Gstaad Highlands — “the last paradise in a crazy world”

Gstaad Highlands: people playing ice hockey at Lauenensee

Julie Andrews — queen of the Alps herself — once referred to Gstaad, Switzerland, as “the last paradise in a crazy world.” But the little village isn’t the only incredible getaway in this alpine region. The surrounding Gstaad Highlands are an excellent retreat, where outdoor adventure meets luxury.

If you can’t get the Alps out of your daydreams, then it’s time to visit this region. Here’s what you should know before you go.

On the way to the Alp Turnels farm stay in the Gstaad Highlands.
At the Alp Turnels near Gstaad. Photo by swiss-image.ch/Giglio Pasqua.

What to do

From taking whey baths at farmhouses to hiking through unbelievable scenery, you’d be surprised at how much there is to do here — unless, of course, you don’t want to do anything. If that’s the case, then you can spend your days sleeping in, getting spa treatments, and playing tennis. (Not a bad option if you just finished trekking through the Alps!)

But if you’d like a slightly more active adventure, then that’s definitely a possibility too. For example, at the Alp Turnels, you can stay overnight on a farm and curl up on a mattress in the hayloft. During your visit, you can even assist in cheese-making (and purchase the fruit of your labors if you so desire)!

While you’re in the highlands region, remember to take advantage of the fantastic hiking and picnicking opportunities. Whether you ascend to Iffigenalp, Turbach, or another location altogether, you’ll be amazed by the beauty of the Alps. Just bring some water, a lunch, and (of course) a good pair of hiking shoes!

You definitely won’t want to miss an outing to Lauenensee, a lovely alpine lake. In the summer, it’s an ideal picnic location, and in the winter, locals gather to play ice hockey on the frozen lake. Lauenensee is a sight to behold — so we’d recommend this outing to anyone!

But the real can’t-miss activity in this region is, without a doubt, an excursion to Glacier 3000 and the Col du Pillon. You can take a cable car up to this high-altitude vantage point (or hike there, if you’re feeling particularly stout-hearted). From the top, you’ll be able to spot 24 peaks that are taller than 4,000 meters (13,120 feet) — including Eiger, Jungfrau, Mönch, the Matterhorn, and Mont Blanc. You’ll never be able to get these mind-blowing views out of your head.

A cold, snowy evening in Saanen, Gstaad Highlands, Switzerland
Winter evening in Saanen, Gstaad Highlands. Photo by swiss-image.ch/Thomas Senf

Visiting the Gstaad Highlands

If you’d like us to plan your getaway to the Highlands, we’d be more than happy to do so! We can add a four-day excursion to the beginning or end of your itinerary — whether you’re already an Alpenwild client or an independent traveler. You’ll love your time in the Gstaad region — trust us!

 

 

Whitney Brown

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