Dura lex, sed lex

Legal Notice

Company Information

  • Company Name: Grand Hotel & Kurhaus Arolla SA
  • Legal Form: Public Limited Company
  • Full Address: Route de la Forêt 6 - 1986 Arolla
  • Phone Number: +41 27 283 70 00
  • Contact Email Address: reception@ghk-arolla.com
  • Name of Publication Manager(s): Camille Agostini

Liability Disclaimer

We disclaim all liability for the content of external websites to which we provide links. These links are provided solely for the convenience of our visitors. The content of these external websites is the sole responsibility of their respective owners. Although we make every effort to verify the content of external links, we accept no responsibility for their accuracy, legality, or completeness.


General Terms and Conditions of Sale

1. BASIC PRINCIPLES

These General Terms and Conditions of Sale (GTCS) govern the legal relationship between the guest/client, hereinafter referred to as the guest, and the company Grand Hotel & Kurhaus Arolla SA, hereinafter referred to as the hotel. For the sake of simplicity, the term “contract” is used throughout these GTCS—regardless of the specific service involved. Only the hotel’s GTCS in force at the time the contract is concluded shall apply. The guest’s own general terms and conditions shall only apply if expressly agreed upon in writing prior to the contract’s conclusion. If any provision of these GTCS is found to be null or invalid, the validity of the remaining provisions and the contract itself shall not be affected. In all other respects, statutory provisions shall apply.

2. PLACE OF JURISDICTION / APPLICABLE LAW

Any disputes arising from this contract shall be subject to the jurisdiction of the company’s registered office, currently located in Evolène, unless another legally binding jurisdiction exists. Swiss law shall exclusively apply to all contracts, booking agreements, possible supplementary agreements, and these general terms and conditions. The place of performance and payment is the hotel’s registered office.

3. DEFINITIONS

  • Groups: In the context of these GTCS, groups refer to travel parties reserving a minimum of 5 rooms.
  • Written Confirmations: Messages sent by post, social media messaging services, email, or automatic email replies are considered written confirmations.

The contractual parties are the client and the hotel.

4. SUBJECT OF THE CONTRACT / SCOPE OF APPLICATION

The contract for the rental of rooms, seminar rooms, spaces, as well as the purchase of other services and deliveries is concluded upon the guest’s written confirmation or implicitly. A reservation made on the same day as the arrival is binding upon acceptance by the hotel. Any changes to the contract are binding on the hotel only after written reconfirmation. Unilateral changes or additions to the contract by the client shall have no effect. Subletting or further renting of the rooms provided, as well as using them for purposes other than accommodation, requires the hotel’s prior written consent.

5. SCOPE OF SERVICES

The scope of the contract’s services is determined by the individual reservation made and confirmed by the hotel. Unless otherwise contractually agreed, the guest is not entitled to a specific room. If, despite a confirmed reservation, no room is available at the hotel, the hotel must inform the guest in good time and offer an equivalent replacement in a geographically close hotel of comparable or higher category. Any additional costs for the replacement accommodation are borne by the hotel. If the guest refuses the replacement room, the hotel must immediately reimburse any services already paid by the guest (e.g., deposits). The guest may not claim any further rights.

6. DURATION OF USE

Unless otherwise agreed, the guest has the right to use the rented premises from 4:00 p.m. on the agreed day of arrival until 11:00 a.m. on the day of departure. In case of arrival after 7:00 p.m., the hotel must be informed by phone or in writing no later than 7:00 p.m. on the day of arrival. If the guest vacates the room late by an hour or more, the hotel may charge up to 100% of the room’s daily rate (as shown on the hotel’s website) for use beyond the agreed contract period. This does not entitle the guest to continued use of the room; any claim for damages remains reserved. In the event of a late check-out, the hotel reserves the right to remove the guest’s belongings and store them at a suitable location within the hotel at a cost.

7. PRICES / PAYMENT OBLIGATION

Prices quoted by the hotel are in Swiss francs (CHF) and include statutory VAT and other taxes. Tourist taxes are only included if explicitly mentioned. The guest is obliged to pay the agreed or applicable prices for the room and any other services used. This also applies to services ordered by companions or visitors. Any tax increases after the conclusion of the contract are borne by the guest. Foreign currency prices are indicative and invoiced at the daily exchange rate. Valid prices are those confirmed by the hotel. The hotel may adjust prices if the guest requests changes in the number of rooms, hotel services, or duration of stay. Depending on the agreement, the hotel may request a deposit (50–100% of the total reservation amount) by bank transfer, credit card, cash, or online payment system. The deposit is a partial payment toward the agreed fee. Alternatively, the hotel may require a valid credit card guarantee. Payment deadlines are stated in the booking confirmation. Transfer fees are borne by the payer. For non-refundable (discounted) rates, the total amount is charged to the credit card at the time of booking. These reservations are non-refundable and cannot be modified. In the event of non-payment or failure to provide a credit card guarantee within the stipulated time, the hotel may cancel the contract (including all service promises) without notice and claim cancellation fees as outlined in section 9. The hotel may issue an interim or final invoice at any time. The final invoice includes the agreed price plus any additional services used by the guest or accompanying persons. Unless otherwise agreed, the invoice must be paid at check-out, in Swiss francs, euros, cash, or accepted credit card. A reminder fee of CHF 20 and a 5% interest on late payments apply. Set-off claims against the hotel are excluded.

