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The Hôtel Bella Tola nurtures both tradition and the good things in life. It’s the kind of place that is half-hidden in the recesses of our childhood memories. With its verandah, inspired by 19th century architectural styles, along with the traditional look of its slender arched windows, this building has been capturing the essence of elegance for over a hundred years now, whilst still exuding a lighter, more contemporary chic today. Steeped as it is in history, there’s a new, albeit respectful wind of change blowing through this mountain dwelling – one that adores antique furniture and the finest fabrics. It all goes to make a home, as much as a hotel, out of the Bella Tola – somewhere that’s just as special and cosy as a second abode. The 32 bedrooms, living and dining areas each boast their own unique décor, reminding visitors that time does not hold sway here. The ‘L’Eau des Cimes’ spa will more than satisfy your wish for rest and relaxation: There’s a large health and beauty centre with covered swimming pool, sauna, steam bath, ice fountain and massage rooms. The hotel won the ‘Hôtel historique de l’année’ (historic hotel of the year) award in 2001.
Day 1 ♦♦ Morning: Take the funicular railway for magnificent views over the ‘4000m’ (mountain summits over 4000m high), including the Matterhorn. Stroll along the ‘chemin des planètes’ (path of the planets) and explore the solar system through a series of original sculptures ♦ Lunch: at the hôtel Weisshorn, 2200 metres above sea level ♦ Afternoon: travel down through the woods to visit the watermills. ♦ Relax in the spa ♦ Evening meal: in the historical "Salon 1900" dining room.
Day 2 ♦♦ Morning: Excursion to the Moiry dam for amazing views of the Moiry glacier. Good walkers can hike as far as the cabane de Moiry mountain refuge (approx 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours) or else walk around the reservoir ♦ Lunch: For hikers, at the cabane de Moiry, looking out over the glacier, otherwise, in a traditional local restaurant in the old village of Grimentz ♦ Afternoon: tour of the extremely well-preserved village of Grimentz and back to the hotel. ♦ Relax in the spa ♦ Evening meal: enjoy a regional speciality at the "Le Tzambron" restaurant (fondue, raclette (cheese, cooked meats etc...).
If you should stay a little longer…
This is heaven for walkers, with more than 215 miles of marked paths in an unspoilt natural setting. You can also embark on the discovery of the local fauna and geology on a guided tour with your hosts...
Special themed holiday packages are available in the Summer, allowing you to explore the area through a series of guided walks (botanical walks, geological walks…).
The traditional national day celebrations take place on August 1st, with a big buffet in the garden. Third weekend in June: fête de l'inalpe (celebrating the transhumance, the moving of livestock to mountain pastures in the Summer).
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