A Visit to Gstaad, Switzerland

Welcome to Gstaad, Switzerland. Photo: WikiMedia.org.

According to legend, it was God's hand that created Switzerland's Saanenland region when He set it down to rest while creating the rest of the world. His imprint became the valleys and within His fingers, nine enchanting villages cradled within Alpine grandeur—chief among them is Gstaad. Located in Bernese Oberland (Highlands) in Switzerland's southwestern Alps, nearly smack dab in between Zurich and Geneva, Gstaad is renowned for its popularity among the royals, celebrities and jet set.

But it's not only the rich and famous who travel to God's country, adventurers and sports enthusiasts seek challenges on the slopes in winter or summer while others in search of a rejuvenating transformation find respite in one of the Gstaad's luxurious resorts and spas. For everyone, there's shopping along Gstaad Promenade; dining at some of the world's finest restaurants where award-winning chefs serve up tantalizing flavors; sleigh rides; hot-air ballooning; music festivals—among others. Simply put, there's something for everyone in Gstaad!

The splendor of Gstaad and the Swiss countryside at dusk. Photo: Gstaad Saanenland Tourismus.

But above all that, there is something even more special about Gstaad—the preservation of its cultural heritage, it's almost palpable. Look around, you'll see, smell, hear and taste the Alpine culture as it comes to life, appealing to every sense, drawing you in. Gstaad takes great pride in its centuries-old traditions and is determined to protect its authentic way of life.

The Alpine culture is alive and well in Gstaad! Photo: Gstaad Saanenland Tourismus.

First, a little introduction. Here's a short and quite hilarious video of a traveler who shares his experiences from a recent Gstaad holiday.

Gstaad Village:

Stroll along the incomparable Gstaad Promenade. Photo: Gstaad Saanenland Tourismus.

This is your hub in Saanenland—your gateway to all of the cultural and recreational activities in Gstaad and beyond! In the heart of the village, you'll find enchanting Alpine architecture lining the traffic-free Gstaad Promenade—five blocks of charming chalets comprising a mix of hotels, elegant boutiques, fashion houses, sports shops, jewelry stores, world-class restaurants and more. An afternoon or evening stroll makes for an ideal way to spend time, money and to people watch. Be sure to stop by Charly's for hot chocolate that will send your taste buds reeling!

Gstaad Promenade in the wintertime is delightful especially when a steamy cup of hot chocolate is waiting for you at Charly's. Photo: Gstaad Saanenland Tourismus. 

Beyond Gstaad, the nearby villages of Saanen, Rougemont, Château-d'Oex, Zweisimmen, Gsteig and Lauenen are just within a few miles of each other and each offers something unique to its visitors. The Montreux-Oberland-Railways (MOB) and buses connect Gstaad with other base stations in nearby Saanenmöser, Schönried, Zweisimmen, Gsteig, Reusch, Lauenen Rougemont and Château-d'Oex.

Cultural Immersion in Gstaad

If it's cultural immersion you seek, seek no more for I have discovered customs, traditions and festivals celebrated throughout Saanenland that will immerse you into Alpine way of life.

Gstaad Menuhin Festival

21st Century Symphony Orchestra mit Ludwig Wicki. Photo: Gstaad Menuhin Festival & Academy.

Founded in 1957 by Lord Yehudi Menuhin, one of the greatest violinists of the 20th-century, Gstaad's Menuhin Festival is comprised of 50+ musical events that take place throughout Saanenland from mid-July to early September. With a repertoire that includes Baroque, Classical, Romantic and Contemporary styles, the festival is one of Switzerland's most popular. You may even stumble upon an impromptu performance at an Alpine hut, mountain railway station and various other public spaces. From orchestra concerts and chamber music to the opera and today's contemporary sounds, this festival is a must-see if you're planning a visit during the summer.

Obersimmentaler Heritage Museum

Located in nearby Zweisimmen, the Obersimmentaler Heritage Museum is actually housed in a farm house that dates back to 1647. History buffs and antique collectors will revel at all of the furnishings and farming utensils that offer us a glimpse back in time to 17th-century life on the farm.

Museum der Landschaft Saanen

The Museum der Landschaft Saanen re-creates life over the last three centuries. Photo: MySwitzerland.com.

In the neighboring village of Saanen, the Museum der Landschaft Saanen recreates the evolution of life in this region over the last three centuries—from its humble beginnings to the industries that define this area today: farming, cheese production, hoteliers and entrepreneurs. It offers great insights into the Saanenland people—a must-see exhibit for all of you cultural enthusiasts!

Alpine Farming Life

Züglete—a must-see for families especially with children. Photo: Gstaad Saanenland Tourismus.

With more than 200 dairies in Saanenland, 80 of which are working farms that maintain Alpine pastures for grazing cows, you'll find farming traditions are alive and well in this region; and are celebrated in summer festivals that epitomize Alpine culture. It's an unforgettable immersion so indulge your senses and embrace new traditions.

Suufsunntig or Drinking Sunday in Gstaad, Switzerland. Photo: Gstaad Saanenland Tourismus.

