Fairmont Le Montreux Palace — Restaurant in Montreux

Sad to write this as this was my 4th stay but given this visit it will be my last. |Really lost its sparkle and some things really not ok for a hotel of this quality. |Construction going on at the hotel was extremely disruptive this time (last time would hardly know it was going on). The room next door to mine was being renovated so very loud. Banging crashing and hammering from pre 9am to late afternoon. So no chance of a holiday lie in or napping in the room during the day. Scaffolding stopped next to my balcony and a lot of dust blew off it and at times debris and tape from it. Not pleasant or safe. Was cleaned up once a day by housekeeping but doesn’t help if you wanted to sit out there. Dust also blew off it into the room if you opened the door, it was nice weather so would have been nice and if happened during the day, was only cleaned up next morning so made room grimy. Lack of privacy also an issue as from in the room and from the bed I could see workmen and if I could see them, they could see me. I did think about asking for a room change but I figured they know what the disruption is and still put guests in so staff must think it’s acceptable. It really isn’t though for a hotel of this quality to have such disruption. Also unpleasant walking through corridors with work ongoing so exposed wires and strong smell of paint and I think glue. |Air con didn’t seem to be working, had on lowest setting but room still boiling, did report but no change. A few other little things didn’t work as well like USB on bedside as an example. Odd for rooms that have just been refurbished. |Staff on previous visits were attentive but not intrusive but that line was crossed a few times I felt, especially been called for nothing urgent when I had do not disturb button active. |Spa treatments were excellent but one staff member in spa was snappy with my father. He asked for a robe (every visit been fine to collect a robe from spa) and staff member snapped he should use one from his room! Who wants to use a damp robe smelling of chlorine from the pool later in their room? Or have to go back to room instead of straight down to spa to get robe when can just get one in spa. |Spa food was awful. A lot of bugs in the salad. Reported and they took affected dish off the bill. |I have a condition that makes me allergic to environmental triggers. I reacted to the linens so asked for them to be boil washed without scent/chemicals and I was very pleased the hotel accommodated. However mid week my robe was changed to a regular one, I didn’t realise and used it and became unwell again. Housekeeping replaced it when I reported but no explanation as to why it was changed for one that I said I reacted to. Disappointed that happened as I felt allergies weren’t taken seriously. |All in all very disappointed and was glad to leave. This visit will be our last (did have another stay booked for later in the year but will of course be cancelling). I’m really sad as this was a favourite place when staying in...

My recent stay at the Fairmont Montreux Palace was nothing short of extraordinary, and I am thrilled to share my glowing review. From the moment I arrived, every staff member went above and beyond to ensure that my experience was nothing short of perfection.

Nestled in the picturesque town of Montreux, Switzerland, the Fairmont Montreux Palace stands as a beacon of luxury and elegance. From the grandeur of its architecture to the warmth of its hospitality, this iconic hotel surpassed all expectations and quickly became the highlight of my time in Switzerland.

Every interaction with the staff at Fairmont Montreux Palace was marked by professionalism, attentiveness, and genuine warmth. From the concierge who greeted me upon arrival to the housekeeping staff who ensured that every detail of my room was immaculate, each member of the team contributed to an unparalleled level of service that made me feel truly valued and appreciated.

As for the accommodations, they were nothing short of magnificent. My room was spacious, elegantly furnished, and boasted stunning views of Lake Geneva and the surrounding Alps. The attention to detail in the room's design, coupled with the luxurious amenities provided, created a sanctuary of comfort and relaxation that exceeded all expectations.

The culinary offerings at Fairmont Montreux Palace were equally exceptional. Whether indulging in a gourmet meal at one of the hotel's exquisite restaurants or savoring a cocktail at the elegant bar, every dining experience was a culinary delight. The quality of the cuisine, paired with the impeccable service, made each meal a memorable occasion.

I must also commend Michael Smithuis, the General Manager during my visit, for his exemplary leadership and dedication to ensuring the highest standards of hospitality. Under his guidance, Fairmont Montreux Palace truly shines as a beacon of excellence in the world of luxury hospitality. There were multiple instances where I needed assistance and his team did not hesitate to assist me- be it printing, recommending jazz scenes, shopping, or translating. I looked forward to seeing them each day.

My visit at the Fairmont Montreux Palace was an unforgettable experience that exceeded all expectations. From the exceptional service to the luxurious accommodations, every aspect of my time at this magnificent hotel was nothing short of perfection. I cannot recommend Fairmont Montreux Palace highly enough, and it will always hold a special place in my heart as my favorite place to stay in Switzerland. If you are considering booking,...

Extremely Disappointing Hospitality – Stay Away

We had a truly awful experience with Fairmont and were shocked by the lack of professionalism and hospitality, especially from a staff member named Eva. This property should be ashamed to be charging rates comparable to truly luxurious five-star hotels like Grand Hôtel du Lac by Relais & Châteaux.

Let me explain what happened so you can decide for yourself if this is the type of “5-star” service you’re looking for.

We initially booked two rooms at Fairmont and two at Grand Hôtel du Lac while deciding where to stay. Both bookings came with a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before check-in. Ultimately, we chose Grand Hôtel du Lac because of its reputation for offering superior service and personalized experiences. At CHF 722 per night per room, we wanted to ensure we had the very best — and Fairmont simply doesn’t measure up in terms of luxury or service.

After cancelling our Fairmont booking, we were surprised to find one of the rooms had still been charged. Wanting clarity, we visited the property to resolve the issue.

That’s when we encountered Eva from the reservations and sales team — and things went from bad to worse. Instead of offering any kind of professional support, Eva was incredibly rude and condescending. She repeatedly said things like, “Since you study hospitality, you should already know,” in a demeaning tone, turning what should have been a straightforward discussion into a lecture.

Her attitude was not only unprofessional but downright insulting. At one point she offered patronizing advice like, “Next time, you should call to confirm your cancellation,” which felt completely inappropriate. We are paying customers, not students in a classroom. It’s not our responsibility to double-check a hotel’s internal systems — especially when we received confirmation of the cancellation.

In hindsight, we’re actually relieved we didn’t stay here. Despite being wrongly charged, we avoided what would’ve been an underwhelming stay at an outdated hotel with poor service and empty, soulless atmosphere.

There are far better options nearby in the same price range — with far better hospitality. Don’t waste your time or money here.

I hope this review helps others make a more...