Elie Saab and Andreas Caminada Lead Culinary and Hospitality Revolution in Andermatt
Andermatt, Switzerland, is poised for incredible transformation as two high-profile projects promise to reshape the area's hospitality and culinary scene. The renowned fashion designer Elie Saab and celebrated chef Andreas Caminada are both making significant investments, signaling the beginning of new chapters for this charming alpine village.
Saab’s venture, the Post Hotel & Residences, marks his debut in the hotel industry. Set to open its doors in 2027, the project is being realized through collaboration with the Swiss architectural firm A++ Group. It aims to revamp the Hotel 3 Könige Und Post, a historic landmark dating back to 1788, and will see the introduction of 21 design hotel rooms and 19 luxury residences. The entire operation spans approximately 48,437 square feet and requires an investment of about 65 million euros. Paolo Colombo, cofounder and managing director of A++ Group, has stated the expected return from this venture could reach 140 million euros.
Elie Saab Jr., the fashion house's CEO, hailed this project as “an exciting next step for our brand as we expand” amid their successful track record of delivering over 20 branded real estate projects globally within the past five years, including locations from Dubai to São Paulo. The vision for the Andermatt hotel is to preserve its chalet-like charm from the 18th century, infused with modern luxury and spacious, well-lit interiors fashioned with natural woods and plush fabrications.
The hotel will not only provide luxury accommodations but will also offer guests various amenities including two restaurants, a wellness spa, indoor pool, and ski simulator, as well as additional features like a kids’ club and personal concierge services. “Through the restoration of this historic landmark, we are creating a destination combining Andermatt’s heritage with modern luxury,” Colombo explained, highlighting the dual appeal for both ownership and tourism.
Meanwhile, Swiss culinary luminary Andreas Caminada has unveiled his latest restaurant, Igniv, at Andermatt to cater to the burgeoning demand for gourmet experiences amid the resort's rapid development. The Igniv concept, which translates to “bird’s nest” in Romansch, emphasizes shared dining experiences. Caminada, known for his flagship restaurant Schloss Schauenstein, is venturing beyond familiar territories, as he described, “If I can lure travelers there, why not Andermatt?”
With Igniv’s grand opening scheduled for December 13, 2024, it aims to bring unique culinary flair to the area, which is becoming increasingly popular with food enthusiasts from Milan and beyond. The restaurant’s design incorporates local materials, aiming to reflect the alpine environment and creating cozy vibes for guests. Utilizing seasonal and locally sourced ingredients, Caminada plans to start his garden to grow fresh produce for the restaurant, emphasizing his commitment to sustainability.
“We want to create modern European cuisine, drawing influences from not only Switzerland but its neighboring countries,” Caminada said. This illuminates his ambition to evolve perceptions of Swiss cuisine, which he feels is often overlooked. His philosophy is clear: it’s not merely about culinary creativity, but about refreshing interpretations of local classics, predicated on high-quality ingredients from local producers.
Both of these developments not only promise to infuse Andermatt with luxury hospitality and fine dining but also to create job opportunities and stimulate local economic growth. The Post Hotel & Residences plan is particularly appealing for property investors seeking to capitalize on this burgeoning Alpine destination.
Looking forward, Saab Jr. prophesied additional projects like Andermatt on the horizon, including future locations such as the Maldives and Casablanca, indicating confidence in the luxury market's potential. On his side, Caminada's plans extend beyond Igniv, hinting at the possibility of establishing additional restaurant concepts across Switzerland.
A new wave of luxury accommodations and gourmet dining is set to put Andermatt on the map and attract discerning tourists and local residents alike. The marriage of art, design, and seasonal culinary excellence promises to offer visitors richly diverse experiences, setting Andermatt apart as a prime alpine destination.
With such ambitious endeavors, both Elie Saab and Andreas Caminada are bringing fresh energy to this picturesque village, preparing to draw more visitors and culinary enthusiasts who crave something unique and luxurious.