There is no wrong time to experience this unparalleled alpine town. Come in spring to see the slopes erupting with flowers, or swim in the inviting blue lakes after a hike in the summer. Experience true tranquillity when arriving in autumn, with the trails quiet and the colours changing from green to golden. The resort takes on a new personality in winter, with twinkling lights, a snow-covered promenade and 200 kilometres of prime ski slopes.
Gstaad has something for everyone. Winter adrenaline seekers can enjoy skiing, skating or helicopter flights over the Bernese Oberland. Get to know the locals on Gstaad's ice rinks, or race down the freshly laid snow in a toboggan. And when the warmer weather arrives, experience mountain walks through unparalleled beauty, and golf on a picturesque and well-maintained course among other activities.
Explore Gstaad through Ultima's eyes…
Images Copyright of Destination Gstaad Saanenland Tourism/ Photographer
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Winter
Skiing in Gstaad
Nestled between 1,000 and 3,000 meters, and with a truly diverse offering, there is a slope for everyone in Gstaad. Thrill seekers will want to head to Tiger Run, and less-experienced skiers will delight in the heights of The Red Run slope of Glacier 3000, the only glacier ski area in the Bernese Oberland.
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Winter
Winter Events
Gstaad comes alive in the winter with an abundance of cultural, sporting and festive events ready to delight even the most seasoned of travellers. From Christmas markets to hot air balloon festivals, as well as Sommets Musicaux de Gstaad, these events should not be missed.
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Winter, Summer
Hot Air Balloons
Float over the charming chalets of Gstaad in a hot air balloon, where it’s still and peaceful. Taking in a new perspective of this authentic alpine village, as the sun rises or sets alongside you, is one of the most heart-warming ways to start or end the day.
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Winter
Dog-Sledding
In winter, Gstaad’s pristine, marshmallow-like landscape is a playground for adventure. Picture being pulled towards Glacier 3000 by huskies, with the cold, crisp air in your face. It’s a task they are overjoyed to take on. You will also be partaking in an activity that has survived thousands of years.
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Winter, Summer
Helicopter Flights
Explore in style by soaring over the Bernese Oberland in a helicopter. Different companies offer different routes, from flights over the Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau, or towards the Valais Alps closer to the Matterhorn. Access remote skiing trails or stop off for culinary delights in a charming alpine village.
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Winter
Fat Biking
There are few places in Switzerland better to go fat biking than Gstaad. Its otherworldly vistas have made this sport increasingly popular amongst travellers. With a guide leading the way, you could pick between downhill runs or circular tours with these unique, thick-tyred bikes.
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Winter, Summer
Horse Riding & Carriages in Gstaad
Roam frozen trails or the Promenade as it twinkles in Christmas lights on horseback or in a horse-drawn carriage. You will quickly feel at one with nature, experiencing a joy that’s been at the heart of Switzerland for longer than anyone can truly remember.
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Winter
Ice Skating
Gstaad’s ice rink has many stories to tell. Locals hold it in high regard, with its location in the very centre of the village. Everyone’s welcome – so, whether it’s to attempt spins or turns as an ice skater, or join a game of ice hockey, we strongly recommend a visit.
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Summer
Summer Events
Gstaad should not be missed in the summer. Come to see the annual Menuhin Festival and listen to some of the greatest names of the classical music scene, or watch the EFG Swiss Open Gstaad which has been happening for more than 100 years. Not forgetting the Hublot Polo Gold Cup.
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Summer
Cheese Grotto Experience & Fondueland
Explore Gstaad with an important goal: tasting as much cheese as possible. Explore the ‘cheese cave’, and hear about the inner workings of a dairy farm in Gstaad. Or dine in a large fondue pot on the slopes, whilst surrounded by the mountain landscape.
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Summer
Tennis & Squash
The first Swiss Open Gstaad took place in 1915 and it’s been at the heart of this village ever since. It’s brought stars such as Yannick Noah, Roger Federer and Jiri Novak to its courts. You have several options to choose from: the outdoor courts of Gstaad Palace, Saanen or Sportzentrum.
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Summer
Mountain Biking & E-Bikes
The Swiss Alps were made for exploring by bike, with steep valleys and winding trails that cater to every level of fitness. There are over 300 kilometres of pathways for you to explore, it is an opportunity to take in the incredible surroundings from a new perspective. For a twist on a tradition, we can arrange electric-powered ‘E-bikes’ instead.
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Summer
Wakeboarding, Rafting, Kayak & Canoe in Gstaad
Gstaad is defined by La Sarine, a major river that rises from the Bernese Alps. It passes through two canyons and has rapids of class 2, 3, and 4. That means, luckily for us, that it’s great for rafting, kayaking, and canoeing. What's more, at the top of Hornfluh in Schonried lies a small lake that boasts the highest wakeboard park in Europe.
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Summer
Surrounding Glacier Lakes
There’s nothing like a dramatic landscape to calm the mind. Gstaad is home to an abundance of lakes, rivers and waterfalls, all with their own character. For a gentle yet highly rewarding hike, head to the pristine Sanetsch, or discover Arnen or Lauenen. You’ll never get tired of places to cool down.
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Summer
Golf & Minigolf
It doesn’t get much more Swiss than this. Overlooking the white-capped Bernese mountains, Gstaad-Saanenland Golf Club’s 18-hole golf course is not short on natural beauty or tranquillity. Alternatively, take the family to a mini golf course in Gstaad’s Sportzentrum for something a little crazier.
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Summer
Day Trip to Gruyères & Maison Cailler
Take a journey back through time with a journey to the medieval town of Gruyères. It has a glorious castle, built sometime between 1270 and 1282, which is now a Swiss heritage site of national significance, plus lots more to discover. It’s a short private transfer from Ultima Gstaad.
Book now
Wait no longer for an escape to Ultima Gstaad. Our 5-star boutique hotel in the Swiss Alps is open year-round. Our reservations team is always available for any further assistance.