Flurries of snow dancing on the crisp air. The smoky scent of chestnuts roasting over glowing embers. Fairy lights twinkling like stars against the inky sky. A hearty glass of red beside a crackling pub fire. Chilly fingertips brushing against cashmere gloves. Steaming mugs of gluhwein spiced with cloves and cinnamon. Glasses chinking, laughter, excitement. Handsome pines dressed to the nines in glittering trinkets and candy canes.
The hotel is beautiful and the rooms were spacious and really upscale. Bianca at the front desk checked us in. She was terrific. Gave us all the info and was very comprehensive with details. She found out it was my daughter’s birthday and she sent up tons of drinks for us to celebrate. What a nice gesture. Would definitely book again. They go out of their way to make everything perfect.
Only downside was no air conditioning. And of course the weekend we went, there was a heat wave. But we opened the windows and it cooled down at night.
10.0
AnonymousAU
This is a very beautiful old hotel, which has been lovingly restored to a very high standard. It offers great modern facilities and exceptional comfort. We stayed in an open plan studio apartment which allowed for self catering with high quality modern appliances. The location is especially convenient and central, and the tram from the airport stops right outside the door. I highly recommend it.
10.0
AnonymousGB
Last minute overnight stay. Room was fantastic. Location excellent. Staff were very friendly, especially Sam on reception. Would definitely recommend.
10.0
AnonymousGB
Everything about this place is perfect. The room was lovely. The staff are amazing, friendly and can't do enough for you. Is definately top of my list of places to stay in Edinburgh.
10.0
AnonymousUS
Would stay again. Staff was amazingly helpful, friendly and accommodating. The room was very comfortable and fully stocked. The location can’t be beat.
Everything they say about Christmas in Europe is true. There’s nothing quite like celebrating this most magical time of year in the deepest depths of winter, where the festive spirit burns brighter than anywhere in the world.
From dashing through the snow in Lapland to Germany’s Christmas markets, here are seven reasons why you simply must spend the big day in Europe at least once in your lifetime.
German Christmas Markets
Christmas market in Germany.
Even the most unfestive of folk will find it difficult to resist the whimsical allure of the traditional German Christmas markets, where the magic of the season instantly enchants all. Quaint wooden chalets house artisanal gifts and festive fare, from gingerbread hearts hanging on red ribbons to huge, doughy pretzels dusted in snow-like cinnamon sugar. Revel in the crisp chill of December temperatures that can dip below freezing, before being warmed by steaming cups of gluhwein (spiced wine) and Baileys-spiked hot chocolate – and, of course, the sheer magic of it all.
From Victorian-era arcades with their upmarket boutiques – such as the ‘jewel of Mayfair’, the Burlington Arcade, home to British fragrance house Penhaligon’s and N.Peal cashmere, whose store has stood proud for more than 80 years – to the well-heeled Harrods and artsy Liberty, it’s little wonder London’s shopping is renowned as some of the best in the world. There’s no better time to indulge than in December, when the twinkling Christmas lights of Regent Street dance overhead and the iconic red buses overflow with excited shoppers. Pause only for traditional afternoon tea at Fortnum & Mason or a glass of bubbling champagne under the tree at Claridge’s Hotel.
Does it get any more festive than a sleigh ride through the snow? The pièce de résistance of the festive season, the star atop the tree, the coin in the Christmas pudding, is a trip to Lapland: the spiritual centre of Christmas and Santa’s homeland, in Finland’s north.
Under the ethereal glow of the Northern Lights, rug up in a traditional wooden sleigh as you traverse the arctic landscape. There are as many reindeer here as there are people, which can be seen grazing majestically in the fells and padding through the freshly fallen snow. A Christmas fantasy come true.
The Irish welcome is warmer than any other in the world, so you can only imagine the levels of festive spirit that are reached at Dublin’s most famous pub at Christmastime. Guinness fuels the merriment in this 19th-century inn, where dancing patrons spill out onto the cobblestoned street in a raucous whirl of laughter. Treat yourself to a cosy candlelit dinner here of Irish oysters followed by roast chicken, honey-glazed ham, cranberry sauce and all the trimmings, before finishing with a warming nightcap from one of Ireland’s largest whiskey collections – the perfect prelude to a walk home in the crisp winter air.
Those looking to embrace the deeper meaning of a Christian Christmas will find what they’re looking for in the ancient Vatican City, home of the Roman Catholic Church. The Midnight Mass at St. Peter’s Basilica, held annually on Christmas Eve, delivers a true sense of occasion to this special time of year. Be greeted by the glittering tree soaring into the night sky and nativity scene in St. Peter’s Square before taking up your place to hear the Pope’s sermon (tickets are required for entry to the mass, or it can be watched on the big screens in the square).
Wir waren sehr begeistert. Wunderschönes Hotel, sehr gut ausgestattete Zimmer. Freundliches Personal. Für Italien ein sehr umfangreiches Frühstück. Tolle Rooftopbar. Luxuriöses Spa. Zentrale aber ruhige Lage!
10.0
AnonymousAU
We stayed for one night and managed to see all the main monuments, including the Colosseum. The location was just perfect for exploring the city. We didn’t use the spa as we had already enjoyed one at our previous hotel, but we absolutely loved the beautiful mural on the bedroom ceiling – it gave such an authentic Roman feel. Highly recommend for a short stay in Rome.
10.0
Julie S.29 escapes · 17 reviews
Good service. Old hotel but clean and tidy.
9.2
AnonymousES
View to die for unbelievable location hopefully will return one day,stayed for 4 nights .
9.2
AnonymousCA
We loved the location. It is close to all amenities.
