th anniversary. Lastly, Lausanne will once again host the Lausanne Estivale. Held from mid-June to mid-September, the Lausanne Estivale is free. Music fans of all ages can enjoy shows, concerts, and various entertainments. It should be a fun time for all.

6) The Swiss Wine Hotel & Bar
Situated in the heart of Lausanne, the Swiss Wine Hotel & Bar just opened for business. This trendy, Swiss hotel is rated three-stars and is decorated with decor utilizing the Swiss wine region of Lavaux. Lavaux is a UNESCO World Heritage Site next to Lausanne. The Swiss Wine Hotel & Bar offers 62 rooms for its guests. You can enjoy nice views of the Lausanne Cathedral and the city’s old town. In the morning, start your day right with breakfast served right in your room. Now that’s a VIP experience! Relax in the evening and sip some of the local Swiss wines at the hotel’s wine bar.

There is so much to see and do in the Lake Geneva region. It’s a destination to be explored at your leisure. There is lots of history and you can soak in the rich culture this area offers. From wine tasting at the Lavaux vineyards to sweeping view of the Alps and Lake Geneva, be sure to visit this region of western Switzerland.,

We can help you plan and book your travel reservations to the Lake Geneva region in Switzerland. Be sure to return again soon to read more luxury travel ideas from our luxury blog.

Photo: My Switzerland Swiss Cities / Stephan Engler

Lake Geneva is located in the French-speaking part of beautiful Western Switzerland. As winter gets closer, we are highlighting 7 reasons to love Lake Geneva.

The Lake Geneva region is a top destination in Switzerland. People from around the world come here all throughout the year to enjoy the scenery and immerse themselves in the area’s rich culture and history.

So whether you are looking to try wine wasting in the Lavaux vineyards, take a boat our on Lake Geneva or visit a UNESCO World Heritage Site that overlooks Lake Geneva and the towering Swiss Alps, enjoy your stay.

1) Modern Times Hotel:
To compliment the Chaplin Museum, the Modern Times Hotel will be open in autumn/winter 2015. Located in Vevey, this luxury 4-star hotel welcomes both leisure and business travelers. The Modern Times Hotel has 145 rooms and also offers a fitness room, 5 conference rooms, and a bar/lounge.

2) The Hotel Royal Savoy Reopens in Lausanne:
The legendary Hotel Royal Savoy just reopened after a $100 million project that included both an expansion and renovation. Found in Lausanne, the luxury Hotel Royal Savoy is a five-star property. This hotel was a favorite of royals when it first opened up back in 1906. The hotel’s grand façade still remains, although a major new addition was completed. The Hotel Royal Savoy features 196 rooms that included 37 suites and junior suites. For 360° panoramic views of Lausanne, the Swiss Alps and scenic Lake Geneva, be sure to try the new rooftop Sky Terrace.

3) Chaplin’s World:
The Modern Times Museum which will open in new Spring 2016. This museum will be dedicated to the life and times of filmmaker and actor Charlie Chaplin. The museum is situated in Chaplin’s mansion/ The property is surrounded by 34 acres of gorgeous gardens, winding pathways and terraces that offer incredible views of Lake Geneva and the nearby Alps.

4) Christmas Markets:
The Montreux Noel is the most famous Christmas Market in Switzerland. This year, the event celebrates its 21st anniversary. You will find greater than 150 craftspeople who decorate their colorful chalets all along the shores of Lake Geneva during winter. It’s a popular event and the area attracts around 500,000 visitors. The Christmans market is open now until December 24, 2015.

5) Ski Deals:
Get great deals at some ski hotels for just CHF20 ($20 US). Ten participating 10 hotels include Glacier 3000, Les Diablerets and Villars. Enjoy these ski hotel deals between January 4 to February 5 and again through March 7 to April 10, 2016. The Super Pass Gstaad-Alpes Vaudoises-Adelboden-Lenk allows skiers to access about 630 kilometers of ski slopes and 188 lifts.

