Bürgenstock Resort Lake Lucerne
Switzerland
Bürgenstock Resort Lake Lucerne
6363 Obbürgen
www.burgenstockresort.com/en
HOTEL INFORMATION
Group
The Bürgenstock Collection
Shareholders
Katara Hospitality
Date of Creation
Founded in 1873, reopening 2017
Hotel General Manager
Managing Director: Chris K. Franzen
Chris K. Franzen brings more than three decades of international hospitality experience. Trained as a chef and educated in hotel management, he went on to spend 23 years with Hyatt in senior leadership roles across the Middle East and India. He later opened and led the Waldorf Astoria Doha Lusail before returning to Switzerland. Since 1 April 2024, he has been Managing Director of the Bürgenstock Resort Lake Lucerne, guiding one of the country’s most prestigious luxury resorts.
Hotel Positioning
Perched high above Lake Lucerne, the Bürgenstock Resort offers one of Switzerland’s most exceptional luxury experiences. Its 5*-superior Bürgenstock Hotel & Alpine Spa blends daring contemporary design and panoramic views at The Contemporary with timeless elegance at The Heritage. The Waldhotel by Bürgenstock, likewise rated 5*-superior, offers a serene, nature-focused retreat that harmoniously complements the resort’s luxury landscape.
As a member of Leading Hotels of the World, Swiss Deluxe Hotels, Virtuoso Preferred, and Forbes Travel Guide, the resort ranks among the world’s most distinguished destinations, celebrated for refined hospitality, award-winning spa experiences, and a breathtaking alpine setting.
Development Strategy
N/A
Bürgenstock Resort Lake Lucerne
History & Story
In 1873, when pioneers Franz Josef Bucher and Josef Durrer opened the Grand Hotel atop Bürgenberg mountain, overlooking Lake Lucerne, the story of Bürgenstock Resort Lake Lucerne began – a testament to vision, innovation, and pioneering spirit. Early achievements, such as the electric funicular in 1888 and the Hammetschwand Lift in 1905 – the highest outdoor elevator in Europe—set new standards in comfort and engineering.
Throughout the 20th century, Bürgenstock became synonymous with luxury and glamour. Its ‘Golden Years’ in the 1950s and 60s drew aristocrats, celebrities, and world leaders, who enjoyed their time amid the resort’s refined atmosphere. Guests such as Audrey Hepburn, Sophia Loren, Sean Connery, Indira Gandhi, and Jimmy Carter helped shape its international prestige.
Following extensive renovations in 2007, it reopened in 2017 as a modern luxury destination, featuring two award-winning spas, twelve restaurants, bars and lounges, and state-of-the-art event spaces. A landmark moment came in 2024 with the Summit on Peace in Ukraine, welcoming 57 heads of state, hundreds of delegations, and global media – underscoring Bürgenstock’s ongoing role as a world-class venue for diplomacy and high-profile events.
Date Renewal
The modern era of Bürgenstock Resort began with the new ownership of Katara Hospitality and a major redevelopment starting in 2008. From 2014 to 2017, around CHF 550–650 million were invested in the largest hotel restoration in Swiss history, blending the resort’s historic heritage with contemporary luxury.
• Bürgenstock Hotel & Alpine Spa – The Contemporary: Rebuilt as the resort’s centerpiece, offering 102 rooms and suites with panoramic views of Lake Lucerne.
• Waldhotel by Bürgenstock: Newly constructed and designed by Italian architect Matteo Thun, featuring sustainable materials and nature-inspired architecture to create a tranquil wellness retreat.
• Historic Buildings including the former Palace Hotel – now The Heritage wing of the Bürgenstock Hotel & Alpine Spa – and other original structures were carefully restored to preserve their heritage while integrating modern comfort and technology.
• Bürgenstock Alpine Spa: Completely renovated and expanded over 10,000 m² across three levels, featuring our iconic infinity-edge pool and the historic kidney-shaped outdoor pool.
• Iconic Features: The 1888 funicular and the Hammetschwand Lift, Europe’s highest outdoor elevator, were overhauled and reopened, maintaining their historic significance and operational reliability.
