THE FACTS ABOUT VICTORIA JUNGFRAU GRAND HOTEL & SPA

Switzerland

What this hotel lacks in appearance (it is abysmally designed), it makes up for in delivery. Beyond the 19th-century façade, manicured lawns and yellow-and-white-striped awnings lies an unremittingly ugly ode to 1980s spa architecture, featuring an oppressive vaulted swimming pool, ice-cold changing rooms and a soulless gym. But for all its austerity, the Victoria-Jungfrau remains one of the best spas in Europe. The spa's traditionalism is clear from the medical backup available to clients, which ranges from nutritional consultations to full physical check-ups. If you want to radically change the way you eat and exercise, it's worth taking advantage of the peerless experience on hand. Personal trainers will also tailor-make a half-hour workout for clients to do at home. On the fitness side, there are daily classes including water gym and aerobics, indoor and outdoor tennis courts and, on the doorstep, some of the most beautiful walks in the Alps, as well as skiing at nearby Grindelwald in season. There are also Clarins wraps, body treatments and facials in a new, all-white clinic where the therapists are confident enough to go 'off-menu' to work specific areas of concern. The food is excellent, from the gourmet spa menu in the main dining room to the buffet-style Italian salads in the restaurant flanking the spa. The hotel has an inclusive attitude towards children, providing a daily crèche next to the spa and a dedicated 'Splash Hour' in the pool. This makes the Victoria-Jungfrau a good choice for families. CONTACT Victoria-Jungfrau Grand Hotel & Spa, Höheweg 41, 3800 Interlaken, Switzerland (00 41 33 828 2828; fax: 828 2880; www.victoria-jungfrau.ch). Doubles from about £242. Massages from about £27; facials from about £50. Three-night packages from about £650 per person (based on two sharing). All prices correct at time of going to press. GETTING THERE easyJet (0870 600 0000; www.easyjet.com) flies to Zürich several times daily from Luton and Gatwick from £50 return. It's just over two hours by train from the airport