Grand Resort Bad Ragaz is a sensational and world-leading wellbeing and medical health resort, nestled in the foothills of the Alps in Eastern Switzerland; and, along with two other members of the team, I was lucky enough to spend three nights at this ever-so glamorous resort back in October.
Our journey to Grand Resort Bad Ragaz started with a short flight to Zurich International Airport, followed by two connecting train rides up to Bad Ragaz Train Station. The journey itself was spectacular – and very much an experience in itself – where we were advised to sit on the left-hand side of the train carriage, so to soak up the magnificent views of Lake Zurich, as well as the lightly snow-dusted mountains.
On arrival, we were swiftly shown to our bedrooms at the sleek, modern and recently renovated Grand Hotel Quellenhof. As soon as I stepped foot into my Junior Deluxe Suite, I knew it would be difficult leaving at the end of the stay. The suite was impeccably furnished with walnut parquet flooring, a super comfy large corner sofa from which to lounge and, most importantly, a spacious balcony boasting the most phenomenal views over the resorts’ gardens and across to the mountains in the distance – the most idyllic setting from which to catch up on emails!
During our stay at the resort, we were lucky enough to make use of the its extensive spa facilities, including the Helena Bath, an oh-so-glamourous indoor pool built in the 19th century; and the public Thermal Spa, Tamina Therme, which is made up of a series of indoor and outdoor pools, and a variety of warm and cold water baths. The outdoor thermal pool at Tamina Therme was particularly special – the surrounding views were breathtaking. We were fortunate enough to be there on a crisp autumn morning with clear blue skies, snow-capped mountains in the distance, and bright burnt-orange fall foliage dotted lining the pool – a truly memorable moment.
However, although Grand Resort Bad Ragaz is best known for its extensive and world-leading wellness, health and spa facilities, the resort also offers up an extremely impressive list of award-winning restaurants. Grand Resort Bad Ragaz features a total of seven restaurants, with a combined 5 Michelin stars, making it a total foodie haven! IGNIV and Memories both boast two Michelin stars each, whilst verve by sven was awarded a Michelin star in February this year; and we were fortunate enough to dine at each of these stellar restaurants.
Although each of the dining experiences were outstanding, a highlight for me was undoubtedly Sven Wassmer’s Memories. Sven has interpreted the new Swiss alpine cuisine in a bold, minimalist style to create holistic taste experiences, all of which are closely linked with nature; the entire menu was inspired, from the char with burnt dairy cream and Douglas fir; to the knopfli dumplings with roasted yeast and truffle. Along with each dish, we enjoyed perfectly selected wine pairings, with local blends from the surrounding wine region, chosen by the resort’s Director of Wine, Amanda Wassmer-Bulgin.
Overall, our stay at Grand Resort Bad Ragaz was truly exceptional, with experiences etched in my memory for life. Swiss hospitality is truly second-to-none, and the team at Grand Resort Bad Ragaz is no exception to that, serving up a very magical stay.