Nestled in the Bernese Alps, Gstaad is a picturesque Swiss village with world-renowned luxury, charming boutiques, and delectable dining. Though small, Gstaad’s atmosphere blends Swiss alpine charm with international sophistication.

Gstaad is a year-round destination, with activities ranging from skiing and snowboarding in the winter to hiking and cycling in the summer.

Gstaad’s pedestrian-friendly promenade is also where you’ll find high-end fashion, exclusive boutiques, and local crafts. From designer wear to authentic Swiss goods, shopping here is a curated experience.

🚞 Getting to Gstaad:

Gstaad is easily accessible by train and car, with scenic routes that showcase Switzerland’s iconic landscapes. The GoldenPass Line is one of the most popular ways to reach Gstaad, offering panoramic train rides from Montreux through stunning alpine views.

🚗Driving from Geneva or Zurich takes about two hours, and the journey itself is an experience, winding through verdant valleys and rugged mountain passes.

🥾Hiking and Biking in the Summer

Summer in Gstaad transforms the snowy mountains into lush meadows and verdant forests. The Lauenensee hiking trail leads you to a beautiful alpine lake surrounded by waterfalls and wildflowers, while the Rinderberg Rondabiking trail is a fantastic choice if you are seeking more active pursuits

✨For something unique, try a hot air balloon ride over the Gstaad valley, where you’ll witness the area’s natural beauty from above.

🏂Winter Hiking and Snowshoeing

If you prefer exploring on foot, Gstaad offers well-marked winter hiking and snowshoe trails. Popular routes include the Höhi Wispile trail, which provides stunning views of the valley, and the Lake Lauenen trail, a scenic path around a frozen alpine lake.

🛍️shopping:

Heimatwerk

For a touch of local culture, visit Heimatwerk, a shop featuring traditional Swiss crafts, handmade textiles, and wooden goods. This is an excellent place to pick up unique souvenirs that reflect Swiss craftsmanship.

🥐Early Beck

A beloved bakery known for its meringues and traditional Swiss pastries, Early Beck is a must-visit for anyone with a sweet tooth. Pick up their signature “Gstaad meringues” to bring home a taste of the Alps.

🍽️Where to Dine:

Gstaad’s restaurant scene is diverse, offering Swiss, French, and global cuisine, all set within elegant alpine décor. Here are some of the top spots I recommend you experience.

The Alpina Gstaad – Sommet

Michelin-starred Sommet at The Alpina Gstaad offers a sophisticated, farm-to-table experience with French-inspired cuisine. Executive Chef Martin Göschel crafts seasonal dishes with local ingredients, and the views from the terrace are breathtaking.

Restaurant Sonnenhof

Located just outside the center, Sonnenhof offers a Swiss-French menu with mountain views in a cosy, chalet-style setting. Their filet of veal with truffle jus and signature risotto are favorites, perfect for a romantic dinner.

Berghaus Wasserngrat

If you’re up for a scenic dining experience, Berghaus Wasserngrat is an accessible mountain-top restaurant, reachable via a short ski lift ride. The restaurant offers Swiss specialties with a view, a perfect spot for hiking and skiing.