• Suufsunntig or Drinking Sunday—not the alcoholic libations you would expect, not at first anyway. We start the day in the morning with a cheesy toast made of a type of yogurt. Follow that with a glass of wine and lunch and enjoy the live Alpine entertainment: yodeling, sounds of Alpenhorn, and the piece de resistance—the crowning of the decorated prize cow. The lucky owner buys wine for everyone. Music and dance continue into the night.
• Züglete or Alpine Transhumance —a must-see for families especially with children. During Züglete, and depending upon weather conditions, farmers drive their cattle from valley floors up the Alpine slopes and then back down again, all the while the melodic pealing of the cowbells fills the air in true Alpine form.

Eating locally in Gstaad

Cheese making in Gstaad. Photo: Gstaad Saanenland Tourismus.

Cheese and more cheese please. Gstaad and the surrounding Saanenland region is renowned for its cheese production so it's no surprise that this rich and creamy favorite is served up everywhere. However, cheese production must conform to strict regulations established by the Appellation d'origine contrôlée (AOC), a designated place of origin as determined by the Swiss government (think wine). The regulations control where and how the cows are fed during the time period leading up to production. Farmers must stop feeding their cows silage (fodder) two weeks before production begins, and the cows must eat only what grows on their Alpine pastures. Of course supplements are forbidden.

Hobelkäse, Bergkäse and Alpkäse:

Hobelkäse is traditionally cut into fine slices before being served. Photo: Gstaad Saanenland Tourismus.

Alpkäse or Alpine Cheese is a full-fat, hard and unpasteurized cheese produced in the round. When it's further refined, it becomes an even harder cheese known as Hobelkäse. Bergkäse or mountain cheese comes from the valley and must be made only in the valley.

Air-dried Meat

Scrumptious air-dried beef from Saanenland. Photo: MySwitzerland.com.

Farmers breed spotted Simmental cattle to produce one of the region's favorites—air-dried meat—the result of raw meat stored in a mixture of salt, herbs and spices and then hung out to dry with the laundry. Believe it or not, the larger cuts of meat can take more than a year to dry out completely.

Saanen Mustard

Usually served on small dishes accompanied by ham and sausages, Saanen mustard is one the Saanenland's specialties and is traditionally made from mustard seed combined with grape must (fresh-pressed juice) but in Saanenland, the producers use cherry must instead. According to the locals, every family has their own, secretly-guarded recipe.

Gstaad Recreation

Regardless of the time of the year, Gstaad offers plenty of recreational activities for all walks of life from adventures on the slopes to peaceful retreats at the spa.

Wintertime Adventures in Gstaad

Skiing and Snowboarding

Pristine Alpine slopes beckon to skiers and snowboarders alike. Photo: Gstaad Saanenland Tourismus.

The wintertime transforms Gstaad into one of the world's premier ski destinations, not to mention one of Switzerland's largest and most diverse winter-sports regions in the country. With more than 140 miles (225 km) of slopes and trails of varying levels of expertise, the entire region is conveniently linked by the Gstaad Mountain Rides—57 transport facilities accessible from several of the neighboring villages. Winter begins here at the end of October and continues through the beginning of May. Seek out the steepest slope in Bernese Oberland, Tiger Run on Mount Wasserngrat, highly recommended.

Sledding

With eight runs to choose from, there is plenty to choose from for singles and families, three of which are highly recommended by locals:

• Wispile: From the top of the Wispile cable car station down to Gsteig
• Saanen: Relleri, Grosse and down to Schönried
• Saanen: From Eggli down to Grund.

View of Gstaad from high atop the Eggli. Photo: Gstaad Palace.

Sleigh Rides

Dashing through the snow-covered Swiss countryside in your very own horse-drawn sleigh. Photo: Gstaad Saanenland Tourismus.

There's simply no other way to enjoy the beautiful Swiss countryside than from your very own horse-drawn carriage. You and your family are whisked through a Swiss winter wonderland. Truly recommended for romantics. The best? By moonlight—through the natural reserve of Lauener Rohr to the restaurant Mattestübli for a fondue stop and then back along Lauenen Lake.

Dog Sledding

Mush!! These huskes are born and bred to run! Photo: Gstaad Saanenland Tourismus.

Greenland dogs and Siberian Huskies are born and bred for their brisk runs through tranquil snow-covered trails. Not only will they enjoy their rigorous trek, you will too. Exhilarating and unforgettable.

Hot-air Ballooning

Imagine floating high above pristine Alpine landscapes in a hot air balloon. Photo: Gstaad Saanenland Tourismus.

Imagine floating high above silver-white landscapes and Alpine peaks laden with snow—drifting above some of the most spectacular vistas in the world—here the sky is truly the limit. If you're planning your visit to Gstaad at the end of January, be sure to head to the International Balloon Festival in nearby Châteux-d'Oex, only 20 minutes by train. With more than 90 balloons participating in this annual event, the sky is ablaze in dazzling color.

Skiing above the clouds in Switzerland. Photo: Club Med Villars-sur-Ollon.

Helicopter skiing and touring

Hop onboard a helicopter for the ultimate skiing adventure or for a leisurely tour around scenic Alpine landscapes.

