The Widder hotel in the Augustiner quarter of Zurich for me is one of the best hotels in the world – a hidden gem boutique hotel with only 42 rooms, each of them with a unique history and design.

Aside from all the standard 5-star services, what makes the Widder stand out are its history, architecture and art collection – and, yes, liquor and jazz.

History & Future: the hotel combines nine different buildings, with the inner square dating back to 1200 (sic!). All original structures for the 42 unique rooms were refurbished and remain intact, but top notch technology and design was added to combine history and future. I have been going to the Widder for over a decade on business, and each time I find new details to admire.

Art & Architecture: The hotel is a small museum as well, with art all over the place – Andy Warhol’s Widder, hand-made staircases, sculptures, paintings, tapestry, fresci, terracotta floors, designs, flowers and much more. Whether at breakfast, in meetings or in the rooms, one is surrounded by art – and smoky jazz.

Liquor & Jazz: The Widder bar features over 250 whiskeys and has live jazz each evening. Over the years I have started or ended many Zurich nights there – a rare single malt in my hand and jazz in my ear.

When in Zurich, check out the Widder: http://www.widderhotel.ch
Jazz concerts at the Widder: http://www.galledev.co.uk/widder/v11/site/pdf/Widderplakat.2.2009.pdf

My last Widder visit: