Step into the frost-kissed splendor of the Swiss Alps with Winter Palace (2025), a lavish historical drama that chronicles the birth of luxury winter tourism. Set in 1899 and inspired by true events, this eight-episode series blends ambition, romance, and grit as visionary hotelier André Morel battles the elements—and societal norms—to open the first-ever winter luxury hotel. Premiering February 13, 2025, on Netflix, Winter Palace promises a captivating mix of period grandeur and modern flair.
Plot: A Vision Against the Odds
In 1899, Swiss hotelier André Morel (Cyril Metzger) dares to dream of a revolutionary concept: a five-star hotel open year-round in the Swiss Alps. With the advent of electricity, he convinces English aristocrat Lord Fairfax (Simon Ludders) to fund his ambitious project. Together, they navigate relentless challenges—harsh winters, rebellious staff, and high-society guests with impossible demands.
As Morel’s wife Rose (Manon Clavel) navigates her own struggles, the hotel becomes a stage for hidden desires, class clashes, and personal triumphs. From untrained staff to blizzards threatening construction, Winter Palace weaves a tale of perseverance, innovation, and the birth of the “White-Winter” holiday era.
Key Details at a Glance
- Release Date: February 13, 2025 (Netflix) | RTS/Play Suisse Premiere: December 26, 2024
- Season: 1
- Episodes: 8
- Genres: Drama, History
- Languages: French, English (with subtitles)
- Countries: Switzerland, France
- Filming Locations: Valais, Switzerland
- Also Known As: Winter Palace Series 1, Winter Palace Season 1
The Creative Team Behind the Series
- Creators: Lindsay Shapero (The Bonfire of Destiny)
- Writers: Lindsay Shapero & Stéphane Mitchell
- Directors: Pierre Monnard & Christine Wiederkehr
- Production: A France-Switzerland co-production, blending historical authenticity with contemporary storytelling.
Meet the Cast: Who’s Who
Leading Roles:
- Cyril Metzger as André Morel – The tenacious hotelier determined to defy tradition.
- Manon Clavel as Rose Morel – André’s wife, balancing loyalty and her own ambitions.
- Simon Ludders as Lord Fairfax – The English aristocrat funding the risky venture.
- Astrid Roos as Isobel Fairfax – Lord Fairfax’s sharp-witted daughter.
- Clive Standen as Lance Raney – A charismatic guest with secrets.
Notable Supporting Cast:
- Vincent Heneine as Chef César Voclain – The temperamental head chef.
- Astrid Whettnall as Frau Roth – A demanding guest testing the hotel’s limits.
- Henry Pettigrew as Sir Conan Doyle – The famed author makes a cameo.
This ensemble brings depth to a story of ambition, class, and innovation.
Why Winter Palace Stands Out
- Historical Inspiration: Chronicles the real-life origins of Alpine winter tourism.
- Modern Twist: Period drama meets contemporary music and pacing.
- Global Collaboration: A Swiss-French production filmed against Valais’ stunning backdrops.
Release Details
Winter Palace first airs on RTS and Play Suisse starting December 26, 2024, at 8:55 PM CET for seven weeks. The series then debuts globally on Netflix on February 13, 2025, with all eight episodes available for streaming.
FAQ
1. Where to watch Winter Palace online?
Stream globally on Netflix starting February 13, 2025. Swiss viewers can catch it earlier on RTS/Play Suisse.
2. What is Winter Palace about?
A 19th-century hotelier’s quest to open the first luxury winter hotel in the Swiss Alps, battling weather, staff, and elite guests.
3. What time does Winter Palace Season 1 air?
- RTS/Play Suisse: 8:55 PM CET (weekly from December 26, 2024).
- Netflix: Available from 12:00 AM PT on February 13, 2025.
4. Will there be a Season 2 of Winter Palace?
No. The series is billed as a limited eight-episode event.