8. CANCELLATION BY THE HOTEL

The hotel may cancel the contract free of charge up to 1 day before the guest’s scheduled arrival. Additionally, the hotel may cancel the contract at any time for objectively justified reasons, effective immediately, in writing. Such reasons include:

  • agreed prepayment or guarantee not provided within the set deadline;
  • force majeure or other circumstances beyond the hotel’s control that make it objectively impossible to fulfill the contract;
  • misleading or incorrect information during booking (e.g., regarding the person or purpose of stay);
  • justified concern that the stay could endanger hotel operations, other guests’ safety, or the hotel’s reputation;
  • the guest becomes insolvent or ceases payment;
  • the purpose or reason for the stay is unlawful.

In such cases, the guest is not entitled to compensation, and fees for reserved services remain due.

9. CANCELLATION OF RESERVATION / CANCELLATION FEES

These conditions apply to bookings made directly with the hotel or via its website. Third-party platforms may have their own policies.

a) Cancellation

Cancellation requires written approval from the hotel. Without such approval, the agreed price is still due even if the guest does not use the services. For “no-shows”, 100% of the reserved services are charged. The date the hotel receives the written cancellation is decisive. This applies to both letters and emails. If the guest withdraws from the contract without approval or changes/cancels part of the reservation, the hotel may charge the following cancellation fees. Cancellation insurance is recommended.

b) Cancellation fees

INDIVIDUAL BOOKINGS

Standard winter policy:

  • More than 5 days before arrival: free of charge
  • From 5 days before arrival: 100% of the agreed arrangement
  • No-shows and early departures: full amount charged

Standard summer policy:

  • More than 5 days before arrival: free of charge
  • From 5 days before arrival: 100% of the agreed arrangement
  • No-shows and early departures: full amount charged
GROUP BOOKINGS (5+ rooms)
  • More than 30 days before arrival: free of charge
  • From 30 days before arrival: 100% of the agreed arrangement
  • No-shows and early departures: full amount charged
  • Special terms apply to exclusive rentals and peak seasons like Christmas/New Year
NON-REFUNDABLE BOOKINGS

These are not refundable. Full amount is charged at the time of booking. No changes or refund of the deposit are possible.

SEMINARS (without lodging)
  • More than 15 days before: free of charge
  • More than 10 days before: 50% of agreed services
  • From 10 days before: 100% of agreed services

Special terms apply to weddings, Christmas meals, and exclusive rentals.

10. IMPOSSIBILITY OF ARRIVAL

If arrival is impossible due to force majeure (e.g., flood, avalanche, earthquake, road closure), the guest is not obliged to pay for missed days. If roads remain officially open, bad weather does not qualify as force majeure. In such cases, no refund or cancellation rights apply, and the full amount remains due. Guests must provide proof of the impossibility of arrival. Payment obligations resume as soon as arrival becomes possible. Non-refundable payments are not affected by this rule.

11. EARLY DEPARTURE

If the guest leaves before the end of the stay, the hotel may charge 100% of the reserved services.

12. STAY / KEYS / SAFETY / INTERNET / SMOKING

The hotel room is exclusively for the registered guest. Third-party or additional use requires written approval. By booking, the guest gains the right to use the rented rooms and hotel facilities normally accessible to guests. Use must comply with hotel policies. The room key remains hotel property and grants access. Lost keys must be reported immediately. Lost or damaged keys incur a CHF 90.00 charge. Internet access requires a valid email address and is free for guests. Guests are responsible for their credentials and liable for misuse or illegal activity. Smoking is prohibited in all hotel areas. A cleaning fee of CHF 200.00 applies per violation.

13. EXTENSION OF STAY

Unless otherwise agreed, guests have no right to extend their stay. If exceptional, unforeseeable events (e.g., extreme snowfall, flooding) prevent departure, the contract may be extended under the same terms, subject to room availability.

14. ADDITIONAL TERMS FOR GROUPS

Group rates apply only if agreed in advance and confirmed in writing. The final number of group participants (including name list) must be communicated at least 15 days before arrival. In case of cancellation or reduction, section 9 cancellation fees apply. Additional persons are charged according to the agreement.

15. HALF-BOARD

Half-board can only be booked in combination with accommodation for the entire stay. Unused meals are not refunded.

16. EVENTS

If the hotel obtains technical or other equipment for the guest from third parties, it does so on behalf of the guest. The guest is responsible for proper use and return of such equipment. The hotel is released from any third-party claims. Use of the guest’s own electrical devices on the hotel’s power network requires prior written permission. Any damage is the guest’s responsibility. Electricity costs may be recorded and charged. The guest may use their own telecommunication devices with hotel approval; fees may apply. The hotel remedies technical faults as soon as possible when notified. If not at fault, no claim for reduced payment arises. The guest must obtain any necessary public permits for events and comply with regulations. Fines for violations are the guest’s responsibility. Guests are also responsible for licensing and reporting requirements to institutions like SUISA for music and audio broadcasting.

