Peaceful Escapes: Hotel Villa Honegg Review
“Look past the silk-smooth chocolate, cuckoo clocks and yodelling – contemporary Switzerland, land of four languages, is all about epic journeys and sublime experiences”
You’ve likely seen Hotel Villa Honegg on Pinterest or Instagram, with its stunning infinity pool and jaw-dropping views over Lake Lucerne. It looks like the kind of place that lives up to every dreamy travel fantasy. But we all know how it goes—some of these social media hotspots don’t always meet expectations.
Built in 1905, this boutique hotel started as an exclusive retreat for those seeking the peace and beauty of the Swiss Alps. Over the years, it’s been carefully restored, blending its old-world charm with modern luxuries. But is it really as magical as it appears online? That’s what I went to find out.
Here we go! Let’s determine if staying here is worth it while we cover all aspects of the hotel, from the rooms to the location.
The Location
Villa Honegg’s secluded location above Lake Lucerne adds to its charm, but getting there takes a bit of planning. If you’re flying, Zurich Airport is the nearest major hub, and the hotel offers convenient shuttle services to whisk you straight to the door. Driving, however, is an adventure in itself. The roads are narrow and wind steeply uphill, so if you’re not used to mountain driving—or if you're visiting in winter—keep that in mind.
But once you make it, you can park your car right next to the hotel, making your stay even more effortless. The journey may be a bit challenging, but the reward of those stunning views makes it all worthwhile.
The Rooms
The rooms at Villa Honegg have everything you need for a comfortable stay, with all the essentials plus a few nice touches, like a Nespresso coffee maker and a bathtub for relaxing after a day of exploring. We opted for the Classic Room Lake View with a balcony, and I have to say, the view is absolutely worth it. There’s something special about waking up to the sight of the lake, especially from higher up—views you don’t quite get from the pool or the restaurant.
The rooms are fairly simple, but that’s part of the charm. They’re modern without too much fuss, which perfectly fits the hotel’s understated elegance.
The Restaurant
Ok, let’s start with the most important meal of the day—breakfast. At Villa Honegg, it’s an à la carte experience with small portions, so you can try multiple dishes. All the ingredients are locally sourced, and the menu even highlights which farm they come from. You’ll also get a little étagère with local cheeses and cold cuts—a perfect way to kick off the day. For lunch, you can dine out on the patio (though no bathrobes are allowed—I checked!).
But dinner is where the restaurant really stands out. The atmosphere is peaceful, the shared menu lets you sample a variety of dishes, and the staff helps you pick the perfect wine. The whole experience is undeniably luxurious, but without feeling stiff or forced. There’s a natural, effortless quality to the way everything is done—nothing feels over the top or pretentious.
After traveling through France and Italy on this trip, I wasn't expecting Switzerland to top the food scene, but this meal was hands-down the best. The fresh, organic ingredients truly make all the difference. If you go, I highly recommend the shared menu—you won’t regret it.
The Amenities
The amenities at Villa Honegg are designed for relaxation, with an outdoor infinity pool that’s stunning and the hotel’s main attraction. It’s the perfect spot to soak in those views of Lake Lucerne. However, I did find myself wishing for a little more indoor options, especially since it rained on one of the days we were there. A small jacuzzi would have been a nice touch when the weather isn’t cooperating. Inside, there’s a spa and steam room to help you unwind, but I felt that a bit more variety would enhance the experience.
On the plus side, the hotel is a gateway to fantastic hiking opportunities, with the nearest mountain top just a 45-minute trek away. It’s a great way to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the Swiss Alps.
The Verdict
In conclusion, I was pleasantly surprised by my stay at Villa Honegg, especially since many Insta-worthy hotels don’t always live up to the hype. The views are jaw-dropping—just as stunning as in the pictures—and the entire experience is genuinely relaxing. The food at the restaurant is full of flavor, and the staff is exceptionally friendly and attentive. My only (and minor) suggestion would be for the hotel to consider adding an indoor part to the pool or a jacuzzi, providing something enjoyable for those less-than-perfect weather days.
I’m already looking forward to returning in winter to experience the hotel during the festive season; I have a feeling it will be just as magical then!
I hope this was helpful. If you have any more questions, you can always reach out here or on Instagram, and I’m more than happy to answer any of your questions. Happy Travels!
