Things To Do in Gstaad, Switzerland

Gstaad Things to Do

One of the largest ski resorts located in the Swiss Alps, Gstaad came to fame in the 1960’s as a place where international film stars and jetsetters spent their winter vacation. Gstaad has maintained that glamorous reputation, but has become a year-round destination with a broad array of outdoor activities and events.

Sports

With 130-plus miles of ski trails, ranging from novice to Olympic class, Gstaad has continued to maintain its hold on being one of the top destinations for winter sports. Even non-skiers can take advantage of the well packed snow with tobogganing, sleigh rides, and tubing down the trails. Hiking has also become a year-round sport with clearly marked and maintained trails winding their way through the foothills surrounding Gstaad. Mountain bikers share the trails with longer rides connecting other villages, like Rougemont and Saaren to Gstaad. Polo, golf and tennis are other sports played in Gstaad.

The Village of Gstaad

Within the village there are chic boutiques sporting designer names like Ralph Lauren, Cartier and Prada. Instead of glass and steel normally found in urban centers, they’re in buildings with the classic Swiss architecture of colorful doors, wooden shutters, and painted window boxes. Don’t miss the small family-run shops that are tucked in between the upscale stores. Grab some locally made cheese and wine for an in-room picnic, and take home the famous Swiss chocolate or a box of truffles as souvenirs

The center of the town is a walking promenade with cheeky sculptures, open air cafes, and a large fountain fed from a working well. The well water is free so instead of paying $5.00 USD for a branded bottle, fill up a container of fresh crystal clear water.  The fountain has a statue of a cow taking a drink, celebrating the many dairy farms in the area around Gstaad. In the spring and summer you might see a herd being driven through the middle of town on the way to pastures. The cable car to Eggli ends at a working dairy farm where you can watch cheese being made; enjoy fresh hot chocolate and a spectacular view of Gstaad below.

Check the calendar for one of the many festivals that take place during the year like Snow Bike Tournament, Hot Air Ballooning, Swatch Beach Volleyball, Sommets Musicaux Gstaad, Snow Food Festival, Country Night Gstaad, and Hublot Polo Gold Cup. There’s something for everyone!

Editor’s note: The information contained on this page was compiled using real traveler reviews about things to do in Gstaad, Switzerland.