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The Road Leading Up To… Andermatt & The Swiss Alps
Words by Julie Hunter
July 14, 2026
Curled up high in the Swiss Alps, the village of Andermatt offers elevation in every sense of the word. Sitting between the dramatic peaks of the Gemsstock and Gütsch, this historic area combines modern opulence and elegance with the cosiest of Swiss mountain traditions.
In this guide, we explore the very best of Andermatt, including its world-class luxury hotels, culinary highlights and spectacular mountain roads that make arriving here part of the experience itself.
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Andermatt, one of Switzerland’s most charming Alpine villages
In the heart of the Urseren Valley, 1,444 metres above sea level, Andermatt is easily one of the Swiss Alps’ most sophisticated destinations. While neighbouring Zermatt often steals the spotlight thanks to its position beneath the Matterhorn, Andermatt offers as much natural beauty and outdoor fun, but from a more central location within Switzerland.
The high-altitude village is surrounded entirely by spectacular mountains, with breathtaking views in every direction. During winter, skiers, snowboarders and sledgers can enjoy 180 kilometres of pistes renowned for their reliable snow conditions. Rising to 2,962 metres with deep powder and steep chutes, the Gemsstock has become renowned for advanced skiers, while the wide and gentle runs of the sunkissed Nätschen-Gütsch are ideal for beginners and families.
Andermatt has become a firm favourite for motorists, hikers, climbers, cyclists and sightseers, who in warmer months chase verdant green meadows, sparkling mountain lakes and the freshest of air. The village itself also becomes a playground, offering insider village tours, padel and tennis courts, and urban golf through the narrow streets.
Over the past two decades, Andermatt has also evolved into one of the Alps’ most exclusive retreats. Grand opulent resorts, Michelin-starred restaurants, boutique shopping, and a prestigious 18-hole championship golf course create a destination that feels as refined as it is authentic.
But for all its modern development, Andermatt has never lost its identity as an unspoiled mountain village. Wander through its old town for a taste of the traditional – rustic timber chalets, cobblestone streets and family-run cafés serving up piping Swiss cheese fondue, all surrounded by pristine alpine landscapes.
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The journey to Andermatt: from Zurich to Switzerland’s best Alpine passes
Although Andermatt sits along the legendary Glacier Express route linking Zermatt and St. Moritz, the most rewarding way to arrive is by taking a scenic Swiss Alps road trip. The village is perfectly placed for motorists, sitting between Zurich and Milan, with both cities just a few hours away.
The drive from Zurich to Andermatt can be approached in several ways, but we love taking the picturesque run alongside the UNESCO Biosphere Entlebuch – an alpine ‘wild west’, with sprawling untouched moorland and wild streams. From here, the drive takes us along the shimmering deep-blue waters of Lake Lucerne, framed by snow-capped peaks and fairytale villages.
Before arriving in Andermatt, enjoy the opportunity to tackle the wide hairpin turns of Furka Pass. One of the highest Swiss alpine roads, Furka was immortalised in the 1964 classic Goldfinger and is always a highlight of any visit to this magnificent area.
For further motoring exhilaration, Andermatt is also nicely positioned to allow easy access to other must-drive Swiss mountain passes. This includes Susten Pass, which remains a favourite with car manufacturers who regularly feature the road’s photogenic bridges and tunnels in their marketing material. Nearby, Grimsel Pass is also well worthy of a drive – not to mention a stop at the top to absorb miles of incredible scenery.
While it’s understandably tempting to cruise through the snowy scenery of the mountains in winter, we find the best time of year to explore the Swiss Alps by road is in summer, with open passes and better conditions allowing for more expressive driving.
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Unwinding in pure luxury at our favourite Andermatt hotel, The Chedi
After a day spent cruising the mountain passes, the Andermatt hotel we never tire of returning to is The Chedi.
Blending the unusual combination of a captivating alpine location, traditional Swiss warmth and distinctive Japanese-inspired design, this architectural masterpiece offers one of the most memorable stays in the Alps.
Stepping into the lobby of The Chedi Andermatt is a slightly surreal experience. Intriguing Buddhist sculptures, Balinese artwork and Japanese paper lanterns create an immediate sense of serenity, while roaring log fires, rich wood finishes and inviting sofas reassure you that you’re still very much in the heart of the Swiss Alps.
The guest rooms strike the same balance between elegance and comfort, boasting oversized beds, natural tones, rain showers and heated stone floors – just what’s needed to aid relaxation after a day in the mountains. With perfect alpine views, The Chedi sets the tone for an impeccable stay in Andermatt.
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Dining and wellness at The Chedi
The Chedi Andermatt excels as a haven to unwind, whether immersed in a hot tub, sipping a glass of Swiss Blauburgunder, or simply whiling away the evening beside a crackling fire.
Wellbeing is central to the experience, with one of the most sumptuous and serene spas in the Alps. Enjoy swimming in Switzerland’s largest indoor hotel pool or soak in the warm water of the heated outdoor pool while gazing at the peaks. Their collection of saunas, plunge pools and hot tubs provides ample opportunity to rest, while the Tibetan Relaxation Lounge offers a zenlike retreat.
The hotel’s distinctive Asian influence extends to its highly acclaimed signature restaurant, The Japanese. Awarded two Michelin stars, the restaurant combines European fine-dining with exceptional Japanese specialities, including freshly prepared sushi and sashimi.
Its tasting menus showcase ingredients sourced from around the world, while an extraordinary 2,000-bottle wine library and one of Europe’s finest selections of sake provide the perfect accompaniment. Be sure to complete your experience with a visit to The Chedi’s very own five-metre tall cheese tower, or enjoy a fine brandy in the wine and cigar library.
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Discover Andermatt as part of a luxurious tour through Switzerland with HunterMoss
The village of Andermatt and The Chedi have long been highlights of our luxury supercar driving tour of Switzerland – a beyond-first-class journey through the Alps’ most spectacular scenery, complemented by impeccable hospitality, fine dining and unforgettable driving roads.
Michelin-star restaurants are seen as the pinnacle of dining, and rightly so. These are establishments where outstanding cooking, exceptional ingredient...
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The Road Leading Up To… Andermatt & The Swiss Alps
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