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If you have done the things to do in Italy, you’d know there are quite a few of them here in Gstaad.
Welcome to Gstaad, a picturesque paradise nestled in the heart of the Swiss Alps.
A land where snow-capped peaks, rolling hills and lush green pastures blend together in perfect harmony, offering a breathtaking landscape that will leave you enchanted.
From skiing on the slopes of the most renowned ski resort to indulging in luxury spa treatments, Gstaad is a haven for adventure-seekers and relaxation-seekers alike.
So, come and experience the magic of Gstaad and create memories that will last a lifetime.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Gstaad:
1. Gstaad Palace Hotel
Gstaad Palace Hotel is a luxurious hotel located in the picturesque town of Gstaad in the Swiss Alps.
What to see or do: The hotel offers a wide range of activities, including skiing, snowboarding, ice skating, tennis, swimming, and hiking.
Guests can also indulge in spa treatments, enjoy the hotel’s multiple restaurants and bars, or relax in the spacious rooms and suites.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the chance to experience the hotel’s legendary Sunday brunch, which features a vast selection of delicious food and stunning mountain views.
Also, be sure to check out the hotel’s famous GreenGo nightclub, which has been entertaining guests since the 1970s.
Insider travel tips: For the ultimate luxury experience, book one of the hotel’s Signature Suites, which offer breathtaking views and exclusive amenities.
Also, be sure to take advantage of the hotel’s complimentary shuttle service, which can take you to and from nearby ski slopes and attractions.
Finally, don’t forget to pack warm clothing, as temperatures in the Alps can be quite chilly.
2. Glacier 3000
A popular ski resort and tourist destination located in the Bernese Alps of Switzerland.
What to see or do: Visitors can enjoy a wide range of winter sports, including skiing, snowboarding, and sledding.
In the summer, guests can take in the stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, go hiking or mountain biking, and experience the world-famous Peak Walk by Tissot, a suspension bridge connecting two mountaintops.
Don’t miss: The Glacier Walk, a guided tour that takes visitors through a natural ice palace, complete with ice sculptures and frozen tunnels.
Insider travel tips: For the best views and smaller crowds, consider visiting Glacier 3000 during the shoulder season (October/November or April/May). Also, be sure to dress warmly, as temperatures on the mountain can be much colder than at lower elevations.
3. The Etivaz Cheese Dairy
The Etivaz Cheese Dairy is a traditional Swiss cheese factory located in the heart of the Swiss Alps, in the picturesque town of Gstaad.
What to see or do: Visitors can witness the fascinating process of cheese-making from start to finish.
The tour starts with a visit to the milk room, where guests can see the freshly collected milk being poured into huge cauldrons.
Next, the milk is heated over an open fire, and rennet is added to make the curds form. Guests can then watch as the cheese is molded and pressed before being left to mature in the cheese cellar.
Don’t miss: The tasting room, where guests can sample the delicious Etivaz cheese, a type of Swiss cheese that is made exclusively in the region.
The cheese is known for its rich, nutty flavor, and is a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
Insider travel tips: – The best time to visit the Etivaz Cheese Dairy is during the summer months, when the cows are grazing in the high alpine pastures and the cheese-making process is in full swing.
4. Lake Lauenen
Lake Lauenen is a scenic mountain lake situated in the charming village of Lauenen, just a short drive from Gstaad in Switzerland.
What to see or do: The lake is a popular destination for hiking, fishing, and swimming in the summer months. You can take a leisurely stroll around the lake to enjoy stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
There are also several hiking trails in the area, including one that leads up to the impressive waterfall nearby.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss out on renting a rowboat or pedalo to explore the lake from a different perspective. If you’re lucky, you may even spot some wildlife, such as deer or marmots, in the surrounding forests.
Insider travel tips: For the best experience, visit the lake early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the crowds. Bring a picnic or enjoy a meal at one of the nearby restaurants to take in the beautiful scenery.
Also, keep in mind that the lake can get chilly even in the summer months, so bring a jacket just in case.
5. Saanen Church
Saanen Church is an iconic landmark of Gstaad, Switzerland, dating back to the 15th century.
What to see or do: Visitors can admire the beautiful exterior of the church, which features a distinctive onion-shaped steeple.
The interior of the church is also worth a visit, showcasing traditional Swiss architecture with intricate woodwork and painted ceiling panels.
Don’t miss: Be sure to check out the historic bells of Saanen Church, which date back to the 18th and 19th centuries. These bells are still rung for special occasions, and add to the rich cultural heritage of the region.
Insider travel tips: Attend a church service to fully appreciate the spiritual significance and serene atmosphere of Saanen Church.
Additionally, the church is often utilized for special events and concerts throughout the year, so be sure to check the local schedule for upcoming performances.
6. Gstaad Sports Centre
Gstaad Sports Centre is a multi-purpose sports facility situated in the picturesque town of Gstaad, Switzerland.
What to see or do: The sports centre offers a variety of indoor and outdoor activities, including swimming, ice skating, tennis, and fitness classes. The Olympic-sized indoor swimming pool is a popular attraction, as is the outdoor ice skating rink.
Visitors can also take part in yoga, pilates, and zumba classes, or work out in the gym.
Don’t miss: Be sure to try out the outdoor tennis courts, which offer stunning mountain views. Additionally, the sports centre hosts various events throughout the year, including international ice hockey matches and tennis tournaments.
Insider travel tips: Visitors can save money by purchasing a multi-visit pass for the sports centre. Additionally, it’s best to book activities in advance to ensure availability during peak travel seasons.