6) Tout un Monde:
High above the lush vineyards of the Lavaux in the village of Grandvaux, Tout un Monde overlooks the Alps and Lake Geneva. The new Tout un Monde restaurant offers a fine experience and incredible food from chef Yohan Magne.

7) Château‐d’Oex: The International Hot‐Air Balloon Festival:
The amazing village of Château-d’Oex will again be the host of the 38th annual Festival International de Ballons. This festival runs between January 23 and 31, 2015. Château-d’Oex is surrounded by mountains and nice weather. Attendees can expect to see greater than balloons from 20 countries. Look up tot he sky and enjoy the show!

The Life of Luxury can help you plan a trip to Lake Geneva, Switzerland. We can reserve and book your air travel, hotel accommodations and local sightseeing. Return often to follow this luxury blog and read about other luxury travel destination around the world.

Photo: Régis Colombo / Lake Geneva Region

The holiday season is quickly approaching. For those traveling to Switzerland this year, be sure to visit the iconic Montreux Noel Christmas market.

Montreux Noel is a traditional Christmas market that allows visitors to stroll and stop at the many stalls and buy food, drink, Christmas decorations and other crafts. It’s a wonderful family atmosphere and a chance to remember what the holiday should really be all about.

The alpine city of Montreux comes alive between the dates of November 21 and December 24, 2014. This year marks the 20th edition of the most beautiful Christmas market in Switzerland – Montreux Noel.

It’s expected that close to 500,000 visitors will come to Montreux, which has an elevation of 2,042 meters. Around 150 Swiss chalets on the lakeside of Montreux will be lit up and provide a magical experience for all who attend Montreux Noel.

Lausanne’s Christmas market is named Les Fêtes de Nöel Lausanne and features 50 illuminated chalets that will be set up in Place Saint-François.

In addition, Lausanne Lumières is a series of incredible, artist-created light sculptures that have been located all around the city. Visitors can enjoy the light installations between November 21 and December 31, 2014.

If you are interested to traveling to Switzerland and enjoy the traditional Christmas markets including Montreux Noel, please contact The Life of Luxury today. We can help you plan out and book your entire luxury travel itinerary. Read out luxury blog to follow travel industry news.

The Alpina, Gstaad

Gstaad in Switzerland has long been one of the most attractive Swiss holiday regions. This Swiss ski resort is popular destination with the rich-and-famous.

Now, there is a new luxury hotel that is creating a lot of buzz- The Alpina. It’s Gstaad’s first luxury hotel to open an a century.

The Alpina is located on five acres and built with local materials, including: stone from the Alps and repurposed wood from nearby centuries-old farmhouses.

It’s a magnificent $337 million-dollar property that includes the hotel, private apartments and three chalets.

The Alpina’s debut at the beginning of the Swiss ski season, allows guests at Gstaad’s newest luxury hotel to take advantage of exclusive Alpine views, privacy, and of course, all the luxurious amenities.

A few of these luxury amenities at the new Swiss hotel include: A private cinema, 21,500-square-foot Six Senses Spa, wine tasting room and a Havana-inspired cigar lounge compliments the hotel’s three fine dining restaurants.

Restaurant Sommet features award-winning chef Marcus Lindner who was recently at the two-star Michelin Masa in Zurich.

Please use the Contact Form below to submit your travel request to The Alpina hotel in Gstaad, Switzerland. We will promptly get back to you.

The Lodge in Verbier

The Lodge at Verbier in Switzerland is one of the few ski-in locations in the town of Verbier.

The Lodge is a privately owned ski chalet that is owned by Sir Richard Branson. This luxury lodge opened back in January of 2008 and has been a popular Swiss winter destination.

Now you have your chance to rent individual rooms at The Lodge this winter. The Lodge at Verbier is typically only takes reservations up to 18 guests at a time.

To start off the upcoming 2012-13 ski season, individual rooms can now be booked beginning December 9th. The luxurious The Lodge offers nine incredible rooms and suites in addition to a bunkroom that can accommodate up to 6 kids.

