History
...then, today and tomorrow
What began as a small tea room is now a warmly run four-star hotel with history, character, and lived hospitality.
The Arc-en-ciel is a place where memories are made, traditions are cherished, and the future is shaped – with a smile that lasts.
From Tea Room to Hotel Arc-en-ciel
a Gstaad family story
The story of Hotel Arc-en-ciel begins in 1959 with a bold decision:
Heini and Micheline Matti acquire the former Gottfried-Bühler house on the quiet and sunny outskirts of Gstaad. With great commitment, warmth, and foresight, they lay the foundation for a place that will welcome guests from all over the world for generations to come.
1961: The Beginning with Heart
After careful reconstruction, Heini and Micheline Matti opened the Tea Room Arc-en-ciel in January 1961 – named after the French word for rainbow, a symbol of joy and diversity.
Before long, the first hotel Garni with 20 beds followed. The Arc-en-ciel quickly became a popular meeting place for locals and guests, appreciated for the personal atmosphere and the warm hospitality of the host family.
1968–1972: The first major expansion
The growing popularity of the house made additional rooms necessary.
In 1968, a new building was constructed with more rooms, and in 1972, an extension was added with a restaurant, kitchen, and reception – the Arc-en-ciel evolved from a small Garni to a charming holiday hotel with a culinary offering and its own style.
1976–1985: Pool, Pizzeria and New Perspectives
In 1976, the Pizzeria Arc-en-ciel brought a piece of Italy to Gstaad: The wood-fired pizza quickly became a classic and continues to shape the culinary offerings of the house to this day.
With the involvement of the two children, Michel and Christiane Matti, the hotel also gained its distinctive character – cosy, family-oriented, and simultaneously open to new ideas.
In 1985, the popular outdoor pool was opened – at that time a rarity in Gstaad and a highlight for summer guests.
1990–2000: The Generational Change
After over 40 years, Heini and Micheline Matti handed over the hotel in 1999 to her daughter Christiane.
Previously, Michel Matti, Christiane's brother, had taken on a significant role in the management during the 1980s and 1990s and played a major part in shaping the Arc-en-ciel during that time.
Under the leadership of Christiane Matti, the establishment was modernised and lovingly continued – with new rooms, renovated lounges, and an expanded offering.
A life's work endures
After many fulfilled years, Heini Matti [2015] and Micheline Matti [2022] said goodbye to life forever – yet their spirit and values continue to shape Arc-en-ciel to this day.
Their commitment, down-to-earth nature, and love for detail form the foundation on which the house is carried on.
In every smile and in every welcome at the reception, a piece of their warmth lives on.
Vous nous manquez profondément, Grand-maman et Grand-papa.
From 2020: The third generation takes over
Since 2020, Amina Matti and Tim Wetli have been running the hotel with fresh enthusiasm and a deep desire to continue the story of the house.
With great passion, a clear focus on sustainability, and genuine hospitality, they combine the tried and tested with the new.
A house with a soul – yesterday, today and tomorrow
What once began as a small tea room is today a warmly run four-star hotel with history, character and heartfelt hospitality.
Arc-en-ciel is a place where memories are created, tradition is cherished and the future is shaped – with a smile that stays.