17. ITEMS BROUGHT BY THE GUEST

DURING AN EVENT

Items brought in (exhibits, personal belongings) are stored at the guest’s risk. The hotel is not liable unless for gross negligence or intent. Decorations must comply with fire safety regulations, and proof may be required. Set-up must be pre-approved. Items must be removed immediately after the event; otherwise, storage/removal fees apply. Disposal of packaging waste is the guest’s responsibility. If left, the hotel may dispose of it at the guest’s cost.

DURING A NORMAL STAY

Packaging or excessive waste left behind must be removed by the guest. If not, the hotel may dispose of it at the guest’s cost.

18. ACTIONS, USAGE, AND LIABILITY

a) Hotel

The hotel limits liability for minor and moderate negligence and is only liable for intentional or grossly negligent damage. Defects must be reported immediately to claim remedies or compensation. The hotel is liable for items brought by guests up to CHF 1,000. Items must be in-room to qualify. Valuables, cash, and securities not deposited at reception are excluded from liability. Safe deposit use is recommended. Unreported damage forfeits the right to claim. The hotel is not liable for services merely arranged on the guest’s behalf. The hotel declines liability for theft or damage caused by third parties.

b) Guest

The guest is liable for any damage caused by themselves, accompanying persons, pets, assistants, or event participants—no proof of fault is required by the hotel. The guest is responsible for proper use and return of equipment provided by or through the hotel. They are liable for third-party expenses incurred by the hotel. Use of spa, relaxation areas, and game rooms is at the guest’s risk. Parents are always responsible for supervising their children. The hotel assumes no liability. Damages or disruptions to hotel facilities are at the guest’s expense and may be charged after the stay or directly debited from the registered credit card. The same applies to theft or unintentional removal of hotel items (e.g., robes, towels, decorations, devices).

Data Protection Statement

Introduction

The protection of your personal data is a priority for us. This data protection statement explains how we collect, use, share, and protect the personal information you provide to us, in accordance with applicable laws and regulations.

Data Controller

Director Camille Agostini, holder of the operating license, is the data controller for Grand Hôtel & Kurhaus SA under this statement, unless otherwise specified in specific cases via supplementary statements, forms, or contracts.

Data Collected

We may collect and process the following types of personal data:

  • Contact information: name, address, phone number, email address.
  • Booking information: details of your reservation, service preferences, etc.
  • Payment data: information necessary for payment transactions.
  • Browsing information: data automatically collected when you visit our website, such as IP address, browser type, and pages visited.
  • Communications: any correspondence with us, including emails, contact forms, and other interactions.

Use of Data

The data collected is used for the following purposes:

  • Reservation processing and service delivery (e.g., managing restaurant or hotel bookings).
  • Communication: to contact you regarding information about your booking or to respond to your inquiries.
  • Marketing: if you have consented to receive marketing communications, we may use your information to send you promotions and special offers.
  • Service improvement: to enhance our services by analyzing collected data.
  • Legal compliance: to comply with applicable laws and legal obligations.

Data Sharing

We are committed not to sell, trade, or share your personal information with unaffiliated third parties, except in the following situations:

  • Service providers: we share your data with external service providers only to the extent necessary to deliver our services (e.g., for payments).
  • Legal compliance: when required by law or in response to legal proceedings, regulatory requests, or investigations.
  • Rights protection: when necessary to protect the rights, safety, and property of our business, our customers, or the public.

Data Retention

We retain your personal data for as long as necessary to fulfill the purposes for which it was collected or to comply with our legal obligations. After this period, we delete your data in accordance with applicable laws.

Your Rights

You have the following rights concerning your personal data:

  • Access: you may request access to the personal data we hold about you.
  • Rectification: you have the right to correct inaccurate or incomplete information.
  • Deletion: in certain cases, you may request the deletion of your data.
  • Objection: you may object to the use of your data for certain purposes, such as direct marketing.
  • Data portability: you may request a copy of your data in a structured format.
  • To exercise these rights, please contact us using the details provided below.

Data Security

We implement appropriate technical and organizational measures to protect your data against loss, misuse, unauthorized access, disclosure, and alteration. However, no data transmission or storage system can be guaranteed to be entirely secure, and we cannot ensure absolute security.

Changes to the Data Protection Statement

We may update this data protection statement to reflect changes in our practices or applicable regulations. The most recent version will always be available on our website. We encourage you to review this statement regularly.

Contact

For any questions or requests regarding this data protection statement, or to exercise your rights, please contact:

  • Company Name: Grand Hôtel & Kurhaus SA
  • Responsible Person: Camille Agostini
  • Address: Route de la Forêt 6, 1986 Arolla, Valais - Switzerland
  • Phone: +41 27 283 70 00
  • Email: reception@ghk-arolla.com

This site is RGPD compliant, CCPA compliant

  • We respect your privacy.
  • We do not collect or store any personal information (except, of course, your reservation information) during your browsing.
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  • We do not pass on or sell any information.

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