2_0_DiscoverGermany_Issue34_January2016:Scan Magazine 1
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Design & Lifestyle Hotel Switzerland
Art, architecture and a most welcoming atmosphere Amidst the beautiful mountain scenery of Switzerland’s Zermatt lies the familyoperated four-star superior Hotel Matterhorn FOCUS. Ideal as a starting point for discovering the breathtaking natural surroundings, the design and lifestyle hotel blends incredible architecture and art with thrilling views, attention to detail, as well as a sincere warmth. TEXT: NANE STEINHOFF I PHOTOS: JOE CONDRON, ROCKZERMATT.COM I XHALE I STEFANO CANDITO
Since 2008, Hotel Matterhorn FOCUS can be found at the edge of Zermatt and close to the famous Matterhorn. As the hotel lies right next to the cable car valley station of the Matterhorn-Express, guests can quickly reach the famous ski and hiking region Matterhorn Glacier Paradise. Besides a perfect location, the hotel was designed by world-famous artist Heinz Julen, making it a piece of art in itself. The hotel connects a renovated Swiss chalet with two modern buildings and the combination of charming design, extensive use of glass, chromium, unprocessed concrete and wooden elements and the traditional architecture, immediately catches the eye. 30 hotel rooms and luxu-
rious suites are fitted with furniture and lamps by Heinz Julen, offering remarkable views of the mountains and the Matterhorn. Despite the contemporary design, the atmosphere in Hotel Matterhorn FOCUS is coined by human warmth and familial dealings, making it suitable for everyone; whether couples or families. The hotel is run by the Noti family and hosts Christian Noti and Patrizia Gasser ensure that every guest feels holistically happy.“Either of us is always present and we provide a very personal environment,” smiles Patrizia Gasser. As a bed and breakfast hotel, the inn only offers morning meals and a snack
Main image: Hotel Matterhorn FOCUS in winter. © JOE.CONDRON/ROCKZERMATT.COM Above, from left: The indoor pool. © XHALE Fireplace in lounge. © Stefano Candito The Royal Suite. © Stefano Candito
menu because “Zermatt already has so many great restaurants”, explains Christian Noti. The hotel might not offer a restaurant but instead a spacious wellness and spa oasis with an indoor and outdoor pool, Jacuzzi, Finnish sauna, saltwater and steam bath, several massages, body treatments and a rest area with heated stretchers. After a busy day in the wilderness, guests can also relax in the cosy fireplace lounge while enjoying a coffee or tasty piece of cake from the hotel bar. Zermatt is not only a famous winter destination, but great all year around. Because the village lies in high altitudes and is close to a glacier, skiing is possible 365 days a year. Zermatt’s alpine climate is also perfect for hikes through enchanting larch forests, for visiting mountain lakes, playgrounds in nature and bike riding. 29 stunning 4,000metre high peaks attract mountaineers from all over the world. www.matterhorn-focus.ch
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