Mention Gstaad and most minds go straight to the slopes, and rightly so. With immaculate pistes, iconic gondolas, and the glitter of après-ski glamour, it’s an alpine playground of the highest order. But look a little closer, and you’ll discover a village layered with charm, culture, and quiet adventure well beyond its winter reputation.
Whether you visit under snow or sunshine, Gstaad offers a curated tapestry of experiences for every kind of traveler… From wellness wanderers to culture seekers and curious foodies.
The heart of Gstaad beats gently along its picturesque main street which is a pedestrian-only promenade lined with chocolate shops, boutiques, and alpine-chic cafés. Here, luxury lives in harmony with village life. You can browse high-end brands like Prada and Brunello Cucinelli before picking up handmade candles or traditional wooden toys crafted in nearby Saanen.
Stop for a coffee at Early Beck or indulge in a Swiss chocolate truffle from Charly’s, all while surrounded by the scent of mountain pine and the sound of snow crunching underfoot.
A ride on the Eggli gondola offers more than just access to ski slopes. It’s a scenic journey with panoramic views that stretch from glacier-capped peaks to the wooded valleys below. In summer, the Eggli area becomes a base for hiking and paragliding, with alpine pastures blooming in every direction.
At the top, the Bergrestaurant Eggli serves hearty Swiss meals with unbeatable vistas. It’s a perfect place for a fondue lunch above the clouds.
Just a short walk or drive from Gstaad lies the storybook village of Saanen, known for its baroque church, timber-framed houses, and tranquil atmosphere. It’s less commercial, more serene, and all the more rewarding for it.
The local museum offers a peek into the region’s alpine heritage, and the slow pace of life here makes it ideal for a peaceful afternoon stroll or a quiet meal at a family-run inn.
Gstaad takes wellness seriously. Many of the area’s top hotels, like The Alpina and Le Grand Bellevue, offer day-access to their spas, where you’ll find everything from steam grottos to Himalayan salt rooms and outdoor hot tubs with mountain views.
Try an alpine herb massage or unwind in a flotation pool beneath a starry dome. Afterward, sip herbal tea in a robe while gazing at snowflakes falling outside.
Gstaad might seem sleepy, but its cultural calendar says otherwise. In summer, the internationally renowned Menuhin Festival brings classical music to churches and chalets alike. The Gstaad Palace Champagne Tent and the Hublot Polo Gold Cup offer glamour with a sporting twist.
Even in quieter months, you’ll find food festivals, art exhibitions, and pop-up culinary experiences that showcase the region’s creative side.
Ski season may dominate winter, but Gstaad’s trails are a treasure year-round. Snowshoe through pine forests in February, walk through meadows of buttercups in June, or follow golden-leafed paths in October. Trails range from gentle strolls to high-altitude adventures, many accessible directly from town.
Lake Lauenen, with its still waters and surrounding pastures, is a favorite for locals and visitors alike, especially with a picnic in tow.
Yes, Gstaad has world-class skiing, but its soul lies in every corner. Think of the merriment in a mountain hut, the quiet streets of Saanen at dusk, the steam rising from a spa pool as bells ring in the distance. It’s a place that invites you to slow down, look closer, and discover more.
Whatever the season, Gstaad is full of things to do, and even more reasons to stay.
