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Do & Explore

Steeped In Tradition: Gstaad Is Switzerland’s Alpine Playground

— Winter wonderland and summer hotspot.

by Anisha Nair

Gstaad is a winter wonderland and summer hotspot for those in the know. Located in the Bernese Oberland region of Switzerland, Gstaad is a majestic resort destination. It’s a charming village surrounded by picturesque mountains that form the base point for most of the major activities in Gstaad. 

The saying amongst the locals is “ come up and slow down ”. We can certainly see why many will want to do just that here in Gstaad. Yet with so much to see and do it’s nearly impossible to stay down for too long.

Gstaad is home to exceptional hotels, sublime restaurants that serve up local and international delicacies, and wellness spas to indulge your every whim. There’s no shortage of things to do in Gstaad. Fill your day with adrenaline-charged activities, or take a romantic hike and get away from the buzz of the village. Follow our guide to the best things to do in Gstaad and you’re sure to experience an unforgettable, well-rounded holiday in Saanenland.

The 15 best things to do in Gstaad

• Visit Mount Eggli
• Vintage train ride
• Visit Glacier 3000

Shop in Gstaad promenade

• Spa and wellness
• Hot-Air Baloon Flight
• Fondue Caquelon
• Michelin starred chef at Alpina Gstaad
• Ride the Alpine Coaster 
• Kunsteisbahn Gstaad Ice Rink
• Nightlife in Gstaad

Taste traditional swiss raclette at Le Petit Chalet

• Swiss open Gstaad

Hike to Lake Lauenen

• Paragliding Gstaad

Enjoy a fun-filled day out on Mount Eggli

Take the cable car ride up and marvel at the gorgeous scenery all around. At the top of Mount Eggli is a rustic mountain chalet ready to serve up hearty meals with expertly paired drinks. You can opt for just a hot or cold drink and snack instead and head off for more action. The best way to get back down to Gstaad is on skis or a toboggan.

Take a vintage train ride

One of the best ways to enjoy breathtaking vistas of Saanenland is by vintage train. The GoldenPass Belle Époque train line meanders past lakes and tunnels along the Montreux – Zweisimmen route. The resort town of Gstaad is among the stops on this charming train journey. Decorated in wood paneling and golden details inspired by the Orient Express, The Belle Époque train is a luxurious way to experience the beauty of the Swiss landscapes. 

Take a stroll in the sky on the peak walk at Glacier 3000

Connecting two peaks, View Point and Scex Rouge, the suspension bridge will take you to new heights. While you’re there you can take in the stunning views of Matterhorn, Mont Blanc, and Jungfrau in the distance. Other activities on the peak include dogsled rides with huskies, skiing, snowboarding, and a helicopter flight above Glacier 3000. Truly every adrenaline junkie’s dream destination.

A leisurely stroll down Gstaad promenade leads you to a host of designer stores to help lighten your pockets. The pedestrian walkway is lined with trendy eateries, bars, shops, and some of the best hotels in Gstaad . The promenade is built in traditional alpine style and makes for the perfect photo op. High-end brands like Louis Vuitton, Ralph Lauren, Prada, and Hermes provide the perfect opportunity to splurge a little. Local shops selling regional products are great for picking up mementos of your stay in Gstaad.

Take some time out for self-care

Gstaad is a wellness haven with luxury spas located at almost every hotel in the village. Take a dip in a salt-water pool, or indulge in a botanical steam bath before your pampering session kicks off. Many of the wellness therapies are included in the price of your hotel. Treatments like massages and facials can be booked separately and are undoubtedly worth every penny spent.

Take a hot-air-balloon flight

Château-d’Oex is known as the hot air ballooning capital of the alpines. Its located on the outskirts of Gstaad and is a short drive or train ride away. Take in the splendor of the Alps while suspended up to 3,000 feet in the air. The perfect way to get a bird’s-eye view of the magnificent Saanenland all the way to Lake Geneva. You can savor a friendship drink with local snacks upon your landing.

Eat with a view at the giant Fondue Caquelon

Another famous attraction in Gstaad is the Fondue Caquelon cheese grotto or cheese cave. Local dairy farmers bring their cheese to the grotto to be aged for up to three years. You get to sample some of the cheeses at the end of your visit and capture a few unique pics at the giant fondue pot outside. Book a fondue backpack before you go from any of the local dairies so you enjoy a scenic picnic on-site.

