Paradise calling

From skiing in the winter to volley ball and the Menuhin Festival in the summer, Gstaad has something to keep visitors entertained all year round. With a reputation as the alpine "capital" of major events, it has more than 1,000 events every year.

Alpine lifestyle

Gstaad has a history of tourism going back more than 100 years, but despite the foreign influences that often come with tourists, it has maintained its authentic Alpine lifestyle.

Traditional crafts are still popular, as are locally produced meats and cheese. The architecture that dominates the villages is in the typically Swiss chalet-style, and many buildings date back to the 15th century. Museums show Gstaad's rich history, offering insight into culture, traditions and handicraft.

Snow sports

Quaint mountain restaurants and ski slope bars can be enjoyed by holiday makers as they take a break from the 250 kilometres of ski slopes. Gstaad has the only glacier ski area in the Bernese Oberland as well as an extensive freeride and ski-touring area. It's also one of the top three cross-country ski areas in Switzerland and is a tobogganist's dream.

Natural beauty

Visitors can take in the unspoiled nature while on walks and hikes. There are 300 kilometres of footpaths, which are accessible by eight mountain railways. Gstaad is a popular biking destination and offers countless mountain climbing opportunities. For the less adventurous there is an idyllic 18-hole golf course, too. The sand volleyball tournaments attract many great international teams. Tennis fans can look forward to the Allianz Suisse Open tournament. Fishing, horse riding, river rafting and ballooning are some more popular activities on offer.

Take it easy

Gstaad boasts five world-class hotels with a range of beauty and wellness services and spa facilities. Eight additional businesses have their own wellness infrastructure and offer traditional Alpine treatments, such as hay baths, whey baths and barefoot walks. Gstaad offers guests some of the finest foods in the world. Ranging from cosy bistros to fancy, gourmet restaurants, there are more than 100 restaurants to choose from. n