Where are we?
What does it feel like when you travel to Adelboden for the first time? Well, one thing you notice for sure is the picture-perfect journey leading to this mountain village. You usually pass the stunning Lake Thun and the charming village of Frutigen, known for its traditional and pretty house facades. While the neighboring valleys – like Gstaad or Wengen/Mürren with the iconic Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau peaks – might be more famous, Adelboden has a charm of its own. Perched at 1,350 meters above sea level, it’s all about outdoor adventure here. The village feels natural, spacious, and full of light – ideal for soaking up the mountain vibes.
The Story
The story of The Brecon is closely tied to its two owners, Grant and Craig Maunder.
Back in the 80s, the Welsh brothers spent their ski holidays in this small village of 3,500 people. Even then, they felt something was missing – a hotel with a fresh, modern vibe. Not just a place focused only on rösti and ski lockers. In 2009, they opened The Cambrian in Adelboden, a design hotel with an outdoor pool that already gave a glimpse of what they had in mind.
But The Brecon takes things to the next level. It’s more like a bohemian club house than a typical mountain hotel. With art, design, listening nights, and a relaxed, friendly atmosphere.
And once you’ve checked in, you don’t have to worry about a thing – especially not whether to have that extra drink after the sauna. The all-inclusive concept has you covered, including champagne or gin & tonics après le dinner.
To be honest, we were a bit skeptical at first – so much design hype and glowing press from ELLE to Vogue. We wondered if it was all just style over substance. But after spending two days at The Brecon with Grant (a very likeable, well-dressed Welsh gentleman with a touch of old-school charm), we have to admit: They’ve really nailed it.
The rooms are incredibly cozy – huge credit to the design team at Studio Nicemakers – and the atmosphere is as elegant as you wish. Especially in the evenings, the lounge is the place to be. Sitting on Jean Gillon chairs, surrounded by a beautifully curated library and stunning artwork selected by the Bisou Gallery, it’s easy to strike up conversations with other guests over drinks. It’s the kind of place where you just feel right at home.
The rooms
The Brecon has just 22 rooms, all as mentioned – extremely cozy and well-equipped. Amenities include a high-quality coffee machine, a minibar (included of course), bathrooms stocked with Aesop products, and plush bathrobes for the small wellness area. The highlight is the rooftop suite, where you can enjoy the best view of the stunning Bernese Oberland mountain landscape.
Kitchen
In the evenings, guests at The Brecon gather in the lounge for drinks. Later, you can chat with the young kitchen team to discuss the menu – designed with a focus on light, balanced dishes. During our stay, we enjoyed several courses, including fresh figs paired with creamy ricotta, served on a bed of crisp salad and topped with a delicate vinaigrette. There was also a starter, dessert, and excellent wine. Absolutely top-notch!
By the way, after a day on the slopes, high tea with a selection of cakes awaits to satisfy any post-ski cravings.
Wellness
On the first floor, tucked off to the side, you’ll find a small but well-designed spa area. It includes a relaxation room, changing cabins, a sauna with breathtaking mountain views, a steam bath, and a heated outdoor pool kept at a cozy 34 degrees. A range of treatments is also available, from foot reflexology to aromatherapy – everything you need to fully unwind can be booked here.
Kids
No kids.
The region
In winter, Adelboden is a skier’s paradise – uncrowded and offering 85 kilometers of slopes with something for every skill level. In summer, it transforms into a top destination for hiking and mountaineering. The team at The Brecon can even arrange guides to help you conquer peaks over 3,000 meters high. Scattered throughout the region are numerous mountain huts, perfect for a break with breathtaking views. Simply spectacular!
Price
Doubles from 350 euros per person, all inclusive.
Booking & Contacts
The Brecon
Dorfstrasse 88
3715 Adelboden
Switzerland
