A Swiss property developer has unveiled plans to construct what is billed as the world's largest private ski chalet in the Alps, with an eye-watering annual rental price tag of £11 million to £13 million.
The Alpine Megaproject: Chalet Oberbort
The colossal project, named Chalet Oberbort, is the vision of Swiss entrepreneur and billionaire investor Byron Baciocchi. His property investment firm, Unica Capital, is developing the 7,000 square-metre complex in the exclusive resort of Gstaad, Switzerland. The build is scheduled for completion in 2028.
This is not merely a large holiday home. Mr Baciocchi describes it as an architectural endeavour to evoke a sense of "quiet majesty." He stated, "It's a space where architectural form, emotional atmosphere and material integrity come together. It reflects our belief that true luxury is how a space makes you feel – not just what it contains."
Unparalleled Amenities and Wellness
The chalet's standout feature will be a sprawling 1,500 square metre 'wellness sanctuary'. This dedicated area will house dual thermal pools, a Middle Eastern-style hammam steam room, an alpine sauna, snow showers, and a cold plunge pool.
For entertainment, a separate wing will include a private cinema, a Formula 1 simulator, a dance floor, a bowling alley, a wine cellar, a cigar lounge, and a dedicated ski room. The accommodation comprises 11 en-suite bedrooms with walk-in wardrobes, supported by a further eight staff bedrooms.
Location and Developer Profile
Chalet Oberbort will enjoy prime positioning within easy reach of the Gstaad Mountain Rides ski area, private airfields, Michelin-starred restaurants, luxury boutiques, and international schools.
Byron Baciocchi, who founded his first construction company at age 21, established Unica Capital in 2021. The firm has since amassed a property portfolio worth approximately £630 million, including assets in London's Soho and Mayfair. Beyond Gstaad, he is developing luxury properties in Geneva and Crans-Montana. Mr Baciocchi's partner is Czech model Krystyna Pyszková, the Miss World 2023 winner.
Context: The Allure of Alpine Skiing
This announcement coincides with Val Thorens in France being crowned the World's Best Ski Resort 2025 by the World Ski Awards for the third consecutive year. Located at 2,300 metres, it is Europe's highest ski resort and part of the vast Three Valleys ski area.
Val Thorens, just a two-hour flight from the UK, has also seen significant investment, including a new panoramic restaurant and the upcoming return of the upgraded Cime Caron cable car for the 2025/2026 season. This underscores the continuous premium development and competition within top European ski destinations, a market Chalet Oberbort is poised to dominate at the very highest end.
