For almost as long as I’ve written about tennis vacations, I have dreamed of taking part in one of the Roy Emerson Tennis Weeks at the Gstaad Palace in Switzerland. Every summer for more than 40 years, this legendary winner of 12 Grand Slam singles titles and 16 Grand Slam doubles titles has taken up residence on the red-clay courts at this historic luxury hotel, dispensing tennis wisdom and tales from the tour to an assembled group of tennis enthusiasts from all over the world.
It’s not hard to appreciate why this was on my bucket list. Who wouldn’t want to spend a week with one of the greatest tennis players ever? However there was something more: opportunities like this are becoming increasingly rare. It is unthinkable that any of this generation’s crop of Grand Slam title-holders will ever devote whole weeks to teaching and entertaining hackers after they leave the tour. Once Emerson retires—and at age 86 with bad knees, he will eventually—there is no one with anything remotely like his tennis accomplishments waiting in the wings to take his place.
Beyond Emerson himself, part of the allure of these tennis weeks is their location in Europe. After an overnight flight to Geneva, I boarded a train at the airport for the scenic two-plus hour ride, first climbing above the vineyards lining Lake Geneva and then, after changing trains at Montreux, ascending into the Alps and eventually pulling into the station at Gstaad. From there, I could look up and see the turreted Gstaad Palace perched on a hillside above, my home for the next week.
As one of the Leading Hotels in the World, the 150-room Gstaad Palace seamlessly combines elegance and authenticity. It dates to 1913 but more importantly it has been managed since 1938 (and owned since 1947) by the Scherz family. The service is unfailingly gracious and professional, from the bellman who picks you up at the train station to the waiters in the dining room. Recent renovations have kept the rooms—each seemingly a little different—thoroughly up to date. And the creature comforts continue with an indoor and outdoor swimming pool, spa, fitness center, and array of upscale shops.
Emerson’s weeklong program, which runs five hours a day in a setting at 3,000 feet, may seem more rigorous than you’d expect to find at a luxury hotel in the Swiss Alps. Yet he has developed an extraordinarily loyal international following, some of whom come if not every year then every few years. The appeal may begin on the courts; however, because the campers, Emerson, his wife Joy, and several of the pros have many of their meals together (most dining is included in the package price), a genuine camaraderie develops, spurred on by the Emersons’ wealth of stories (they met when, according to Roy, he ball-boyed for one of her matches and was smitten) from the days when Aussie players were legendary for their work ethic, rigorous training, and booze-fueled partying, though Emerson himself no longer drinks.
Camps sizes vary from 15 – 40 (he has access to other courts in town if necessary). Divided into groups of three or four by level, we spent every morning and afternoon working on technique, doing drills, and playing doubles with members of his accomplished staff. Emerson himself roamed from court to court, ensuring that each participant benefited from his expertise and encouragement. When I lost concentration in the middle of a doubles point, he was quick to poke fun, saying, “Try to do your sleeping at night.”
Midweek, the routine is pleasantly interrupted as everyone embarks on a picnic at Ruedi and Helen Wehren’s farm in the Alps, where everyone dines on a sumptuous lunch catered by the Palace chef, complemented by the Wehrens’ raclette and Alp cheeses. Another highlight is the evening when Emmo gathers everyone for dinner at a traditional Swiss restaurant.
The holiday comes to an end all too quickly. On the final evening, everyone gathers for a farewell dinner, culminating in a sing-along with Roy as he performs “Waltzing Matilda.” It is a fitting conclusion to an invigorating and harmonious week.
Emerson’s weeklong program, which runs five hours a day in a setting at 3,000 feet, may seem more rigorous than you’d expect to find at a luxury hotel in the Swiss Alps. Yet he has developed an extraordinarily loyal international following, some of whom come if not every year then every few years.
Camps sizes vary from 15 to 40 (he has access to other courts in town if necessary). Divided into groups of three or four by level, we spent every morning and afternoon working on technique, doing drills, and playing doubles with members of his accomplished staff.
