Set near Zurich's Uetliberg Mountain, Atlantis by Giardino is a seriously stylish five-star hotel that offers an impressive list of top-class facilities – and best of all, these facilities are fully open to all, not just guests. In fact, the hotel actively encourages others to visit and take advantage of its excellent Dipiù Spa and its two renowned restaurants, Ecco Zürich (which boasts two Michelin stars and 18 Gault-Millau points) and Hide & Seek, which focuses on creative, experimental, modern cooking.
Rooms at Atlantis by Giardino are elegant, colourful and cosy, with subtle references to ’70s design. All rooms are air-conditioned and include a flat-screen TV, free Wi-Fi, free access to the spa and gym, and free use of the hotel’s bikes if you want to explore the area. All rooms feature a balcony with view of either the surrounding mountain scenery or the hotel garden. There’s also a summer terrace and outdoor pool for warmer months.
Whether you’re a guest or not, the Dipiù Spa is definitely worth a visit. There’s an extensive treatment list with a huge range of massages, facials, Ayurvedic therapies and treatments designed for men, as well as a sauna, steam bath, Jacuzzi and fully-equipped gym.
If you still need convincing of the hotel’s merits, consider the fact that former guests have included the likes of ABBA, Muhammad Ali, Shirley MacLaine and Freddie Mercury, who gave an impromptu performance on the piano of one of the bars. Once you pay it a visit, either as a guest or just for an indulgent daytrip, you’ll soon see why.