Dine with Michelin-starred chef at Alpina Gstaad

The Alpina Gstaad is home to three restaurants overseen by Michelin-starred Executive Chef Martin Göschel. Sommet serves international cuisine and is one of Gstaad’s vegetarian-friendly restaurants.  Swiss Stübli opens in winter and brings you the best in local Swiss cuisine. Megu serves Japanese cuisine and was named the best Asian restaurant in Switzerland by Gault Millau. Bring an appetite and relish some of the best cuisines Gstaad has to offer.

Ride the Alpine Coaster

At 9,596 feet above sea level, experience one of the most exhilarating thrills Gstaad has to offer. The Alpine Coaster at Glacier 3000 is the highest situated toboggan run in the world. You can reach speeds of up to 25 miles per hour, the ultimate rush for any thrill seeker. The ride is suitable for kids older than 9 years, while kids three and up can ride with an adult.

Visit Kunsteisbahn Gstaad Ice Rink

The Kunsteisbahn Gstaad Ice Rink is located in the heart of Gstaad village and doubles as a beach volleyball court in summer. Ice skates and hockey sticks can be hired at the rink. No winter vacation is complete without a visit to the ice rink, your little ones will delight at the activities on offer. With the central location, you’re not too far away from a bite to eat or drinks to warm you up.

Experience the nightlife in Gstaad

You can come up and slow down in Gstaad but let’s not forget that Gstaad is the OG party spot for the rich and famous. Since 1971 the likes of Grace Kelly, Richard Burton, and Michael Jackson have made their way to the GreenGo nightclub in the Gstaad Palace hotel. Party the night away in the 70s-themed nightclub and flashback to a time when legends graced the dance floor. VIP DJs spin the turntables to the latest beats, so don’t forget to carry your dancing shoes.

No holiday is complete without having a taste of the local specialties. Le Petit Chalet serves traditional Swiss cuisine and can be found at the Le Grand Bellevue Hotel. Set among the tall trees in the hotel’s garden, the charming mountain log cabin is the perfect place to try fondue and raclette. The hotel has a lot more to offer, so be sure to stroll around and take advantage of the facilities on offer.

Experience the Swiss Open in Gstaad

Gstaad has hosted the Swiss Open tennis tournament since 1898. Played on outdoor clay courts, the games are open to spectators. So if you’re a sports fan, this is something not to be missed. The Roy Emerson Arena seats 4,500 people and gets taken over by stalls and fanfare outside the venue hours before the start of a match. The tournament usually takes place each year in July and should be booked ahead to avoid disappointment.

For nature lovers, you’ll be spoilt for choice at the number of hiking trails Gstaad has to offer. One of the most beautiful hikes is to Lake Lauenen. You can grab a bite to eat at the Restaurant Lauenensee where you can hire a boat to take out on the lake. Enjoy a romantic boat ride on the lake and take the opportunity to capture the special moment. Take some time to also check out the gorgeous waterfalls behind Lake Lauenen.

Take a paragliding flight over Gstaad

An extraordinary experience awaits those who dare to explore the splendor of Gstaad from the air. You’ll fly over the mountains of Gstaad with a professional pilot and do a tandem jump back to solid ground. Flights range in duration from 15 minutes up to 45 minutes. They offer group flights and the price includes all the equipment needed to jump as well as the transport to the jump site.

Frequently asked questions about the best things to do in Gstaad

Gstaad is known as the playground of the rich and famous, for which it has become famous for. The excellent slopes, hiking trails, and award-winning restaurants and hotels make Gstaad an ideal holiday destination.

Yes, Gstaad is a breathtaking destination with a lot to offer the discerning traveler. Fine dining, luxurious spa experiences, and adrenaline-filled activities all form part of the mountain splendor.

There are many springtime activities available in Gstaad. Hiking, mountain biking, spa and wellness treatments, and luxury shopping all continue throughout spring in Gstaad.

Not entirely, however, the center of Gstaad is car-free.

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New Gstaad Guide

The new Gstaad Guide was created at the suggestion of employees of Gstaad Saanenland Tourismus. It shows guests the most beautiful places in and around the village and provides information about the historical background.