Date added extensions
2017
Main Strengths, Special Touch
Bürgenstock Resort Lake Lucerne offers an exceptional blend of luxury, wellness, and culinary excellence. Guests can savour culinary diversity across twelve restaurants, bars, and lounges — from pan-Asian flavours at Spices Kitchen & Terrace, to fire-grilled steaks at Oak Grill, and traditional Swiss specialties at Restaurant Taverne. For ultimate relaxation, the resort features two award-winning spas: the Bürgenstock Alpine Spa, spanning over 10,000 m² with five pools, saunas, and steam rooms, and the serene Waldhotel Spa, offering a nature-inspired wellness concept with stunning views of the Alps.
Location
Bürgenstock Resort Lake Lucerne is perched on a ridge overlooking Lake Lucerne and the surrounding Alps, offering breathtaking panoramic views. The resort is easily accessible by car, approximately 50 minutes from Zurich Airport and 20 minutes from Lucerne city centre, via a scenic winding road that leads up the mountain. Guests can also arrive in style by the MS Bürgenstock catamaran and funicular from Lucerne or via private flights to Buochs Airport, located nearby.
Key sites/activities in the area
A wide range of recreational activities awaits guests at and around the resort, from golf and tennis to hiking and biking. Film enthusiasts and families can enjoy screenings at the Bürgenstock Cinema. During the warmer months, the Cliff Walk presents a scenic trail with stunning vistas and an engaging journey through the resort’s 150-year history, ending at the Hammetschwand Lift, Europe’s highest outdoor elevator. In just 60 seconds, it brings visitors to the mountain peak, unveiling breathtaking 360° panoramic views of Lake Lucerne and the surrounding Alps.
For alpine adventures, Mount Pilatus and Mount Titlis are within easy reach, making Bürgenstock an ideal destination for both relaxation and adventures.
Fun Facts
Audrey Hepburn married Mel Ferrer at the resort’s chapel in 1954. The couple enjoyed an intimate ceremony with close friends and family. The former General Manager of the resort, Fritz Frey, even offered her a house in the resort, and she lived there for 14 years, making it an important part of her personal history.
The Sypcher Club, a cozy, rustic 16th-century Swiss granary outfitted with a DJ booth and a disco ball, has long been a favourite spot for nightlife. It now serves as a stylish venue for private parties, social events, masterclasses, aperitifs, cocktails, and after-parties. The club features its own bar and a historic fireplace, adding to its speakeasy atmosphere.
A notable scene from Goldfinger was filmed at the Hollywood Pool’s underwater bar. Built in the 1950s, the Hollywood Pool quickly became a hot spot for Hollywood celebrities, drawing a crowd from around the world. It was the place to be in central Switzerland, hosting numerous fashion shows, glamorous parties, and gatherings of the social elite.
The Bürgenstock Resort continues the green legacy of the founders of the resort, Franz Josef Bucher-Durrer and Josef Durrer, known for their innovation and pioneering spirit. In 1888, the two business partners opened Switzerland’s first electric funicular on site, by installing a power plant on the river Aa. The mechanics were revolutionary back in the days. To of supply drinking water for their international clientele, they later built a water pipeline from Lake Lucerne to the resort.
Children’s Corner
At the Bürgenstock Alpine Spa, young guests under 16 are welcome when accompanied by an adult during designated hours: the pool on the 2nd from 9am – 12pm and 5pm – 7pm, and the Hollywood Pool and garden on the 3rd floor from 10am – 7pm during the summer months. Guests aged 16 and above enjoy full access to the sauna, hydrothermal area, and fitness facilities.
The Kids Club, included for Bürgenstock Hotel & Alpine Spa guests, invites children aged 3–12 to explore the magical world of Bürgenmutz. This With his guidance and our professional child-minders, little guests enjoy playful activities, educational games, and hands-on creative workshops every day from 10am – 7pm.
At Waldhotel Spa, young guests are warmly welcomed with an accompanying adult from 9am – 12pm and 5pm – 6pm.
HOTEL FEATURES
Accommodation
Number of suites:
• Bürgenstock Hotel & Alpine Spa:
• The Contemporary: 20
• The Heritage: 7
• Waldhotel by Bürgenstock: 11
Number of Luxury rooms:
• Bürgenstock Hotel & Alpine Spa: 184
• The Contemporary: 82
• The Heritage: 102
• Waldhotel by Bürgenstock: 126
Number of rooms, (keys) in all:
• Bürgenstock Hotel & Alpine Spa: 211 keys
• The Contemporary: 102 keys
• The Heritage: 109 keys
• Waldhotel by Bürgenstock: 137 keys
Restaurants & Bars
Note: No All-Inclusive or Half Board available
• Spices Kitchen & Terrace
Asian cuisine with authentic flavours from Japan, China, India, and Thailand, honoured with 16 Gault & Millau points.
