Märchenhotel Braunwald Review: A Fairytale Family Hotel in Switzerland

By LOLO STUBBS

When we arrived at the Märchenhotel, it honestly felt like we’d stepped into a painting — the kind you’d expect to see in Mary Poppins, where a fairytale suddenly becomes real. Cheesy as it sounds, this place is a little slice of heaven on earth… and that was before we’d even checked in.

The journey up the mountain on the cable car sets the tone straight away. You’re climbing into the clouds, the views getting more and more breathtaking with every minute, until you arrive to crisp air, snowy peaks, and a hotel that looks like it’s been lifted from a storybook. Even in reception, there are rabbits hopping around their own little castle — that instant, unmistakable “this is going to be special for families” feeling.

We were welcomed so warmly by the team, including a personal hello from one of the hotel owners, and within minutes, we felt completely at home. As we were shown around, it became clear that this is a hotel designed by parents, for parents travelling with children. They’ve thought of everything — slides instead of stairs for little ones to whizz down, an aquarium, and sensory lifts that light up and feel like part of the adventure.

Then we were taken to our room: the Infinity Suite. Spacious, beautifully laid out, and genuinely exciting. It had its own living room, plus a storytelling projector where you can change the story simply by switching the soft toy on the sensor (a detail our kids were obsessed with). There were games waiting in the bedroom, and the views from the windows were the kind that make you stop mid-sentence. And just when we thought we’d seen it all, the children were shown one of the games — and Archer, in true curious-kid fashion, managed to press the correct combination without even realising. A secret door unlocked.

Behind it was an extra bedroom… and a super slide that sent them straight back down to the ground floor of this incredible two-level suite. The squeals of excitement were instant.

Still, the biggest “wow” moment was yet to come. The curtains were pulled back to reveal the doors onto our balcony — and it genuinely took our breath away. Not only were we blessed with the most spectacular mountain views, but we also had our own sauna and hot tub, perfectly placed so you can soak it all in (literally) in the most restful way.

Of course, in typical BROOD style, our holiday didn’t begin without a little drama. Archer was travel sick and filled several sick bags on landing. Then, after an early flight, the tiredness hit hard — and with Hartley, who has ASD, being out of his routine and environment, we had to abandon the idea of a family dinner on our first night.

Instead, Rob and I tag-teamed our way through the evening, taking turns between the delicious five-course dinner and running back up to the room. The hotel couldn’t have been more understanding. They offered us a private dining room for the following night if Hartley didn’t settle, and the kindness of the staff made a huge difference when we were already running on empty. Thankfully, after a good night’s sleep, Hartley was back to his happy little self and the six of us were ready to explore properly.

Breakfast was a joy, with thoughtful touches that every child could get excited about. There was a life-size colourful cow to “milk” your drink from, and a pancake-making station that made mornings feel like part of the holiday, not just the bit before the day starts.

We wrapped up warm for a little stroll outside (including a snowball fight, naturally), then headed to the pool — and spent two fun-filled hours moving between the indoor pool, packed with slides and kid-friendly fun, and the breathtaking infinity pool. I could have floated there staring at the view all day… but it wasn’t long before I got a splash in the face or heard, “Mum, watch me do this!”

Dinner for the remainder of our stay was much more successful. We enjoyed the wine tasting before dinner, while the kids had options of story time or soft play. Story time was in German (which the children weren’t too keen on), but the soft play was perfectly positioned right next to the dining room — and even better, the wine tasting was hosted in the same area. It meant we could relax, enjoy, and still keep an eye on them.

And honestly, the age gap with our older ones is coming in handy now, being able to send them into the depths of soft play with the younger ones while we grab a minute is a parenting win we’ll take.

The hotel is primarily German-speaking, so I’d definitely recommend setting yourself some Duolingo targets before you go — although plenty of the wonderful staff spoke English brilliantly.

If you’re looking for a relaxing, slow-paced holiday with the most incredible views, fresh mountain air, great wine, and plenty to keep the kids occupied, look no further than this enchanting family-run hotel. It’s around two hours by train from Zurich Airport, but it’s absolutely worth the journey to experience this magical mountain wonderland.

www.maerchenhotel.ch/en
Insta: @maerchenhotel_braunwald

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