Set along the crest of the Adelboden Massif in the Bernese Oberland region of central Switzerland, The Brecon, previously called Hotel Huldi, has long been a choice destination for a discerning clientele. Since at least the 1950s, a jet set crowd has come here in search of relaxed yet refined respite; not to mention stunningly perched views of the largely unspoiled mountainous landscape in the immediate vicinity. Just over a two hour’s drive from Zurich, this quaint boutique hotel packs a punch. The traditional timber-construction chalet address plays host to a select collection of 18 individually outfitted guest rooms and 4 suites, but also a robust program of hard and soft amenities.
With help from Amsterdam-based interior design studio Nicemakers, The Brecon recently received a complete refresh by its new owner, UK-based travel service company THE AFICIONADOS. “The renovation draws inspiration from its rich mid-century heritage, infusing the hotel with the distinctive aesthetic of the sixties and seventies,” says practice co-principal Joyce Roll. “Guests will find themselves immersed in an atmosphere of understated sophistication, marked by a subdued earthy palette and natural, comforting textures mixed with brutalist details.”
The destination was re-designed to feel like a domestic space and provide its guests with a “soft landing” upon arrival or after a long day of rigorous activity in the surrounding nature. For this to truly hit home, the studio implemented locally sourced material and area-specific building techniques. White-plastered walls and stone flooring combine as the perfect alpine backdrop. Natural materials including linen, leather, cotton and wool can be found throughout. One of the only non Swiss elements are the handcrafted double cloth woven covers produced by Pembokeshire, United Kingdom-based Melin Tregwynt.
“Our aim was to craft a sanctuary for those seeking privacy and tranquility, emphasizing the comforts of home intertwined with the finest elements of traditional Swiss hospitality,” Nicemakers co-principal Dax Roll added. “Each room and suite is elegantly and pragmatically furnished with a curated mix of contemporary and vintage pieces, art from Amsterdam’s Bisou gallery, and was styled with a selection of collected objects from all Europe. Natural fabrics, including wool, linen, and cotton, contribute to the sense of luxuriously comfortable rooms that complement the stunning mountain vistas visible from every window.”
With all food – most of which is also locally sourced – and drink complementary, there’s somewhat good value here. The compact resort also features a “resident”-only spa, replete with a views-rich sauna, steam room, and perhaps most impressively an Art Deco-style outdoor heated pool with the best panoramic vistas. Guests are also encouraged to hike, bike, and ski during the day. Nighttime cross country skiing is a must. The Brecon can also be completely rented out for special events like weddings.
What: The Brecon
Where: Adelboden, Switzerland
How much: Guest rooms starting from $ 758.77
Design draws: A refined yet decidedly homey setting with contemporary takes on 1960s and 70s interior design harkening back to its jet set heyday featuring earth tones and bright pops of pattern playing off of distinctly geometric furnishings. The hotel’s traditional timber chalet construction is paired with stone and ceramic architectural details. All 18 guest rooms and four suites frame stunning views of the nearby Bernese Oberland and soaring Alps in the distance.
Book it: The Brecon
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Photography by Matt Vines of Matt Vines Consulting.