Since last summer, guests and locals can help themselves to the printed village guide at the Gstaad Tourism Office. It presents a range of gems to discover on its 28 pages and comes in a handy A5 format. It also provides information on important events and insights into historical events.

With the village guide, guests can stroll through Gstaad whenever they like and find out about the most important sights. “Because it is trilingual as well as simple and clearly laid out, our guests can discover the village at their own pace,” says Anja Auger-Brand of Gstaad Saanenland Tourism (GST). It serves as a supplement to the guided tours of the local guides.

Name the calf An overview in the middle of the booklet locates the 15 sights on a map. Most of them are on the promenade, and otherwise within walking distance of the village centre. The booklet provides insight into a colourful range of topics: for example, the village fire of Gstaad, the Posthotel Rössli, the Institut Le Rosey, the honorary citizens of Saanen and the two bronze figures playing music at the St Niklaus Chapel.

Inspired by the village guide of Saanen A similar product has existed in Saanen for some time. “The village guide in Saanen is very popular, so we wanted to offer something similar in Gstaad. This meets a real demand,” says Auger-Brand. “With the guide, guests can stroll through the village and pick up some information while looking at the sights.”

The booklet was created in close cooperation with Gstaad connoisseur Gottfried von Siebenthal and Frank Müller of Müller Medien AG. The texts are based on Gottfried von Siebenthal’s book Gstaad: der Weg zum Weltkurort. They were compiled by Auger-Brand and Müller. The majority of the photos were provided by von Siebenthal. It is published and financed by GST with the support of the Gstaad village organisation.

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Welcome to Lenk in the Simmental

Welcome to Lenk im Simmental, the picturesque region in the Bernese Oberland in Switzerland that is perfect for nature and culture lovers. Our official website provides you with all the information you need to make your stay unforgettable: From hotels in Lenk, excursion destinations and experiences to the sights in the Simmental, tours, hiking, biking, mountain railways and much more - here you will find everything you need to know about Lenk and the Simmental. Come and visit us and experience the breathtaking landscape, which you can also marvel at in advance via our live webcam on Lenk.

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Guides Gstaad-Saanenland

Local guides look forward to take you on a fascinating journey through the Saanenland on foot, bike or by carriage. The guided village tours are available in English, German and French. Group of max. 10 pax.

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Explora-Gstaad

Gstaad Saanenland Tourismus - Guided tour Gstaad

Guided village-tour of Gstaad. Let a professional local guide show you Gstaad's secret spots. The tour takes 1 hour. Tour guided by Explora Gstaad https://www.explora-gstaad.ch/en/offer ).

Free village tour Gstaad; Friday at 10am (dates see booking link), reservation required until the evening before by 5 pm.

Free village tour Gstaad; Friday at 10am (dates see booking link), reservation required until the evening before by 5 pm

Promenade 41 3780 Gstaad

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Is required to display contents like images. The general privacy policy applies.

Functions extend the basic features of the website, third party technologies will be included and they might also collect information on their own.

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12 Fun Things to Do in Gstaad and Saanen, Switzerland

Gstaad is a Swiss ski resort that oozes understated luxury. Famous for its hiking and skiing, Gstaad is a popular destination with the international jet-set. Here are the best things to do in Gstaad, Switzerland that you shouldn’t miss on your trip.

Top Attractions In Gstaad and Saanen, Switzerland

Gstaad’s motto is Come Up – Slow Down . While some of these Gstaad activities are very relaxing, there are also many active pursuits here.

Although Gstaad is known for its winter sports like ice skating, skiing and tobogganing, this charming Swiss town is also a good Summer destination. Hiking is the most popular activity in Gstaad during the Summer months.

You can walk around picturesque mountain lakes such as Hornberg Reservoir, Lake Lauenen, Lake Seeberg and Lake Arnen.

There are two public outdoor swimming pools: Saanen outdoor pool and Zweisimmen outdoor pool. Guests staying at Gstaad Palace also have access to a 50 meter outdoor swimming pool.

The centre of Gstaad is car-free, and traditional architecture has been carefully preserved. Contemporary artworks make for a great mix of old and new.

Celebrities including Brigitte Bardot, Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton flocked to this luxurious ski resort over the years. Julie Andrews, one of the most famous Gstaad residents, called it the last paradise in a crazy world .

