Hotel Waldhaus

This is probably my all-time favourite hotel. It is definitely a place for special occasions. Located on a hill above the lovely village Sils-Maria, in a forest of (mostly) old larch trees, at the entrance to the car-free Fex valley, it is almost not from this world anymore. Opened in 1908 it is still run by the same family. The architecture as well as the old charm are well preserved. Over the years many artsy folks, especially writers (Hermann Hesse, Thomas Mann e.g.) stayed here.

The rooms are spacious, all of them with wonderful panoramic views, no matter which side facing. Best (and most expensive) are of course those with views of the Fex valley and Lake Sils. Rooms are equipped with everything you expect from a five-star hotel. All of them are non-smoking.

I loved lounging in the hall/lobby, the Empire salon, sipping on a glass of wine or hot chocolate.

The food is excellent - sumptuous breakfast buffet, half-board (dinner) included in the room rate. Dinner is five course menu with plenty of choices. Or you choose to have dinner elsewhere and they write off CHF 50 from your bill. Wine prices are quite moderate. Another favourite 'activity' of mine was to relax on the shady terrace under the larch trees while having a piece of Engadin nut cake plus tea ...

They have a small gym, quite large indoor pool, sauna etc. Very nice. You can join free guided hiking tours e.g. Included in the room rate is free public transportation which saves quite some money.

Directions: Above the village, follow the small street from the main square up toward the Fex Valley.