Off Court
There's an indoor/outdoor swimming pool, spa, fitness center, and array of upscale shops.
Accommodations
The 150-room Gstaad Palace manages to be at once elegant and unpretentious. It dates to 1913 but more importantly it has been managed since 1938 (and owned since 1947) by the Scherz family. The service is unfailingly gracious and professional, from the bellman who picks you up at the train station to the waiters in the dining room. Recent renovations have kept the rooms—each seemingly a little different—thoroughly up to date.
The prices for the Emerson weeks include lodging for six nights, instruction, all meals, one massage, use of the swimming pool and gymnasium, and taxes. The camp fills up quickly, but the Emersons keep a waiting list.
Getting there
Seasons: June-September
Travel Instructions: The nearest airports are Geneva Airport (GVA) in Geneva, which is 2 hours away by car and 3 by train, and Zurich Airport (ZRH) in Zurich, which is 2½ hours by car and 3 hours on the fastest train though 3¾ is more typical.
125 Reviews on “Gstaad Palace - Roy Emerson Tennis Weeks”
Excellent
5
125 reviews
PH
This is the most fabulous tennis camp ever as I can only repeat as a long time returnee. First of all the magnificent setting of the superb Palace Hotel in the Bernois mountains of Switzerland is second to nothing. The pro team, the tennis session and above all Roy Emerson’s professional and encouraging advice all put your game on the right track. At the end of the week, typically on Friday night at the farewell dinner you make a firm decision to come back next year.
RB
I can’t say enough wonderful things about the Roy Emerson Tennis Weeks. It is undoubtedly the best camp in the world and has been for many years! We just attended for the fifth time in 2023. The best experience yet! They have the best – expert pros, tennis courts and facilities, spa, grand 5 star Swiss hotel ambience and cuisine, fun doubles, special activities, mountain setting and, of course, the best host and coach – Roy Emerson who puts everyone at ease and makes them feel like a member of the tennis family. We always look forward to returning again and again and again.
CM
Outstanding tennis clinics, round robins, match play, and one on one drills. Great for the whole family.
JG
It’s difficult to describe this experience in a review, as words don’t do it full justice – it is truly exceptional. We have attended Roy and Joy’s tennis weeks four times, and look forward to attending again. We’ve met lifelong friends, experienced top notch instruction, and enjoyed excellent hospitality by Roy, Joy, and all the staff at the Palace. The entire week is curated perfectly – from the format of the tennis instruction, to the various dinners, to the picnic in the mountains. No detail has gone unattended to. Something that only 40+ years of successfully running tennis weeks can bring! Gstaad and the Palace hotel are magical. Having stayed in many of the top locations and hotels around the world, we can confidently say that the Palace ranks inline with the best of the best. The view of the mountains, beautiful spa and rooms, top notch cuisine, and service round out the world class tennis instruction provided throughout the 6 day camp. This includes instruction by Roy himself, along with a team of hand-selected and accomplished pros from around the world who come back year after year. The week can be as intense or as relaxed as you want it to be, but you will most definitely leave with a smile on your face and an improved game – evidenced by the returning guests that we cross paths with every year (many having attended 10+ times, and some at 20+). On our most recent trip, we brought our young son and his grandparents, and while they didn’t participate in the tennis, all had a special time alongside us. I can’t imagine that there is any other experience like this in the world – for tennis enthusiasts, this is the absolute crème de la crème. Roy and Joy, thank you for creating such a magical experience.
SR
Heavenly! We refer to Roy Emerson Tennis Week as Tennis Heaven. My superlative review is not exaggeration. My husband and I have attended Roy’s Tennis Week at least 6 times over the past 20 years and each year has been an exquisite experience. Unlike other tennis camps we’ve heard of where the named tennis pro perhaps makes an appearance once, Roy and Joy are not only present but involved daily with all guests and assure their comfort and enjoyment. Roy’s unique sense of humor and encouraging attitude sets the tone for all the pros who could not be more attentive and supportive, making tennis instruction fun day after day, week after week, year after year. The setting is also glorius and the staff at the Palace hotel make you feel at home immediately. We will be returning again later this year and look foward to our week in heaven!
