For General Manager Jörg Arnold, the luxury hotel The Chedi Andermatt is the place to be if you want to be pampered far away from everyday life. In an interview with finews.ch, he explains how to create a perfect weekend without alarm clock.
Jörg Arnold, why did you become a general manager?
In my opinion, it is the best and most versatile job in the world. Being a hotelier is a privilege for me – especially in one of the most beautiful hotels in Switzerland. There is hardly any other profession where you have so many interconnections to a wide variety of company areas.
(all pictures, media @ The Chedi Andermatt)
From the numerous languages to the service-oriented thinking, the management of people and guest care, to complex management decisions and the direct feedback we receive every day – the hotel industry is so diverse and that's exactly why it fascinates me.
Describe how you came to your current role.
On the one hand, I was in the right place at the right time. On the other hand, I have an excellent track record and a first-class network, which is enormously important in the hotel and tourism industry.
What are the five features that make your hotel stand out?
The Chedi Andermatt is distinguished by its unique architecture of Asian and Alpine elements, our multi-award-winning cuisine including the highest Japanese restaurant in Switzerland at 2,300 metres above sea level, the unique 2,400 square metre spa with a 35-metre indoor pool, our strong brand promise, and our location in the middle of the Swiss Alps.
Can you tell us what makes your hotel exceptional?
The combination of unique luxury and the uncomplicated experience of just that luxury. The Chedi Andermatt is a place of relaxation and enjoyment, without a stiff 5-star corset. But the best thing to do is to see for yourself...
What's the most unconventional thing you've experienced in your job?
That was already at The Chedi Andermatt. The first time I saw the world's largest cigar selection live in a hotel in our walk-in humidor. It includes more than 900 different cigars from 15 countries, including rarities and special editions. Just wow!
How do you define hospitality?
Caring for guests in a matter of course and honesty, so that the guest simply feels comfortable and appreciated.
Which VIPs have you had the privilege of hosting at your hotel?
Many... but discretion does not allow names.
What does your hotel offer for a "perfect weekend" for two?
Actually, everything – because panoramic windows bring nature into the house, a flickering fireplace provides warmth and security, soft cashmere blankets and leather armchairs invite you to cocooning de luxe. It's best to start the day without an alarm clock and enjoy breakfast either on the balcony or in the Hästens bed.
In winter, you can surely go skiing or snowboarding on the Gütsch slopes. After a few leisurely descents, a wonderful place to stop off at is "The Japanese at Gütsch" and enjoy the sun and the Alpine panorama as a couple.
Back at the hotel, pamper your body and mind at The Spa & Health Club, and the impressive indoor pool and heated outdoor pool with fantastic views of the mountains that make everyday life seem far away. Before heading out for a romantic dinner, you can enjoy a cocktail or our homemade gin in "The Bar".
In summer, a ride in our vintage car Morgan is certainly part of the perfect weekend. For those who like it a little faster, I recommend discovering the pass roads with one of our Harleys.
What are your plans for the hotel?
For us, the hotel experience is paramount. After all, the experience for the guest must always be unique and include many positive surprise effects in every respect. Be it the welcome, in the room, the service, the activities or the culinary delights.
How is dining developing at your hotel?
«The Japanese at Gütsch», the highest Japanese restaurant in Switzerland
We have some gastronomic highlights planned for the coming year. The prelude will certainly be "Lights out, mountain on" – the fine-dining experience of winter. On selected days, Dominik Sato and Fabio Toffolon will delight guests with their filigree culinary skills for the first time in the evening at "The Japanese at Gütsch", which has been awarded a Michelin star and 16 GaultMillau points, at 2,300 metres above sea level.
In general, Andermatt is becoming more and more of a gourmet destination, and new gastro concepts such as Andreas Caminada's “IGNIV” will delight guests with culinary delights. Anyone who knows The Chedi Andermatt knows that we are always good for a surprise, and we will certainly come up with one or two more highlights this year. In any case, four- and six-hands experiences with guest chefs are planned.
What is your personal motto when leading a hotel?
Each and every employee is an entrepreneur and does his or her best every day to provide guests with a unique experience and to be able to operate sustainably. And I am the coach who empowers and motivates employees to do so.
Describe your favorite hidden gem in the area.
When the snow gives way to the blooming mountain meadows, it's definitely the guided tour with Bänz. He is an Andermatt village original, knows everything about the region and is our local herb guide. Bänz is a must-see – next to The Chedi Andermatt.
What is the best piece of advice you've received from your mother or father?
There is certainly some advice that I've received from my parents. The best one is certainly: "Never give in and always look ahead."
Jörg Arnold has been working in the luxury hotel and tourism industry for 35 years and has been the General Manager of The Chedi Andermatt since 2023. He studied at the École hôtelière de Lausanne (EHL) and was previously General Manager at the five-star Hotels Storchen, the Widder Hotel and the Hotel Alex Lake in Zurich. He is also currently the Vice Chairman of the Board of Directors of the EHL Group.
