The perfect melange of alpine culture, designer décor and sweeping mountain views; Gstaad Switzerland promises to astound visitors this ski season. Here’s why this snow-dusted, decadent destination ought to be on everyone’s bucket list.

Sitting at 1700m in the gorgeous Alps, the winter wonderland for the well to do, Gstaad is at the peak of Swiss sophistication. The winter break of choice for royals and celebrities, this destination is renowned for its prestigious 5-star hotels, opulent fine dining experiences and sumptuous spas. As well as offering all the trimmings for adventurous ski and snowboard-lovers, the town’s motto is ‘come up, slow down’ and there is an air of calm and relaxation at this resort that you simply won’t find anywhere else.

Skiing in Gstaad: Slopes Like No Other

Winter sports enthusiasts marvel at Gstaad’s Bergbahnen Destination resort. The unique glacier skiing area in the Bernese Oberland allows visitors to enjoy 53 cable cars and 220 kilometres of glorious, never-ending slopes from the end of October until the beginning of May.

The toughest daily decision of each skier and snowboarder staying in Gstaad is which amazing slope to tackle. Rinderberg (2011m) is the largest of the group and features some beautiful wooded terrain; ideal for skiers who love a bit of a slalom on their way down. Rinderberg is also perfect for night owls with sports enthusiasts welcome to enjoy the adrenaline rush late into the evening on floodlit slopes.

Eggli, Lengebrand, Saanerslochgrat, Hornberg and Horneggli all sit at about 2000m and feature wide open slopes and rolling valley views as far as the eye can see. With so much open space it’s not uncommon for visitors to feel as though they have the whole mountain to themselves.

The most unique and exhilarating attraction drawing thousands to Gstaad each year is the chance to ski at Glacier 3000. The highest of all the slopes in Gstaad, Glacier 3000 offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Saanenland’s winding curves and sharp peaks. Tailored to suit every traveller, there are 9 slopes to choose from with optimal conditions for beginners as well as for advanced skiers or snowboarders. Many guests also choose to make the climb back here for some unforgettable Après Ski experiences.

Experienced skiers and snowboarders with the need for speed may decide to tackle The Tiger Run. The legendary steepest ski slope in Gstaad, this run has the spine-tingling gradient of 45 degrees and welcomes invites the brave to attempt a 2.5km hair-raising race to the bottom of the mountain. A truly enjoyable challenge, this destination draws hundreds of adventurous travellers to Wasserngrat each year.

Another option for those seeking an adrenaline rush, Gstaad is also one of the few places in the Alps to offer Heliskiing; a memorable panoramic helicopter flight followed by exhilarating off-piste skiing over desolate terrain.

Fire and Ice: Gstaad Après Ski

A paradise for skiers and snowboarders alike, Gstaad has an abundance of unique places where guests can relax and repose after an energetic day on its magnificent slopes.

Gstaad Après Ski continues to impress guests through its creation of serene and luxurious spaces for visitors to unwind, while incorporating traditional Swiss culture. One of the most sophisticated places to recuperate is in one of the town’s popular ice bars. Gstaad’s Iglu Dorf Restaurant and Bar is hand-crafted entirely of snow and ice and culminates in a glorious combination of hot and cold to create a cosy and romantic dining experience. Serving authentic fondue and locally-sourced wine and beer, this is the ideal location to relax, take in the gorgeous surroundings and let all other thoughts melt away.

Visitors searching for the igloo experience without the ice may choose instead to head over to Ice Dome, Park Gstaad. With a champagne reception and live DJ, Ice Dome offers guests a chance to let loose in style. Visitors can settle into the cocoon of the dome and let the music run through them or head outside to unwind next to the open fire; there’s something for everyone here.

Taking advantage of the town’s unique attractions, many travellers look forward to the unique Gstaad Après Ski experience; returning to Glacier 3000. At 3000 metres, Restaurant Botta has the most phenomenal table-side views in the entire region. With an abundance of gourmet dishes available, all created from local and high-quality ingredients; Restaurant Botta gives guests the chance to refuel while making the most of their picturesque surroundings. Visitors can choose to dine in the warmth of the restaurant or enjoy the fresh mountain breeze and a drink on the terrace. Travellers are also encouraged to visit Peak Walk; the only suspension bridge in the world connecting two mountain peaks. With a mind-blowing 360degree view of the Alps, guests can take capture amazing photos here as well as make some unforgettable memories before beginning their descent to the bottom.

Gstaad Après Ski is an enticing opportunity for visitors to indulge all of their senses while relaxing and making the most of their astounding surroundings.

Luxurious  Lodgings: Staying in Gstaad Switzerland

Well-known for its grand and impressive 5-star hotels, Gstaad is the glittering crown of ski resorts and has numerous options for those seeking a sophisticated stay. Gstaad Palace is the most famous of the group; its prestigious façade putting the town on the map in the 1960’s through their hosting of high-end gala dinners attended by royalty and celebrities. Newest additions The Alpina Gstaad and Le Grand Bellevue combine traditional alpine features with modern comforts to provide guests with a relaxed yet authentic experience of the Swiss Alps. Home to gourmet restaurants and serene spas, Gstaad’s hotels offer guests a peaceful and satisfying stay they’ll never forget.