Privacy is a nice touch as the lodge is located on a quiet road surrounded by Swiss Alp forest, but close to the ski slopes.

The Lodge in Verbier is part of Sir Richard Branson’s privately owned hotel collection – Virgin Limited Edition – consisting of many award-winning luxury retreats.

The Lodge’s luxury amenities abound, as the Virgin Limited Edition sophistication influence is evident.

Escape the cold weather and swim in the luxury ski lodge’s indoor heated pool, or you can warm yourself up in the stylish indoor or outdoor Jacuzzis. The Lodge also offers fine dining offering both Swiss and international cuisine. Choose from a delicious menu or allow the talented chef to create a delicacy. The lodge’s wine cellar has a terrific selection of great tasting red and white wines.

The Lodge in Verbier jacuzzi

Individual rooms at this Swiss mountain retreat can be booked for stays of 3, 4 or 7 nights between December 9th and the 16th, 2012.* Lodge rates begin at CHF 4,200 (£2,752/$4,340**) per room for a 3 night stay and based on shared double occupancy.

Your packages includes your luxury accommodations, plus breakfast, afternoon tea and dinner. A light lunch is also served during winter for those lodge guests who do not eat on the mountain. Enjoy unlimited drinks including premium branded spirits, wine, beer and house champagne. Guests can also enjoy 24 hour driver service within the town of Verbier.

To learn more about The Lodge at Verbier or to book a reservation, please use the Contact Form below to submit your travel request.

Baur au Lac hotel dates back to 1844 and is just a short walk from Zurich’s world-famous Bahnhofstrasse, the central Paradeplatz, Lake Zurich and the city’s bustling financial district.

Baur au Lac hotel has long been one of the best luxury hotels in all of Switzerland. The luxurious Swiss hotel was voted ‘Top Hotel in Zurich’ in Condé Nast Traveler’s 2011 Gold List.

Now Baur au Lac will host Zurich’s first official food festival between June 27th to July 1st.

The Zurich food festival will showcase top chefs from all over Switzerland – including Lausanne Palace & Spa’s Michelin-starred Chef Edgard Bovier, who will be host Chef at the luxurious Baur au Lac.

Foodies from around the world will be able to enjoy the chef’s culinary specialties at numerous venues throughout the city of Zurich, including the Swiss National Museum and the city’s top restaurants and hotels.

Baur au Lac hotel guests can book the “Il Tavolo” package and receive a ticket to the event, in addition to fresh fruit in-room, the Baur au Lac’s signature “1844” chocolate, complimentary minibar and internet access, plus all VAT and service charges.

The Baur au Lac “Il Tavolo” package is priced from CHF 720 (approximately US$785) per night for two people sharing, and valid during Zurich’s food festival from June 27th to July 1st.

Built so close to the stars, it was tempted to catch them: Five stars adorn the “Riffelalp Resort” at 2,222 meters above sea level, the highest location for a luxury hotel of this kind in Europe.

As incongruous as it might seem, one can find oasises in the mountains. The Riffelalp Resort, located just above Zermatt in Switzerland, resides at an altitude of 2,222 meters above sea level, is such a place. Riffelalp Resort is definitely an oasis of calm and luxury awaits fortunate guests here.

The resort was built at the dawn of the new millenium, and offers every creature comfort one could wish for, such as various restaurants and bars, a wine bar, an indoor pool, a sauna, a solarium, and a gym.

But this luxury Swiss hotel also offers something that no architect or designer could make: unobstructed views onto the majestic Matterhorn mountain and pure, fresh air.

In winter, the hotel has ski-in facilities, due to its location halfway up the mountain. In summer, this advantage offers many thrilling mountain excursions right at the door. Or simply ride the jolly Riffelalp tram to the Gornergrat Railways and either go up to the Gornergrat or down into Zermatt. By the way, this nod to luxury has a prolonged tradition: the original Grandhotel Riffelalp opened its doors in 1884.

