Marriott International will debut its first Ritz-Carlton ski resort in Europe in 2026

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Marriott has signed an agreement with hotelier Mario Julen to launch its first Ritz-Carlton ski resort in Europe. Expected to arrive in Zermatt in 2026, the 69-guest room property will boast unobstructed views of Matterhorn from both guestrooms and restaurants. The Ritz-Carlton, Zermatt will be designed by award-winning Paris-based firm AW² led by partner architects Reda Amalou and Stéphanie Ledoux, with the architectural and interior design expected to offer a refined take on the classic mountain chalet. It will become the second Ritz-Carlton hotel in Switzerland, joining The Ritz-Carlton Hotel de la Paix in Geneva, which opened in 1865, as well as its fourth ski resort. The brand's existing ski properties include the Ritz-Carlton Lake Tahoe in California and the Ritz-Carlton Bachelor Gulch and the Ritz-Carlton Club Vail in Colorado.

Read More: World's Top Skiing Destination For An Unforgettable Experience

“This is an emotional project for me as I have worked passionately for many years to bring it to life. 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,” said hotelier Mario Julien.

On the culinary front, the Ritz-Carlton Zermatt will house two restaurants, two bars, an outdoor terrace for alfresco dining and a private dining room.

Recreational activities such as 'ski-in ski-out' access to the slopes, a tranquil spa with a gym and both indoor and outdoor swimming pools will round out the amenities.

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Famed Swiss resort destination Zermatt has year-round snowy peaks, world-class ski slopes, climbing across the Matterhorn peak as well as easy access to Cervinia in Italy for off-piste, heli-skiing and glacier skiing in the summer months. The town is well renowned for its après-ski activities.

Visitors can travel to Zermatt from Geneva and Zurich international airports in under four hours by train through enchanting Alpine scenery, or via private helicopter.

Marriott said the signing reflects the heightened demand for our luxury hospitality brands across Europe, Middle East and Africa.

The resort is also expected to offer meeting and event facilities.