Rubén Contreras, a Salvadoran entrepreneur based in Switzerland, is investing over $5 million to launch the Grand Saint Bernard Swiss Resort & Spa in Juayúa, El Salvador. The luxury complex—scheduled to open December 2025–January 2026—marks his latest commitment to his homeland, bringing his total investments in El Salvador to more than $12 million since the 1990s.
Roots Driving Investment
Born in Switzerland to a Salvadoran architect father and Swiss mother, Contreras maintained deep ties to El Salvador through frequent childhood visits. His connection fuels his vision:
“Since I was little, I have traveled these lands. My grandfather lived in El Salvador, and since 1990 I started investing in properties, buying land on beaches, mountains, lakes, and in San Salvador.”
He credits El Salvador’s security improvements under President Bukele for boosting investor confidence:
“I have always had a love for El Salvador. And now, with the climate of security that President Bukele has created, one is more encouraged to undertake big projects.”
Swiss-Alpine Luxury Meets Salvadoran Nature
Spanning 10 manzanas (17 acres), the resort blends Swiss architecture with El Salvador’s volcanic landscape. Premium amenities include:
- 26 European-furnished chalets with private terraces (4–10 guests each)
- Altitude-simulation rooms for elite athletes
- Wellness hub: Dead Sea salt pools, hammam, cryotherapy igloo
- Three restaurants (Swiss, European, Uzbek-inspired open-air grill)
- 5,000-bottle European wine cellar, equestrian center, and helipad
Contreras emphasizes exclusivity:
“The idea is to offer a unique experience for tourists, athletes, and families looking for rest or physical preparation.” A live St. Bernard dog imported from Switzerland will serve as the resort’s mascot.
Economic Impact and Future Plans
The project already employs 35 locals, with expansion expected when an international hotel chain takes operational control. Contreras stresses professionalism:
“It’s not just about building, but about professionalizing the service… For the country, it’s better that it be managed by an experienced international chain.”
His next venture—a beachfront development in Jiquilisco (2026)—and mountain-tourism plans at Laguna de Las Ranas signal ongoing commitment. Supported by Invest in El Salvador and local municipalities, Contreras urges the diaspora to act:
“With the new reality of the country, it is time to invest and give back to El Salvador everything it has given us. If there is security, there is development.”
