Check-In: The Cambrian Adelboden

Situated in the high Bernese Alps, The Cambrian in Adelboden offers sweeping panoramic views of snow-peaked mountains and Engstligen Falls, the second-largest waterfall in Switzerland, all visible from the balcony of our room. This independently owned 4-star property combines alpine lifestyle with a Welsh twist. Owned by brothers Craig and Grant Maunder from Wales – ski enthusiasts with a deep passion for the mountains – the hotel carries their unique spirit and story.

Frequent visitors to Adelboden, the Maunder brothers were captivated by the historic Grand Hotel Regina, which had been rebuilt in the late 1980s in Belle Époque style. In 2008, their dream of owning it came true. Following a full renovation, it reopened in 2010 under the name The Cambrian – a tribute to their roots, as “Cambrian” is derived from the Latin name for Wales.

Their heritage is thoughtfully woven throughout the hotel, from the warm, nature-toned blankets inspired by Welsh landscapes to the sense of understated luxury that reflects Adelboden’s authentic charm – a quiet contrast to the glamourous allure of St. Moritz or Gstaad. The village itself holds a long-standing connection with the United Kingdom, as the first winter tourists to arrive in Adelboden came from the United Kingdom in 1898. Today, The Cambrian continues to honor and celebrate this enduring relationship between Switzerland and Britain.

Ambiance
Stepping into The Cambrian feels like entering a British gem nestled in the Swiss Alps. An international flair welcomes guests – with English spoken as frequently as German – creating an inclusive atmosphere for both locals and travelers. Natural wood, deep British greens and navy blues define the elegant yet down-to-earth interior. The staff radiates warmth and camaraderie, working as a close-knit team. Their casual chic uniforms reflect the hotel’s personality: approachable, stylish and sophisticated. It is a refreshing escape from city life – perfect for rejuvenation, romantic getaways or even dream weddings. The Cambrian blends contemporary design with natural, local materials for a unique alpine-luxury experience.

Location
Surrounded by the Alps, The Cambrian overlooks the stunning Engstligen Valley, offering guests breathtaking views of snow-covered peaks and cascading waterfalls. Here, luxury is defined by privacy, authenticity and a deep connection to nature. Adelboden is easily accessible – just under an hour from Bern, two hours from Zurich and two and a half from Geneva. Whether arriving by car or public transport, the journey is seamless, with a bus stop conveniently located right in front of the hotel.

Rooms
The hotel offers 72 individually designed rooms and suites, envisioned by Dutch designers Johan Bouman and Jeroen Wand. Each space features warm natural tones and refined Dutch craftsmanship, blending modern luxury with cozy alpine charm. Deluxe rooms include king-size beds, walk-in showers and private balconies, while the spacious suites offer separate living and sleeping areas for a true home-away-from-home experience. South-facing rooms boast breathtaking views of the Wildstrubel mountain range. Whether working at the desk or enjoying a cup of hot chocolate, guests can soak in the stunning scenery at any hour of the day.

Drinking and Dining
The Cambrian’s culinary heart lies in its signature restaurant, Bryn Williams at The Cambrian, where casual comfort meets refined sophistication – echoing the hotel’s welcoming ambiance. Chef Patron Bryn Williams brings a seasonal, sustainable approach, blending Welsh heritage with London flair. Since January, Irish-born chef Laura Magee has led the kitchen as Executive Chef, having risen from Chef de Partie to Sous Chef in 2024. With experience in Michelin-starred kitchens and a distinctive creative voice, she guides the restaurant into an exciting new chapter focused on fresh, locally sourced ingredients from the Bern region.

During our stay, we enjoyed a beautifully curated tasting menu: roasted celeriac with truffle and burrata; asparagus with ricotta, hazelnut and orange; miso-glazed eggplant with pickled cucumber; and a main of seared Appenzell duck breast with roasted leeks and pickled plum. Dessert was a decadent Swiss chocolate tart with salted caramel ice cream. Each dish was paired with wine or inventive mocktails, from a Cucumber Mojito to an Espresso Kiss.

Beyond the main restaurant, The Axe Bar & Grill offers a relaxed alternative, serving healthy grilled dishes and a selection of local beers and wines from lunch through late evening. Guests can also enjoy fondue on the outdoor deck, wrapped in Cambrian blankets as the sun sets behind the peaks, or experience a private forest barbecue – set deep in the Alps and infused with Indian flavors, showcasing Magee’s talent for blending global inspiration with local authenticity.

Pool & Spa
The Cambrian’s wellness experience is centered around its stunning outdoor infinity pool, which offers breathtaking views of the Alpine panorama and is visible from various corners of the property. Inside, the spa continues to impress with an indoor pool, Finnish sauna, steam bath, rain showers, tranquil relaxation areas and a fully equipped gym. A wide range of treatments is available, using luxurious products from Susanne Kaufmann – including a back-shoulder-neck massage, ideal for releasing tension and unwinding in this Alpine haven. Emphasizing a holistic approach to well-being, the hotel also offers yoga, candlelit meditation, pranayama, fasting programs and a resilience retreat designed to rejuvenate body, mind and soul. For those seeking inner balance and renewal, The Cambrian partners with Breathe and Be for breathwork sessions and Cold by KAA for revitalizing cold plunges.

Activities
Whether guests prefer unwinding in the spa or exploring the great outdoors, The Cambrian offers a wide range of experiences to reconnect with nature. In collaboration with the Alpine School Adelboden, the hotel organizes guided flower hikes. Adding depth to these excursions, local guide Jolanda Birrer shares insights into the region’s unique rules for picking wildflowers. Guests can also enjoy peaceful waterfall walks, yoga sessions on the mountain and breathtaking sunrise treks. With over 200 kilometers of hiking and biking trails, there is always something new to explore. Guests can even take a dip in the village’s outdoor pool, which features an Olympic-sized lane and stunning views of the Wildstrubel peaks.