Following a meticulous renovation, Lucerne’s iconic Belle Époque palace will re-open as Mandarin Oriental Palace, Luzern in September.
Local architects Iwan Bühler Architekten and London-based interior designers Jestico + Whiles were responsible for the elaborate renovation. Together they have delivered a contemporary design, inspired by the surrounding Swiss landscapes, while preserving the rich history and heritage of the landmark building. The result is also a tribute to the Swiss entrepreneur Franz Josef Bucher who realised his dream of a Mediterranean retreat when he originally built the house in 1906.
Situated on the shores of Lake Lucerne, a stone’s throw from the old town and with spectacular views over the Swiss Alps, the hotel features 136 elegant and spacious guestrooms including 48 of the city’s largest suites. Inspired by the beauty of the surrounding Swiss landscape combined with the colour palette of the Mediterranean, the designers have succeeded in creating a unique fusion of the hotel’s original grandeur, contemporary elegance and the quality and attention to detail for which Switzerland is renowned.
Highlights include two Panoramic Rooftop Terrace Suites with magnificent 360-degree lake and mountain views, as well as the luxurious Presidential Suite which offers 133m2 of captivating lifestyle experiences. Most of the guestrooms have private balconies or terraces and all are equipped with amenities by Diptyque, Dyson hair products as well as Bose sound systems.
The hotel is set to become an epicurean destination within the city, offering four restaurants and bars under the patronage of Michelin star experienced Executive Chef Gilad Peled. MOzern Bar & Brasserie is an all-day-dining restaurant offering Asian cuisine, all-time classics, afternoon tea and cocktails. Overlooking Lake Lucerne, Quai 10 awaits visitors with al fresco dining and outstanding Mediterranean cuisine. Inspired by the beauty of the natural surroundings and focusing on local seasonal highlights, Colonnade offers modern French Haute cuisine. Finally, Mizūmi will feature exclusive and refined Japanese craftsmanship, set in an intimate six-seat dining environment. Both Colonnade and Mizūmi will open in the first quarter of 2023.
An expansive wellness area offers sauna, steam bath, experiential showers and a relaxation room. In addition, a state-of-the-art Fitness Salon with high-end equipment by Life Fitness is available 24 hours for hotel guests.
Of note is the Salon Alpine, a hidden historical gem with original Belle Époque décor dating back to 1906 and the Edelweiss Ballroom which offers unparalleled lake and garden views.
“Nearly three years after announcing Mandarin Oriental’s arrival in Lucerne, we are getting ready to welcome our first guests to this historic, local monument that has now been transformed,” says General Manager Christian Wildhaber. “The Palace has been deeply rooted in the local community since 1906 and we look forward to welcoming the local community back to their home on the lake. My team and I are looking forward to delighting locals and visitors from all over the world with Mandarin Oriental’s renowned service.”
