Founded around the year 1100, the Monastery Hotel St. Peter’s Island (Klosterhotel St. Petersinsel) was originally a Romanesque Cluniac Priory - where monks lived for almost 400 years. The citizens of Bern – owners of the island since 1530 – soon started to build the first guest rooms in the monastery. The most prominent visitor was the author and natural philosopher Jean-Jacques Rousseau, whose romantic description of the island in 1765 spread the fame of St. Peter’s Island throughout Europe.

After extensive restoration and reconstruction between 1984 and 1987, new careful renovation has been carried out in the last two years. The original qualities of the monastery were harmonized with present day requirements: Monastic simplicity, a historic past that can be experienced up close, and integrated modern infrastructure correspond in materialization and coloring to the island’s predominating themes: Water, Earth and Vegetation. The historic rooms with antique hardwood floors and stuccowork have been furnished in the Biedermeier style. Modern bathrooms have been added. The changes, made with great attention to detail and in cooperation with the historic preservation office, resulted in a natural and authentic ambience.

The important elements of the historic structure have been highlighted in an exemplary manner and give the visitor an opportunity to experience the atmosphere of bygone eras. The historical past merges with modernity, resulting in a stylish yet understated design. By means of architecture, cultural history and scenic surroundings, the Monastery Hotel St. Peter’s Island offers today’s visitors a magnificent travel experience where yesterday and today are harmoniously blended.