Switzerland

Holidays in Historic Buildings – Saving Swiss heritage Across Switzerland, many historic houses sit quietly on village streets and in mountain valleys. They are part of the landscape, but when they stand empty, they start to fade. Ferien im Baudenkmal (Holidays in Historical Buildings) steps in before that happens. Since 2005, the foundation has taken over abandoned buildings, restored them with care, and opened their doors again as holiday homes. A stay here begins with a small surprise: travellers are not looking at heritage; they are living in it. Each house has its own unique character, featuring wooden steps, thick walls, and handcrafted details. It feels slower and more real than a standard hotel. And it is still comfortable. Modern kitchens and bathrooms are added quietly, so history remains the main character. This is also a project about people. Restoration work is carried out with local architects and craftspeople, keeping traditional know-how alive and supporting regional jobs. The guiding idea is simple: keep what exists and make it work for today. That means fewer new materials, less waste, and more places saved. Travellers make this possible. Their bookings cover the cost of day-to-day care. Donations support the bigger restorations. Each stay elevates tourism’s positive impact: protecting heritage, supporting local communities, and preserving Switzerland’s architectural stories.