Wealthy Russian Tourists Welcomed at Fouquet’s Gstaad
Russian travel agencies have already begun selling ski tours for the 2026/2027 season. Domestic winter resorts traditionally open their slopes early, with destinations such as Elbrus and Sheregesh welcoming skiers in the first half of November. Meanwhile, Russian tourists continue to show interest in Alpine resorts, which typically start their season no earlier than the beginning of December. According to the tour operator Russian Express, demand for European ski tours this season has risen by 88% compared to last year. Among the most sought-after destinations is Switzerland, which remains highly appealing to Russian tourists despite the current geopolitical climate.
One of the hotel debuts of the upcoming winter season is Fouquet’s Gstaad, part of the Barrière Collection. The new hotel is set to open on 4 December in the very heart of the Swiss resort of Gstaad. Wealthy Russian skiing enthusiasts are well acquainted with the hospitality of the French hotel group Barrière, which notably owns a property in Courchevel, whose glamorous reputation has been shaped in part by Russian New Year celebrations.
Fouquet’s Gstaad offers a holiday experience that feels more like staying in a private Alpine residence than a traditional hotel. Guests can choose from 33 rooms, including 11 suites and six apartments, all featuring fireplaces, contemporary artworks, spacious balconies, and panoramic mountain views. For larger families and groups, there is a separate chalet spanning 1,500 square metres, complete with eight bedrooms, a children’s sleeping area, a private spa, fitness room, cinema, and nightclub.
One of the gastronomic highlights of the winter season will be the pop-up restaurant Zuma. The renowned Japanese concept will bring the cosmopolitan atmosphere of Tokyo to the Alpine resort, featuring a menu of sushi and sashimi, tartares, wagyu, and dishes prepared on a robata grill. An open kitchen, bar, and heated terrace with mountain views will complete the restaurant’s setting.
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