a moving history
The Vitznauerhof is a historic hotel that plays a significant role in the development of tourism in Vitznau. Founded in 1896, the hotel has developed over the years into a popular destination for travellers from all over the world.
The location by Lake Vierwaldstättersee and the breathtaking view of the surrounding mountains make the Vitznauerhof a unique place.
A Place of Hospitality
From the very beginning, the Vitznauerhof was known for its warm hospitality. The first guests were primarily affluent travellers seeking the tranquility and beauty of nature.
Over the years, the hotel has been renovated and modernised several times to meet the growing demands of its guests.
A Part of Local Culture
The Vitznauerhof is not just a hotel, but also an important part of the local culture.
It has hosted numerous events and festivals that strengthen the sense of community in Vitznau. The connection to the region and the preservation of traditional values are particularly important to the hotel.
Today, the Vitznauerhof is a symbol of quality and tradition.
Origin of the Hotel
The plot of land on which the Hotel Vitznauerhof was later built had an interesting history as a shipyard. In this shipyard, significant paddle steamers, including the famous ships "Germania" and "Italia", were not only constructed but also ceremoniously launched.
These steamers played an important role in transportation on the lakes and contributed to the development of tourism in the region. The shipyard was thus a central place for maritime innovations and the history of water transport in Switzerland.
Planning of the Hotel
In 1896, the renowned hotelier family Franz Michel acquired the plots both in front of and behind the picturesque stream. This strategic decision marked the beginning of an ambitious project that included the planning and construction of a hotel. The Michel family, known for their hospitality and commitment to quality, aimed to create not only a place of relaxation with this hotel but also a meeting point for travellers and locals that highlighted the beauty of the surrounding nature.
Vitznauerhof as a First Class Hotel
In May, the Vitznauerhof lakeside hotel opens as a First Class Hotel. It is built in the Art Nouveau style according to the plans of the Mannheim architect Kühn. The hotel offers all the luxury that was expected from a First Class Hotel at the time: connection to the Swiss telephone network, electric lighting, low-pressure steam heating, and a beautiful park and garden area.
The Importance of Vitznau as a Health Resort – Excerpt from a Brochure
Hôtel und Pension Vitznauerhof occupies, thanks to its favorable location, the foremost position among all these advantages. The nights here are usually very mild, so that even sensitive spa guests can remain outdoors and keep the windows of their sitting rooms open without any ill effects. In springtime, this particular spot enjoys a pleasant warmth that allows people to spend time outside, while during any hot weather in midsummer, the shady forest park beside the house provides refreshing coolness.
Excerpt from a Brochure
Vitznauerhof is surrounded by beautiful ornamental gardens; adjoining them to the east stretches the romantic forest park, with its impressive population of magnificent old trees and remarkable southern vegetation. A lively mountain stream flows through its shady groves. In the height of summer, these provide an exceptionally pleasant place to stay. Well-maintained paths crisscross the forest in every direction. It also contains a large playing field for lawn tennis and croquet, as well as a gymnastics ground.
A stay at the Vitznauerhof will surely satisfy every guest completely, and the house will remain among their fondest memories.
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Postcard from 30.04.1908
Excerpt from "Die Hotels der Schweiz"
Excerpt from "Die Hotels der Schweiz"
Hotel Rates
Valid from April 1910 to 1911
“100 beds. — Located directly beside the steamboat landing and the Rigi Railway station, right on the lakeshore.
Billiard room, café-restaurant, verandas, terrace, lift, electric lighting, telephone, baths, lake bathing facilities, central heating.
Park, lawn tennis, rowing and motor boats.
Owner: F. Michel-Amberger & Ce.
| Open: March to October |
During the entire season |
| Room with 1 Bed | from 3.- upwards |
| Room with 2 Beds | from 6.- upwards |
| Service included; lighting | 2.- per week |
| Full breakfast | 1.50 |
| Midday table d’hôte lunch | 3.50 |
| T. d'h. Dîner | 4.50 |
| Evening-T. d'hôte | 3.50 |
| Board and lodging with room (for a stay of at least 5 days) |
from 8.- upwards |
| Children up to 7 years receive a reduction | |
| Servants | Fr. 5 without room |
The Bon Family Takes Over the Hotel
The hotelier family Bon takes over the hotel. During renovation work, the decayed tower must be removed. This marks the beginning of an era in which international guests of high standing come to Vitznau. The Seehotel Vitznauerhof hosted many famous guests such as Hermann Hesse, Richard Strauss, General Henri Guisan, and Paul Klee, as well as Princess Gina of Liechtenstein, who temporarily claimed an entire floor for herself.
large-scale electric stove
In 1926, the first large-scale electric stove in Switzerland was introduced at the Vitznauerhof.
Robert Keller buys the Vitznauerhof
Robert Keller, who had spent most of his professional career in the hotels of the Bon family, buys the Vitznauerhof, where he has been director since 1919. The Keller family sees the hotel through three generations.