MM
Visits to Gstaad for Roy Emerson Tennis weeks over the 20+ years has provided my wifie and me a pretty good sample of how good and consistent the experiences have been. Each has been different, as everything in the world changes, yet somehow Roy and Joy have provided experiences, tennis, social atmosphere, joyfullness (no pun intended) that leave us feeling afterward like we’ve just been to Tennis Heaven. They create a magic by the force of their personalities that produces instant comaraderie among guests, and with help of the wonderful pros we all become one family. Certainly the decades of running this camp have also established a style and program that enables us hackers to enjoy the best of instruction in a convivial atmosphere unparalled in my 50+ years of playing tennis.
PB
Roy Emerson Tennis Camp remains “Simply the Best” in all categories including overall tennis experience, expert tennis pros, tennis instruction/programs, social experience, stunning hotel setting, cuisine, spa and amenities. “Second to None” are: Roy and his very experienced and professional team of coaches, the red clay tennis facilities, the world class 5 Star Hotel/Spa accommodations and very friendly staff, the sumptuous hotel cuisine and, of course, the breathtaking mountain views in every direction. The Tennis Camp is the ultimate experience which includes expert instruction and matchups, friendly doubles play and great social activities. Of course, “the Creme De La Creme” is Roy Emerson himself. Roy’s engaging personality, good natured humor and fascinating stories and experiences leaves everyone feeling at ease and “part of the extended tennis family”. Every single day in the week at the Tennis Camp is an absolute delight, leaving you with great memories, some new found friends and with plans to return. Many of the Camp participants, myself included, have attended numerous times which remains the best testament yet to this one-of-a-kind experience! My 5th year at the Tennis Camp in 2023 was truly the best yet! As I have said before, once you have participated in this world class tennis experience, you’ll want to return again and again and again . . .
BM
How can it get any better then Roy Emerson giving you personal instruction? Also he’s great teaching staff from all over the world. Five or more hours of tennis on beautiful red clay courts. Fun match play for all levels . Breathtaking mountain setting in Gstaad Switzerland. Outstanding accommodations at a five star luxury hotel , The Palace . Gourmet cuisine with outstanding service. I highly recommend Roy Emerson Tennis Week. Sign me up coach!!!
JL
We’ve been going to Emerson Tennis Weeks for over 25 years. We reserve each year as soon as possible because we’re always anxious to return. The tennis, the people, the Palace-can’t be beat!
TL
DH
Emerson Tennis Weeks provide excellent instruction in a 5-star environment. My husband and I have participated for several years (COVID years excluded) and we will be back in 2024. All the pros are excellent and the student: pro ratio is excellent. The accommodations in the Swiss Alps are a treat in themselves. No touch is overlooked. I highly recommend this camp to everyone looking for a once-in-a lifetime experience. The fact that many people return year after year is testimony to the unique experience that Roy and Joy Emerson create. This camp has a 100% focus on adult tennis so if you want pickle ball and children’s camps, this may not be your spot. However there is so much to do in the area that family members wouldn’t be short of things to do.
PK
I attended the Roy Emerson Tennis Weeks camp for the first time in 2023. I knew that the Camp had great reviews, but as a Solo attendee, I was unsure what to expect. I was blown away by the quality of the experience! First, the tennis. The staff, led by Roy Emerson, were world class professionals. While there were are variety of player levels present, the campers were arranged and challenged by level. As a 4.0 player, I learned a tremendous amount that I have applied to improving my game at home. The strength of the instruction is the ultimate strength of the Camp. Second, socially, all of the attendees and staff were very friendly and welcoming, especially Roy and Joy. Every lunch, dinner, and evening was a blast. I developed lasting friendships in such a short period of time. Third, the Gstaad Palace was incomparable. I travel extensively, and it was probably the best overall resort that I have ever been to. The setting in the Alps, the rooms, the amazing food, the Spa, but mostly the friendly and unpretentious staff made for a wonderful experience. I consider myself lucky that I will be able to attend again this year!
