The year was 1899. A scant nineteen years after the creation of the first automobile by Karl Friedrich Benz, innovative German automaker Adam Opel began production of their first automobile. In the new world, Cuba stepped out from under the shadow of Spanish rule, taking its first tentative steps towards independence. To the north, Queens and Staten Island merged with New York City and later in the year, the Bronx Zoo made its world debut.

In Zurich, Switzerland, the Dolder Grand Hotel & Curhaus opened to the public amid rave reviews. Constructed in the Swiss rustic style popular during this era, the castle in the woods played host for more than a century. By 2001, it had begun to show its age and plans were put in motion to re-create the masterpiece for a new generation of guests.  

The completion in 2008 of The Dolder Grand represents the most expensive hotel restoration project in the history of Switzerland. A four year transformation of the original health spa, the new luxury-class city resort features 173 elegant single and double rooms plus suites showcased in a picturesque setting just minutes from downtown Zurich. This is truly a classic fairytale ending for a Swiss vacation icon.

The 2009 Passat CC is in many ways the renaissance of an equally historic Volkswagen automobile.

A rakish sedan disguised as a 4-door coupe, it features a complete array of technical goodies suitable for even the most exclusive palate. Though some may cite Volkswagen as being fairly staid in their design philosophy, the Passat CC rips away any pre-conceived notions and steps forward with handsome good looks and some serious drivability.

As is often the case when driving in Europe, our vehicle for this destination was equipped with a 6-speed manual transmission. Smooth and fun to shift, it reminded me why I still enjoy driving and changing gears whenever possible. A quickly dying tradition in North America, the road ahead is sure to be filled with various forms of automatic transmissions as our preferred method of transport.

Mated to a slick 2.0L turbocharged in-line 4-cylinder engine, the entry level 2009 Volkswagen Passat CC produces 200 horsepower between 5,100-6,000 rpm and 207 lb.-ft. of torque from 1,700-5,000 rpm.

Power builds progressively as you step on the gas pedal. The sense of turbo-power under the hood is obvious, but the characteristic whoop and lag are much more removed than in other cars. Maintaining high speeds, a necessity when driving on the generally free-flowing highways in Europe, is easy. Fuel mileage is very good; the benefits of a 4-cylinder engine and manual transmission becoming obvious during our time in Zurich.

Arriving at the hotel, there was a tangible slowing down effect that occurred the moment we entered the main foyer of The Dolder Grand. High ceilings and character features from a bygone era greet your arrival in Stone Hall. Step away in any direction from the main entrance and you find yourself instantly transported to a lavish world of elegance and technology.

The innovative steel framed and tinted glass Spa Wing and Golf Wing gently enfold the original building. In a nod to the past, six bedrooms were carefully restored in the main building to their original state. Two newly created lower floors provide access to dining and the spa.

Glass elevators deliver guests to The Dolder Grand Spa. At 4,000 sq. meters, it offers incomparable facilities and a full menu of treatments. Created by renowned spa designer Sylvia Sepielli, her work of genius incorporates both European and Japanese influences.

Panoramic views draw eyes outward from the glassed-in pool. On the deck, time can be spent in one of several infinity edge whirlpools or simply enjoying a nap in a nearby chaise lounge chair.

Casual dining is featured at the spa and The Garden Restaurant throughout the day. The aptly named, The Restaurant, offers fine dining during the afternoon and evening. Late in the day, a tucked away main floor bar with Swarovski crystal ceiling and outside terrace offers the perfect setting to party Swiss style.        
      
Zurich, Switzerland is famous as the financial hub of this affluent country, but it also showcased several of the finest roads on which to stretch the muscles of the new Passat CC. Point the car in any direction from the main entrance of the hotel and tight, twisty two-lane roads dominate the landscape.

Equipped with power assist electromechanical steering, McPherson strut front and independent rear suspension, plus excellent 4-wheel disc brakes with ABS, the Passat CC impresses. Even though pushed to the brink, the turbo 4-cylinder never ran short of breath.

Arriving back at The Dolder Grand, there was time enough to throw on a swimsuit and rush back to the pool. With awe-inspiring views from the outdoor whirlpool area, it seemed unreasonable to ignore a fiery orange and red sunset as it slowly descended toward Zurich. Though it may appear somewhat old fashioned to say, sometimes the best things in life are free after all.      
Where to Stay:

The Dolder Grand
Kurhausstrasse 65
8032 Zürich, Switzerland
www.thedoldergrand.com

Year/Make/Model: 2009 Volkswagen Passat CC
As Tested, (before taxes): $34,735
Configuration: front engine/front-wheel drive
Options: Panorama Vent Roof
Engine/Transmission: 2.0-L TSI/6-speed Manual
Power/Torque: 200 hp/207 lb.-ft
Fuel economy ratings city/hwy: 10.0/6.6 L/100 km
Observed fuel economy: 8.9 L/100 km
Competitors: Acura TSX, Audi A4, BMW 3-Series, Pontiac G8, Volvo S40