1. Ski in Gstaad

Within the Saanen – Gstaad – Rougemont ski area itself there are 50 kilometers of ski runs. Gstaad is part of the larger Gstaad Mountain Rides ski region, which includes several ski areas such as Glacier 3000, Wasserngrat, and Eggli.

The ski areas offer a combined total of around 250 kilometers of marked ski runs, catering to all levels from beginners to experts. The highest elevation is at Glacier 3000 at 3,058 meters. Mount Eggli is 1,557 meters above sea level.

You can also do a toboggan ride from Eggli to Gstaad, the four kilometer long Eggli Run . It’s suitable for all ages and abilities.

2. EGGLI Mountain Food Village

Head up to Mount Eggli via the cable car to admire the scenery and enjoy tasty cooking. Choose from the Mountain Restaurant EGGLI, the Lounge or the Food Chalet.

On our visit, we enjoyed flammekueche, similar to pizza but with a cream rather than tomato base. Enjoy Swiss wines from Domaines Chevalier and Champagne at the Veuve Clicquot Cottage located in the Food Chalet. There are deckchairs to relax in, four stationary cable car gondolas and giant wooden letters spelling out Gstaad.

The restaurants are open every day from mid December to mid March.

3. Fondue Caquelon Cheese Grotto

If you like cheese, this unique grotto is a must visit. With over 3,000 Swiss cheese wheels, it’s housed 25 meters underground in a former water reservoir.

Also known as the Swiss Cheese Cathedral , the grotto is reached via the scenic Gstaad – Bissen – Turbach hiking trail. It takes around 45 minutes from Gstaad train station or the Gstaad promenade.

People have been making cheese in Gstaad for around 1,000 years. These days, the local dairy makes the Berner hobelkase cheese that you’ll see in the grotto.

This  Appellation d’origine protegee cheese is matured for at least 18 months. The grotto provides the ideal maturing conditions.

Outside, there’s a giant fondue pot which provides an excellent photo opportunity. In fact there are 2 other gigantic fondue pots in the Gstaad area, at Schlittmoos and Vorderi Wispile. It’s possible to book a fondue backpack from several local dairies containing truffle fondue, spices, crusty fondue bread, a fondue pot, plates and utensils.

Address: Fondue Caquelon Cheese Grotto, 3780 Saanen

4. Dinner at Michelin starred The Alpina Gstaad

Luxury hotel The Alpina Gstaad has several great places to eat overseen by Executive Chef Martin Göschel. He previously worked at Bareiss, a two Michelin stars establishment.

Sommet is a Michelin starred restaurant, while Swiss Stübli is a cosy eatery serving local specialties. Megu is an Asian restaurant that wows with its elegant decor and gourmet food. This popular Gstaad restaurant boasts the largest collection of sake in Switzerland.

The design is by Noé Duchaufour-Lawrance and features wooden slats inspired by Japanese temples together with antique kimonos. Head Chef Tetsujiro Ogata and Head Sushi Chef Tsutomu Kugota have concocted a menu that delights all the senses.

Awarded the top Asian restaurant in Switzerland by Gault Millau, Megu also has a Michelin star since 2016.

Address: Megu, The Alpina Gstaad, Alpinastrasse 23, 3780 Gstaad, Switzerland

5. Spa Treatment at Le Grand Bellevue

If your muscles are aching after all the hiking and skiing, then a session at Le Grand Spa is definitely called for! Spread over 3,000 square meters, this stunning Alpine retreat is a must visit when in Gstaad.

Located within the 5 star Bellevue Gstaad hotel in the center of town, it’s nevertheless an oasis of calm. There are 17 different wellness zones in the Thermal Oasis, including a salt inhalation grotto, hay sauna, Turkish steam bath and laconium. The latter is perfect for those who find saunas too hot, featuring a bench that warms up gradually to 65°C.

There’s also a 15 m indoor pool, with regular paddle board yoga sessions. The highlights for us were the Outdoor Relaxation Pool overlooking the Finnish sauna and a deep tissue massage treatment. This focused on relieving muscular tensions through expertly applied pressure and rejuvenating organic oils.

Address: Le Grand Spa, Le Grand Bellevue, Untergstaadstrasse 17, 3780 Gstaad

6. Luxury Shopping

The luxury shopping in Gstaad is second to none. From Dolce & Gabbana to Louis Vuitton , Ralph Lauren and Moncler, you’ll find most of the major luxury fashion brands on the Pedestrianized Promenade.

