In the heart of the Crans-Montana ski area, at an altitude of 2112 meters, stands an exceptional hotel. An Alpine sanctuary where contemporary architecture and design bow to the majesty of the Imperial Crown of Zinal. The 4-star Hotel Chetzeron lets us discover the splendor of a sovereign nature. I invite you to discover the Hotel Chetzeron, the jewel in the crown of Crans-Montana.
Hotel Chetzeron: a jewel in the heights of Crans-Montana
Facing the most famous summits of the Imperial Crown of Zinal, the Hotel Chetzeron welcomes its guests in a privileged setting. Located in the heart of the Crans-Montana ski area, the hotel offers an enchanted interlude away from the hustle and bustle of the village center. In summer and winter alike, couples, families and friends gather here to make lasting memories. Getting to the Hotel Chetzeron is an experience in itself. In winter, it begins with the gondola lift, then continues on skis, on foot, by ratrak, cross-country skis or snowshoes. In summer, you can reach the resort by bike, on foot or by 4 x 4.
Every window opens onto a magnificent panorama. The rooms, terrace and pool offer panoramic views of the summits and their sparkling glaciers. Admire the Bishorn, Weisshorn, Obergabelhorn, Schalihorn, Besso, Dent Blanche and Zinalrothorn. In the distance stands the Matterhorn, sovereign of the Swiss Alps.
To make your stay exceptional, Chetzeron offers gourmet Alpine cuisine made entirely in-house, accompanied by the finest wines. The menu features traditional recipes that evolve with the seasons. Raclette and wood-fired barbecue evenings are a particular hit all year round.
History of Chetzeron: from gondola station to exceptional hotel
In the early 1960s, a gondola station was built on the heights of Crans-Montana. Hundreds of winter sports enthusiasts flocked to the station, until 2003, when the new Crans-Cry d'Er line was built to serve the western part of the resort, leaving the abandoned Chetseron station. The year 2003 marked a decisive turning point. Just as the building seemed doomed to oblivion, Sami Lamaa saw its hidden potential. The building's unique location, its 360-degree view and the special aura of the place seduced him. An ambitious project was born in his mind: to transform this humble station into a luxurious haven of uncluttered design. Within these abandoned walls, he already envisioned a haven of peace, where silence is matched only by the purity of the Alpine air.
The adventure took on new momentum in 2004 when Sami Lamaa joined forces with Louis Bégault, a Crans-Montana enthusiast. Four years later, with the building permit in hand, they launched the works despite the sometimes extreme winter conditions. The work progressed inexorably, braving snow and bitter cold. Every detail was thought through to ensure that the establishment embodied the elegance of Crans-Montana. Thanks to unflagging motivation, Chetzeron welcomed its first customers to the restaurant in December 2009.
The project reached its climax in December 2014 with the inauguration of the hotel. Chetzeron now displays all its assets: sixteen refined rooms and junior suites, an elegant lobby and bar, a gourmet restaurant, four panoramic terraces, a heated outdoor pool and a spa.
Hotel Chetzeron: unique design and architecture
Like a butterfly emerging from its chrysalis, Hotel Chetzeron spreads its wings across the Alps. The former gondola station has been transformed into a sparkling jewel in the heart of the Crans-Montana ski area. But the original soul of the old station still pulses within its walls: the original industrial gantries and the old cabin openings bear witness to this history. The layout of the lobby, reception and bar is totally in keeping with the Chetzeron spirit. The establishment plays with volumes, between the huge bay window embracing the Alpine landscape and the intimate spaces reminiscent of the warmth of traditional refuges.
The sixteen rooms, with their refined design, invite contemplation. Their elegant sobriety guides us back to basics. Simple, harmonious furnishings, highlighting the view of Zinal's Imperial Crown. Throughout the establishment, an organic, geometric motif is repeated: larch needles or snow crystals. Thus adorned, Chetzeron enters a new era.
Sustainable building: innovation in the service of nature
The Hotel Chetzeron's commitment to the environment is evident in every detail of its design. Its high-performance insulation, ingenious natural ventilation and responsible energy production earned it the prestigious Swiss Minergie-P label in 2015. The building combines technology and ecology: pellet boiler, heat recovery system, thermal and photovoltaic solar panels. This quest for sustainability extends far beyond the infrastructure. Chetzeron carefully selects its partners and suppliers, creating an architectural jewel in harmony with its surroundings. Rooms are clad in wild oak from the BerneseOberland , while bedding proudly displays its eco-institute certification. The entire establishment is thus nourished by the grace of nature, offering guests total immersion in the Alpine world.
In the restaurant, dishes are prepared exclusively with local produce. To minimize its ecological footprint and raise awareness among staff and guests alike, the hotel is committed to reducing food waste and waste. In keeping with this commitment, you can savour the absolute pleasure of gourmet cuisine while enjoying a unique view of the Valais Alps.
Photographic exhibition by Thomas Crauwels at Chetzeron: a tribute to the Imperial Crown of Zinal
Since December 2024, I've had the honor of having my photographic works exhibited in the Hotel Chetzeron. The sobriety of my black-and-white paintings naturally complements the hotel's design. I have selected for you some of my most beautiful panoramic photographs of the Imperial Crown of Zinal. Through my creations, I promise you a journey to infinity. A suspended moment when nature reclaims its rights. For each of my works reveals the Valais Alps after being swept away by a violent storm. In these moments of chaos, man becomes the spectator of the power of the elements.
As you enter the hotel lobby, you enter a realm of light and shadow. I've created these mountain portraits for you. In the restaurant, your eyes will wander through my panoramic works. Under the gaze of the most beautiful mountains in the Valais Alps, the art of photography blends with gastronomy.
The story of Chetzeron is one of an extraordinary metamorphosis: from a modest gondola station has emerged a jewel of the Alpine hotel industry. My affection for this place runs deep, not least because of its exceptional location and contemporary design. I would like to thank the hotel for giving me the opportunity to exhibit my photographic work. These paintings are the fruit of my unshakeable passion for the Alps.