How to get there:
Drive or take public transportation from Lausanne or Bern to Zermatt via Brig/Visp. In Zermatt take the Gornergrat Railways to the Riffelalp. If driving: park car in Täsch and take train to car-free Zermatt.

Riffelalp Resort
3920 Zermatt
Tel. +41 (0)27 966 05 55
Fax +41 (0)27 966 05 50
reservation@riffelalp.com

The luxurious Dolder Grand Hotel in Zurich Switzerland has a long tradition of excellence, going back as far as 1899.

The Dolder Grand Hotel re-opened its doors in 2008, to its élite clientèle after an extensive renovation period of four years. After touring the hotel, it became quite evident why it has taken them so long to re-open.

The elegant Dolder had been truly transformed into an oasis of well-being. The famous architects, Foster & Partners, have turned this very traditional and monumental Zurich landmark into a luxury city resort.

Sitting on the hills of Zurich, overlooking the lake’s busy shores as well as the Alps, the hotel offers a serene environment of forest walkways whilst, at the same time, it is just minutes from the city where you’ll find everything from the best shops to metropolitan entertainment.

The rooms at the Dolder Grand Hotel are spacious, decorated with the finest materials and opulent furniture in a contemporary design, featuring the highest standard of modern day technology (for example every room offers free wireless internet access, as well as clever Bang & Olufsen entertainment units which allow you to control almost all of the room’s luxuries with the touch of a universal remote).

After soaking up the view from your private terrace, the hotel has an award winning Spa which stretches on forever. The spa includes countless pampering extravagances which will rejuvenate you from head to toe.

The Spa was designed by the internationally renowned wellness specialist Ms. Sylvia Sepielli and is open to indulge you 7 days a week from 7am to 10pm. In September 2008, it received the Tatler Award for “the smartest escape”. A temple of relaxation, where only the best is good enough, with all the amenities and delights that anyone, even the most demanding client, could ask for.

Culinary excitement is provided by the German cook Heiko Nieder who will serve you up some miraculous treats for your taste buds in “The Restaurant”, which has been awarded a Michelin star, as well as 17 Gault Millau points.

The quality service and attention to detail in this newly re-opened resort is nothing short of excellent and it makes for the perfect weekend getaway, to clear your head and to soak up the finest, luxurious pleasures. In April, the Dolder Grand was on the 2009 hotlist of Condé Nast Travelor (UK) as one of the world’s best new hotels.

Each of the Dolder Grand’s four luxury Top Suites is an expression of individual extravagance. Harmonious interior designs, each different from the other, create an exclusive ambience in all four suites.

For more information: please visit The Dolder Grand Hotel

Summit of Leysin, Switzerland

Winter in northern CA is experiencing delays. Midway into January, we are finally getting some cool weather. Though not nearly enough snow where I live, but at least Summit of Leysin, Switzerland is enjoying my snowy winter.

The luxury alpine resort at Les Diablerets in the Lake Geneva Region is covered in a deep blanket of fresh snow (yes, the fluffy kind).

With eight feet of snow to date, also known as the Canton of Vaud, the Lake Geneva Region is located in Southwestern Switzerland. With entertainment and recreation other than just skiing, the area is also home to museums, restaurants and shops; something for the artistically-hungry, the foodies, and the shoppers.

With stunning mountain views across Lake Geneva, cozy chalets serving authentic cheese fondue, and fast scenic rail connections from Geneva Cointrin Airport to the mountain villages in less than two hours, the Lake Geneva Region offers the ultimate Swiss ski vacation.

Thanks to more than 500 miles of marked ski runs, the resorts of the Lake Geneva Region can offer slopes for skiers and boarders of all abilities.

Currently 37 resort properties in the Lake Geneva Region are offering a Free for Kids offer that gives children age 9 and younger a complimentary ski pass and free accommodations in their parents/accompanying adult guardian’s room.

Take advantage of the snow while it lasts. Fluffy snow beats a thin layer of dirty northern California frost any day!

For additional news and information about the Lake Geneva Region, visit www.lake-geneva-region.ch