EM
Attending the Roy Emerson Tennis Camp at Gstaad Palace was the most amazing experience of my life. As a lifetime tennis player I spent the week developing my game from the best tennis pros in the world. I was continuously challenged to up my game all the while making new friends on and off the court during the many fantastic dinners or activities put on by the camp. The setting at Gstaad palace is also unparalleled, the food, lodging, and amenities are all world class. Roy and Joy Emerson run a fabulous tennis camp and make every session more special and memorable than the last. I cannot wait to go back!
LM
My adult son and I went to the Roy Emerson Tennis Camp in Gstaad, Switzerland and could not have been happier with the experience. We played about five hours a day, receiving expert instruction each and every session. After our time on the courts, Roy and Joy arranged fantastic group dinners, unforgettable excursions and one-of-a-kind experiences like getting a tour of the hotel’s kitchen and wine cellar. This week was truly a trip of a lifetime and my son and I will remember it as one of the most special things we have done together. Roy and Joy work extremely hard to make sure everyone is playing at their level, get the instruction they need, and make sure everyone is comfortable and having a fabulous time. We can’t wait to return again this year.
FT
Roy Emerson‘s Tennis Camp in Gstaad is absolutely fabulous!
DB
If you’re lucky enough to get a spot in this camp, don’t hesitate. I’ve been several times and everything is top of the line. Fantastic instruction, spa, dining and beautiful mountain setting. I could say much more but just go, you’ll love it.
RB
This is the best tennis camp I have ever attended. Have gone back for 5 years and love it even more each time. Roy and Joy are the best and make you feel like they have planned the camp just for you. The Palace is wonderful, unbelievable location, views, staff and service. Food is wonderful. The tennis pros are all terrific and are a diverse international group. Very interesting group of campers who come from all over the world. My favorite vacation that I look forward to each year. Have been to many tennis camps all over and this is by far my favorite!
SS
Great tennis, great food, great atmosphere and great couple, the Emersons taking care of you.
GM
The Roy Emerson Tennis Week is a “double barrel” experience consisting of high-end tennis instruction at a magical resort. My wife and I are repeat participants, which speaks to a strength of the program week. Each day starts with an instructional theme by the “GOAT” himself. Thereafter, groups of 4 are matched with knowledgeable pros that take us through the program and on to match play. There are two three-hour sessions with an amazing hotel lunch in between, followed by casual “bonding,” and dinner…simply outstanding.
BT
Roy Emerson‘s Tennis Camp is the best of the best! We have been coming for many years and can‘t wait to be back this summer. It is such a joy to have the unique opportunity to be on the court and learn so much from the famous Tennis Grand Roy Emerson and his superb team of Pros. The Palace Hotel is wonderful and Roy‘s lovely wife Joy is always ready to help if you have any questions about the hotel, shopping or hiking tours to make sure that your stay in Gstaad is a full success off the court too. To be at Roy Emerson’s Tennis Camp is alwayd the big highlight of our year.
CS
Best experience ever! Of all my travel adventures, this is my favorite thing I have done. I have gone for six or seven years. It is everything you could want in a tennis holiday and more! If we start with why we all came – the tennis. I loved getting to play so much tennis. Each session had a different focus. Roy gives instruction for each session then we would break off in small groups (4 people maximum) to work with different pros. All the coaches are wonderful. Experienced, knowledgeable and fun. Next up is the setting. I dont think it gets much better than the Palace! Beautiful hotel, charming and attentive staff, good food, and relaxing spa (much needed after all that tennis). The afternoon picnic up in the mountains is definitely a highlight. The Palace kitchen crew de-camps to the mountainside and had a delicious lunch waiting for us. Meeting fellow tennis enthusiasts from all over the world is another highlight. I have made long-term friends that I still talk to and see to this day. And of course, Roy himself. His story-telling is superb. His sense of humor never ends. A bit of good-natured ribbing is included in the package! If you do not hear “lack of interest” or “just play the ones you like” at least once during the week, well you are definitely missing out. All in all, it was a fabulous experience and I hope to return in the future.