The spirit of the 1950s, the discovery of new materials such as linoleum and Pavatex, as well as economic fluctuations, cause many of the beautiful signs of Art Nouveau to be lost.
General Guisan
Henri Guisan was repeatedly a guest at the Vitznauerhof between 1941 and 1945. The hotel’s director at the time greatly admired him, but also wrote letters of complaint to him regarding the blasting work carried out for the construction of the Mühlefluh fortress, as the explosions disturbed the hotel guests.
Walter Obrist left the Vitznauerhof and later went on to invent Aromat.
In 1945, Walter Obrist left his position as head chef at the Vitznauerhof to become an experimental chef for Knorr. In 1953, he invented what became known as “the yellow gold of Switzerland.”
Princess Gina of Liechtenstein
Princess Gina of Liechtenstein was among the distinguished guests of the Vitznauerhof. At times, she reserved an entire floor for her personal use.
Postcard from 13.07.1956
Postcard from 23.12.1959
Irene Keller takes over the Vitznauerhof
Renovations
In 1986, the Vitznauerhof was renovated.
Refugium Vitznauerhof AG takes over the Seehotel
In November, Refugium Vitznauerhof AG takes over the Seehotel. It aims to revive what has been lost. The renovation begins again, and the tower will be reinstated.
Reopening
The hotel is delighted to celebrate the reopening of its doors following a comprehensive renovation. Guests can look forward to modernised rooms, new amenities, and a fresh dining concept.
To mark the occasion, special opening offers and events will be available to celebrate the return and welcome guests.
Arabella Sheraton Group takes over the hotel
The Arabella Sheraton Group has successfully completed the takeover of the hotel. This strategic decision is expected to lead to an improvement in service quality and guest experience. The group plans to carry out various renovation and modernisation measures to make the stay even more enjoyable for guests. Additionally, the takeover is expected to create new jobs in the region and strengthen the local economy.
Flood Disaster
In August 2005, the region experienced a devastating flood disaster that largely destroyed not only the house but also the adjacent park. The deluge, caused by persistent rain and overflowing rivers, led to significant damage to the infrastructure. As a result, the hotel was forced to temporarily close its doors to carry out the necessary repairs and renovations. The impact of this natural disaster was felt throughout the community, as many residents were also affected.
Pensionskasse Pro in Schwyz takes over the hotel
In December, the hotel will be handed over to Pensionskasse Pro in Schwyz. In this context, there are plans to extensively convert the hotel into a Vital Resort. This conversion will not only modernise the facilities but also integrate various wellness and health offerings to provide guests with a holistic experience for body and mind.
Renovation
In 2009, during the renovation and extension of the building, particular attention was paid to preserving the historical fabric. This included not only the careful restoration of the original elements but also the integration of modern amenities without compromising the characteristic features of the old structure. Historical windows, doors, and other architectural details were restored to maintain the charm and history of the building, while new materials and techniques were used to enhance functionality and energy efficiency.
Reopening as Vital Resort
In May 2010, the Hotel Vitznauerhof Vital Resort was opened, which integrates a special medical department. This department offers a variety of health and wellness services aimed at promoting the well-being of guests.
Financial Problems
In August, the hotel goes bankrupt, the director leaves the premises immediately. He is replaced by a delegate of the ownership, the Vitalresort project is halted.
4-Star Superior Hotel with Summer Operations
The Vitznauerhof, a renowned 4-Star Superior Hotel, continues to operate with a comprehensive summer service. In summer, visitors can explore the beautiful surroundings through hiking or boat trips, while the hotel itself offers an excellent restaurant and wellness services. The combination of luxurious comfort and breathtaking nature makes the Vitznauerhof an ideal destination for both relaxation seekers and adventure enthusiasts.
The Best 4-Star Holiday Hotel in Switzerland
In the 2020/21 edition of the Karl Wild hotel ratings, the Vitznauerhof was awarded for the first time as the best 4-star holiday hotel in Switzerland. Since then, the Vitznauerhof has maintained a top position.
13 GaultMillau points for the Restaurant Inspiration and our panoramic terrace.
The Restaurant Inspiration and our panoramic terrace have been awarded 13 GaultMillau points since 2021.
Raphael Herzog is named Hotelier of the Year.
Raphael Herzog, who has been managing the Vitznauerhof since 2018, was named Hotelier of the Year in 2023. The experienced hotelier impresses with his passion for hospitality, innovative design, and the successful further development of the hotel’s existing concept.
Michelin Key
Since 2024, the Guide Michelin has been awarding hotel distinctions. Since then, we have been honored with a Michelin Key.
Halle Berry and Roger Federer visited the Vitznauerhof
For the international autumn campaign “Beautiful Autumn” by Switzerland Tourism, the Vitznauerhof was used as a filming location.
