Beatus, action and well-being between lake and mountain

Merligen, village of palm trees. This promising inscription appears at the entrance to the town. However, do not imagine an exotic palm grove by the sea. Its name alone indicates that the village is not located in an exotic country but in ... Switzerland. More precisely between Bern and Interlaken.

We do not come to Merligen for its palm trees, which form an unusual contrast with the old wooden farmhouses. No, we come for one of its hotels, the Beatus, which more than deserves its 5 stars. And yet, from the road, it hides its game well with its sober facade. But as soon as you enter, you forget everything. Nothing spoils the view of the lake which seems to fill the entire visual field. The lake as well as the majestic mountain just in front, the Niesen which, when its summit is modestly draped in a crown made of cloud, takes on the air of a small Fujiyama.

Discreet, the young receptionist waits for this first moment of surprise to pass before inviting us for a welcome drink in the elegant setting of the lobby. With only three days to relax, we opted for a small suite on the 4th and top floor.

The small living room overlooks the lake and we never tire of the panoramic view, which constantly changes in brightness and atmosphere. Even in rainy weather the lake and the mountains fascinate.

In the bathroom, from the large spa bath, the view also embraces the lake. A small hammam serves as a shower. We never tire of admiring the landscape, observing the boats, some of which pass directly under our balcony (the boats that connect the towns and villages around the lake stop there). Hunger makes us leave our balcony, almost reluctantly.

At the piano bar, we taste the welcome aperitif: a cocktail of elderberry syrup with lime, a mint leaf and prosecco. Perfect for starting dinner on the terrace at sunset ... Three dining options are available: half-board (Table d'hôte), regional dishes (L'Orangerie) and gourmet cuisine (Le Bel Air) . Our choice of Bel Air is rewarded with a luxurious appetizer: sturgeon with white and black caviar ... The change of scenery is perfect, just two hours from home (Alsace).

After a night's rest, we are ready to take advantage of all the activities offered every day, which begin with an aquagym session before breakfast. Every day, activities are offered: aquagym, stretching, yoga, pilates, alpine relaxation, yoga, kinesies, the 5 Tibetans, bodyforming, fatburning, etc. , etc ... .... A fitness room allows you to burn extra calories.

Outside, we play table tennis, pétanque before going for a pedal boat or canoe ride, Nordic walking, Maasai walking, mountain biking (from May to October, electric bicycle rental Without forgetting the nearby Interlaken golf course (handicap 36)

This morning, the tireless Volker offers a leisurely stroll around Merligen. After having skirted the lake, the path climbs gently on the hill, passes in front of the villas which make you want to settle there immediately, the "castle" Ralligen (a large old building with holiday apartments for rent) and its lodging for the pilgrims of Saint-Jacques. From the forest, through the trees, the view plunges on the lake. Small waterfalls rush down and it is hard to imagine that we are only a few meters from the road that runs along the lake.

After this little warm-up, Volker invites you to try out the new aquatic activities offered by the hotel. History to liven up the tranquility that reigns in the shade of the trees of the peaceful park! It's good to bask there! With his super speedboat, Volker takes us to the middle of the lake for water skiing, wake-boarding and “buoy” sessions. The youngest let themselves be tempted by water skiing. Philippe has just returned from a little round-the-world trip and after the tepid waters of Tahiti, the water in the lake first gives him a little shock! Afterwards, he showed his talents on water skis just like his wife on the wake board. With great skill, Volker maneuvers to create waves suited to their technical skills. Not impressed, Laurent tries the adventure. From the second attempt, he manages to get out of the water and master the technique. With so much pleasure that he no longer even feels the temperature of the water!

It's too technical for us. But no question of not having fun. Let us trust Volker who promises not to "drop us", we take turns trying the famous buoy. You just have to lie on it (be careful, well ahead of the weight), grab the rope (it's easier than holding onto the handles of the buoy) and let yourself be pulled. Volker constantly has his eyes back to control the waves. When he sees that pleasure and confidence settle in the face of his "buoy surfer", he allows himself to create other waves. What a pleasure to evolve in this way on the lake, with some of the mythical peaks in the background: Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau. In fact, tomorrow Volker is offering a sporty mountain hike. We'll be there ! Especially since at the end of the day, we booked a massage at the hotel spa!