Outside the city walls are the countless resplendent churches of Rome, dripping in gilt and dressed in frescoes of Renaissance greats such as Michelangelo. Lit by the soft glow of candlelight and harbouring a silence and stillness that is scarce in today’s frenetic world, these sacred spaces provide a place for reflection at an ever-poignant time of year.
Ice Skating in Paris, France
Paris in winter, France.
The City of Lights is a star in itself, but it never shines brighter than during the festive season, when fairy lights sparkle in the canals and the cold air invites lovers to snuggle ever closer as they traverse the city’s streets.
Embrace the romance of the season by ice skating at a festive rink, which in previous years have found their home at the foot of the glittering Eiffel Tower, at the Christmas market in the Jardin de Tuileries and on the sky-high rooftop of Tour Montparnasse. A particularly enchanting spot to get your skates on by night is the year-round Le Grand Palais des Glaces – one of the largest rinks in the world, sat beneath a soaring glass dome.
Nothing gets you in the festive mood quite like a little convivial après-ski after a day on the slopes. Where better to indulge than the alpine wonderland that is Switzerland? Its landscapes look like they’ve come straight from a Christmas card, with glittering mountaintops, wooden chalets, medieval buildings and mirror-like lakes, all sprinkled in a dusting of snow.
I had the most incredible stay here! From the second you drive up to the property it is exceptional. The architectural marvel of their driveway into the structure itself is magical. Then you experience the warmth of their staff and it reinforces why you booked it in the first place. They welcome you on the most amazing of patios and are instantly given a glass of champagne. The thermal bath experience is one of the most unique draws. I have never experienced something similar. And they insist with good reason to be without your phone which I appreciate. Can’t recommend an experience like this enough. Huge thanks to the staff Lukas, Angelo, Ermanno, Sydney and Preta.
10.0
Danh N.
I can say nothing but good things about this hotel, from the first encounter with the valet to the front desk to the distraction free rooms, everything you get here is of a very high standard, and you are made to feel that way. We were there for the Silver Sunday experience and it was truly an unforgettable experience, I would definitely recommend this. You are made to feel like you're the only one there and the production from the chef was truly divine. The Spa was another highlight with several pools of varying temperatures allowing you to move freely from one area to the next at your own leisure. This was a perfect getaway weekend for us taking us out of the day to day hustle to really relax in a very serene and stress free environment.
10.0
Natcha P.
• Excellent hospitality and service esp. reception and restaurant staffs.
• Cool and timeless architectural design.
• Spacious rooms with amazing scenery.
• Extraordinary floral styling that enchants the hotel’s vibe.
• Delicious breakfast.
• An unforgettable spa experience.
I’ve been to many 5 stars hotel but no place compares to 7132 ! It was exceed my expectation and higher my standard 😂
The flowers were the most impressive part. I couldn't stop looking at them! The florist has incredible taste.
I will definitely be back!🫶🏻
10.0
KEVIN
I traveled to Vals primarily to experience the 7132 Hotel, and over the course of a three-night stay in the main building, it proved to be the absolute epitome of "quiet luxury." The property seamlessly integrates with its natural surroundings. Watching the mountain landscape shift in the changing light directly from the room was deeply grounding, and having a private steam sauna and shower in the room added an exceptional level of personal comfort.
Mornings here begin beautifully with breakfast at the Silver restaurant. The atmosphere is hushed and private, the ingredients are incredibly fresh, and the staff's gentle demeanor sets a peaceful tone for the day. For daytime exploration, I highly recommend renting one of the hotel's e-bikes (85 CHF for the day). There are numerous scenic trails immediately accessible from the property, making it an exhilarating way to immerse yourself in the pristine Alpine environment.
The thermal baths, which are the centerpiece of the hotel, offer a truly distinct architectural experience. The design is unconventional—it feels enclosed, monolithic, and carries an almost brooding, subtly decadent, or sensory-heavy atmosphere. It is a striking departure from traditional spas, yet completely mesmerizing. The large, heated outdoor pool and the steam saunas are particular highlights. Management enforces a strict no-phone policy to maintain the tranquil environment, though photography is permitted during specific hours for a 100 CHF fee. Given that certain steam sauna areas are nude, this strict privacy measure is entirely justified and appreciated.
Because the restaurant is currently awaiting its own Google Maps listing, I must include my experience at 7132 Silver here. We dined there on Friday, our final evening, and it was the culinary peak of our trip. Under Head Chef Marcel Koolen, the 8-course tasting menu was a brilliant showcase of global inspiration. Having recently traveled to Busan, the chef incorporated Korean staples like kimchi and gochugaru into the European fine-dining structure with profound respect and creativity.
The plating was artistic, starting with a vibrant tomato salad. A standout dish paired tender monkfish with pork neck, finished with a crispy cracker topping and a crisp, pear-like garnish. The accompanying sauce—a tart, soy-and-chili blend—evoked the deep, comforting flavors of traditional Korean Galbi-jjim. Desserts were equally meticulous, particularly a strawberry and tomato creation served with smoked vanilla ice cream; the balance of sweet, savory, and smoky notes was unforgettable.
What truly elevates 7132 Silver, however, is the hospitality. The service is incredibly warm and human, devoid of the mechanical stiffness often found in two-Michelin-starred venues. Small details, like the hand-drawn menus and a beautiful tin of stroopwafels gifted at the end, reflect the chef's artistry and heritage. From the architecture to the dining, 7132 is a profound experience for any seasoned traveler.
Immerse yourself in the chills and thrills of winter sports in the famous St. Moritz, Gstaad or Verbier, or for somewhere a little more off the beaten track, the wide slopes of Dachberg near the charming village of Vals, close to the Italian border. By night, warm up beneath twinkling fairy lights with a hot chocolate in-hand. Now that’s the definition of hygge.
