The Kronenhof Spa is nestled within the Grand Hotel Kronenhof Pontresina. Literally. They dug below the historic hotel to create a spectacular spa that looks as though it’s been carved into the side of the mountain. Situated in the Engadin, a long Alpine valley region in the Swiss Alps – a majestic train journey from Zurich or just 6km from St Moritz – you will feel the power of nature in the crystal clear air. Overlooking the peaceful valley below, the spa offers a magnificent view of the pristine Roseg Glacier. This is a place where everything stops, and your mind and body feel completely at one. Think relaxation, detoxification and regeneration.

Inspired by the natural beauty and surroundings of Pontresina, the spa is seamlessly designed to make the most of its setting, with a double-height, glass-fronted atrium that houses a 20-metre-long infinity pool. Sun streams through the windows and warms the loungers that are strategically positioned to enjoy the stunning views, ideal for guests looking to relax and restore their natural body-soul balance.

From the Kronenhof Spa, guests enjoy unparalleled views of the Roseg Glacier.

The ethos of the spa is to combine traditional therapies with a more holistic approach. There’s a trio of grottos set behind the pool area containing stone steam bath, saltwater and floating tank areas. The saltwater grotto frees airways and improves skin texture. The bio traditional sauna for women (a nude area) with air-infused essential oils helps the body relax. Coloured lights energise and give a sense of wellbeing, strengthening your nervous system and regenerating your metabolism. With the unique shape of a stone pit and humidity of 100 percent, the steam bath gives a boost to your immune system.

The Kneipp Footpath (aimed at stimulating circulation, strengthening the immune system and improving the nervous system) rejuvenates tired legs as you step through alternating cold and warm knee-deep water. The hydro pool features a Jacuzzi with individual pods bubbling with strategically placed massaging jets to knead your muscles after a tough day on the slopes or hiking one of the many nearby mountains. My favourite spot was the serene, dimly lit floating grotto – where you lay back in the buoyant water and float, gazing up at the rippling surface mirrored on the ceiling, with an underwater soundtrack to calm you further. The feeling of weightlessness was divine.

Left, the floating grotto, with its gentle wave projection and underwater sounds is ideal for relaxing.
Right, the stone steam grotto, kept at 45°C and 100 percent humidity, to help boost the immune system.

Then there’s the therapies on offer, handled by a team of expert professionals. The menu includes detox wraps, facials and every possible massage that you can imagine: lymphatic drainage, Breuss (where special attention is given to the meridians and stretching the spine), Lomi Lomi (for physical and mental cleansing) and AktiVital (to dissolve persistent tension and aches), to list but a few.

The Love Your Age by Pharmos sorted me out. This is a 60-minutes holistic and effective treatment that includes algae peeling, an activating massage and a firming body pack.

For facials, you can take your pick from two leading brands, Pharmos Natur or Valmont. Valmont – a master of anti-ageing care – combines unique Swiss cell cosmetic expertise with a subtle combination of Alpine ingredients and advanced scientific knowledge that deliver instant and long-lasing results.

The Luminosity Boost Ritual left me with an even complexion, refined skin texture and more of a healthier, radiant glow than a fortnight on Mustique. The Aloe Refresher, with its aloe vera plant leaf sensual repair mask is also rejuvenating, regenerating and moisturising. The treatments are designed to restore natural balance as well as pamper you with powerful alpine herbal lotions, high-quality essential oils or luxury products, and provide an experience that combines relaxation, detoxification and regeneration. The relaxation room, with its own flickering fire, provides dreamy, heated waterbeds at 37°C, so you can take a nap or read a book in comfort. I was out like a light.

The Kronenhof Spa offers a wide range of massages to suit the needs and requirements of all guests.

The fitness area is masterfully equipped with Technogym equipment. For those seeking a bit more of a workout, there’s a personal trainer on hand to guide you around the gym, which overlooks the pool. Outdoor activities, such as hiking, running or active training in the fresh air can be organised. Kronenhof also have their own certified sports therapist and a Pilates trainer. In the spring and summer, guests can enjoy al fresco yoga and meditation, as well as outdoor kneipping in the river below the hotel (highly recommended). A qualified swimming instructor is available for both technical courses for adults as well as for children and babies.

As one would expect, all the beauty basics (manicures, pedis, depilation, waxing and eyebrow shaping) are on offer at Kronenhof and a hairdresser can be arranged on request.

For those who crave an especially unique experience, the entire sauna and pool area of the spa can be exclusively booked in the evenings. A private spa suite can also be booked, alongside exquisite gastronomic delicacies and a glass of Champagne. Non-resident guests are welcome to experience the pools, saunas and gym facilities, alongside the wellness treatments.

If you’re looking for a place to reset your body and mind to take you through 2025, this is the spot for the wellness devotee in all seasons.

Author: Linda Hunting

Discover more about the Grand Hotel Kronenhof Pontresina, HERE and HERE.

Bookings and reservations, HERE.