Long tradition of Swiss hospitals and spa resorts

German doctor Alexander Spengler came to Davos at the end of the 19th century and was impressed by the clean, healthy air. He was convinced that treatment in the Swiss mountains would work wonders for people with lung disease. In 1901, he founded the first major sanatorium in Davos together with Dutch investor Willem Jan Holsboer. Visitors and patients from all over Europe flocked to Switzerland. In addition to these Alpine hospitals, spa resorts with healing thermal waters were also important for the burgeoning Swiss tourism industry. The start of the 20th century saw a boom in spa treatments for international visitors. The Grand Resort Bad Ragaz, with its excellent medical centre, was first established around this time.

Medical expertise in the mountains
The original Alpine hospitals and sanatoria have since been gradually transformed into high-quality medical centres that combine relaxation and wellness with expert medical knowledge. Ideal for physical and mental recuperation. Switzerland’s modern medical treatment centres build on the longstanding experience and unique scenic location of the old spas. As Professor Michele Genoni, a heart surgeon and Medical Director of the Rehaklinik Seewis, says: “We offer the best supportive rehabilitation concept in the beautiful Swiss mountain region.” The fashionable, internationally renowned ski resort of St. Moritz also has a medical centre of excellence. The Klinik Gut welcomes its international visitors against the backdrop of a breathtaking Alpine landscape.

Comfort and luxury
When planning a visit to another country for medical treatment, it goes without saying that the main criterion in choosing the destination is the best possible medical care. At the same time, visitors are looking for maximum relaxation, which is why comfort and excellent service are also key factors. Clinic Oberwaid combines highly specialised medical expertise with first-class hotel services. Clinique Valmont also attracts patients with its highly skilled interdisciplinary team of specialists and its luxurious suites as well as junior suites, while the first-class gourmet restaurant is popular with patients and visitors alike. It is a given that private hospitals in Switzerland provide this five-star hotel service.

A combination of tradition and modernity.
The old traditions of Alpine hospitals and spa resorts have been continuously updated over the last century. As Dr Annemarie Fleisch Marx, Chief Physician at the Klinik Schloss Mammern, puts it: “125 years ago my grandfather bought a dilapidated convalescent home, today we are the leading rehabilitation clinic on the lake.” Medical and therapeutic treatments combined with current wellness trends attract patients from all corners of the globe, creating the perfect blend of expert medical care and a holiday experience that provides relaxation for body and mind.

Text: Dr Kathrin Zimmermann