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Guarda Golf Hôtel & Résidences

Crédits : Lina Tchalabi. Translation: Jill Harry. Pictures: RR

15 years of Guarda Golf: meet Nati Felli & Simon Schenk

On the verge of its 15th anniversary, Guarda Golf Hotel & Residences celebrates a past marked by excellence, passion, and a shared vision of hospitality.

This year, Guarda Golf Hotel & Residences celebrates its 15th anniversary. How does this make you feel?

Nati Felli: The journey has been incredible! We have made a dream come true: the resort is now fully booked, and we have been working together with Simon Schenk for a decade. We both feel that we have achieved something truly exceptional.

Simon Schenk: It is the result of unwavering commitment and a shared passion. We have made Guarda Golf much more than just a hotel: a real place for living where close connection to our guests and personalised service lie at the heart of our philosophy.

Your partnership is also marking its 10th anniversary. How did it come to life?

N.F.: At the time, I was thinking about expanding the hotel and needed someone who shared my vision of hospitality. A mutual friend recommended Simon Schenk, and from our first encounter, I was won over by his human-centred approach. He truly understands the importance of each detail in the guest experience.

S.S.: At that time, I was working in China. From our first conversation, I felt that we shared a common vision: personalisation of service and fostering close relationships with our guests. That is what drew me to this magnificent project.

What was the biggest challenge over these 15 years?

N.F.: One of the most significant milestones was the expansion of the hotel, which allowed us to double our capacity. Carrying out the works while keeping the hotel open was not a simple matter.

S.S.: The real challenge is maintaining excellence in a constantly evolving environment. We continuously have to adapt and innovate while preserving what makes us unique. It is a delicate balance, though it inspires and drives us every day.

What does hospitality mean to you?

S.S.: It means anticipating our guests' needs offering them a unique experience every time they visit. We love to pamper them by personalising their stay to the smallest detail.

What makes Guarda Golf truly unique?

N.F.: With our exceptional selection of suites, we offer something truly unique – it's uncommon for a hotel to dedicate half of its capacity to this level of accommodation as we do. Over the years, many of our guests have become loyal visitors. They are drawn back not only by the warm, inviting ambience but by the bespoke service that makes every stay a truly personalised experience.

S.S.: Our loyal guests are the driving force that keeps us moving forward. They know us and trust us. This invaluable relationship motivates us to give our best at all times without ever losing sight of the importance of personalised service.

How do you stay ahead of the competition?

N.F.: We have several modernisation projects underway, such as renovation of the lobby and reception. Recently, we introduced a luxury golf cart service, an offer found nowhere else!

Your own travels are the source of inspiration... Is there a recent experience that particularly impressed you?

N.F.: Yes, I often think of European and Brazilian influences I have encountered on my travels. I would like to offer Guarda Golf a little of the creativity and artisanal know-how one finds in Brazil while maintaining high European standards of excellence. I believe the future of Guarda Golf lies in this beautiful fusion of cultures and approaches.

What are your dreams for the next 15 years?

N.F.: Just one: to ensure that Guarda Golf continues to establish itself as an iconic destination that will stand the test of time – a beacon of excellence not only in Crans-Montana but also internationally.

S.S.: In every mountain resort, there is always one hotel regarded as a timeless landmark, and we are doing everything possible to make sure it's Guarda Golf that stands out here.

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