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Overlook Lodge
The next generation of rooms with a view
Riedweg 64. Remember this address. This is where the Cervo inaugurated its new apartments last December, just down the road from its six-chalet boutique resort. Scandinavian design, retro vibes and, of course, a panoramic view of the Matterhorn are the order of the day.
The Cervo is the most upmarket Design Hotels address in Zermatt, run by dynamic duo and former spouses Daniel and Seraina Lauber. With the success of their modern Alpine 5-star chalet boutique hotel firmly under their belt, the two partners decided to branch out. Not in the same place, to preserve the privacy of their guests, but a short distance away, 300 metres down the hill on the gentle winding road that leads into the centre of the resort.
Perched on the slopes of the Mattertal valley, the outward design of Overlook Lodge is minimalistic, featuring rows of sliding glass panels. The view is paramount here. All five apartments, from the studio to the penthouse suite tucked away on the top floor (ranging in size from 51 to 152 m2), offer a stunning view that takes in the rooftops of Zermatt, the church spire, and the inevitable Matterhorn. It can be admired from an understated balcony or an individual loggia built into the façade, framing the postcard view to perfection.
Inside, it’s all large open spaces in subtle shades of pearl grey, taupe and light wood. The open-plan kitchen and living area - including a modern fireplace for the two largest apartments - is a harmonious sight. The Laubers have used Scandinavian influences punctuated with quirky retro items, with a 70s-style blue rotary dial telephone here and old school coat hooks there. There’s a portable Marshall speaker in the bedroom that looks like a 1950s’ radio, but is Bluetooth-enabled; modern tech with a vintage veneer. Features are high-end, the (Hästens) beds plush, the finish impeccable. But that’s not all. Skiers have their own heated boot room and get to use the spa at the Bellavista hotel next door, comprising sauna, steam room, and panoramic Jacuzzi. While the concept of these lodges hinges on the freedom of self-catering - which is great for families - a concierge is also on hand if you can’t quite muster up the effort. Whether you could do with a massage or fancy a chef coming in to cook for you, nothing could be easier. So there’s really no need to trek up to the Cervo, unless you want to treat your taste buds at the Puro restaurant (14/20 in the Gault&Millau), enjoy a good old fondue at Ferdinand’s, partake in some après ski in the hotel lounge, or start the weekend off with a tipple of upmarket wines and gins at the newly-opened Grapes & Juniper Bar. We certainly wouldn’t blame you!
There’s plenty of time tomorrow to hit the slopes.