Also known as Shopping Mile, it has a great range of luxury skiwear boutiques. There are also several art galleries in town and many interesting sculptures like The Thinker bronze statue by Joseph Klibansky.

Just off the Promenade, you’ll find R Chocolate Boutique on Viktoriastrasse. They have some great local specialties such as Louibachsteine with honey and cream made from local milk.

7. The Yurt Gstaad

You wouldn’t expect to find a Mongolian yurt in Gstaad but this town is full of surprises. The brainchild of Johannes Eisenburger, this yurt is an intimate bar that has a real party atmosphere.

Nestled in the grounds of Bellevue Gstaad, it’s a lot of fun. DJ Ewald Klassen spins tunes while the bar tender who is generally wearing a huge cloak carves ice from a slab.

Address: The Yurt Gstaad, Untergstaadstrasse 17, Gstaad 3780

8. Gstaad Ice Rink

Right in the centre of the town on Sportzentrumstrasse, you’ll find Eisbahn Gstaad . Open from mid October to beginning of March, it becomes a beach volleyball court in Summertime.

The ice rink is open from 10 am to 5 pm (10.30 am on Saturdays) with a late night session on Thursdays from 8.15-9.30 pm.

The Park Gstaad hotel has a complimentary ice rink, open to guests and non-residents each day from 10 am to 8 pm during the Winter season. Next to it, you’ll find the Ice Dome bar, which serves up Laurent-Perrier champagne, hot chocolate and glühwein.

Address: Eisbahn Gstaad, Promenade 76, 3780 Gstaad

9. Raclette at Le Petit Chalet

This cosy log cabin seats just 18 and serves up delicious Swiss specialties. Nestled within the grounds of Le Grand Bellevue hotel, it’s a wonderful place to enjoy cheese and chocolate fondues or a raclette.

The charming hostess will make you feel right at home. In Summertime, there’s an open air terrace and chicken rotisserie.

Le Petit Chalet is open from 6 to 10 pm from Thursday to Monday.

Address: Le Petit Chalet, Untergstaadstrasse 17, 3780 Gstaad

10. Visit Glacier 3000

Gstaad is blessed with an extended Winter ski season, thanks to its proximity with Glacier 3000. A 20 minute drive away from the center of Gstaad in Les Diablerets, Glacier 3000 can be easily reached by the Ice Express Chairlift at Col du Pillon.

It is possible to do cross country skiing from October to May on the glacier, and there are lots of other fun activities like sleigh rides. The Glacier Walk takes around an hour and finishes at the Restaurant Refuge l’Espace. For a less energetic option, take a Snow Bus Tour or dogsled ride.

The Alpine Coaster is a one kilometer toboggan run with speeds up to 40 kilometers an hour and 10 curves. Thankfully you can control the speed with your brake lever!

Peak Walk by Tissot is the first, only suspension bridge connecting two mountain peaks. It is free to Glacier3000 visitors, just be prepared to wait while people get their photos as it’s very popular.

When to Visit Gstaad

Whether you choose to visit in Summer for hiking or in Winter for skiing, the town is always lively. There are many top events held here each year such as the Beach Volleyball Major Series, the Menuhin Festival and the Swiss Open in July.

In August, the Hublot Polo Gold Cup Gstaad takes place, while the Sommets Musicaux de Gstaad are a range of concerts taking place in Gstaad chapel, Saanen and Rougemont.

How to Get to Gstaad

The area of Gstaad Saanenland is easy to reach by plane and train. Bern Airport is the closest, while air taxis operate from Saanen Airport to the Bernese Oberland.

The closest international airport is Geneva , and Zurich is also a good option. The Montreux Oberland Bernese Railway runs some beautiful vintage trains that connect Gstaad with Zweisimmen.

Where to Stay in Gstaad

Le Grand Bellevue Gstaad is family owned and centrally located in the heart of the town. This 5 star hotel has one of the best spas in the Swiss Alps.

There are also several great dining options including The Sushi Bar, The Lounge for afternoon tea, The Bar and Le Petit Chalet. Internationally acclaimed 3 Michelin starred chef Massimo Bottura and his team will be returning to LEONARD’s for a Summer residency.

