The Montana Hotel’s brochure states “unique, surprising, different”. I would add warmth, elegance, and comfort to the list of distinguishing features of this lovely, one-hundred-and-seven year old building. As soon as you step through the doors, the atmosphere takes hold of you and you can’t help but feel good.

The light-flooded space of the restaurant, terrace and the famous Louis Bar allow for the bright sunshine in the morning to lift your spirits, or infuse you with the soft light of romance at night. The gently gurgling sound of the fountain greets you in the entrance hall, and the world’s shortest funicular whisks you right from the lobby to the lake promenade below. A delightful, leisurely walk under the chestnut-tree lined pedestrian avenue takes you along the glittering Lake Lucerne to the famous Chapel bridge downtown.

Built in 1910, the Montana has always been a hotel. It was current Managing Director Fritz Erni, however, who initiated a complete renovation to restore the six story building to the graceful art deco style. The guest rooms are as unique as they are beautiful. Do ask for a corner room, yet all rooms share a breathtaking view over lake, mountains and the city with its twinkling lights at night.  Many innovative culinary and changing specialty offerings and themes are run throughout the year including cooking courses in a brand new gleaming kitchen with 15 Gault Millau-point chef Johan Breedijk. The Montana has a reputation for being one of Europe’s best Jazz clubs. The Louis Bar is named for a good reason after the jazz legend Louis Armstrong, and the regular Thursday evening concerts are popular among guests and locals.

The Montana has a special atmosphere – relaxing, comforting and  inspiring all at once. A hotel you can enjoy spending time in. I wouldn’t be surprised to learn that some guests savour a leisurely two hour breakfast in the delightful morning room before heading out into the world. Like me, for example. It easily happens with such a delicious buffet, attentive service and gorgeous views all around!

Please let me know and leave a comment below. Thank you.