Whitepod Original: An Alpine Eco-Luxury Retreat
Whitepod Original perches high above Monthey in the Swiss canton of Valais, an “eco-luxury” hotel where geodesic pods and spacious cabins nestle into the mountain woods. Founded by entrepreneur Patrick Delarive (acquired in 2006 and meticulously refurbished over six years), the resort was designed to blend into nature – pods change color with the seasons (white in winter, green in summer) and stand on wooden stilts so the landscape remains virtually untouched. In this alpine clearing at 1,400 m, each moment is about adventure and relaxation: guests wake to sweeping sunrise vistas over the Rhone valley and spend days hiking, skiing or simply absorbing the fresh mountain air.
Cozy Pods & Alpine Cabins
Whitepod offers two main lodging styles, both built with eco-friendly materials and Swiss craftsmanship. The Pods (40–60 m² each) are insulated fiber geodesic domes with wood-pellet stoves and en-suite bathrooms. For example, the Cosy Pod (40 m²) includes a king/twin bed, an eco-shower (“Gjosa” head), hair dryer, Nespresso machine, and a panoramic terrace. The Pod Deluxe is similar but adds in-room perks like Wi-Fi, an iPad, a minibar and breakfast served directly in your pod. Several themed Pod Suites (Zen, Forest, Swiss, Timeless – 60 m²) each feature unique décor (e.g. cowbells in the Swiss Suite or birch trunks in the Forest Suite) while offering the same comforts.
For larger groups or families, the Cabins are full-wood chalets (up to 130 m² for 8 people) with multiple bedrooms, sleek living areas and kitchens. The Deluxe Cabin sleeps eight with four bedrooms (including a master suite with bathtub) plus two eco-showers and a spacious open-plan living/dining room. It has a private panoramic deck and garden with an outdoor grill. All accommodations share the same ethos: minimalist alpine design, natural wood interiors, local products (bath soaps, slippers, etc.), and the warmth of a pellet stove. Every unit has free parking and access to communal wellness areas (sauna and hot tub).
Culinary Delights in the Mountains
Dining at Whitepod is a celebration of Valais gastronomy. The main restaurant is La Brasserie d’Alpage des Cerniers, a modern alpine eatery open daily 8 AM–10 PM. Guests can enjoy a light daytime menu (12–5 PM) of gourmet sandwiches or fondue, and a creative evening menu (6:30–9:30 PM) where the Chef blends traditional Swiss flavors with seasonal local produce. A special “Tsijiri” room is also available for private events (30–45 guests) with bespoke alpine menus. Every morning brings a rich buffet of local cheeses, meats, breads and pastries. Pod Suite guests can even have breakfast delivered to their pod, while others dine downstairs – all ingredients are carefully sourced from Valais farms and dairies.
Wellness & Nature Spa
After a day of hiking or skiing, the Whitepod spa and wellness facilities offer total relaxation amid nature. The Social Cabin (a communal lodge) features fitness rooms, an invigorating ice room and a sauna with a “spectacular” mountain panorama. From there, a 12-minute forest walk (“wellness trail”) leads to the main Spa. Here guests soak in a Scandinavian bain suédois (outdoor hot tub) and use a cozy indoor sauna – complete immersion in the alpine landscape. Massages and yoga sessions, inspired by wellness traditions from around the world, can be booked for an extra fee. In short, Whitepod’s wellness experience “offers total relaxation and a panoramic view of our magnificent mountains” – truly plunging visitors into the heart of nature.
Eco-Innovation & Standout Features
Sustainability is woven into every detail at Whitepod. The pods are designed to leave minimal footprint: they sit atop wooden platforms with stilts, can be dismantled at any time, and even their colors adapt to the environment (camouflage white in snow, green in summer). Founder Delarive’s vision goes beyond structure: all heating is done with renewable wood pellets (through RIKA pellet stoves) so that “cosiness and relaxation are top priority” without harming the forest. The Definitely Different group that operates Whitepod emphasizes local engagement and eco-responsible practices at each step. For example, the resort works closely with regional suppliers (cheesemakers, beekeepers, shepherds) so that menus feature Valais specialties. These innovations have earned Whitepod international recognition – it even won a World Ecotourism Award – making it a leader in high-altitude green luxury.
Why Whitepod Stands Out
Whitepod Original manages to feel both adventurous and exclusive. It’s an ideal escape for couples seeking a romantic mountain hideaway, families craving a fun outdoor getaway, or groups wanting a unique corporate retreat. Here you trade city lights for starry nights, and concrete for snow-blanketed pines – yet without sacrificing comfort. From the warm cedar interiors and plush linens to the friendly Valais hospitality, every element is designed to surprise and soothe. The result is a stay “far beyond mere material comfort,” where guests leave refreshed and inspired by the views and the genuine eco-luxury experience.
