We planned to tell you about a luxurious new resort in the Swiss Alps today.

But then we changed our mind.

Instead, we're going to tell you about two.

Because Faern, which oversees a collection of alpine resorts in Switzerland, just opened two new properties: Faern Arosa Altein and Faern Crans-Montana Valaisia. Which means you have two new options for well-located skiing and frolicking this winter and beyond.  

The name Faern is a mashup of the English “fern” (a staple of mountain flora) and the German "feiern", meaning “to celebrate.” So, let that guide your understanding of what's at stake here. 

Faern Arosa Altein is home to 126 rooms and suites in Graubünden national park, with access to the 225km Arosa ski area. The slopes are joined by hundreds of nearby biking and hiking trails, and the hotel has a compelling top-floor restaurant and one of the largest wellness facilities in town. 

Rooms and suites look onto the mountain or village and are designed with a cozy vibe that leans into textural upholstery, throws and rugs. Zus Brasserie serves breakfast and dinner, and the library cocktail bar, Alchemilla Parlour, serves creative drinks and small plates. The top-floor Alpensand Panoramic Social Club sports unobstructed mountain views and a menu inspired by traditional Swiss dishes with a modern twist. There's also a wellness area featuring a heated indoor pool with massage showers, plus massage treatment rooms, a steam room, a flowing river, two saunas, a relaxation room and an infra-red cabin. 

Faern Crans-Montana Valaisia is another idyllic ski-in/ski-out resort, so take advantage of the alpine slopes and cross-country trails during winter. Then come back in the summer for hiking, mountain biking and golfing, all set amongst the scenic mountain landscapes. The property has 134 rooms and suites, many with balconies overlooking the Alps. The interiors are inspired by the seasons and feature autumnal hues, knotted timbers and retro artwork.

All-day restaurant Eteila Brasserie serves fresh, local cuisine, while the speakeasy-style Sewi Bar & Social Club serves craft cocktails, wine and snacks. For the summer season, the Sewi Pool Kitchen will also be operational, doling out poolside drinks and snacks on the pool deck. The property also houses the town’s largest spa destination, offering a heated indoor pool, steam room, sauna, relaxation room, and access to massages and other treatments that you'll earn after a day on the mountain.

Both resorts offer curated experiences for hotel guests, from custom ski itineraries and running routes to slope-side picnics, wellness routines and even kite-making workshops.

You didn't think you could visit the Alps without flying a kite, did you?