When we told friends that we were staying a the Widder in Zürich there was a general "oh how fantastic" sort of reply! We too thought we were going to stay in a special place and looked forward to it. We had arrived in Zürich after a 10 hour flight from Colombo; it was December 31st raining and cold. The reception staff were friendly and efficient with our check in formalities. The receptionist took our key and led us to our room but we had to lug our own luggage ( two big suitcases, and hand luggage)! She did not apologize for the porter being sick or having dinner but behaved as though it was perfectly normal for guests to carry their own luggage at the Widder. Coming from Asia where porter service is the norm we were rather taken aback especially as the Widder is a leading hotel of the world.

The room was large and airy but quite a design horror with a clutter of furniture, TV ( two), various lighting fittings and a stereo. Of course a statement is based on personal taste and reading other reviews, realize that I am in the minority. It is very difficult to blend the old with the new and at least in the room we stayed it was a total flop. It gave the impression that there were more than one interior designer and all with a different brief! I am sorry I don't remember the name of the room but it was on the 3rd floor and after stepping out of the lift had to climb another 5-6 steps before getting there ( lugging baggage ...)

We went for breakfast at 8 am but found only half the buffet available. The person in charge told us that they did not expect people to be up so early on 1st January after partying till late! He did apologize and said that the complete buffet is planned for 10am. But offered to make eggs, or pancakes etc if we wished. But we decided to go with the buffet as it was, which was more than enough although not special.

We walked out of the front door at about 8.45 am on 1st January, with a nod from the receptionist. No body wishing us a happy new year nor good day!! We were probably the only people in Zürich who did not party!

I stayed three times at the Widder in 2011. Over and over again a fantastic experience. I specially want to mention the great staff at the check-in/check-out and the concierge that go beyond the normal to ensure the guest feels well.

What would make it perfect (for me) is a better gym (hotel gym is very small) or an cooperation with a commercial gym nearby.

We treated ourselves to two days luxury in Zurich after our flight from South Africa, before heading to the Swiss alps. The Widder combines historic Zurich with modern comfort, efficiency, luxury and convenience. Add Swiss courtesy and service levels to perfect a stay. Little touches like hot, herbal tea and lebkuchen in reception when you come in from the snow, personalised business cards "My Address in Zurich", and a handwritten welcome note from the General Manager in our room, are part of what make the Widder slogan "Welcome at home in Zurich" a reality. Switzerland is an expensive country because of the strength of the Swiss Franc but, if you are going to do a holiday there, then you may as well go the whole hog and make your time in Zurich really comfortable and luxurious.

Loved every minute we stayed there!!! Even down to their gorgeous cookies and bread rolls with "W" on them!!!