JL
Where oh where to start. We have been delighted participants in Roy and Joy’s camp a number of times, but last year was different for me. I had hurt my back about a month before we were due at the camp. Although the camp has a remarkably great cancelation policy that would have let us decline at no cost, my wife really wanted to attend, so I tagged along. I had several rounds of steroids, but still could not walk without a cane, but what the heck…. While I couldn’t play, the amazing food and atmosphere made it a fine time for me and Roy and Joy made certain that my wife, Dottie, got as much tennis as she wanted, even getting her a ton of one on one work that really brought her game up a notch or two. I bravely supped the scrumptious breakfasts along with her in the morning (but adding a couple of mimosas which are always available, but not recommended if you’re planning to play tennis afterwards.). Then I drifted to the spa/fitness center to take some hydrotherapy before a marvelous massage. Our rooms had a balcony with stunning views, so I hung out and read until it was time to join Dottie for lunch and hear all the things she had learned during the morning sessions. I have to say that, other than the fact that it was no fun watching all the tennis from the sidelines, you can see that I didn’t suffer much. In addition, Roy and Joy set up a delightful Alpen lunch at a family cheese making place on the side of the mountain, an incredible tour of the hotel’s extensive wine cellars and a couple of really nice off-site dinners with the group. We’re returning this year and I intend to stay healthy so I can partake of the tennis as well as all the other superb offerings. We could not recommend this week any higher if you want to improve your tennis with world class coaches in a once-in-a-lifetime setting
LK
I have been lucky enough to attend the Roy Emerson Tennis Camp for the past 7 years and would love to return in the future!!! It is the ultimate in tennis camp: fantastic coaches/instructions, great players, luxurious hotel and fabulous food all in the most beautiful setting. It is Tennis Wonderland!!!! Roy is the most amazing host. He makes everyone feel so welcome and has great stories that he is always willing to share. Joy does a fantastic job coordinating and keeping everything running so smoothly. They make the best team!!!
JB
Best tennis camp ever!!!
SE
The experience is a delight . The tennis instruction is spot on. You go there to learn and try to be a better player and importantly to have fun and have a great time. Roy and Joy make this an exceptional experience for me personally and for everyone else. To be brief this is unique.
125 Reviews on “Gstaad Palace - Roy Emerson Tennis Weeks”
This is the most fabulous tennis camp ever as I can only repeat as a long time returnee. First of all the magnificent setting of the superb Palace Hotel in the Bernois mountains of Switzerland is second to nothing. The pro team, the tennis session and above all Roy Emerson’s professional and encouraging advice all put your game on the right track. At the end of the week, typically on Friday night at the farewell dinner you make a firm decision to come back next year.
I can’t say enough wonderful things about the Roy Emerson Tennis Weeks. It is undoubtedly the best camp in the world and has been for many years! We just attended for the fifth time in 2023. The best experience yet! They have the best – expert pros, tennis courts and facilities, spa, grand 5 star Swiss hotel ambience and cuisine, fun doubles, special activities, mountain setting and, of course, the best host and coach – Roy Emerson who puts everyone at ease and makes them feel like a member of the tennis family. We always look forward to returning again and again and again.
Outstanding tennis clinics, round robins, match play, and one on one drills. Great for the whole family.