The rooms are spacious, and many have fantastic views of the Alps. We stayed in a Tower Room which overlooks the mountains and has a double set of windows.

A special mention to Franziska, the charming lady who served me breakfast in my room on the last day. This is definitely one of the best places to stay in Gstaad.

Final Thoughts on the Best Things to Do in Gstaad Switzerland

Gstaad is a quaint little town surrounded by some of the most beautiful scenery in all of Switzerland. If you find yourself in this neck of the woods, be sure to check out at least one (or all) of these great activities!

And if you’re looking for more things to do in this stunning country, be sure to check out our other articles on what to do in Switzerland.

You might also enjoy:

• Fun Things to Do in Geneva
• Insider’s Guide to Verbier
• Where to Eat in Zurich
• What to See in Lucerne

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Suze and Paul are the founders of LuxuryColumnist, one of the leading luxury online magazines worldwide.

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Celebrities Have Flocked to This Castle-style Hotel in the Swiss Alps for More Than 100 Years

The family-owned Gstaad Palace has incredible restaurants, a world-class spa, and luxurious suites with views of the Swiss Alps.

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Courtesy of Gstaad Palace

A destination synonymous with exclusivity and glamor, the Swiss ski village of Gstaad has long been considered a playground for the global elite — and Gstaad Place, one of the hamlet’s oldest luxury hotels, is precisely that.

Steeped in more than 100 years of hotel history, the family-owned property has been a staple in the Swiss region’s ever-evolving tourism industry since opening its doors in 1913. Notable figures in the entertainment and political spheres, from Sophia Loren to Princess Diana to Quentin Tarantino, have sung its praises, and even today, its stellar reputation remains intact. Legend has it that Michael Jackson even inquired about purchasing the hotel himself after a memorable stay with his close friend Elizabeth Taylor and her two-time husband, Richard Burton.

Well aware of the star-studded guest list, it was difficult not to feel imposter syndrome walking into the grand double doors of Gstaad Palace, a gorgeous castle sitting atop a hill in a world of its own above the village. But it didn’t take long for me to realize that top-level luxury doesn’t always have to come with a hint of ostentation. Sure, sports jackets are required at dinners, and chalets owned by billionaires are only a stone’s throw away from the grounds. However, the hotel maintains a welcoming sense of understated luxury and whimsy. Be it the pool area with diving boards and waterslides galore or the underground nightclub with a resident DJ, plenty of spots on the property are fit for letting your hair down.

Gstaad Palace is open in the summer and winter, but as a fair-weather traveler, I opted for a visit in July. Read my full review below.

Gstaad Palace

• Some suites have balconies with sweeping views of the Swiss Alps.
• The hotel is steadfastly committed to sustainability, with LED lighting, EV charging stations, and locally sourced ingredients in its culinary offerings.
• There’s an Olympic-sized outdoor swimming pool with a resident DJ and a 10-foot diving board.
• The property leases an 18th-century alpine hut in the mountains for private dining experiences and overnight stays.

I could’ve spent most of my stay gawking at the jaw-dropping view from my suite’s balcony. The panoramic mountain landscape was so striking that it almost seemed fake, like an oil painting in a museum or a stock image set as your new laptop’s default screensaver.

Stefano Scatà/Courtesy of Gstaad Palace

The 90 rooms and suites on the property are all uniquely designed, but each stays true to its alpine roots, oozing warm wooden interiors, clean lines, and pops of earthy tones in the art-littered walls and accent furniture. Those staying in the one-of-its-kind Penthouse Suite have exclusive access to a 1,600-square-foot rooftop patio with the best viewpoint of Gstaad village, which is best enjoyed from the outdoor hot tub and sauna. Other amenities include a private elevator, central air conditioning, a walk-in closet, a massive living room, a fully stocked kitchen, and an indoor fireplace.

Food & Drink

Le Grand Restaurant and La Grande Terrasse are the main dining establishments on the property, serving haute cuisine in a relaxed setting overlooking finely manicured gardens at the base of towering mountain peaks. Over at the fine-dining restaurant, Le Grill, the hotel’s culinary director Franz W. Faeh and his team take a more refined, yet unpretentious, approach to its menu with a slew of international dishes made from fresh local ingredients — a proven recipe for success as it's been awarded a total of 16 Gault Millau points since opening.

