“Gstaad is the last paradise in a crazy world.” These words from the lovely and talented Julie Andrews capture the essence of this charming Swiss village in the heart of the Bernese Oberland in southwest Switzerland. Gstaad is one of 10 unique villages that make up the district known as Saanenland, each set amid a picturesque backdrop.
Traveling by train after an overnight flight, the enticing landscape passing outside my window assured me there’d be no sleep. Upon arrival I was eager for a nap but instead, after checking in, I stepped out on my terrace and fell into a trance. Before me a snow-covered Alpine village dotted with chalets decorated with twinkling lights was a scene plucked straight from a fairy tale.
A Celebrity Haven
Julie Andrews didn’t just compliment Gstaad, she decorated it with those twinkling lights that caught my eye. Saddened that the ubiquitous gabled rooftops weren’t visible on dark winter nights, she spontaneously donated funds to adorn the entire village with Christmas lights. “Julie lamps” now grace the rooftops in winter.
Julie isn’t the only famous person to frequent Gstaad. A long-time favorite of international celebrities, this quaint village offers luxury hotels, superb cuisine and tony shops at every turn. But despite its celebrity status, it remains authentically Alpine. There’s a relaxed welcoming vibe here that’s appealing—even without the red carpet.
Winter Sports Mecca
The Swiss Alps are a bucket list destination for ski enthusiasts and with 200 kilometers (more than 124 miles) of trails, the Saanenland District’s powdery slopes work for everyone from novice to the experienced.
Cross-country skiers too will revel in the extensive variety of trails – every one of them surrounded by magnificent vistas and snowy forests. Planning to bring your dog along? No problem! Gstaad has cross-country trails for that too. And, with a ski season that runs from October to May, you’re guaranteed plenty of action.
Given my lack of coordination on skis (downhill, cross-country or even in the pro shop), stepping in a pair and heading down ANY slope in the Swiss Alps was a terrifying thought. Rather than risking a broken limb (mine or someone else’s), I settled on an alternative adventure – Fat Tire biking. On the fun scale of 1 to 10, Fat Tire biking is off the charts. Apart from the extra wide tires designed to grip the snow and ice, Fat Tire bikes are just like any other bike. If you can ride on the street, you can ride on the snow. I pedaled my way across the wintry landscape without incident. I can’t say the same for biking in the city and I know there would have been incidents if I’d put on those skis – guaranteed.
A Walk Above the World
From the top of Gstaad’s glacier, 24 summits rising over 13,000 feet are visible including the Bernese Alps, Mont Blanc, and the famous Matterhorn. Here you’ll find the ultimate in winter entertainment—Glacier 3000. Skiers and snowboarders whisk down it, kids squeal in delight sledding down on plastic discs and those wanting a workout will find an abundance of winter hikes to up the heart rate.
My heart rate was racing too, but not because of a hike. I was stepping onto Peak Walk—the world’s only pedestrian suspension bridge connecting two mountain peaks. Walking above a precipice on an icy bridge isn’t for the faint of heart, but it was worth every wobbly step to experience the views. It also made me more grateful for Swiss engineering.
Continuing my immersion in the glacial landscape, I set out on an hour-long glacier walk to Refuge l’Espace. Perched at the edge of the glacier more than 2,800 meters above sea level, this cozy wooden restaurant serves the best Swiss comfort food with a side of phenomenal views. I was in my happy place with a plateful of traditional Raclette—melted cheese, over potatoes with gherkins and a full glass of white wine. Hey, I earned it with that glacier walk, right?
Year-Round Activities
While the winter landscape is magical, Gstaad is beautiful year-round. When the snow melts, skiing gives way to hiking through the lush landscapes. Mountain biking, golfing, fishing, horseback riding and river rafting join the lineup of outdoor must-dos. If running is your thing, tackle one of the well-marked routes. Posted signs provide directions and distances as well as the altitude to help you plan. Thrill seekers will need to head back to Glacier 3000 where the Alpine Coaster provides the world’s highest toboggan run.
Come Up, Slow Down
“Come Up, Slow Down” is Gstaad’s tag line. It isn’t just a suggestion, it’s a way of life here. Even when you pack your days with active outdoor pursuits, the fresh air and spectacular vistas will refresh your spirit. Of course, it helps that cheese and those Swiss wines are ready and waiting for you at the end of the day. Luxury hotels with rejuvenating spas also help to reinforce the relaxation mantra. Can’t argue with Julie…paradise indeed!
