Author: Kelly Thomson

Some destinations you just have to “see to believe” – Whitepod in Switzerland falls squarely in this category. Dome-shaped pods 1700 meters up in the Swiss Alps is the stuff of glamping genius.

At first glance Whitepod’s geodesic domes look like igloos, and efforts are made so they blend in with the surrounding landscape. In winter the white canvas matches the blanket of snow covering the mountainside and in summer they are covered in green material to match the mountain vegetation. Guests have access to 3 private lifts which can be operated 24 hours a day upon request. Staying in a pod on the mountain is probably not your first thought when planning a ski vacation, but now that you know, good luck trying to get it out of your head.

Photo: Whitepod website

Whitepod describes their experience as going back to summer camp as an adult except with the comfort of a 5-star hotel. The dome pods are anchored to wooden platforms. The large bay windows provide a breathtaking view of the Alps and let in a healthy dose of sunshine. Each pod is decorated with unique antiques from the region along with a king-size bed, full bathroom, wood-burning stove, and a terrace. The pods are set up to accommodate 2 to 4 people.

Whitepod is a successful combination of ecotourism and luxury. It’s an understatement to say that Whitepod is an alternative to a hotel room. Isolate yourself from urban pollution and sleep in a pristine alpine environment. Whitepod limits its impact on the environment by minimizing daily electricity and water consumption, reducing waste production, and favoring renewable resources. You’ll quickly notice that Whitepod has taken great care not to sacrifice any comforts. For relaxation you can visit a Finnish sauna, Japanese bath, or get a massage at the chalet Les Cerniers.

Photo: Whitepod website

The Pod-house and Les Cerniers restaurant will take care of you if you’re hungry. The Pod-house is the central meeting point of the camp as well as the breakfast area with hot and cold buffet. Les Cerniers offers traditional but refined cuisine. Camping without preparing your own food is a fundamental part of glamping.

Whitepod’s public meeting spots are heated by wood until nine in the evening. Guests going back home after dinner find the pods are still warm from being heated all day. High-quality insulation ensures that the very minimum of the heating goes to waste. When it’s really cold out, you might have to add more wood at night. The staff explains how to work everything upon the guests’ arrival. And, if you need to get up and go there’s a little electric heater in the bathrooms keeping them warm constantly.

Photo: Whitepod website

Guests have their choice of traditional and more adventurous types of mountain recreation.  In the winter skiing and snowboarding for beginners and intermediates is available on runs totaling 7 km and is accessed via the 2 private chairlifts. The winter is also great for experiencing dog-sledding, snowshoeing, and snow-trekking. In the summertime, hiking, paragliding, dog karting, photography workshops, and survival course are among the variety of options.

Whitepod was inspired by the desire to create a peaceful, regenerative experience in a place of beauty with virtually no impact on the surrounding environment. Learn more about making a reservation at Whitepod.