Riffelalp Resort 2222m

A hotel's stars are usually judged by its grandeur, location, ambience, restaurants, pools and spa. Rifflealp excels in all of those, and is one of the best 5 star hotels in the world. But its brightest stars are the pleasant, smiling people in the doorways and hallways, behind the concierge and reception desks, in the restaurants, and driving the curtesy snowmobile shuttle. They're willing to pander to every small whim, every desire and need. Guests at Rifflealp are often nobilities and celebrities, used to feeling special, but the staff made even a common man like me feel very special. The Rifflealp experience starts before you enter the doors. The well clad valet team and bell men welcome you at the Zermatt train station or helipad, get your luggage and transport it to Gornargrat train station, give you tickets and position you on the train. At the Rifflealp station, another team welcomes you and takes you and your luggage to the hotel on the snow mobile. During the week we stayed, they never once made us feel unwelcome. At the door, reception welcomes each family member individually and gets you to your room efficiently. The ski slopes, shopping, trains and dining are all less a hop away. The snow mobile drivers are an embodiment of the word curtsy. As a discerning observer of people, I could write a paragraph about every employee's excellent service, but I can't finish without mentioning a few who made our stay indelible. Top of the list are concierges Stefan Becker and his young protégée Tristan Weiss, who would leave no leaf unturned to make the stay comfortable and memorable. The staff's availability, vigilance and memory of guests and their needs are incredible. I'd also like to recognize Pasquale, Vittorio Guillaume and Oliver for their pleasant, smiling and helpful disposition. This letter wouldn't be consummate without acknowledging the management staff and the ships Captains who keep all the machinery well oiled. Their perennial welcoming smiles and willingness to help are very appreciative. “Better it is to spend a single day at the Rifflealp with those you love than to build a Taj Mahal in the memory of those you loved.” Next time, if God wills, I'll bring my children and grand children. @Khanaphorism

The staff were consistently warm, friendly, and polite, and the setting around Riffelalp Resort is beautiful. But the room and housekeeping made this a deeply disappointing stay. It was dirty when we arrived and never properly cleaned, which is unacceptable at this price. Our room was tiny and dark, and the bathroom was especially uncomfortable and felt very poor quality. The whole space seemed worn and badly maintained, far below what I’d expect from a luxury mountain resort. The cost was wildly out of line with what we got. It felt like the hotel was relying on its location and reputation to justify the price, because the actual experience didn’t. I wouldn’t come back without major improvements to cleanliness and room quality.

The view from the bar, with the mountains right in front of you, is breathtaking, and the staff are very good. Our room was okay and had a nice view. There’s bowling, chess, and 8balls to do, and they don’t ask for a deposit. Breakfast could be better, and there isn’t much to do or walk around nearby. The rooms don’t have AC. I’d come back in cooler weather to enjoy it more, but one night would probably be enough for me.

We loved our stay and can’t wait to come back for more special occasions with the team. The suite looking out at the Matterhorn was sublime, and we got engaged on the balcony, which felt perfect. The spa pool outside had an incredible view, and the massage was wonderful too. From the moment we arrived, everyone made us feel special. Breakfast had loads of choice, and dinner at both restaurants was fantastic.