Baur au Lac
Hotel Name: Baur au Lac
Number of Rooms: 119 Rooms and Suites
Location: Set in its own private, leafy park on the edge of Lake Zurich, with views over Lake Zurich and the Swiss Alps
While located in the heart of Zurich, Baur au Lac retains its exclusivity and traditional architecture in the property's own private park, providing an unobstructed view of the lake and the snow-tipped Alps. For over a century, Baur au Lac has hosted the famous and glamourous, winning them over time and time again with its charm, elegance, and service. The original Baur family, now in their 6th generation, continue to excel in creating a lavish, yet welcoming atmosphere, bringing together, art, nature, and the loveliness that is the city of Zurich.
What We Loved: Pretty much everything. Brooke Lavery’s feedback from a recent stay reads, “Beautiful historic grand dame that feels boutique - centrally located but also discreet. This is the kind of hotel that makes new builds seem cheap. Every doorknob, every fixture somehow special and noticeable.”
What We Didn’t Love: There’s no large full-scale spa here - while there is a gym, in-room treatments, and a strong wellness offering, there is no expansive spa facility, which some luxury travelers might expect.
Right For: Art collectors (Hauser & Wirth is next door and you may just have a masterwork hanging in your suite); families; travelers who cherish classic luxury, history, and prestige.
Wrong For: This is a grande-dame Hotel (with a capital H!) If you’re looking for something sleek or boutique, look elsewhere.
Best Time to Visit: If you’re not here pre or post ski, May to September is ideal: the lake is at its best, gardens are in bloom, and days are long.
TLF Tip: Take advantage of the hotel’s historic “Tugenia” salon boat — guests are invited aboard for exclusive lake cruises. It’s a romantic and unusual way to see the city skyline from the water.
