Hotel Regina

As your train pulls into Wengen (coming by train is the only access), you will see the Hotel Regina perched on the knoll above the station. If you call ahead, the hotel porter will be there to meet you. I saw one cart pull away brimming with children, parents, luggage, and a dog. When you enter the hotel, you will probably be reminded of one of the British resorts so popular at the turn of the last century. The downstairs has large, rambling lobbies punctuated with small seating areas where chairs encircle game tables, and a huge fireplace surrounded by overstuffed chairs—it all looks very Swiss-British. The Chez Meyer dining room is very special, intimate in size, its walls hung with family photos—generations of Meyers who have operated hotels in Kandersteg and now in Wengen—Switzerland’s beautiful mountain towns. Notice the chairs that have brass tags of the 11 family members who are always welcome at the Regina. The decor is lovely, and the Meyer family is extremely gracious and happily welcomes guests who return year after year—a tradition for many. The view from the Regina is so stunning that everything else pales in significance. Ask for a room with a balcony—when you’re outside, you feel as if you can touch the mountain peaks. At the entrance to the restaurant, set on the large and comfortable terrace the hotel has added a wine bar boutique where you can purchase wine and gourmet items as well as decorations and housewares associated with food and wine.