All photos by Martin Kaufmann and courtesy of Brücke 49

BRÜCKE 49

Vals, Switzerland
www.brucke49.ch

Hidden within the serene folds of Vals, a quiet Swiss village nestled in the Alps, Brücke 49 offers a retreat where the past and present converge in harmony. This sanctuary unfolds in two forms: Brücke 49 Pension, a reimagined bed-and-breakfast steeped in curated comfort, and Brücke 49 Herberge, semi-serviced apartments designed for extended stays. Born from historic structures, they invite travelers to step away from urban chaos, embrace the wild beauty of nature, and delight in a design that stirs the heart. It’s a place where the sturdy whispers of stone and wood meet the gentle elegance of Scandinavian style, crafting an escape that feels both timeless and deeply personal.

The Pension, erected between 1900 and 1902 by the Valser Furger family, radiates a quiet sophistication. Its granite walls and wooden floors bear the marks of a century, softened by plush linens, natural woods, and vintage touches that cradle guests in warmth. It’s a haven for those seeking solitude or a brief respite, where the mountains’ stillness seeps into every corner. Across the way, the Herberge—a “Valser Haus” from 1775—blends rustic charm with modern ease, offering spacious apartments where families can settle in, cook together, and let the Alps weave into their days. These spaces marry history with today, creating a backdrop for memories that endure.

“Brücke 49 is not just a place to stay; it’s an experience. It’s about slowing down, feeling at home, and immersing yourself in the beauty of Vals.”

— Ruth Kramer, Owner

Brücke 49 embodies “slow living,” a gentle rhythm that lets guests breathe deeply and linger. The Pension’s intimate rooms invite quiet mornings with a book or tea, while the Herberge’s open layouts welcome shared laughter and home-cooked meals. Vals itself enhances the magic—an unspoiled gem untouched by tourist crowds, where the thermal baths are just the beginning, and the mountains stand as silent sentinels over a tight-knit community. It draws design enthusiasts who admire its seamless aesthetic, nature lovers who crave its pristine trails, and anyone yearning for authenticity, whether in a solo retreat, a family adventure, or a romantic interlude.

Ruth Kramer, the visionary behind it all, infused Brücke 49 with her Swiss-Danish sensibility. Her love for spaces that tell stories shines through in the natural materials, soft textures, and careful curation that define the interiors. More than a guesthouse, it’s a journey into connection—between people, place, and design. From the Pension’s plush serenity to the Herberge’s rustic embrace, Brücke 49 calls to those who seek peace, beauty, and a moment to simply be, set against the breathtaking canvas of the Alps.

RUTH’S VALS RECOMMENDATIONS

Ruth Kramer shares her favorite local spots: Ganni B for artisanal coffee and homemade pastries, Restaurant Silver at 7132 Hotel for Michelin-starred dining with stunning views, and the Vals Cheese Dairy for authentic local cheeses. She suggests hiking to Tomülpass for breathtaking scenery and a refreshing dip in the ice-cold river—summer or winter—to invigorate the senses before returning to Brücke 49’s cozy comfort.

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