Gstaad
Gstaad
Gstaad, a charming village in the Swiss Alps, has been a long-time favorite winter destination for the rich and famous. But there's much more to this place than its reputation as a celebrity hotspot. The town combines traditional Swiss architecture with upscale boutiques and restaurants, creating a unique blend of rustic charm and luxury.
The surrounding Bernese Oberland region offers breathtaking alpine scenery, with snow-capped mountains and lush green valleys in summer. Gstaad's car-free center preserves its authentic mountain village atmosphere despite its high-end reputation. It's fascinating how this small community has maintained its cultural identity while welcoming international visitors for generations.
Beyond winter sports, Gstaad hosts world-class events throughout the year, including the Swiss Open tennis tournament and renowned music festivals. The local cuisine is worth trying, featuring Swiss classics made with fresh ingredients from surrounding farms. The cheese in particular is exceptional - the region is famous for its dairy production, especially the sought-after Alpkäse (Alpine cheese) made in summer on high mountain pastures according to centuries-old traditions.
While luxury is certainly part of Gstaad's identity, there's an understated elegance to the place. Unlike flashier ski resorts, Gstaad values discretion and traditional Swiss hospitality above all. This balance between sophistication and authenticity is what continues to make it special.
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Things to do in Gstaad
Top things to do in Gstaad by holidaystoswitzerland.com
Where to stay in Gstaad
Best hotels in Gstaad:
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Swiss Quality Hotel (luxury hotel)
The Bernerhof Swiss Quality Hotel sits right in Gstaad, just steps from the train station. With its prime location on the town's pedestrian-only main street, you're perfectly situated to explore all this picturesque alpine village has to offer.
Inside, the hotel blends traditional Swiss chalet style with modern comforts. Spacious rooms feature private balconies with mountain or village views. After a day on the slopes, unwind in the indoor pool and spa area complete with sauna and steam room.
When it comes to dining, you're spoiled for choice with four on-site restaurants. Savor gourmet French cuisine, authentic Chinese dishes, wood-fired pizzas, or classic Swiss fare. In the evenings, grab a nightcap at the cozy bar or try your hand at billiards in the game room.
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Sporthotel Victoria (medium range hotel)
Sporthotel Victoria is close to shops, restaurants and the ski lifts. The rooms have a rustic Swiss vibe and come with the basics like a TV and safe.
The hotel restaurant serves up tasty Swiss and Italian dishes, and there's a nice terrace where you can people-watch while having breakfast or drinks. Speaking of breakfast, guests rave about the morning spread here.
While it's not fancy, Sporthotel Victoria offers a comfortable home base for exploring Gstaad. The friendly staff and central location make it a solid choice, especially if you want to be in the middle of the action. Just keep in mind it can get a bit noisy at night being right on the main drag.
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Best hostels in Gstaad:
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Saanen Gstaad Youth (party hostel)
Saanen Gstaad Youth Hostel offers a cozy mountain retreat in the scenic Swiss Alps. Located on the edge of Saanen, this modern hostel has stunning views of the surrounding peaks. The spacious rooms range from private doubles to shared dorms, all with comfy beds and large windows to take in the scenery.
The hostel has great facilities for socializing and relaxing after a day of outdoor activities. There's a game room with ping pong and foosball, plus an outdoor playground for kids. The on-site restaurant serves up hearty local cuisine, perfect for fueling up before hitting the slopes or hiking trails. With its friendly staff and laid-back vibe, it's an ideal spot for budget travelers looking to experience the beauty of Gstaad without breaking the bank.