• Oak Grill & Pool Patio
Awarded 14 Gault & Millau points, showcasing a ‘Farm-to-Table from Nose-to-Tail’ philosophy and exclusive Swiss gourmet meats from the wood-fired grill.
• Verbena Restaurant & Bar
Menus unite signature dishes from across all resort kitchens, from Parisa’s Middle Eastern creations to Spices’ Asian highlights and Brasserie Ritzcoffier’s French classics.
• Restaurant Taverne
A cosy Swiss guesthouse on the Bürgenberg, serving beloved traditional dishes such as rösti, Älplermagronen, and sausage-cheese salad.
• Lakeview Lounge
Floor-to-ceiling panoramic windows overlooking Lake Lucerne set the scene for lobby favourites, refined afternoon tea and signature cocktails inspired by the resort’s storied history.
• Cigar Lounge
A spacious cigar lounge featuring its own curated selection, paired with sweeping views of Lake Lucerne.
Seasonal Venues
• Osteria Alpina Terrazza
An Italian restaurant nestled in an idyllic Alpine setting surrounded by fir trees, rolling meadows and the golf course.
• Parisa – Persian Cuisine
Authentic Persian dining with classic flavours interpreted in vibrant and contemporary ways.
Wellness
Set above Lake Lucerne, the award-winning Bürgenstock Alpine Spa offers 10,000m² of wellness and relaxation, where every detail is designed to rejuvenate body and mind. Guests can unwind in soothing indoor and outdoor pools, experience the refreshing cold plunge and floating pools, or relax in the serenity room and hammam. The spa also features a fully equipped 24/7 fitness centre for those wishing to maintain their workout routine.
Waldhotel Spa offers a refined sanctuary of luxury and wellbeing. Here, guests can immerse themselves in an indoor and outdoor pool, enjoy the therapeutic benefits of the salt grotto and saunas, or simply relax on the spa terrace while taking in the alpine surroundings. A fully equipped 24/7 fitness centre ensures that energy and vitality are easily maintained, making it an ideal retreat for both body and mind.
Corporate & Celebration Events
BÜRGENSTOCK HOTEL & ALPINE SPA
Lakeview Ballroom
One of the largest and most fashionable venues in Central Switzerland with two completely glazed facades, providing an uninterrupted view of Lake Lucerne, the city of Lucerne and the nearby mountains.
Salle Palace
The historic setting, the elegant chandeliers and the stunning lake and mountain panorama are what make this location really special.
Private dining “Lago”
Exclusive, modern dining room with a lake view and large fireplace.
Lucerne 1–8
Eight smaller breakout rooms, or four larger ones when connected, await you with a wonderful lake view: all the rooms have flat screens and the latest technology with room control panels.
Diamond Domes
The generously-proportioned Diamond Domes impress with their unique architecture inspired by mountain crystals. The large windows provide an uninterrupted view of the mountains. The tennis halls can be converted into unique event spaces for your big occasion. Our Meeting & Conference team will be happy to give you advice customised to your individual requirements.
Please find here the full overview in our Meeting Brochure
Extra Notable Features
The resort offers a range of exceptional features for guests seeking both activity and relaxation. Sports enthusiasts can enjoy three Diamond Dome tennis courts—two indoor and one outdoor—alongside the 9-hole Alpine golf course.
Film lovers can unwind in the intimate 69-seat Bürgenstock Cinema, while those seeking adventure can explore the historic Hammetschwand Lift and the scenic Cliff Walk.
A thoughtfully curated weekly programme, including yoga, sound bathing, and mobility classes, offers something for every preference, and the concierge is on hand to arrange a range of customised experiences, creating moments that go beyond imagination.