The Fondue Trail

Take a break and indulge in cheesy fondue. Photo: Gstaad Saanenland Tourismus.

I can't think of a better reward after a day on the slopes than to sit down and indulge in cheesy fondue! After a cable-car ride on the Rellerie, there's a 40-minute hike to Mt. Hirschel. Along the way, follow the "fondue" marker to one of the three huts and enjoy.

Summer recreation in Gstaad

Hiking

Summer hiking in Gstaad can be as leisurely or as challenging as you like. Photo: Gstaad Saanenland Tourismus.

With more than 185 miles of hiking trails at your disposal in the entire Saanenland Region, there's a trail or path suitable for all skill levels from a leisurely stroll along mountain passes to rugged ascents of lofty Alpine peaks! Hikers will revel in the summertime Alpine splendor—all accessible by Gstaad Mountain Rides.

Golf

Gstaad Golf. Photo: Gstaad Saanenland Tourismus.

One of the world's most beautiful courses, the Gstaad-Saanenland Golf Course opened in 1961 amid the beauty of the Bernese Oberland.

Electric Bicycling

You will find more than 90 miles of bike trails throughout Saanenland. Photo: Gstaad Saanenland Tourismus.

With more than 90 miles of bike routes throughout Saanenland, this relatively new form of recreation is one of the best ways to ride along through Swiss country. With varying levels of motorized assistance, you're in control. Use as much or as little as you need.

Enjoy the sublime Swiss countryside from the Golden Pass Panoramic Train. Photo: Gstaad Saanenland Tourismus.

Summer or Winter: Hop onboard the scenic train Golden Pass Panoramic from Montreux or from Zweisimmen, Spiez or Interlaken. Sit back and watch as the scenic countryside rolls by. Cameras at the ready!

Where to Stay in Gstaad:

Luxurious and sumptuous doesn't begin to describe the "deluxeness" of Gstaad hotels. Needless to say, their services come at a cost but when you're staying in some of the finest hotels in the world, a little more cash is required and while the prices may seem suited for the rich and famous, there are others nearby with more affordable rates.

The Gstaad Palace

Welcome to Gstaad's Flagship Hotel and Spa - The Gstaad Palace. Photo: Gstaad Palace.

By far, Gstaad Palace is THE flagship hotel and spa and has become an icon for the Saanenland region. Built in 1913, the Gstaad Palace is perched up a hill overlooking the village and offers stunning views of the Swiss Alps. Catering to your every need, the hotel prides itself on the exceptional and superior guest service it provides to even its most discerning travelers. Among the 104 lavishly-appointed guestrooms, there are 19 Junior Suits and the luxurious 3-bedroom Pentouse Suite. Rounding out the rest the resort are its five restaurants, two bars, indoor / outdoor pool, spa and tennis courts. Lots of activities nearby include golf, heli-skiing, hot-air ballooning and more!

Deluxe Suite Living Room. Photo: Gstaad Palace.

The Gstaad Palace in the summertime. Photo: Gstaad Palace.

Le Grill at the Gstaad Palace. Photo: Gstaad Palace.

Lobby Bar at the Gstaad Palace Hotel. Photo: Gstaad Palace.

The Grand Hotel Park

The sumptuous Grand Hotel Park in Gstaad. Photo: Grand Hotel Park.

The Grand Hotel Park—the classic Swiss chalet architectural style pervades throughout this luxurious Alpine retreat steps away from the Gstaad Promenade. Inside, the resort underwent a complete renovation in time for its 100th birthday. Cozy-Alpine describes the décor with elegantly appointed rooms decorated in wood, stone and replete with Bang & Olufsen equipment including free Wi-Fi. You'll find four restaurants, The Grand Hotel Park Spa with salt-water pool, saunas, Turkish bath, private cabins and more.

Grand Hotel Park recently celebrated its 100th birthday! Photo: Grand Hotel Park.

Alpina Gstaad

Gstaad's newest 5-star luxury property—Alpina Gstaad. Photo: Alpina Gstaad. 

Alpina Gstaad—Alpine Chic perfectly describes Gstaad's newest 5-star luxury property that integrates stone, leather and wood into the elaborate designs throughout—from grand gathering places to the intimate settings of your rustic suite! Two restaurants, lounge, wine cellar, cigar room and the rejuvenating Six Senses Spa round out this ultimate experience in Alpine luxury.
For a full list of hotels to suit all budgets, check out Gstaad.ch for a complete list of Gstaad accommodations.

Getting there:

Saanen Airport: Regional airport in Saanen, only 2 miles from the center of the village. Nearest major airport is in Bern, 1.5 hours away. Perfect for all of you with private jets.

Bern-Belp Airport

• 1h 30mins by car
• 2h 40mins by train

Zurich International Airport

• 2h 40mins by car
• 3h 40mins by train

Geneva-International Airport

• 2h 10mins by car
• 2h 43mins by train

If you want to see spectacular footage from above, here is a stunning fly-over that will leave you breathless.

More captivating destinations in Switzerland

• "Ripples of Inspiration: A Travel Guide to Geneva".
• "A visit to Zermatt Village"