In desperate need of some peace and quiet away from the usual pressures of everyday life I headed off to Switzerland for a short break in the Alps. I had pre-booked my accomodation at the Caprice having read several reviews from previous guests the bulk of which appeared very complimentary. I was not dissappointed.
The welcome that I recieved from Alex, his wife and their staff was warm and genuine. They instantly made me feel at home and nothing was too much bother for them. The location of the hotel is superb. Being far enough away from the main thoroughfares of Grindelwald unyet within easy walking of the nearby train & bus stations allowing for hassle-free transport connections. Meals are served in the first floor restaurant with the most incredible views of the Eiger as it dominates the near horizon and the wonderful alpine valley below.
As someone with a healthy appetite my stay at the Caprice was made all the more pleasurable by the fact that food options at both the buffet-breakfast and during the `set` evening meal were more than adequate.
A full breakfast buffet (continental style) was served each morning with the usual fine selection of fresh fruits, cereals, bread, boiled eggs, cheese and a platter of cold meats on offer. A miriad selection of herbal teas, fruit juice and fresh brewed coffee was also available and all served with courtesy and a friendly smile.
In the evening the hotel provides guests with the option of eating in the restaurant rather than `searching` for food in downtown Grindelwald. For ease I decided to accept this option and I am glad I did. A set 5 course dinner was served with a vegetarian option also available. Again a fine selection of wholesome food wonderfully prepared & presented. At the Caprice you will never go hungery.
As a single guest I was accomodated in one of the rooms on the ground floor of the hotel with amazing views across the valley to the Eiger. The patio door of my room opened right out onto the pretty little garden (south facing) where I was able to sit and enjoy the last rites of the late afternoon sunshine from the comfort of a selection of sun-loungers and deck chairs, all to the accompanyment of distant cow bells.
The room itself was more than adequate. A fully functional bathroom ensuite. A comfortable double bed with crisp white linen to compliment the fresh pine clad interior decor. Cleanliness at this hotel is most definately not an issue. My room was cleaned every day and upon arrival little touches such as a small selection of local chocolates on the pillow confirmed an `attention to detail` which from my experience would seem to be the mantra of Alex and his staff.
Other facilities at the Caprice includes a wonderful spa area with jaccuzi, steamroom and suana. Most welcoming after a long day traversing the many hiking trails in the valley. A cosy snug/bar area close to the main reception offered an opportunity to meet guests from across europe. Do try the Kirsche if you get the chance. A wonderfully smooth nitecap available from the bar. A sound nights sleep is gauranteed.
The next day Alex will assist you in planning your days events. he is very much a local and understands the weather patterns and knows many of the hiking,biking and climbing trails on offer to outdoor enthusiasts. But if you just want to kick back and enjoy the peace and tranquility of Grindelwald, Alex will also have some suggestions for you.
The Caprice is truely a little gem in an area literally teeming with various accomodation options. I am not prone to writing hotel reviews but have taken the trouble on this occasion because I honestly believe that the success of this Hotel is down to the hard work and personal service that each guest is afforded by Alex and the team. This is a family run hotel with a great tradition and which operates successfully in a very competitive market. It is plain to see why this hotel has proved so popular amongst its guests and I would have no qualms in recommending it to anybody wishing to get away from it all for a while. I am already planning a return....