Our history

The foundation was established in 1973 by the Zurich Youth Hostels Association. As a result, the properties were removed from the unpredictable influence of the general assembly, while operations remained in the hands of the Zurich association. One of our key tasks remained to strengthen the collaboration between the 13 youth hostel organisations at the time and to drive forward a nationwide merger.

In 1992, the time had come: Most of the district associations merged to form the Swiss Youth Hostels Association. A further 18 properties were transferred to our foundation. This laid the groundwork for professional property and asset management. 

We set standards early on: In 1993, a team of experts defined our guidelines for the construction of modern youth hostels in the “Bauhandbuch 2005” (Construction Manual 2005). The focus is on regional architecture, modern design and a mindful approach to the environment.

We are celebrating our 50th anniversary at Fällanden Youth Hostel, where it all began five decades ago. A special moment to look back together and say thank you to everyone involved.

The guidelines developed as part of the merger have proved their worth to this day and continue to evolve. The strategic objectives for 2024–2027 strengthen our focus on sustainability and regional partnerships. This is also reflected in the upcoming major projects in Engelberg, Geneva and Pontresina, creating added value for the local population and guests alike through strong local partnerships and forward-looking development of construction and services.

Opened in 1937, Fällanden Youth Hostel belongs to the first generation of youth hostels: This era was characterised by group camps, strict gender separation and a location in the middle of nature. The building designed by architect Emil Roth is considered an important work of classical modernism. Thanks to an adapted operating concept and continuous maintenance, we have been able to maintain the youth hostel in its original form to this day. 

It was followed in 1965 by Zurich-Wollishofen Youth Hostel – a flagship for international youth tourism. The youth hostel sets new standards in terms of recreation rooms, room configurations, gender separation and consideration for operational requirements of a large-scale business. Following its opening, it quickly became a model youth hostel worldwide.

When renovating and expanding Grindelwald Youth Hostel in 1996, we implemented the guiding principles defined in the “Bauhandbuch 2005” for the first time. Comfort, privacy and the design of communal and sleeping areas were at the centre: a clear step towards a modern youth hostel. 

We held a regional architectural competition for Scuol Youth Hostel and set new standards in terms of environmental compatibility. The building meets the Minergie-Eco standard, uses local and ecological materials and runs on a heat pump, heat recovery system and solar panels. The project’s pioneering role is underscored by the close collaboration with the regional farmers’ association and backed by several prestigious awards. 

Opened in 2014, wellnessHostel4000 in Saas-Fee is the world’s first hostel with its own wellness area and indoor swimming pool. The project was only possible thanks to the partnership with the civic community of Saas-Fee. The five-storey timber construction in accordance with the Minergie-Eco standard, powered by solar district heating and photovoltaics, has won multiple awards and is considered a flagship project for sustainable building in the Alps.