Don’t forget to bring swimwear and a towel if planning to use the swimming pool, as they are not provided. Also, note that the ice skating rink is not open during the summer months.
7. Promenade
A picturesque promenade located in the luxurious Swiss mountain resort town of Gstaad.
What to see or do: Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the promenade and take in the stunning views of the surrounding Alps. Shop at the many high-end boutiques and enjoy a meal at one of the gourmet restaurants.
Don’t miss: The annual Gstaad Menuhin Festival, which takes place from mid-July to early September and features world-class classical music performances.
Insider travel tips: Visit during the winter season to enjoy skiing and other snow sports in the nearby mountains. Be sure to bring warm clothing as temperatures can drop below freezing.
8. Oldenegg-Cabane Truttlisberg
Oldenegg-Cabane Truttlisberg is a mountain hut located in the Bernese Alps, Switzerland.
What to see or do: The hut is a popular destination for hikers and skiers looking to enjoy the stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the chance to try some of the delicious local food such as fondue or rösti while taking in the breathtaking scenery.
Insider travel tips: – Check the weather forecast before heading out as visibility can be poor in bad weather.
9. Gstaad Yacht Club
A prestigious yacht club located in the heart of the Swiss Alps.
What to see or do: Enjoy superb dining experiences, participate in sailing competitions or relax in a luxurious environment. Guests can also take part in a range of water sports on Lake Geneva.
Don’t miss: The club’s exceptional facilities, including a spa, sauna, steam room, and outdoor pool. Additionally, visitors can take advantage of the club’s stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
Insider travel tips: Book in advance to ensure that you get a place at the club’s popular waterfront restaurant.
Additionally, visitors should take advantage of the club’s shuttle service to make transportation to and from the club as easy as possible.
10. Wispile
A mountain located in the Swiss Alps near the town of Gstaad.
What to see or do: Enjoy skiing and snowboarding during the winter season, or hiking and mountain biking during the summer season. Take a cable car to the top for spectacular views of the surrounding mountains.
Don’t miss: The Wispile toboggan run, where you can slide down the mountain on a sled. There’s also a restaurant at the top with delicious Swiss cuisine.
Insider travel tips: Consider visiting Wispile during the off-seasons, as it can be quite crowded during peak ski season. If you’re visiting during the winter, be sure to dress warmly and bring appropriate gear for snow sports.
11. St Nicholas Church
St. Nicholas Church is a historic and beautiful church located in the charming mountain village of Gstaad, Switzerland.
What to see or do: Visitors can marvel at the stunning Baroque architecture of the church, including its intricate ceiling frescoes and elaborate altars. Inside, there is also a small museum showcasing the church’s history and artwork.
Don’t miss: Take a moment to light a candle and soak in the peaceful atmosphere of this serene sanctuary. Also, be sure to admire the stunning views of the surrounding Swiss Alps.
Insider travel tips: If you visit during the winter months, attend one of the church’s traditional candlelit Christmas services for a truly magical experience.
And, if you’re feeling adventurous, take a scenic hike in the mountains surrounding Gstaad for breathtaking views of the church from afar.
12. Gstaad-Saanenland holiday region
Gstaad-Saanenland is a popular holiday destination located in the Swiss Alps. It is known for luxury chalets, world-class skiing, and stunning mountain landscapes.
What to see or do: – Ski or snowboard in some of the best resorts in Europe, including Gstaad Mountain Rides, Glacier 3000, and Les Diablerets.
Don’t miss: – The Lauenensee, a stunning alpine lake surrounded by mountains.
Insider travel tips: – Try traditional Swiss dishes like raclette and fondue at one of the local restaurants.
13. Rellerli
A popular ski and hiking destination in the Swiss Alps located near Gstaad.
What to see or do: Ski on over 20km of well-groomed slopes with stunning views of the surrounding mountains or go hiking on one of the many trails.
In summer, visitors can also enjoy mountain biking and paragliding.
Don’t miss: The stunning panoramic view from the summit, which includes sights of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau peaks.
Insider travel tips: Make sure to check the weather forecast and dress appropriately for the weather conditions. Consider purchasing the Gstaad Card, which includes discounts on various activities in the area.
If you’re visiting in the winter, try the traditional Swiss dish of cheese fondue at one of the mountain restaurants.
14. Rougemont Village
A charming Swiss mountain village located in the Gstaad region.
What to see or do: Take a leisurely stroll around the village and admire the traditional Swiss chalets adorned with flowers. Visit the 11th-century Rougemont Abbey which is a national heritage site and the Church of St.
Nicolas. Take a scenic hike through the mountains and enjoy the stunning views.
Don’t miss: Trying the local cheese specialties including the Gstaader Hobelkäse and the Alpkäse. Visit the traditional dairy farms and see the cheese production process firsthand.
Insider travel tips: The best time to visit Rougemont Village is from June to September when the weather is pleasant and the mountain trails are open.
Take the scenic train ride from Montreux to Gstaad to fully appreciate the beauty of the region. Be sure to pack comfortable walking shoes and a jacket as temperatures can drop in the evenings.
15. Ebnit Lake
Ebnit Lake is a picturesque mountain lake located in the heart of the Swiss Alps, near the charming village of Gstaad.
What to see or do: Visitors can hike through the pristine alpine landscape to reach the lake and admire its crystal-clear waters. The lake is also popular for swimming and fishing during the summer months.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the chance to take in the stunning views of the surrounding mountains and the peaceful atmosphere of this secluded spot.
Insider travel tips: – Bring comfortable hiking shoes and a camera to capture the breathtaking scenery.