Hotel and restaurant Awards
2025
OutThere – The Experientialist Awards (International)
• Bürgenstock Resort Lake Lucerne: The Escapist – Wellbeing
101 Besten Hotels der Schweiz 2025 (CH)
• Bürgenstock Resort Lake Lucerne: Luxury Hideaway of the Year 2025
Oprah Daily 2025 – Hotel O-Wards (US)
• Bürgenstock Resort Lake Lucerne: Best Destination Spa in Europe
Wine Spectator 2025 Restaurant Awards (US)
• Spices Kitchen & Terrace: Best Award of Excellence
World Spa Awards (International)
• Bürgenstock Alpine Spa: Switzerland’s Best Hotel Spa 2025
Michelin Key (International)
• Bürgenstock Resort Lake Lucerne: 3/3 Keys
Michelin Wellness Awards (International)
• Bürgenstock Resort Lake Lucerne: Best Wellness Hotel
Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards (International)
• Bürgenstock Resort Lake Lucerne: #12 World Destination Spas
2024
LUXLife (UK)
• Bürgenstock Resort Lake Lucerne: Most Scenic Alpine Hotel & Spa 2024
The Luxury Spa Edit Awards (UK)
• Bürgenstock Resort Lake Lucerne: Best Global Spa Hotel
World Travel Awards (UK) – Bürgenstock Hotel & Alpine Spa
• Switzerland’s Leading Luxury Hotel 2024
• Europe’s Leading Hotel Suite 2024
Women’s Health Travel Awards (US)
• Bürgenstock Alpine Spa: Best Spa for Self-Care
KAYAK Travel Awards 2024 (US)
• Bürgenstock Hotel & Alpine Spa – The Heritage
• Waldhotel by Bürgenstock
Wine Spectator 2024 Restaurant Awards (US)
• Spices Kitchen & Terrace: Best of Award of Excellence
OutThere Experientialist Awards (UK)
• Bürgenstock Resort Lake Lucerne: Escapist
World Spa Awards (International) – Bürgenstock Alpine Spa
• World’s Best Hotel Spa 2024
• Europe’s Best Hotel Spa 2024
• Switzerland’s Best Hotel Spa 2024
Travel & Hospitality Awards – Spa & Wellness Awards (UK)
• Bürgenstock Resort Lake Lucerne: Spa Resort of the Year in Switzerland
Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards (International)
• Bürgenstock Alpine Spa: #8 World’s Resorts
Michelin Key (International)
• Bürgenstock Resort Lake Lucerne: 3/3 Keys
Connoisseur Circle – Die besten Hotels der Schweiz 2024 (DE)
• Bürgenstock Resort Lake Lucerne: Die besten Gourmet Hotels
Connoisseur Circle Hospitality Awards (DE)
• Bürgenstock Resort Lake Lucerne: Best Hospitality Spa & Health Resort
Little Emperors Hotel Awards 2024 (International)
• Bürgenstock Hotel & Alpine Spa: Best Hotel for Spa & Wellness
2023
World of Fine Wine Awards (UK) – Bürgenstock Hotels & Resort Lake Lucerne
• Brasserie Ritzcoffier: 3 Stars (highest level)
• Jack’s Brasserie: 2 Stars
LUXlife Wedding Awards (UK)
• Bürgenstock Hotels & Resort Lake Lucerne: Best Luxury Wedding Venue 2023 – Central Switzerland
Bridelux Favourite Hotel Award (UK)
• Bürgenstock Hotels & Resort Lake Lucerne
Falstaff Spa Awards (DACH)
• Bürgenstock Hotel & Alpine Spa: Beste Spa Hotels des Jahres
Falstaff Spa Awards – Reader’s Choice (DACH)
• Waldhotel Health & Medical Excellence: Medical
• Bürgenstock Hotel & Alpine Spa: Family
Wine Spectator 2023 Restaurant Awards (US)
• Spices Kitchen & Terrace: Best of Award of Excellence
World Spa Awards (International) – Bürgenstock Alpine Spa
• World’s Best Hotel Spa 2023
• Europe’s Best Hotel Spa 2023
World Travel Awards (International) – Bürgenstock Hotel & Alpine Spa
• Europe’s Leading Hotel Suite 2023 (Royal Suite)
• Switzerland’s Leading Luxury Hotel
LHW – Leaders Club Membership Awards (US)
• Bürgenstock Hotel & Alpine Spa: Remarkable Experiences Award
LLM Reader’s Travel Awards (UK)
• Bürgenstock Resort Lake Lucerne: Best Spa/Wellness Hotel
Number of employees
700 employees (depending on the season)