The country code for Switzerland is +41
Where to Stay:
Park Gstaad – With 84 chalet-cozy rooms fitted with pine paneling, black granite and grey furnishings, Park Gstaad is the ultimate in understated luxury. This Alpine retreat is a 5-minute walk from Gstaad’s promenade but feels a world away. If you’re up for splurging, My Gstaad Chalet is the largest penthouse suite in the Swiss Alps with four bedrooms, a private butler and spa. Wispilenstrasse 29, CH 3780 Gstaad, Switzerland, Tel. +41 33 748 98 00
www.parkgstaad.ch
Gstaad Palace – While many hotels offer a view, Gstaad Palace is part of the view. A “castle” atop a hill overlooking the village, it has represented the ultimate in refined, discreet hospitality for more than 100 years making it the hotel of choice for celebrities. Some say, “if you haven’t been to the lobby at the Gstaad Palace, you haven’t been to Gstaad.” Palacestrasse 28, CH-3780, Gstaad, Switzerland, Tel. +41 33 748 5000, www.palace.ch
Where to Eat & Drink:
Posthotel Rössli – Housed in an 1845 family-owned chalet with timbered walls, Posthotel Rössli offers a taste of modern and traditional cuisine prepared with fresh local ingredients. Conveniently located in the center of town. Promenade 10, 3780, Gstaad, Switzerland, Tel. +41 33 748 42 42, www.posthotelroessli.ch
Refuge l’Espace – Worth the hike up the glacier, this charming restaurant serves delicious local cuisine with a side of phenomenal views. Waldmattenstrasse 5, 3778 Schönried, Switzerland, Tel. +41 79 744 88 00,www.refugelespace.ch
Botta – Designed by famed Swiss architect Mario Botta, Restaurant Botta at the Scex Rouge station of Glacier 3000 serves specialties from cantons Bern, Waadt and Valais. With views of the surrounding Alpine peaks, it’s a feast for the eyes. Glacier 3000, Route du Pillon 253, 1865 Les Diablerets, Switzerland, Tel. +41 24 492 09 31, www.gstaad3000.ch
Restaurant Sommet – Located in the chic Alpina Gstaad, Michelin-starred Restaurant Sommet serves exceptional cuisine and offers an incredible selection of wines including over 400 rare vintage bottles from around the world. Alpinastrasse 23, 3780, Gstaad, Switzerland, Tel. +41 33 888 9888, www.thealpinagstaad.ch
Bouquet – Located in Le Grand Bellevue hotel, Boquet is a sexy lounge decorated with rich dark florals and sumptuous fabrics. It’s vintage glamor at its best. Stop by on a themed night to catch a burlesque show, cabaret or masquerade party. You can even learn to mix delicious cocktails with a master class. Untergstaadstrasse 17, 3780 Gstaad, Switzerland, Tel. +41 33 748 00 00, www.bellevue-gstaad.ch
What to Do:
Outdoor Pursuits – Gstaad is a mecca for outdoor enthusiasts in every season. From ski tours to heli-skiing to winter biking and more, you’ll find more information along with proprietors offering rentals and tours here: www.gstaad.ch
Glacier 3000 – Home to the Peak Walk by Tissot, Glacier 3000 is the ultimate outdoor playground for those brave enough to tackle the Alpine Coaster. Col du Pillon, Route du Pillon 253, 1865 Les Diablerets, Switzerland, Tel. +41 24 492 33 77, www.glacier3000.ch
The Palace Spa – With an indoor saltwater pool, bespoke aromatherapy treatments and a top of the line fitness center, refresh your mind, body and spirit here. Palacestrasse 28, CH-3780, Gstaad, Switzerland, Tel. +41 33 748 5000, www.palace.ch
Fondue Sleigh – Join Johann von Grünigen and his sunglasses wearing pup for a sleigh ride through the fairy tale landscape while indulging in fondue, bread and local wines. Turbachstrasse 137, 3781 Turbach, Switzerland, Tel. +41 79 328 77 14 www.myswitzerland.com/en