Industry News
The iconic Park Gstaad Hotel in Gstaad, Switzerland, a hallmark of luxury and alpine heritage since 1910, is poised for a transformative chapter under the management of Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts. Following a comprehensive renovation, the property is set to reopen as “The Park Gstaad, A Four Seasons Hotel” in May 2026, solidifying Gstaad’s status as a premier destination for discerning global travelers.
This ambitious overhaul is spearheaded by Squircle Capital in collaboration with acclaimed interior designer Joseph Dirand, known for his modern aesthetic that harmonizes with historical contexts. The project is expected to cost approximately CHF 100 million ($110 million) and will blend contemporary sophistication with the hotel’s storied legacy. Dona Bertarelli, owner of the property, expressed her enthusiasm for the collaboration. “The Park Gstaad has been a part of my personal journey and holds a special place in the region’s heritage. Its transformation into a Four Seasons experience will unite its legacy with modern elegance, creating a destination for both residents and visitors to cherish,” she stated. Bertarelli is a billionaire philanthropist and sister of Alinghi sailor and billionaire Ernesto Bertarelli. The Swiss-Italian siblings inherited the pharmaceutical company Serono from their father which they pivoted towards biotechnology and later sold for $ 13.3 billion to Germany’s Merck to form Merck-Serono.
Upon reopening, The Park Gstaad will feature 71 rooms, 4 suites, and 5 luxury penthouse residences. These Penthouse residences will be available for purchase but will be managed by Four Seasons, and will offer potential buyers unparalleled access to the brand’s renowned property management services. Enhanced amenities include state-of-the-art dining options, a destination spa, and extensive wellness facilities featuring indoor and outdoor pools, tennis courts, and a winter ice rink. A strong focus on sustainability and employee well-being is reflected in upgraded accommodations for staff, ensuring the hotel’s legacy is as much about people as it is about place. For corporate travelers, six newly designed meeting rooms will provide an optimal blend of functionality and style, accommodating high-quality seminars, team-building activities, and incentive events. Whether for work or leisure, the property’s attention to detail promises an extraordinary experience, bolstered by the scenic charm of Gstaad.
Nestled in the Bernese Oberland, Gstaad has long been synonymous with luxury and exclusivity. The village offers year-round attractions, from 220 kilometers (136 miles) of ski slopes in winter to hiking, mountain biking, and golf during warmer months. At an altitude of up to 3,000 meters (9,842 feet), the destination caters to outdoor enthusiasts while also serving as a cultural hub with gourmet dining and boutique shopping. Easily accessible from major cities, Gstaad is a two-hour drive from Geneva and a short distance from Bern Airport. The hotel itself is centrally located, offering proximity to the village promenade while maintaining a tranquil alpine setting.
The Park Gstaad has long been a coveted venue for weddings and private events, and its transformation under Four Seasons will elevate these offerings. From outdoor ceremonies against the majestic backdrop of the Alps to intimate indoor celebrations, the hotel will provide personalized planning to ensure every detail is perfect. Guests can even reserve the entire property for the ultimate in privacy and exclusivity.
Martin Rhomberg, Regional Vice President of Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts and a veteran with over two decades of experience, underscores the significance of this project. “The transformation of The Park Gstaad reflects Four Seasons’ commitment to delivering exceptional experiences in the world’s most coveted locations. This venture combines the timeless appeal of Gstaad with our unparalleled service and attention to detail,” he remarked in an interview with Swiss magazine Hotel Inside.
As Four Seasons expands its portfolio of alpine properties, including locations in Megève, Whistler, and Jackson Hole, the addition of The Park Gstaad signifies a milestone in its European presence. With its reopening, The Park Gstaad, A Four Seasons Hotel, will undoubtedly set a new benchmark for luxury in the Swiss Alps.
