Zurich’s venerable Baur au Lac boasts a history as breathtaking as its Alpine and lakeside setting. Opened in 1844 by Johannes Baur, the property hosted the world premiere of Wagner’s Die Walküre, with the composer himself conducting. Alfred Nobel’s former secretary, Bertha von Suttner, conceived of the Nobel Peace Prize in one of the hotel’s salons. Today, a cast of royals, actors, and musicians is drawn to the grande dame hotel for its exquisitely discreet service, stunning views, private lakeshore park, and proximity to Zurich’s historic sites, including the world-famous Bahnhofstrasse shopping street. Of the four dining rooms, the alfresco Terrasse restaurant is the city’s summer hot spot, where locals and guests flock to mingle over light meals, cocktails, and spectacular views from canopy-covered tables.