It’s difficult to describe this experience in a review, as words don’t do it full justice – it is truly exceptional. We have attended Roy and Joy’s tennis weeks four times, and look forward to attending again. We’ve met lifelong friends, experienced top notch instruction, and enjoyed excellent hospitality by Roy, Joy, and all the staff at the Palace. The entire week is curated perfectly – from the format of the tennis instruction, to the various dinners, to the picnic in the mountains. No detail has gone unattended to. Something that only 40+ years of successfully running tennis weeks can bring! Gstaad and the Palace hotel are magical. Having stayed in many of the top locations and hotels around the world, we can confidently say that the Palace ranks inline with the best of the best. The view of the mountains, beautiful spa and rooms, top notch cuisine, and service round out the world class tennis instruction provided throughout the 6 day camp. This includes instruction by Roy himself, along with a team of hand-selected and accomplished pros from around the world who come back year after year. The week can be as intense or as relaxed as you want it to be, but you will most definitely leave with a smile on your face and an improved game – evidenced by the returning guests that we cross paths with every year (many having attended 10+ times, and some at 20+). On our most recent trip, we brought our young son and his grandparents, and while they didn’t participate in the tennis, all had a special time alongside us. I can’t imagine that there is any other experience like this in the world – for tennis enthusiasts, this is the absolute crème de la crème. Roy and Joy, thank you for creating such a magical experience.
Heavenly! We refer to Roy Emerson Tennis Week as Tennis Heaven. My superlative review is not exaggeration. My husband and I have attended Roy’s Tennis Week at least 6 times over the past 20 years and each year has been an exquisite experience. Unlike other tennis camps we’ve heard of where the named tennis pro perhaps makes an appearance once, Roy and Joy are not only present but involved daily with all guests and assure their comfort and enjoyment. Roy’s unique sense of humor and encouraging attitude sets the tone for all the pros who could not be more attentive and supportive, making tennis instruction fun day after day, week after week, year after year. The setting is also glorius and the staff at the Palace hotel make you feel at home immediately. We will be returning again later this year and look foward to our week in heaven!
Visits to Gstaad for Roy Emerson Tennis weeks over the 20+ years has provided my wifie and me a pretty good sample of how good and consistent the experiences have been. Each has been different, as everything in the world changes, yet somehow Roy and Joy have provided experiences, tennis, social atmosphere, joyfullness (no pun intended) that leave us feeling afterward like we’ve just been to Tennis Heaven. They create a magic by the force of their personalities that produces instant comaraderie among guests, and with help of the wonderful pros we all become one family. Certainly the decades of running this camp have also established a style and program that enables us hackers to enjoy the best of instruction in a convivial atmosphere unparalled in my 50+ years of playing tennis.
Roy Emerson Tennis Camp remains “Simply the Best” in all categories including overall tennis experience, expert tennis pros, tennis instruction/programs, social experience, stunning hotel setting, cuisine, spa and amenities. “Second to None” are: Roy and his very experienced and professional team of coaches, the red clay tennis facilities, the world class 5 Star Hotel/Spa accommodations and very friendly staff, the sumptuous hotel cuisine and, of course, the breathtaking mountain views in every direction. The Tennis Camp is the ultimate experience which includes expert instruction and matchups, friendly doubles play and great social activities. Of course, “the Creme De La Creme” is Roy Emerson himself. Roy’s engaging personality, good natured humor and fascinating stories and experiences leaves everyone feeling at ease and “part of the extended tennis family”. Every single day in the week at the Tennis Camp is an absolute delight, leaving you with great memories, some new found friends and with plans to return. Many of the Camp participants, myself included, have attended numerous times which remains the best testament yet to this one-of-a-kind experience! My 5th year at the Tennis Camp in 2023 was truly the best yet! As I have said before, once you have participated in this world class tennis experience, you’ll want to return again and again and again . . .
How can it get any better then Roy Emerson giving you personal instruction? Also he’s great teaching staff from all over the world. Five or more hours of tennis on beautiful red clay courts. Fun match play for all levels . Breathtaking mountain setting in Gstaad Switzerland. Outstanding accommodations at a five star luxury hotel , The Palace . Gourmet cuisine with outstanding service. I highly recommend Roy Emerson Tennis Week. Sign me up coach!!!
