Hitting the hay in the Swiss Alps gets a wellness remake at The Capra Hotel.
WRITTEN BY: ANETTA NOWOSIELSKA
The instructions I received upon arrival at The Peak Health Retreat at The Capra Hotel seemed simple: meditate more, drink less alcohol but more water, and commit to a gadget-free room. Let’s not forget the essential lights-out at I0:30 PM. These principles, outlined for me at a sleep retreat in Saas Fee, a picturesque Swiss village perched on a high plateau, seem obvious. Yet, simple as they are, they’re infinitely harder to follow. Years of inadequate sleep had turned me into a morning grouch and an insomniac owl by night. Frequent time-zone hopping, late-night Netflix binges, and work commitments that seem indifferent to the notion of appropriate hours–compelled me to seek guidance from experts. I finally resolved to submit myself to every conceivable remedy in hopes of reclaiming a semblance of restful slumber.
That decision led me to the Saas Valley, famous for its 300 days of sunshine and snow conditions that attract elite mountaineers and those in search of a quieter adventure. The five-star Capra Hotel is tucked away in the village’s center, offering a perfect antidote to the chaos of modern life. It promises to rejuvenate body and soul, and I quickly discover that the generously sized suites embody sleep perfection that soothes into one of many naps I’ll be taking during my stay. Expansive windows frame snow-dusted peaks, while the interiors merge alpine tradition with modern sophistication. Warm wood, natural stone, and airy spaces invite relaxation. Whether by the fire after a day on the slopes or soaking in the mountain air from your balcony, every detail feels designed for rest.
The retreat encourages participants to engage in invigorating activities, and with 350 km of hiking trails, Saas Fee has plenty to offer. The standout hike is Allain, which begins at the world’s highest metro station, sitting at 4027 meters above sea level. It leads to Restaurant Mittelallalin, one of the highest revolving restaurants in the world, offering jaw-dropping views and a raclette to dream of. For those seeking a more restorative experience, personalized fitness sessions, mindful meditation, and yoga are part of the retreat’s wellness programming. My daily one-on-one sessions with expert trainers push me past my comfort zone, but their support makes the challenge enjoyable.
For recovery, the Capra’s spa is a sanctuary of relaxation. Every element- whether it’s the luxurious treatments using local oils and wood, the elegant sauna with sweeping mountain views, or the serene indoor pool-has been crafted to offer a seamless escape from the world.
Gastronomy at The Capra is an earthly delight. The hotel’s owners chose to forgo a focus on dietary restrictions, instead allowing guests to make their own choices. The menu, which often pairs with local wines, is crafted from ingredients that reflect the region’s alpine richness. The wines are crisp, aromatic, and carry the mountain’s essence. Be sure to sample the local goat cheese-smooth, tangy, and earthy, it’s handcrafted by local herds that graze the mountainsides, capturing the very essence of the Swiss Alps.
As I board my ride back to Geneva, I feel infinitely more rested and cared for. Euphoric in my newly restored sense of well-being, I promise myself to hike more, drink more water, and keep gadgets far away from my bedroom. While I’m still a morning grouch and an insomniac owl on occasion, I know where to return when I need to realign.
