Waldhotel Fletschhorn

If popular ski resort Saas-Fee buzzes with holidaymakers and sounds of après ski, you don’t have to travel far for escapism. The Relais & Chateaux Waldhotel Fletschhorn lies hidden in woodland overlooking the Michabel group of mountains. With wide corridors decorated with driftwood lamps and colourful rugs, it feels more cottage than hotel. It is certainly not easy to stumble across, and as long as not having amenities nearby doesn’t bother you, it’s a romantic spot to while away an evening or two. Most guests come to sample the gourmet cuisine: the restaurant has 18 Gault Millau points and is run by Markus Neff, who was named Gault Millau Chef of the Year 2007. Served in a wood-panelled room with gentle spotlighting and cosy corners, Neff’s imaginative menus are complemented by an award-winning wine cellar. Mercifully, the pace here is slow and breakfast is not served before 8am. Be sure to order a lusciously thick homemade hot chocolate and book a session in the private Jacuzzi.