We’ve been going to Emerson Tennis Weeks for over 25 years. We reserve each year as soon as possible because we’re always anxious to return. The tennis, the people, the Palace-can’t be beat!
Emerson Tennis Weeks provide excellent instruction in a 5-star environment. My husband and I have participated for several years (COVID years excluded) and we will be back in 2024. All the pros are excellent and the student: pro ratio is excellent. The accommodations in the Swiss Alps are a treat in themselves. No touch is overlooked. I highly recommend this camp to everyone looking for a once-in-a lifetime experience. The fact that many people return year after year is testimony to the unique experience that Roy and Joy Emerson create. This camp has a 100% focus on adult tennis so if you want pickle ball and children’s camps, this may not be your spot. However there is so much to do in the area that family members wouldn’t be short of things to do.
I attended the Roy Emerson Tennis Weeks camp for the first time in 2023. I knew that the Camp had great reviews, but as a Solo attendee, I was unsure what to expect. I was blown away by the quality of the experience! First, the tennis. The staff, led by Roy Emerson, were world class professionals. While there were are variety of player levels present, the campers were arranged and challenged by level. As a 4.0 player, I learned a tremendous amount that I have applied to improving my game at home. The strength of the instruction is the ultimate strength of the Camp. Second, socially, all of the attendees and staff were very friendly and welcoming, especially Roy and Joy. Every lunch, dinner, and evening was a blast. I developed lasting friendships in such a short period of time. Third, the Gstaad Palace was incomparable. I travel extensively, and it was probably the best overall resort that I have ever been to. The setting in the Alps, the rooms, the amazing food, the Spa, but mostly the friendly and unpretentious staff made for a wonderful experience. I consider myself lucky that I will be able to attend again this year!
Attending the Roy Emerson Tennis Camp at Gstaad Palace was the most amazing experience of my life. As a lifetime tennis player I spent the week developing my game from the best tennis pros in the world. I was continuously challenged to up my game all the while making new friends on and off the court during the many fantastic dinners or activities put on by the camp. The setting at Gstaad palace is also unparalleled, the food, lodging, and amenities are all world class. Roy and Joy Emerson run a fabulous tennis camp and make every session more special and memorable than the last. I cannot wait to go back!
My adult son and I went to the Roy Emerson Tennis Camp in Gstaad, Switzerland and could not have been happier with the experience. We played about five hours a day, receiving expert instruction each and every session. After our time on the courts, Roy and Joy arranged fantastic group dinners, unforgettable excursions and one-of-a-kind experiences like getting a tour of the hotel’s kitchen and wine cellar. This week was truly a trip of a lifetime and my son and I will remember it as one of the most special things we have done together. Roy and Joy work extremely hard to make sure everyone is playing at their level, get the instruction they need, and make sure everyone is comfortable and having a fabulous time. We can’t wait to return again this year.
Roy Emerson‘s Tennis Camp in Gstaad is absolutely fabulous!
If you’re lucky enough to get a spot in this camp, don’t hesitate. I’ve been several times and everything is top of the line. Fantastic instruction, spa, dining and beautiful mountain setting. I could say much more but just go, you’ll love it.
This is the best tennis camp I have ever attended. Have gone back for 5 years and love it even more each time. Roy and Joy are the best and make you feel like they have planned the camp just for you. The Palace is wonderful, unbelievable location, views, staff and service. Food is wonderful. The tennis pros are all terrific and are a diverse international group. Very interesting group of campers who come from all over the world. My favorite vacation that I look forward to each year. Have been to many tennis camps all over and this is by far my favorite!
Great tennis, great food, great atmosphere and great couple, the Emersons taking care of you.
The Roy Emerson Tennis Week is a “double barrel” experience consisting of high-end tennis instruction at a magical resort. My wife and I are repeat participants, which speaks to a strength of the program week. Each day starts with an instructional theme by the “GOAT” himself. Thereafter, groups of 4 are matched with knowledgeable pros that take us through the program and on to match play. There are two three-hour sessions with an amazing hotel lunch in between, followed by casual “bonding,” and dinner…simply outstanding.