Gstaad Palace Hotel

Gstaad Palace Hotel is the shining beacon that can be spotted for miles across the Swiss Alps. Towering majestically over Gstaad’s town centre with its historic turrets and crenulations, this architectural feat has been standing proudly for over 100 years.

Gstaad Palace features spacious yet cosy rooms decorated with stylish country features, traditional wooden beams and soft fur throws. Those seeking solace outside of the tranquillity of their bedroom may choose to unwind in style at Gstaad Palace’s Spa and Wellness Centre. The warm glow of the cosy lamps combined with the crackle of open fire creates the perfect atmosphere of serenity where guests can rest for as long as they please. With an abundance of treatment rooms as well as saunas and steam baths, there are enough facilities here for travellers to spend endless hours indulging in self-care.  The steam baths even feature a spectacular mountain view, allowing guests to gaze at the evergreen trees and watch skiers in the distance as they soak.

There is also a chance for guests of this hotel to enjoy a taste of the traditional Swiss lifestyle at the Gstaad Palace Walig Hut.  Catering for two adults and two children, this authentic alpine hut was built in 1783 and is bursting with original features. Sitting over 1500m above Gstaad, guests are treated to a sweeping view of the Saanenland region, as well as the peace and serenity of the alpine lifestyle. Gstaad Palace also offer a bespoke dinner service to this location, featuring a 3-course gourmet menu with local Swiss wine,

The Alpina Gstaad

The perfect mix of modern comfort with a twist of classic alpine chic, The Alpina Gstaad is the town’s newest 5-star establishment; the glittering results of £240 million of investment.

Each room promises a private terrace with spectacular mountain views where guests can recline, coffee in hand, and inhale the fresh alpine air on a crisp morning, or enjoy a candle-lit fondue and a glass of wine on a relaxing evening. Alpina Gstaad proudly showcases the Saanenland’s artisan heritage through a combination of hand-built fireplaces made from local stone, genuine period painted furniture and ceilings featuring traditional wood carvings. These combined with all the modern amenities allow guests to experience the Swiss culture while remaining completely at ease.

One of the most popular features of this luxurious retreat is its sophisticated Six Senses Spa. Inspired by Asian traditions and cultural norms of the Bernese Oberland; a new level of relaxation can be achieved here. The indoor pools are candle-lit and lined with natural stone, creating a sense of warmth and protection where travellers can connect with their inner selves. The outdoor pools feature amazing alpine views, inviting guests to let their hair down and get in touch with nature.

Decadent Dining in Gstaad Switzerland

Guests at Gstaad’s most prestigious hotels are delighted to discover that they need only look on their own doorstep for the most delicious gourmet meals.

Alpina Gstaad is renowned for its three exceptional restaurants. Michelin-starred Executive Chef Martin Göschel supervises Sommet, Megu and Swiss Stübli, which take inspiration from the world’s classic cuisines. All dishes are created authentically with only the finest and most local produce. Each curated plate astounds visitors with Göschel’s famous attention to detail and eye for perfection.

Gstaad Palace is home to Gildo’s ristorante; a Michelin-starred establishment featuring authentic Italian cuisine made with fresh and excellent quality ingredients. Delicate herbs dangling from the ceiling combined with antique furniture and candle light come together to create a romantic evening peppered with Italian chic.

Park Gstaad’s pièce de résistance is certainly its restaurant Avenue Montagne. Serving local cuisine with a modern twist, Avenue Montagne celebrates the Saanenland’s rich cultural heritage and provides diners with a taste of history in a contemporary, comfortable setting.

Walking in a Winter Wonderland: Alternative Activities in Gstaad

Besides skiing and snowboarding, there are plenty of winter activities in Gstaad to satisfy every visitor.

Adventurous travellers are encouraged to explore the local area through dog sledding. A truly unique mode of transportation, those brave enough to take part feel the rush of fresh breeze blowing through their hair as they race across this astonishing landscape.

For those wishing to make the most of their alpine escape on lower ground, Gstaad Switzerland has the ideal solution. Throughout the winter a huge ice rink graces the centre of town. Whether guests enjoy pirouetting in the centre of the rink or sliding slowly along the barrier, skating on a sheet of ice surrounded by a stunning mountain vista is something everyone should experience.

Visitors seeking a more relaxing tour of the town often choose a horse drawn carriage ride as their favourite way to get around.  A chance to experience traditional Swiss culture, this adventure allows you to sit back, relax and absorb the picture-perfect views Gstaad has to offer. There are also hot air balloon rides available for those who prefer their mountain view with a dash of altitude.

Whether searching for an action-packed ski holiday or a relaxing, pampering spa break; Gstaad.Switzerland is the winter wonderland suited to every traveller. With endless variety of slopes, winter activities and gourmet restaurants, travellers are spoilt for choice when they first see Gstaad, and revisit year on year to make the most of its unique attractions. A ski resort with a luxurious twist, Gstaad takes sophistication to new heights.