W Hotel Opens in Swiss Mountains

Starwood is on track to reach more than 60 W Hotels by 2017, having just opened its 45th W Hotel, the W Verbier and The Residences at W Verbier, in Switzerland.

With the spirit of Ibiza set on ice, the hotel is located at the base of the mountain in the Medran area of Verbier, part of a multi-component luxury development project owned by Les Trois Rocs.

Situated in four adjacent characteristic chalets on the Place Blanche, the heart of the Medran Project, the hotel is located next to the main gondola offering immediate access to the resort’s ski slopes.

The Residences at W Verbier, 15 W-branded, full-service residences, are located right next to the 123-room hotel.

Before or après ski, guests and residents can enjoy the W Cafe, W Living Room, Away Spa and FIT (W’s take on the traditional fitness center) as well as an indoor/outdoor WET pool deck.

The signature restaurant, Arola, is in collaboration with two-Michelin Star Chef Sergi Arola, known for his modern, urban Spanish ‘pica pica’ cuisine.

The opening of W Verbier continues the W brand’s aggressive global growth, which began 15 years ago with the debut of the David Rockwell-designed W New York in the heart of midtown Manhattan. Only six years after launching, the W brand’s popularity also spawned the creation of Starwood’s Aloft brand, which today offers more than 75 hotels in 14 countries.

“W is future forward in our approach, drawing inspiration from the vibrant energy and 24/7 spirit of New York City,” said Paul James, Global Brand Leader, W Hotels, St. Regis, and The Luxury Collection. “As we celebrate our 45th hotel and briefly look back on the W brand’s innovation over the past 15 years, it is clear that W defined and attracts a new generation of luxury traveler, who prefers a more contemporary attitude, modern style and personalized experiences in this new golden age of travel.”