The Gipfelrestaurant with it’s breathtaking views of the seven peaks Churfirsten Massif in Switzerland sits on top of the Chäserrugg mountain and literally stopped me in my tracks. I want to go there – badly!
Star architects Herzog and de Meuron re-invented the original restaurant which was built back in 1972 when the cable car station was constructed. Making the most of the views across Lake Walensee and the surrounding peaks the building sits on a plateau at 2,262m above sea level in this unspoilt part of the Swiss Alps.
The goal was to increase tourism in the summer months and pay tribute to local tradition, craftsmanship and cuisine. Locally sourced spruce is therefore one of the dominant materials used, from the pre-fabricated frame by craftsmen in the valley to the floorboards and long angular roof it covers every surface and gives a lovely warm feel.
The Gipfelrestaurant is a destination place serving fresh local food and encouraging conversation through communal dining at long wooden tables before relaxing in front of one of the wood burning fires or the covered terrace enjoying the views.
I couldn’t imagine a more perfect place to enjoy the Swiss Alps – summer or winter.
MORE INFORMATION | Chäserrugg
ARCHITECTS | Herzog and de Meuron
PHOTOGRAPHY | Juergen Pollak with thanks