Around 200 members and guests from 11 countries gathered in the Principality of Liechtenstein for three memorable days of friendship, discovery and exceptional gastronomy. Under the motto “Experience Liechtenstein - indulge in princely pleasures”, one of Europe’s smallest countries revealed an astonishing variety of experiences.

“Varietät und Varieté” was originally chosen as the theme for the Gala Dinner of the Grand Chapitre in Liechtenstein 2026. Looking back, however, it could just as easily have been the motto for the entire weekend.

From August 27th to 29th, elegant gastronomy met rustic conviviality, historic settings met contemporary entertainment. Solemn Chaîne tradition was combined with music, laughter and more than a few surprises!

Above all, these were three days devoted to what lies at the very heart of the Chaîne: friendship, hospitality and the pleasure of sharing memorable moments around the table.

A warm welcome to Liechtenstein
The Grand Chapitre began with a welcome aperitif hosted by Mövenpick - the first opportunity for old friends to embrace, new acquaintances to be made and guests from 11 countries to settle into the rhythm of the weekend whose promise was “Liechtenstein erleben - fürstlich geniessen” - Experience Liechtenstein, indulge in princely pleasures.

And “experience” was meant quite literally!

In the evening, two parallel Welcome Dinners at Restaurant Marée in the Park Hotel Sonnenhof and Restaurant Vivid introduced guests to Liechtenstein’s gastronomic scene. A relaxed yet elegant beginning: conversations flowed, friendships renewed. The international Chaîne family quickly felt at home in the Principality.

A small country with many stories
The programme was designed not only to offer excellent food and wine, but to open doors and provide glimpses of Liechtenstein that visitors might not otherwise encounter.

Even the weather contributed a surprise. The famous Föhn wind had its own ideas about a planned eagle experience. Yet what could have been a disappointment became a highlight of its own: an encounter with owls, falcons and an eagle offered guests a fascinating insight into the world of birds of prey.

Elsewhere, a very different door opened.

At the historic Red House in Vaduz, guests were welcomed into the private historic wine press and introduced to the history of the house and the remarkable figure of Egon Rheinberger.

Rheinberger then became something of an invisible companion during the Grand Chapitre. His story resurfaced at Burg Gutenberg, which he had restored and built up as it stands today. He also gave it an artistical shape. It was one of those unexpected connections that give a journey its own narrative. Yet makes history suddenly feel very close.

Vaduz offered further encounters with local wines and the people behind them. The short film “Fürstliche Momente” presented another perspective on the country.

At the same time, Vaduz Classic was bringing music and culture to the capital. Rather than competing with the Grand Chapitre, it created a welcome synergy: several participants took the opportunity to attend concerts and events, adding yet another dimension to their Liechtenstein experience.

A change of rhythm
After fine dining and cultural discoveries, Friday evening deliberately changed the tempo.

At the Braustube in Schaan, formality gave way to a relaxed and convivial atmosphere. A specially brewed Chaîne beer, hearty cuisine and the infectious Austrian charm of Die Bauernfänger created an evening filled with music and laughter.

Moving between the tables, singing ‘a cappella’ involving guests in their musical adventures, the musicians demonstrated something the Chaîne knows very well: that memorable hospitality comes in many forms.

Sometimes it is a beautifully set table and an elegant menu. Sometimes it is a beer, a song and a room full of people laughing together.

Both have their place.

Tradition at Burg Gutenberg
Saturday morning brought another complete change of atmosphere.

Against the historic backdrop of Burg Gutenberg, the Induction Ceremony became one of the most impressive moments of the weekend.

Nineteen new members were welcomed into the Chaîne and 34 members received promotions or distinctions - a celebration not only of the traditions of the organisation, but also of its future.

Afterwards, guests gathered for a Vin d’Honneur offered by the municipality of Balzers, with wines presented by the Balzner Vinöre.

Gala Dinner
Please refer to the separately published Part 2 of this article for the write-up of the Gala Dinner, the culmination of the three days of this year’s Grand Chapitre.

Conclusion
Liechtenstein had been experienced. Liechtenstein had certainly been enjoyed in princely style. Most importantly, old friendships had been renewed, new ones had begun. Three wonderful days of shared experiences had created memories that travelled home in 11 different directions. Variety in everything - except in the pleasure of being together.

Strit Doris Jäggi-Lind
Bailli Délégué