December: Guarda Val Maiensäss-Hotel

Colorful is the new natural: GREGO architects let their brushes swing

The stars shine even brighter at the Guarda Val Maiensäss-Hotel: The fascination of the Maiensässhotel Guarda Val lies in its originality, the attention to detail and the unique Grisons mountain village character. Eleven huts and stables form a place of peace and strength that opens the heart. It is a total work of art made up of overwhelming nature, masterful craftsmanship and contemporary living quality. To keep it that way, the houses of the Maiensäss village, which are up to 300 years old, have undergone a complete renovation. All 50 rooms have been given a new lease of life and gently reflect the core idea of the Limitless concept: look, be surprised, be amazed. The Guarda Val spent 2.5 million Swiss francs on the fresh breeze that now blows through the entire hotel.

The architects from GREGO in Zurich have carefully developed the typical Guarda Val style that is so popular with guests. The team led by Jasmin Grego and Stephanie Kühnle played a key role in redesigning the feel of the Guarda Val in 2007. Building on the focus at that time on materials, their radiance and feel, the architects are now introducing a subtle, surprising color concept in which each house is given its own color identity according to its location or specific character. 


The Impressionists led the way: There is, for example, the blue of the sky in all its shades. Or the yellow of the sun, sometimes in warm, sometimes in cold tones. And everything is constantly changing in perception in the changing light that falls into the room from outside. Furniture in rich monochrome colors picks up on the gentle mood. A select mix of textures and structures underline the elegant, rustic look. GREGO was once again inspired by nature, going far beyond the original idea of stone and wood. Limitless. Amazement. Perceiving colors, shapes and structures as nature has to offer in unsurpassed variety  


An original hamlet that leaves nothing to be desired: The originality of the Maiensässdorf above Lenzerheide delights guests who are looking for peace and closeness to nature in the mountains. It goes without saying that no compromises are made in terms of comfort and wellbeing. The hosts Bettina Arpagaus and Philip Arnold ensure that guests feel not only welcome, but at home in Sporz. An experienced team ensures that this philosophy is not just an idea, but can actually be experienced. The log cabin sauna with a panoramic view of the mountains, the whey bath in the wooden tub and the nap in the hay provide unique wellness moments close to nature;
Executive Chef Paul Berberich, who moved from the Cheval Blanc in Basel (19 Gault Millau points, 3 Michelin stars) to the Guarda Val Maiensäss Hotel in June 2023, also has a great love of detail. In the "Fö", he celebrates outdoor fire cooking on blazing juniper branches. He and his team are also cooking in the gourmet restaurant "Guarda Val" - this fall under the healthy menu motto "Patria & Verdura". Seasonal cuisine is also the specialty of the Bündner Stube "Crap Naros", where local dishes and cheese specialties are served. The sun terrace "Sul Tegt" and the Sporzer Bar invite you to enjoy a coffee or drink with a view of the snow-capped peaks;


About the Guarda Val Maiensäss-Hotel: The four-star Hotel Guarda Val in Lenzerheide is a unique Maiensässhotel. The 50 individual accommodations are spread across 11 huts and stables - up to 300 years old - at 1,600 meters above sea level. It combines the fascination of Graubünden's long-standing alpine tradition with luxurious design and lifestyle. In the two restaurants, Guarda Val and Crap Naros, every guest will find something to suit their culinary preferences. The charming hotel offers the perfect setting for seminars, lectures and concerts. It is also considered one of the most beautiful wedding venues in Switzerland, set in a dreamlike landscape. Relaxation is provided by the Guarda Sana's wellness facilities, including a log cabin sauna, hay loungers and relaxation areas with views of the valley. The authentic Guarda Val Maiensäss Hotel is a well-kept retreat with all the amenities of a first-class hotel.

Further information on the hotel of the month can be found at www.guardaval.ch