If you’re dreaming of a trip to the stunning Swiss Alps and are on the hunt for those jaw-dropping, postcard-perfect spots, let me introduce you to Hotel Belvédère. It’s a gem you don’t want to miss.
I was lucky enough to visit this magical place in June 2023 and again in July 2024, and wow—it completely took my breath away. Seriously, no words or photos can truly do justice to the enchanting beauty and the vibe of this place, but I’ll do my best to give you a glimpse of its charm. Stick around and keep reading—you’re in for a treat!
A Little History of The Hotel
The Hotel Belvédère, perched on the Furka Pass in the Swiss Alps, has stood for over 130 years, but today, it sits closed and abandoned. This once-charming hotel, nestled in one of the most breathtaking settings imaginable, has sadly fallen into disrepair over time.
It’s hard to believe that this place was once a beloved destination for travelers seeking a unique and picturesque escape. Now, its empty halls and silent rooms stand as a haunting reminder of its former glory. Where laughter and chatter once filled the air, there’s now only the echo of what used to be.
Back in its heyday, guests could gaze out their windows at the glacier stretching far into the valley—a view that must have felt like something out of a dream. These days, though, the hotel is just a shell of its former self, a spot you can only admire from the outside.
That said, the view from the hotel’s parking area is still absolutely stunning. Picture this: towering mountains, a shimmering glacier, and a winding road cutting through the landscape. It’s the kind of scene that makes you stop and just take it all in. Imagining what it would’ve been like to spend a night here, waking up to that view, fills me with such a sense of longing. It’s a bittersweet feeling, knowing I’ll never get to experience it the way so many others once did.
Hotel Belvédère Today
Hotel Belvédère closed its doors for good in 2016, and if you take a look at the Tripadvisor reviews from its final years, it’s not hard to see why. Guests often pointed out that the hotel’s furnishings were seriously outdated. Sure, the place had its own quirky charm, but it was clear that maintenance had been neglected for a while—especially in the rooms, bathrooms, and toilets.
Then there was the price. At 115 CHF (about 120 USD) per night, it was considered pretty steep back then. Sure, by today’s standards, that might not seem outrageous, but at the time, people felt it was overpriced—especially since the service and overall quality didn’t quite live up to the cost. Add in the fact that getting to the hotel was a bit of a trek, and it’s easy to see why many guests left feeling underwhelmed.
How To Get There
The Belvédère Hotel is tucked away in the heart of Switzerland’s Furka Pass, in the canton of Valais—a mostly French-speaking region. During my trip, I stayed in Goms, one of the larger towns nearby, which was just a quick 30-minute drive from the hotel.
The drive through the Furka Pass is nothing short of spectacular. As you wind your way up to the hotel, you’re treated to jaw-dropping mountain views, a gorgeous waterfall, and a road that twists and turns enough to keep you on your toes. When I made the drive, I even spotted a few police officers hanging out at a rest stop just below the hotel—whether they were taking a break or keeping an eye on traffic, I’m not sure, but it added a little something to the journey.
Once you arrive, you’ll find a spacious parking area that’s free to use—always a nice perk. Right next to it, there’s a charming mini-waterfall, where water tumbles down from above, creating this peaceful, almost magical vibe. Nearby, there’s also a cute little market (or gift shop, really) packed with all sorts of traditional Swiss goodies, from postcards and magnets to clothing.
And if you’re up for a bit more adventure, you can visit the Rhone Glacier, which is just a stone’s throw away. Admission is CHF 9 (about 10 USD), and you can buy your ticket through the gift shop right there. It’s a fantastic way to round out your visit and soak in even more of the area’s natural beauty.
Tips To Make The Most of Your Visit
Even though it’s perched high in the mountains, this hotel is still a hotspot in the Alps. If you’re looking for a quieter experience and want to snap some stunning photos without the crowds, we recommend visiting after 5 pm. By then, most of the day-trippers have cleared out, and you’ll have a better chance of snagging a parking spot too.
The road up to the hotel might look a bit intimidating—it’s winding, steep, and not for the faint of heart. But don’t let that scare you off! It’s completely safe, and as long as you take it slow, there’s nothing to worry about.
If you’re planning to make a day of it—maybe enjoy a little parking lot picnic, soak in the views of the hotel, and explore the Rhone Glacier—set aside about 1 to 1.5 hours for the whole experience. Trust me, it’s worth it.
One last thing: even if it’s warm down in the valley, it can get pretty breezy up at the hotel. When I visited, it was around 23 degrees Celsius, but the higher altitude made it feel cooler. So, toss a lightweight jacket or hoodie in your bag just in case. Better to have it and not need it-
Enjoy your visit—it’s a truly special spot!
Denisa
