At 344 feet, the 31-story Basler Messeturm (Trade Fair Tower) is the tallest building in all of Switzerland. Completed in 2003, the glass-sheathed leviathan in shimmering aquamarine appears to rise from the Rhine. And while it might seem incongruous to those who know Ramada Inn from its stateside locales, the hotel chain runs a four-star, 224-room hotel in the Messe Tower.
Hotel Ramada Plaza Basel was completely refurbished in 2011 – and the 224-ensuite bedrooms (199 of them non-smoking) are more stylish than ever. Rooms are available in four categories, all with free internet.
Sleek Italian chairs complement a classic contemporary desk – and the bathrooms are as futuristic as “Barbarella” and “Sleeper,” complete with under-floor lighting that brings Tony Manero to mind.
The most obvious attribute, of course, is the stunning view through the floor-to-ceiling windows. Blinds are available but who would want to block out these views – and especially at night when Basel becomes a glittering urbanscape of flickering light.
View of Messe Tower on Basel skyline (Source: MRNY)
A sumptuous breakfast buffet is served in an all-white dining room with views onto the Messeplatz (Exhibition Square). There’s something soothing about taking breakfast in this monochromatic room, the sun pouring in through the floor-to-ceiling windows, and where the only color is provided by a single calla lily atop the tables – and the ties of the power brokers who are fortifying themselves for another IPO.
Messe Tower is also an office building and the hotel provides extensive complimentary leisure facilities, including a Finnish sauna, aromatherapy steam room, solarium, and gym. A streetcar station is located directly in front of the tower.
There’s also the 30th-floor Sky Lounge, an idyllic pinnacle atop the world, which might be perfect for romantic proposals – or merely afternoon tea on the weekends.
Most thoughtful gesture? A ribboned box of the local confectionery specialty, Basler Lackerli, awaiting in one’s room. This spicy confection made of honey, hazelnuts, candied fruit peels, and Kirsch was just perfect for munching in bed while admiring the vista.
If this is life in an aquarium, we’ll take it.
LINK: Hotel Ramada Plaza Basel
