Arriving at the Kronenhof is like stepping back in time to a grand and charming old-fashioned hotel. The grand old lady of Pontresina, along with the Palace and Kulm Hotels in St. Moritz, helped pioneer the concept of grand Alpine hotels. But the Kronenhof has the distinction of being the very first.
From Humble Beginnings to Grand Establishment (1849-1877)
Its story starts in 1849, not with a grand establishment, but with a small boarding house with only three rooms. Andreas and his son Lorenz Gredig purchased this inn, then known as "Roessli," and transformed it into the "Gasthof zur Krone-Post."
Guest records, meticulously kept since those early days, offer a fascinating glimpse into the Kronenhof's history. We learn that in its first year, the inn welcomed 14 guests, primarily Germans with a sprinkling of other nationalities, and three intrepid English visitors. One of these English guests, a certain F. Hugh, even brought his canine companion, Flip, along for the adventure.
Lorenz Gredig renamed the inn "Gasthof zur Krone-Post" in 1851, marking the official opening year of the Kronenhof. Just five years later, in 1856, the iconic Hotel Kulm St. Moritz opened its doors, igniting a friendly rivalry between the two grand hotels that would come to define Alpine tourism.
By 1857, the "Gasthof zur Krone-Post" had shed its long name and adopted the simpler "Hotel Krone." The success of the hotel was undeniable, with guest numbers exceeding 600 by 1865. This growth necessitated expansion, and by 1870, the hotel boasted a capacity of 50 guestrooms, catering to a growing clientele seeking the beauty and fresh mountain air of the Engadin Valley.
The Kronenhof's Golden Age and Beyond (1878-Present)
The latter part of the 19th century saw the Kronenhof continue its impressive trajectory. The "Bellavista tract" was added in 1877, further increasing the hotel's footprint. By 1886, the guestroom count had risen to 154.
The surrounding area also witnessed significant developments during this period. 1894 saw the opening of Europe's highest golf course in Samedan, while 1897 marked the opening of the opulent Palace Hotel in St. Moritz. The early 20th century brought about advancements in transportation, with the completion of the Simplon Tunnel in 1905 and the arrival of the first railway in Samedan in 1906.
However, the idyllic growth was interrupted by the harsh realities of World War I. The war forced the closure of most Swiss seasonal hotels, with the Kronenhof guest books showing no entries between 1914 and December 15th, 1920.
The years that followed the war saw a gradual return to normalcy. 1923 marked the arrival of the first car on the streets of the Engadin, and 1928 brought the excitement of the Winter Olympics to Pontresina and St. Moritz.
World War II once again cast a shadow, with most of the Kronenhof closing its doors between 1939 and 1945. Only the original, smaller building remained operational, catering to a limited number of guests during this turbulent period.
The 1950s ushered in a new era of prosperity for the Kronenhof. The hotel boomed once again, even becoming a temporary home for King Faruk of Egypt.
Rita-Angela Gredig took the helm in 1974, managing the vast hotel and its staff of 140. This period also saw a brush with Hollywood glamour, with Sean Connery gracing the halls of the Kronenhof while filming "Five Days One Summer."
The ownership of the hotel changed hands in 1989 when it was sold to a Swiss group of financiers. In 2004, the AG Grandhotels Engadinerkulm acquired the Kronenhof, and in 2006, a new chapter began. Upholding the tradition of the house, the new management team was a couple – Heinz E. and Jenny Hunkeler. They embarked on the most significant renovation in the Kronenhof's history, investing 37 million Swiss francs to create 29 new rooms and a state-of-the-art spa spanning an impressive 1500 square meters.
The Grand Hotel Kronenhof stands today as a testament to the enduring power of hospitality. It's a place where history whispers from the walls, and modern luxury seamlessly blends with timeless charm. Here, guests can experience the grandeur of a bygone era while indulging in the comfort and amenities expected from a world-class hotel.
Beyond the Historical Significance
Beyond its rich history, the Kronenhof offers a wealth of experiences for its guests:
Unparalleled Location: Nestled in the heart of Pontresina, the hotel boasts breathtaking views of the Engadine Valley and surrounding peaks. Nature enthusiasts can explore the surrounding hiking and biking trails, or simply soak in the fresh mountain air from the hotel's balconies.
Award-Winning Spa: The Kronenhof Spa is renowned as one of the finest in the Alps. Guests can unwind in the indoor and outdoor pools, indulge in rejuvenating treatments, or simply relax in the serene atmosphere.
Culinary Delights: The hotel boasts several restaurants, each offering a distinct culinary experience. From traditional Swiss fare to gourmet creations, there's something to tantalize every palate.
Family-Friendly Activities: The Kronenhof caters to families with dedicated children's facilities and activities, ensuring a memorable experience for all ages.
Winter Wonderland: During winter, Pontresina transforms into a skier's paradise. The Kronenhof provides easy access to the slopes and offers ski rentals and storage facilities for guests' convenience.
The Grand Hotel Kronenhof is more than just a hotel; it's a destination in itself. Whether seeking a luxurious escape, a connection with history, or an adventure in the heart of the Swiss Alps, the Kronenhof offers an unforgettable experience.
