October 23, 2024

Courting Swiss Excellence: Tennis Elevated at Bürgenstock Hotel's Diamond Domes

At the Bürgenstock Hotel, tennis isn’t just a game—it’s a sensory experience brought to life by the fresh alpine air and surrounded by the commanding peaks of the Swiss Alps. Inside the iconic Diamond Domes, every rally resonates in a space where sport meets art, design, and luxury.

 

Thanks to an invitation from Bürgenstock and Lux Tennis, our time on the court was elevated by the presence of Swiss tennis icons, Martina Hingis and Timea Bacsinszky. This session went beyond playful rallies, as these lady legends shared an intimate glimpse into the mastery, artistry, and passion that drive champions.

An Alpine Warm-Up 

The journey to Bürgenstock Hotel felt like a warm-up—each phase deliberate and reflective, setting the pace for the experience ahead. As we boarded the MS Bürgenstock Catamaran and glided across the calm waters of Lake Lucerne, the mountains surrounded us like a gentle hug. The ride was a moment to pause and take in the serenity before the action began. We felt welcomed to the resort right from the start.

The Burgenstock Funicular was just a stone’s throw away from where the catamaran dropped us off, ready to take us up to the reception lobby. We ascended the mountain via the red funicular, Switzerland’s first electric cable car. It was smooth steady climb that gave us even more time to soak in the scenery. By the time we reached the summit, it became clear that Bürgenstock wasn’t merely a destination—it was an invitation into a new reality.

The Diamond Domes, Tennis Among the Peaks

Stepping into the Diamond Domes at the Bürgenstock Hotel is like entering a space where nature and design are in perfect conversation. The vibrant red courts stand out against the serene mountain backdrop, and the panoramic glass walls draw the Alps into every serve and volley.

 

Our time in the Diamond Domes was made all the more special by the presence of tennis legends Martina Hingis and Timea Bacsinszky. Watching them in action was like being part of an effortless conversation between two lifelong partners on the court. The setting felt deeply intimate—far from the usual pomp of tournaments—giving us a rare opportunity to hear them share stories of their journey, their Olympic triumphs, and the camaraderie they’ve built over years of friendship and competition.

Morning Drills, Elevated

The final morning session brought us back to the Diamond Domes, and now it was our turn to take the court. We arrived early, greeted warmly by Julien, our coach for the day. He approached the session thoughtfully, asking us what we wanted to focus on. With that, the drills commenced—forehand and backhand drills that felt personalised. He had a sharp eye on what we needed to improve on, and delivered instructions to improve in a clear and simple way where we could apply the adjustments immediately. Needless to say, we left the court content with our progress.

 

The Diamond Domes impressed us with their beauty and functionality. High lobs, which seemed like they would touch the intricately designed ceiling, never came close. The architecture was as much a part of the game as the tennis itself. For those not staying at the resort, sessions with Lux Tennis are still available—a golden opportunity to play in this remarkable space and improve your game. We also love playing with them in different beautiful locations around the world.

The Art of Recovery

After the intensity of our final session, we were guided to the Waldhotel Spa for some much-needed recovery. The transition from the court to the spa felt seamless, as though Bürgenstock had designed the entire experience to flow effortlessly from one form of wellness to another.

 

The infinity pool blended into the surrounding Alps, and as we soaked in its warmth, the line between the natural world and the resort blurred. From the sauna to the steam rooms and serene outdoor seating areas, the experience was one of complete rejuvenation. The crisp mountain air and stunning views restored our balance after the intensity of the court.

A Farewell Above the Swiss Alps

Before departing Bürgenstock, we ascended the Hammetschwand Lift, Europe’s highest outdoor elevator. The view from the top was a fitting finale, offering one last sweeping panorama of Lake Lucerne and the surrounding mountains. It was the perfect ending to an experience where tennis, luxury hospitality, and Switzerland’s unique nature came together excellently.