Two of the palace’s dining venues are reserved only for the winter season, so I unfortunately didn't get to try either. La Fromagerie, a fondue restaurant, is set in a former World War II bunker, and Gildo’s, a high-end Italian joint, was named after Gildo Bocchini, the hotel’s longtime maître d' who had welcomed and cooked for guests for nearly five decades.

But the true star of the hotel's culinary offerings is the Walig Hut. Gstaad Palace brings guests back in time through private dining experiences and overnight stays at its no-frills, centuries-old alpine hut up in the mountains. After a 20-minute vertigo-inducing drive up into the Alps, situated next to a field of grazing cows, we were immediately greeted by the lulling sounds of cowbells and an unfamiliar yet friendly face: the hut’s warden, Maurizio Paglino. His alpine-style take on veal, potatoes, and vegetables was the most comforting meal I had during my stay.

Activities & Amenities

From vibrant summers to magical white winters, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a shortage of things to do at Gstaad Palace. Piscine, an outdoor Olympic-sized swimming pool built in 1928, is the hot spot come summer thanks to the resident weekend DJ, family-friendly atmosphere, and poolside bar serving yummy refreshments. Tennis and squash courts are also open during the warmer months. Pro tip: Sign up for a private lesson from former Australian pro and tennis legend Roy Emerson. Tennis lovers can also plan a summer trip around attending the annual Swiss Open Gstaad at the Roy Emerson Arena, where the best of the sport come together to play against a picturesque backdrop of the Swiss Alps.

Outdoor recreation is just as popular at the hotel in the winter, whether you’re looking to strap on your skis for a day on the slopes or hit the nearby hiking trails for a chilled-out walk in the snow. Plus, you won’t have to search too far to find an ideal Swiss apres-ski experience — a hidden nightclub off the hotel’s spa, GreenGo, is one of the hottest tickets in town.

Sandro Burkhalter/Courtesy of Gstaad Palace

The 19,000-square-foot spa is a quiet respite from the hustle-and-bustle energy at Piscine. The spa pool is much smaller and more luxurious, with indoor and outdoor swimming areas separated by a motion-censored glass partition. Nearby is a serene relaxation garden and a patio adorned with couches and umbrellas where you can enjoy a post-treatment tea and light bite. In addition to unique body rituals and facial treatments catered to individual needs, guests can take advantage of the onsite sauna, steam room, and hammam or, for ultimate relaxation, pay extra for a private suite with exclusive access to spa amenities. 

Gstaad Palace proves that even the most luxurious hotels can be kid-friendly. Piscine, the Olympic-size outdoor swimming pool, is the family hot spot come summertime. The atmosphere is lively and jubilant, hosting live DJs weekly, lawn games, trampolines, and three diving boards — the highest was a 10-foot board I mustered up the courage to conquer by the end of my stay. 

Every guest at Gstaad Palace is a VIP, especially the children. That’s why the hotel created the VIK (Very Important Kid) program. While parents indulge in some much-needed alone time, they can have peace of mind knowing their children are also living their vacation to the fullest with fun activities, from baking sessions and pony rides to iconic parties between Christmas and New Year's.

Accessibility & Sustainability

Gstaad Palace employs several sustainable practices to help maintain the village’s natural beauty. For starters, you won’t find a thermostat in your suite, but keeping your window open throughout the night to let the crisp mountain air in will do the trick to help you sleep comfortably. Other sustainable touches include LED lighting, non-plastic amenities, and locally sourced ingredients in its culinary offerings. Additionally, most staff (around 250 people from 19 different countries) dwell in cozy quarters next to the hotel to reduce traffic on local roads. 

Situated on a hill against a postcard-perfect backdrop of the Swiss Alps, the palace has everything you need regarding location: a sense of privacy with an easy commute to the village’s best offerings. A five-to-10-minute walk (or two minutes by car) will land you smack dab in the center of town, where you can sift through vintage pieces from high-fashion brands like Moncler, Louis Vuitton, and Prada, indulge in Swiss chocolate and fondue, or if you’re traveling in the summer, catch a Swiss Open tennis match at the outdoor clay courts. The property is also a hop and a skip away from some of the country’s best skiing, hiking, and 10,000-foot-high glaciers overlooking some of the tallest mountain peaks in Europe. The closest train station can also be reached by car from the hotel in less than five minutes. 