Roy Emerson‘s Tennis Camp is the best of the best! We have been coming for many years and can‘t wait to be back this summer. It is such a joy to have the unique opportunity to be on the court and learn so much from the famous Tennis Grand Roy Emerson and his superb team of Pros. The Palace Hotel is wonderful and Roy‘s lovely wife Joy is always ready to help if you have any questions about the hotel, shopping or hiking tours to make sure that your stay in Gstaad is a full success off the court too. To be at Roy Emerson’s Tennis Camp is alwayd the big highlight of our year.
Best experience ever! Of all my travel adventures, this is my favorite thing I have done. I have gone for six or seven years. It is everything you could want in a tennis holiday and more! If we start with why we all came – the tennis. I loved getting to play so much tennis. Each session had a different focus. Roy gives instruction for each session then we would break off in small groups (4 people maximum) to work with different pros. All the coaches are wonderful. Experienced, knowledgeable and fun. Next up is the setting. I dont think it gets much better than the Palace! Beautiful hotel, charming and attentive staff, good food, and relaxing spa (much needed after all that tennis). The afternoon picnic up in the mountains is definitely a highlight. The Palace kitchen crew de-camps to the mountainside and had a delicious lunch waiting for us. Meeting fellow tennis enthusiasts from all over the world is another highlight. I have made long-term friends that I still talk to and see to this day. And of course, Roy himself. His story-telling is superb. His sense of humor never ends. A bit of good-natured ribbing is included in the package! If you do not hear “lack of interest” or “just play the ones you like” at least once during the week, well you are definitely missing out. All in all, it was a fabulous experience and I hope to return in the future.
Where oh where to start. We have been delighted participants in Roy and Joy’s camp a number of times, but last year was different for me. I had hurt my back about a month before we were due at the camp. Although the camp has a remarkably great cancelation policy that would have let us decline at no cost, my wife really wanted to attend, so I tagged along. I had several rounds of steroids, but still could not walk without a cane, but what the heck…. While I couldn’t play, the amazing food and atmosphere made it a fine time for me and Roy and Joy made certain that my wife, Dottie, got as much tennis as she wanted, even getting her a ton of one on one work that really brought her game up a notch or two. I bravely supped the scrumptious breakfasts along with her in the morning (but adding a couple of mimosas which are always available, but not recommended if you’re planning to play tennis afterwards.). Then I drifted to the spa/fitness center to take some hydrotherapy before a marvelous massage. Our rooms had a balcony with stunning views, so I hung out and read until it was time to join Dottie for lunch and hear all the things she had learned during the morning sessions. I have to say that, other than the fact that it was no fun watching all the tennis from the sidelines, you can see that I didn’t suffer much. In addition, Roy and Joy set up a delightful Alpen lunch at a family cheese making place on the side of the mountain, an incredible tour of the hotel’s extensive wine cellars and a couple of really nice off-site dinners with the group. We’re returning this year and I intend to stay healthy so I can partake of the tennis as well as all the other superb offerings. We could not recommend this week any higher if you want to improve your tennis with world class coaches in a once-in-a-lifetime setting
I have been lucky enough to attend the Roy Emerson Tennis Camp for the past 7 years and would love to return in the future!!! It is the ultimate in tennis camp: fantastic coaches/instructions, great players, luxurious hotel and fabulous food all in the most beautiful setting. It is Tennis Wonderland!!!! Roy is the most amazing host. He makes everyone feel so welcome and has great stories that he is always willing to share. Joy does a fantastic job coordinating and keeping everything running so smoothly. They make the best team!!!
Best tennis camp ever!!!
The experience is a delight . The tennis instruction is spot on. You go there to learn and try to be a better player and importantly to have fun and have a great time. Roy and Joy make this an exceptional experience for me personally and for everyone else. To be brief this is unique.