Tucked deep within the alpine village of Vals, 7132 is less a traditional luxury stay and more an immersive experience shaped by architecture, landscape and stillness. The journey there sets the tone with a breathtaking winding drive through dramatic mountain passes, culminating in a striking arrival sequence where raw concrete, glass and stone emerge almost seamlessly from the surrounding terrain. Guests looking to elevate their trip can take their Airbus EC 130 helicopter, offering a breathtaking aerial introduction to the surrounding Alps, landing conveniently on their helipad.
At the heart of the property is the iconic Therme Vals, designed by Peter Zumthor. Built from locally quarried quartzite, the spa has become a global reference point for minimalist architecture, but it is the healing water itself that defines the experience. Sourced from the nearby St. Peter spring, the thermal water bubbles out of the ground at approximately 30°C, rich in minerals and long celebrated for its restorative and therapeutic qualities, like supporting circulation, easing muscle tension and promoting overall relaxation.
The baths are composed of a series of interconnected indoor and outdoor pools, each offering a distinct sensory experience. Temperatures range from cool plunge pools to deeply warming baths, encouraging a slow, rhythmic progression through the space. There are quiet, cave like chambers with floating fresh calendula petals designed for stillness, open air pools that frame uninterrupted mountain views, and immersive spaces where light, shadow and sound are carefully considered. Moving through them feels like a meditative journey where you loose track of time and truly unwind.
Another defining element of the property is its renowned “House of Architects,” a series of rooms designed by some of the world’s most influential names in contemporary architecture, including Tadao Ando, Kengo Kuma and Thom Mayne. Conceived as a living showcase of design, each space offers a completely distinct architectural language, making it a pilgrimage site for design enthusiasts and further cementing 7132’s reputation as one of the most architecturally significant hotel experiences in the world. Combined with its dramatic alpine setting, the property offers a unique appeal year round, from snow covered stillness in winter to lush mountain landscapes in the warmer months.
Our stay was in the newer 7132 5 star wing, in a Spa Deluxe Room conveniently connected to the thermal baths. The space felt intentionally expansive, anchored by a sizeable bathroom featuring a steam shower, large dressing area and two private balconies that invited a sense of quiet indulgence.
Mornings began with a private breakfast experience in the Silver dining room, exclusive to guests in this wing, adding an intimate and unhurried start to each day. Small gestures throughout the stay reinforced the hotel’s attention to detail, from a being personally escorted to our room upon arrival with single rose in hand to add to a bouquet waiting inside.
What defines 7132 most, however, is its stillness. Waking to the faint sound of cowbells echoing across the mountainside became a daily ritual, grounding the experience in its alpine surroundings. The environment felt deliberately untouched, with a sense of tranqulity that can only be found in Switzerland, paired with a level of understated, design driven luxury that feels both rare and deeply considered.
One of the most memorable moments came late in the evening. After dinner, we returned to the therme for a midnight bathing experience. As we floated around outside, soft flashes of lightning illuminated the surrounding mountain peaks, a magical cinematic end to the evening as we wound down from a day of hiking neighbouring areas.
With its deep architectural roots, layered history and serene setting, 7132 invites you to slow down, disconnect and fully absorb the rhythm of its surroundings.
