Since opening last summer, FIVE Zürich has become a hotspot for Switzerland's trendiest and international vacationers – it’s easy to see why.
Immediately after ascending to the luxury Swiss hotel FIVE Zürich (which is located atop a steep hill), a strong impression is made. Before even stepping inside the stylish building, two specially-commissioned art installations will leave your jaw on the floor: a striking Alphorn Structure centrepiece created by Appenzell blacksmith Franz Kostell weaves brass instruments together, while a 43 square meter portrait by famed street artist REDL pays homage to many of the biggest names in music (past and present) including pop icons Rihanna, Freddie Mercury, Grace Jones, Elton John, Stevie Wonder, Tina Turner.
Then, as you enter the lobby, a gigantic gramophone appears to the right, setting the tone for what is to come from this proudly music-themed hotel. It’s instantly clear that a lot of thought has been put into each aspect of FIVE Zurich’s aesthetic. The reception area, too, is a music lover’s paradise: as well as brass horns shaped like a chandelier and 60s-esque hanging microphone lights (the type that Elvis would have sung with), a glance behind the desk offers a wealth of treasures. Dozens of records line the colourful alcoves, as well as amps, drumsticks, a saxophone lampshade, and bass guitar.
A Yamaha baby grand piano also sits at the heart of the room while, just seconds away, a helical staircase adds a stylistic touch. Not only is it shaped and shaded to resemble the keys of a piano, but a glass chandelier frames the collosal fixture. Stretching from the rooftop to the ground floor, the artfully shaped and coloured chandelier was created to be a live and visual illustration of how the human brain reacts to the melodies and rhythms of music. It’s certainly not something you see every day.
Just when you think there can’t be any more cool discoveries to make at FIVE, a 130-metre neon-lit underground tunnel to the hotel’s East Wing uncovers a games room complete with table tennis, arcade machine and snooker table.
Art decor fans will be in their element throughout their stay at FIVE, too: the seating is plush and high end, thanks to colourful velour sofas and marble stools, while the bedrooms – which boast lush forest views – are equally luxurious and intricately designed to achieve a real wow factor. Also commendable is the fact that FIVE Zurich partnered with Fine Art students at the Zurich Centre for Creative Economics (ZCCE) to create customised art works for every suite – all of which are beautifully inspired by Zurich’s greatest commemorative moments. A brilliant way to celebrate and elevate the city’s emerging talent.
As for activities, there is plenty to see and do at FIVE. After refuelling with a well-stocked continental breakfast at Maiden Shanghai, guests can relax at the hotel’s lavish yet tranquil ReFIVE spa, which boasts an indoor swimming pool, hot tub, sauna and steam room. Meanwhile outside, the Social Pool is the place to be for party-lovers.
As the afternoon gets going, enjoy cocktails and wines at The Vault before tasting some of the finest cuisine at the hotel’s different restaurants, all of which boast stunning Instagram-ready skyline views.
With its colourful music-themed painted walls, award-winning culinary and entertainment concept Soul St. offers an authentic Mexican dining experience. But, as ever, the delicious food – including tacos, nachos and steak – is only one side of the story. The FIVE team commissioned top street artists LAUCKY, PichiAvo, CYF and Sheena Lennox to cultivate the eye-catching visual character of the highly Instagrammable restaurant.
Meanwhile, upstairs at glittering rooftop bar and nightclub The Penthouse – which regularly hosts some of the biggest international DJs – the menu is full of Japanese and Asian delicacies (including sushi and a ‘Fluffy Duck’ dessert that’s accompanied by edible passionfruit bubbles; yes, really).
Of course, visiting Zurich’s picturesque lake and historic museums are worthwhile (especially with the city centre being just a 10-minute drive away and the airport just 20-minutes), but with so much to discover at FIVE, there really is no need to leave the hotel’s home-from-home comfort.
