The unfortunate fate of one of Switzerland's most famous resorts doesn't sit well with institutions: behind the sudden closure of Waldhaus Flims GR lies a management full of question marks, while guests are forced to quickly rearrange their vacations. And the staff?
The news
The tale of the five-star luxury hotel, Waldhaus Flims GR, is a recurring one. A few weeks ago, the management sent an email to all guests, announcing the indefinite closure of the property, "forcing" those who had booked to abruptly change their plans. After already implementing several cost-cutting measures, starting from the first of August, operations were suspended due to financial issues largely attributed to rising energy costs. "We are writing to inform you that the Waldhaus Flims Wellness Resort has been grappling with financial problems for some time. We are very sorry that we cannot welcome you as our guests and sincerely hope to find a way to steer the company in the right direction as soon as possible," the message reads.
Upon receiving the news, discontent spread widely, but particularly outraged was Martin Hug, the mayor of Flims. "The temporary closure of the resort is extremely regrettable for the staff, the tourism sector, and Flims. The responsibility now lies with the hotel owners, namely the U.S. investment company Z Capital Partners. The municipality intends to support and accompany the management and staff; however, there will absolutely be no financial involvement. It's important to put an end to and remedy the repeated and serious damage to the hotel's image and reputation," explained Hug to Keystone-ATS.
Already in 2015, the ultra-luxurious property with a splendid view of the surrounding mountains, a 3000-square-meter spa, six bars, and restaurants (including Epoca by Tristan Brandt, a Michelin-starred venue) had filed for bankruptcy due to its precarious financial situation. It was then that the U.S. company Z Capital acquired it, but failed to ensure a better future for the resort. It's known to all that, since the acquisition, the hotel management changed nearly every year until capitulating in recent weeks, without knowing if or when one of Switzerland's most famous resorts will be able to shine again with the light that once distinguished it.
