Gstaad.
Perched on a hill overlooking the village, the Gstaad Palace is a fairy-tale fortress that has defined Alpine luxury since 1913. While it retains the white towers and opulent atmosphere that once drew stars like Elizabeth Taylor, the hotel avoids feeling like a museum. The 104 rooms blend refined country aesthetics with modern comforts, but the real draw is the social scene. Guests gravitate toward the five distinct restaurants—ranging from formal gourmet dining to cozy fondue in a former bunker—and the legendary GreenGo nightclub, which maintains its original 1970s aesthetic. The 1,800-square-meter spa is a destination in itself, featuring a granite-walled indoor pool and a sophisticated hammam circuit. It remains a family-run institution where the service is notably high-touch and personal.