Steeped in history and grandeur, the Steigenberger Icon Grandhotel Belvédère stands as a testament to European alpine hospitality. Opened in 1875, it has become synonymous with Davos itself, transforming from a simple 30-room establishment to a luxurious haven boasting 130 rooms, a spa, and acclaimed restaurants.
A beacon of a bygone era, the Belvédère embodies the golden age of grand European hotels. Its rich history is meticulously documented in a dedicated book, a fascinating chronicle of its remarkable survival. Through savvy ownership transitions, including the guidance of Steigenberger, the hotel has not only weathered the challenges faced by grand hotels but thrived.
Today, the Belvédère continues to be a sought-after destination. Winter sports enthusiasts flock to its doors during the colder months, while summer finds it echoing with the legacy of Davos as a haven for health-conscious travelers. The very name, Belvédère (Italian for "beautiful view"), evokes the stunning alpine panorama that captivated literary giants like Robert Louis Stevenson and Thomas Mann, who penned his renowned novel "Magic Mountain" here.
The hotel's timeline offers a glimpse into its evolution:
1874: J. Carl Coester lays the foundation for the Belvédère on a plot of land acquired in Davos.
1875: The hotel opens its doors with 30 rooms.
1891: The "Conversationshaus" annex expands the property's offerings.
1912-1913: A dedicated sport wing with additional rooms, a restaurant, and a hall is constructed.
1934: Under the leadership of Anton Morosani, the Belvédère becomes a haven for celebrities, attracting the biggest movie stars of the era.
1947: Industrialist Dr. Max Schmidheiny becomes a shareholder.
1962: The Hotel Schweizerhof (Morosani) acquires full ownership of the Belvédère.
1974: An indoor pool featuring a tropical mural by Heinz Blum is added.
1980: The Steigenberger company takes ownership of the Belvédère, ushering in a new chapter for the historic hotel.
