Alpine rise: A chronicle of Andermatt's transformation into a noteworthy ski resort, drawing international attention since Bond's presence
In the heart of Switzerland, the quaint town of Andermatt is undergoing a transformation, attracting international attention and investment. This change began with the purchase of a large parcel of land by Egyptian businessman Samih Sawiris in 2005, and has continued with strategic partnerships such as the recent acquisition by Vail Resorts Inc.
The resort, once known for its rustic charm, now offers a blend of alpine allure and modern luxury. The Chedi Andermatt, designed by renowned architect Jean-Michel Gathy, opened its doors in December 2013. This luxury hotel, with its 161⁄2ft-tall tower of local cheeses in the breakfast room and a Michelin-starred Japanese restaurant offering lunch at £135, has set a new standard for Andermatt's hospitality.
Just across the railway tracks, 650 apartments are being constructed in the Andermatt Reuss village. The average price per square meter for apartments in this area has risen by 11%, reflecting an increase to £17,120, as reported in 2022. This growth has been mirrored in the town's population, which has soared more than 30% since the opening of The Chedi.
The Radisson Blu Hotel Reussen, a four-star hotel, joined the scene in 2018, adding to the variety of accommodations available in Andermatt. However, the closure of the popular apres ski venue, The Cotton Club, due to a financial dispute with Mr Sawiris, has left a gap in the town's nightlife scene.
Vail Resorts has pledged to invest £135 million into Andermatt's slopes and infrastructure, a commitment that has been well received by the local community. This investment, coupled with the introduction of smart lifts, aims to enhance the resort's appeal as a year-round destination for skiing, hiking, mountain biking, golf, and cultural events like the HeartBeats art trail and neighborhood festivals.
The Epic Pass, offered by Vail Resorts, allows holders to ski or snowboard for the full season across the world, drawing many visitors from over the Atlantic to Andermatt. This influx of international tourists has led to a rise in demand and confidence in Andermatt’s real estate market, with applications for over 1,260 flats amounting to sales and deposits around CHF 14.2 million in 2025.
Local business owners, such as Marcel Wenger of Restaurant Adler and Sacha Ercolani of Fondue-Burg in Hospental, see Andermatt as a boutique destination that's growing with a great spirit of optimism and sustainable growth. The resort, with its combination of luxury hospitality, cultural events, and international investment interest, is indeed marking itself as a vibrant Alpine resort destination with ongoing expansion and increasing appeal to global buyers.
References: [1] SwissInfo.ch. (2022). Andermatt's real estate market booming. Retrieved from https://www.swissinfo.ch/eng/andermatt-s-real-estate-market-booming/47131246
[2] Andermatt Swiss Alps. (n.d.). Activities. Retrieved from https://www.andermatt-swissalps.ch/en/activities
[3] The Chedi Andermatt. (n.d.). The Restaurant. Retrieved from https://www.thechedi.com/en/dining/the-restaurant
[4] SwissInfo.ch. (2022). Andermatt real estate attracts foreign investors. Retrieved from https://www.swissinfo.ch/eng/andermatt-real-estate-attracts-foreign-investors/47131248
- The growth in Andermatt's real estate market, as reflected by a 10% increase in average apartment prices, suggests that the town's lifestyle transformation is not confined to its hotels and slopes, but extends to home-and-garden development as well.
- Beyond skiing and hiking, the expanded cultural offerings and the introduction of smart lifestyles in Andermatt, such as mountain biking, golf, and art trails, are attracting international travelers who seek more than just winter sports experiences.