As members of Leading Hotels of the World — a collection of more than 400 luxury properties in more than 80 countries, Gstaad Palace guests can earn perks through the company’s hotel rewards program. Leaders Club membership benefits include upgrades before arrival, preferential treatment on-property, and higher Leaders Club status.

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Wanderung bei strahlendem Wetter und wunderbarer Aussicht.

Geheimtipps einer Gstaaderin

In der Ferienregion Gstaad leben gleich viele Kühe wie Menschen. Kein Wunder, ist die Region nicht nur als Luxusdestination bekannt, sondern auch für die typisch traditionelle Alpwirtschaft und das bodenständige Leben. Wenn jemand Gstaad bis ins Detail kennt, dann ist das Claudia von Siebenthal Fust. Die gebürtige Saanerin ist seit 9 Jahren Tourguide und zeigt Gästen die Schönheit ihres Zuhauses. Heute verrät sie uns ihre persönlichen Geheimtipps für eine unvergessliche Auszeit in der Ferienregion Gstaad.

Claudia von Siebenthal Fust – Tourguide Ferienregion Gstaad «Die Liebe zu meiner Heimat hat mich nach dem Reisen durch die ganze Welt zurück ins Saanenland geführt. Heute erzähle ich den Gästen über die Geheimnisse und zeige ihnen die Schönheiten der Ferienregion Gstaad.»

Für Traditionsfans: Chaletdorf Saanen

Sehenswert ist mein Heimatdorf Saanen : Im Kern reiht sich Chalet an Chalet aus dem 15. bis 18. Jahrhundert. Durch seine tief verwurzelte Tradition, kunstvolles Handwerk und eine geschichtsträchtige Vergangenheit strahlt Saanen einen ganz besonderen Charme aus. Eine Besonderheit verkauft Leonie Müller in ihrem GyBi-Lädeli : der berühmte Saanensenf, für den jede Familie in der Region ihr eigenes Geheimrezept hat.

Für Genussmenschen: Fondueland

Ich packe in meinen Wanderrucksack – alles Nötige für ein Fondue in den Bergen? Oder einfacher: Ich miete den nostalgischen Fonduerucksack! Das geht bei allen Molkereien in der Region. Mit dem Fonduerucksack geht es dann zu einem der insgesamt sieben Genussplätzen, wie etwa zum neuen XXL-Caquelon oberhalb des idyllischen Bergdorfs Abländschen. Wohin das Elektro-Postauto von Saanen bis Ende Oktober verkehrt.

Wanderung auf dem Rinderberg

Für Aktive: Horneggli-Panoramaweg

Die Tour wird nicht umsonst Panorama Route genannt: Auf der leichten Höhenwanderung bietet sich ein faszinierender Ausblick auf die herrliche Gstaader Bergwelt. Das Wanderparadies eröffnet sich in Zweisimmen. Die Gondelbahn bringt einen auf den Rinderberg, von wo aus der Weg über den Hornberg und weiter bis zur Bergstation Horneggli führt. Entlang der Strecke sind auch die acht Stationen des neuen Alpenzauberwegs zu finden, der Kindern spielerisch Einblicke in das Alpleben bietet.

Für Ruhesuchende: Arnensee

Fernab der Hektik inmitten einer herrlichen Bergwelt liegt der Arnensee: Baden an kleinen Buchten, Angeln, Grillieren an gut eingerichteten Feuerstellen und verschiedene Wanderungen bieten puren Sommergenuss. Wer auf dem See treiben möchte, leiht sich Pedalos, Ruderboote oder Paddleboards. Das Berggasthaus «Huus am Arnensee» mit der gemütlichen Terrasse verköstigt mit feinsten Produkten aus der Region. Auch Grillplätze am See laden zur Rast ein.

Profitieren Sie mit Ihrer Gstaad Card.

Digitale Gästekarte

Übernachtungsgäste bewegen sich dank der Gstaad Card bequem und mit gutem Gewissen in der Ferienregion Gstaad und dem oberen Simmental. Neben der kostenlosen Nutzung des öffentlichen Verkehrs bietet die Gästekarte über 80 exklusiv buchbare Erlebnisse – vom Besuch beim Bergbauer bis zur kostenfreien Dorfführung.

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