Nestled in the charming Swiss village of Kandersteg, Seiler’s Vintage Hotel is a place where history, sophistication, and comfort meet in perfect harmony. Founded 75 years ago, the hotel has grown from humble beginnings into a sought-after 3-star superior establishment known for its warm family atmosphere, exquisite cuisine, and an exceptional wellness centre. The hotel’s owner and director, Nicolas Seiler, tells us more about this unique hotel and what makes it a standout place to stay, either on our Cross-Country Skiing in Kandersteg trip in the winter or on our Classic Swiss Alps Walk come summertime.
Seiler’s Vintage Hotel has been a cornerstone of the Kandersteg community for over seven decades, Nicolas explains. “The history of the Seiler Hotel dates back to 1948 when my grandparents founded the business. It was initially a garage with a small coach service, later evolving into a cosy motel inspired by the American-style motels of the time. The first hotel building opened back in 1962. Over the years, the property grew into what it is today – a smart, comfortable, and modern 3-star superior establishment, it’s been a wonderful journey.”
Something that many may not know is that the concept behind Seiler’s Vintage Hotel current look and atmosphere is tied to sustainability. “You could say we are a “recycle” hotel,” Nicolas says, highlighting the unique features of the hotel, such as the restaurant built from materials repurposed from three older hotels. One standout feature is the restaurant ceiling, made from hotel doors salvaged from a former grand hotel. “We wanted to create something that’s not just functional but also tells a story, blending the past with the present,” Nicolas said. This attention to detail and sustainability is seen throughout the hotel, including the 30 rooms, each of which is designed uniquely, offering guests a distinct experience with every stay.
What truly sets Seiler’s Vintage Hotel apart is its impeccable combination of comfort and tradition. The hotel is renowned as the most sought-after 3-star hotel in the region, a reputation it has earned due to its high standards and personal touch. Nicolas noted that in 2023, every room was fully renovated to reflect their timeless charm with modern comforts.
The hotel’s restaurant is widely regarded as one of the best in town, offering refined, regional cuisine that compliments the heart and soul of Kandersteg. Nicolas himself plays a hands-on role in the kitchen, serving as the head chef and ensuring that the menu showcases the finest local ingredients. “Our cuisine is sophisticated, and we source most of our products from the region,” he says. One of the restaurant’s signature dishes is the 20-herb soup, made from herbs grown in the hotel’s own garden. “This dish is not just about taste, but it also captures the essence of Kandersteg’s thriving landscape.”
The Seiler family’s reputation extends beyond just great food and service. Nicolas mentioned that over the years, the hotel has hosted many famous guests, including musicians such as Chris Christophersen and Rosanne Cash, Swiss politicians like former President Adolf Ogi, and Olympic athletes including Jan Boklöv and Dario Cologna. Despite their fame, these guests are drawn to Hotel Seiler not only for its luxury but also for its warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Each room in Seiler’s Vintage Hotel is designed with individuality in mind. “Every room is different in terms of space and furnishings,” says Nicolas. “We want each guest to feel as though they’re experiencing something unique.” Of course, the Seiler Suite stands out as the largest and most luxurious room in the hotel, offering the utmost comfort and space for those seeking that added level of indulgence.
Seiler’s Vintage Hotel wellness offerings are also a major draw for guests seeking relaxation after a day exploring the Swiss Alps. The Naturama SPA includes a swimming pool, steam bath, Finnish sauna, and a special 20-herb sauna. “Perhaps one of the most unique features of our wellness centre is our incredible UNESCO panorama relaxation room on our hotel’s roof. Here, guests can unwind after a day in the mountains and soak up the spectacular views.”
Throughout the year, the hotel hosts a variety of cultural events that only add to the charm of staying at Seiler’s Vintage Hotel. One popular event is the “unplugged sessions,” Nicolas explains. It’s a concert series held in the autumn, offering an intimate setting for local musicians to showcase their talents. There is also Kandersteg Small Art Days in March which celebrates the region’s rich culture, while Belle Epoque Week at the end of January transports the village back in time to the early 1900s, with its period costumes, decor, and themed events.
For nature lovers, Seiler’s Vintage Hotel is ideally located in one of Switzerland’s most breathtaking regions. “The world-famous Lake Oeschinen is just a short distance away, along with the Gemmi region, Gasterntal Valley and Allmenalp, all of which offer fantastic opportunities to explore on foot. Kandersteg boasts around 600 km of trails, making it a paradise for hiking, snowshoeing and even cross-country skiing come winter”, says Nicolas.
So, there you have it. Seiler’s Vintage Hotel is more than just a place to stay—it’s a family-run institution that has been offering guests an unforgettable experience for over seven decades. With its fascinating history, delicious cuisine and incredible personalised service, it is truly a special place to stay in the heart of the Swiss Alps, where you will want to return to again and again.
Find out more information about Cross-Country Skiing in Kandersteg trip or think ahead and book our Classic Swiss Alps Walk for a wonderful walking holiday next summer.
