Gstaad: Switzerland’s Alpine Haven of Luxury and Tradition

Gstaad: Switzerland’s Alpine Haven of Luxury and Tradition

Gstaad, a picturesque Swiss village in the Bernese Oberland, is famed for its luxury appeal and charming alpine scenery. Dating back to the 13th century, it began as a modest farming village. By the early 20th century, it transformed into a glamorous retreat for royalty, celebrities, and wealthy travelers, thanks to the opening of the Montreux-Oberland Bernois Railway, which connected Gstaad to the world.

What sets Gstaad apart is its blend of rustic charm and upscale elegance. Traditional wooden chalets dot the landscape, while high-end boutiques, gourmet restaurants, and luxury hotels lend a cosmopolitan feel. The village is also renowned for the Gstaad Palace, a grand hotel that’s hosted illustrious guests since 1913.

Gstaad offers year-round activities: skiing, snowboarding, and ice skating in winter; hiking, mountain biking, and paragliding in summer. The annual Menuhin Festival Gstaad, a classical music event, attracts world-class performers and audiences alike.