The bookshop Librairie des Alpages in Saanen is the result of Vera Michalski Hoffmann’s desire to offer French and English literature as well as select volumes in art, music and photography.

Librairie des Alpages is a small but cosy space, this new bookshop along the main road between Early bakery and 16eme. A single armchair facing the fireplace decorated with flowers bids visitors to stay for a while. It wouldn’t take very long to sift through the shelves, but the choice selection lets customers stop and look, think and marvel…

Vera Michalski Hoffmann confirms without hesitation that this bookshop is a matter that is near to her heart. She wanted to fill a gap in Saanenland, where she spotted a demand for French and English books. Of course, there are touchpoints with other projects of hers: some books on the shelves, like the lyrics of Paul McCartney and the latest oeuvre by Ai Wei Wei, were published in her own publishing houses, for example.

But there is also a children’s section, books about Switzerland (who would not want a Toblerone Cookbook in their kitchen?!) and contemporary literature in both languages. It was a pleasure to choose and select, said the shop manager Catherine Diop, but it also had its challenges due to the restrictions in terms of space, she admitted.

After a soft opening in February, there will be an official event in summer. Michalski Hoffmann also plans to host author readings, which she deems vital to fill a bookshop with life.

MARKUS ISELI