Marriott International has signed a deal with Mario Julen to open The Ritz-Carlton brand’s first European ski resort in the Swiss Alps.

Designed by AW², The Ritz-Carlton Zermatt promises to deliver elevated luxury in one of the world’s highest mountain ranges when it launches in 2026. We find out what details have been revealed so far.

A milestone agreement

On opening, this highly anticipated property is set to become The Ritz-Carlton’s second hotel in Switzerland, joining The Ritz-Carlton Hotel de la Paix, Geneva. The 69-key resort will combine the brand’s signature elegance and service with a privileged Alpine location.

“We are thrilled to announce this milestone signing with Mario Julen who has a fantastic vision for the project,” said Satya Anand, president of Marriott International Europe, Middle East and Africa. “Zermatt is synonymous with outstanding skiing, mountaineering and jaw-dropping scenery.

“As the epitome of modern luxury, this landmark development and stunning destination will enhance our portfolio of iconic Ritz-Carlton properties across the globe, offering guests an exciting opportunity to experience Zermatt’s year-round snowy peaks, world-class ski slopes, and the iconic Matterhorn mountain. Today’s signing reflects the heightened demand for our luxury hospitality brands across Europe, Middle East and Africa.”

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Swiss Alpine luxury

Paris-based design firm AW², led by partner architects Reda Amalou and Stéphanie Ledoux, has been tasked with designing the new property as a modern reinterpretation of the classic mountain chalet.

In a scenic setting offering unobstructed views of the Matterhorn, this property is slated to have two restaurants and two bars, as well as a private dining room and outdoor terrace for al fresco dining. Additional facilities here are likely to include a luxury spa, fitness centre, indoor and outdoor pools, and meeting and event facilities. The resort also plans to offer ski-in ski-out access to the slopes for added convenience.

As a destination, Zermatt caters for skiers of all levels and has easy access to Cervinia in Italy, which offers off-piste heli-skiing and glacier skiing in the summer months.

“This is an emotional project for me as I have worked passionately for many years to bring it to life,“ said Julen. “It is not only a declaration of love to my hometown of Zermatt, but also to the luxury hotel business and its ability to inspire travel. As the first major international brand in Zermatt, my wish is that this project will bring a new level of hospitality to the Swiss Alps.”

Travellers can reach Zermatt from Geneva and Zurich international airports via private helicopter or by train in under four hours.