Schönegg Chalet Hotel

Flower-filled balconies and sloping chalet roofs are typically Swiss at this hillside property. Surrounded by the Vispa River's rapid-flowing waters, expect natural surroundings, although comfort levels are high in 2016-refurbished interiors. An alpine lodge feel pervades throughout wood-paneled and beamed-ceiling lounges, and large windows in the restaurant and spa take in sensational snowy panoramas, while the Infinity Terrace offers the view, al fresco. Log fires are cozy in the bar, and piano-serenaded dinners are intimate -- probably why the largely romancing couples crowd here choose to stay on-site before retiring to chic rooms, where it's worth the upgrade for immersive views. Free train station pick-ups with the owners' electric vehicle are a warm gesture, and family-run efficiency here fits the Swiss hospitality mold.

Zermatt forms a basin in the shadow of the Matterhorn mountain range, and the hotel occupies a scenic spot here. Perched above the village, but easily reached via an underground tunnel with mountain elevator, the hotel is five minutes from central Zermatt and its train station. Zermatt is car-free, and the nearest possible parking spot is in Tasch, where travelers can continue onto Zermatt via electric taxi or train. A bus stop at the tunnel entrance takes travelers to the Matterhorn Paradise gondola in five minutes, which is around the same time it takes to reach the Sunnegga ski lift, on foot. Ski-rental stores and Zermatt ski school are within a 10-minute walk, as are many cafes and restaurants. The nearest Milan Malpesa, Geneva, or Lugano Airports take over three hours, via scenic mountain trains.

The 39 rooms in the main building continue with nine in the "Petit Chalet" annex. They're cozy from paneling in light or medium woods, cute sconces, white doilies on nightstands and coffee tables, and charcoal throws adorning white beds. Note that beds are twins pushed together, which is common for the region. Carpets and couch fabrics in patterned reds and golds are more traditional in Charme rooms, while Style categories have solid oak floors and beamed ceilings, smart leather fittings, and monochrome artwork. All rooms have floor-to-ceiling glass windows and doors that open onto furnished balconies. Amenities include phones, desks, satellite flat-screen TVs, and minibars, plus hairdryers, safes, and kettles alongside tea and coffee. Rooms aren't air-conditioned, however. It's worth the splurge for Matterhorn-facing views, although alternative forest or village vistas are still charming. The 2015-refurbished bathrooms have wood accents, shower/tub combos, and toiletries. Upgraded rooms have jetted tubs. Rooms can be fitted with cribs. Suites with Nespresso machines and DVD players have living rooms, and Family rooms are available. 

Hearty and free, buffet breakfasts get fantastic reviews. Scrambled eggs and bacon accompany rolls and pastries with homemade jams, cold meats and cheeses, Swiss muesli, and fresh fruits, plus sparkling wine. Tea, coffee, and juice care provided. Uncorked Restaurant's "Wine, Dine, View" logo sums the place up well. Overlooking stunning peaks and hillsides, candle-lit tables here are cozy amid wall-to-wall paneled woods, and inlaid wine displays are back-lit. Traditional Swiss and European a la carte and tasting menus can be paired with fine wine. The 80-plus wine collection can also be found at the bar, where an open fire is cozy. Lunches, snacks, and beverages are also served on the Infinity Terrace, where panoramic vistas are jaw-dropping. They're just as impressive from large windows at the spa, which has two whirlpools, a Finnish sauna, steam room, and relaxation area with red-cushioned loungers. On the downside, there are no pool, gym, or kid-centric facilities. Boot and ski storage are free, as are train-station transfers. Wi-Fi is free throughout.