Netflix's Upcoming Swiss Period Drama 'Winter Palace' to Tell the Story of Winter Tourism In the Alps

Some of the best period dramas on Netflix can be found among the streamer's international offerings, from the German series The Empress and Italian romp The Law According to Lidia Poet to Spain's Cable Girls. But it sounds as though its next big international production will be a first --- a Swiss drama made in partnership with broadcaster RTS.

Described as a cross between Downton Abbey and The White Lotus, Winter Palace aims to tell the story of the birth of luxury winter tourism in the Alps, conceived by a Swiss hotelier and British aristocrat in the early twentieth century. The production is said to be particularly lavish, and will reportedly include 950 extras, 6,000 pieces of costume and a dozen horse-drawn carriages and sleighs.

The eight-part series, which will be in both French and English, follows the story of ambitious proprietor André Morel, who, in 1899, envisions a five-star luxury hotel that will remain open throughout winter. With the help of the wealthy Lord Fairfax, Morel must battle an increasingly demanding clientele, unruly staff, and a difficult, often hostile climate to make their dream a reality.