Until now, Zermatt has not had any global brands but this is set to change, as the luxury hotel chain The Ritz-Carlton, which operates over 80 hotels worldwide, is planning a project in the Matterhorn village. Zermatt businessman Mario Julen has signed a contract with the parent company Marriott International for “The Ritz-Carlton” in Zermatt. It will be the brand's second hotel in Switzerland and the first in a European ski area.
Luxury and direct access to the pistes
The resort will have 69 bedrooms and suites and is scheduled to open in 2026. According to the plans, the hotel complex will comprise several buildings. In addition to a restaurant and bars, there will be a large outdoor terrace, direct access to the pistes and a luxurious spa area with a fitness suite and both indoor and outdoor pools. The resort will also offer event and conference facilities. The hotel will be located in the “Zer Bännu” area at the western entrance to the village.
Hotelier Mario Julen
Mario Julen is a Zermatt alpinist, a certified IVBV mountain guide, helicopter pilot and successful hotelier. His own real estate development business Matterhorn Peak AG has developed some of the most exceptional local real estate projects in the luxury segment, including “7 heavens” and “Hotel Mama” (managed by his daughter, Sandrine).
