The winner of our inaugural Best Sustainable Hotel (Europe) is the Valsana Hotel Arosa, Switzerland: A Symphony of Sustainability and Serenity

Andrea Thompson

ByAndrea Thompson

March 28, 2024

Nestled amidst the whispering pines and majestic mountains of the Swiss Alps, the Valsana Hotel stands as a haven for those who yearn to escape the ordinary. This eco-conscious retreat in Arosa, Switzerland, is a testament to sustainable luxury.

In the serene embrace of the Swiss Alps, the Valsana Hotel offers a respite for souls seeking solace from the everyday. Established in 2017, this CO₂-neutral haven operates on the principles of environmental stewardship, eschewing fossil fuels in favour of an ingenious ice battery system powered by geothermal energy and heat recovery. Harnessing geothermal energy and heat recovery to fulfil the heating and cooling demands of its three buildings, setting a benchmark for eco-innovation. Guests intrigued by this green technology can partake in educational tours.

As a proud member of the Tschuggen Collection, a Green Globe-certified group of premium hotels, Valsana has achieved a remarkable 60% reduction in fossil fuel usage. This is accomplished through a combination of heat recovery systems, thermal insulation, and the provision of 100% eco-certified electricity. Every facet of the hotel’s operations, from procurement to waste management, is aligned with their vision of a fossil fuel-free future by 2025, emphasizing  their commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility.

A mere stone’s throw from Zurich, the Valsana Hotel captivates with its chic industrial aesthetic, softened by the warmth of smoked oak floors, aviator egg chairs, and rich Aztec blankets. Botanical prints and natural materials add a touch of the organic to the decor. The 40 rooms and 9 family apartment all with large balconies each promises a restful slumber is fulfilled in the 100% natural “Elky” beds, complemented by blackout blinds, a spacious balcony, a cosy hanging chair, and a vintage record player and a vinyl collection offering unparalleled comfort and only topped by the breath-taking views.

The Valsana Hotel provides a range of amenities designed to enhance the comfort and experience of its guests including a spa, fitness centre, indoor pool, sauna, tennis courts and a bespoke Moving Mountain programme of fitness and yoga classes amid the Swiss mountain terrain.

The Twist is a fully plant based restaurant, although guests can add meat to their option upon request.  The menu is in line with the latest nutritional science research and the idea is to encourage guests to eat plant based and therefore making it more sustainable.  The menu also enhances their Moving Mountains initiative and aims to produce feel good food to power the body but tasting fantastic.

With DJ, movie nights and fun gimmicks there are plenty of things to do including mushroom picking with Claudio, the baked bread experience and Deer exploration walks.

The staff and service are amazing.  The hotel is in the perfect location over looking the lake and mountains and a short walk from the train station.  With the recently installed Urdenbahn Cable car linking to Lenzerheide it is the idea location for skiing.

If you want to build a snowman, sip mulled wine by the fire or just take in the breath-taking views, this is where you should be!