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5 of the best luxury experiences in Gstaad, Switzerland

A peaceful haven for the rich and famous in the Swiss Alps, Gstaad was once described by actress Julie Andrews as ‘the last paradise in a crazy world’. The region is famous for its high net worth visitors, cultural festivals and stunning views of the mountainous countryside. We’ve discovered five of Gstaad’s best experiences to ensure that guests feel that they have discovered the very best of Switzerland. Hike to Glacier 3000 Towering above the picturesque town of Gstaad is a glacier set at just over 3000m. Visitors can follow the winding roads high up the mountain before hopping in a cable car for the rest of the journey. The views are breathtaking and it is an incredible experience to find that the golden sun gives way to snow flurries and fresh white powder underfoot. Those feeling extra adventurous and who are lucky enough with the weather can take on the Peak Walk; walking from the peak of one Alp to another via a wire bridge. Visitors can visit the tiny wooden restaurant (‘Refuge la Space’) run by an local couple and enjoy some steaming soup or tasty fondue before the descent. Stay at Gstaad Palace Perched high above the village on the mountainside, the Palace is the jewel in Gstaad’s crown. Red carpeted steps lead into a sumptuous lobby, where traditional Alpine decor meets with contemporary glamour. Staying in a suite at Gstaad Palace is the perfect way to absorb the luxurious atmosphere of the region and is also a fantastic place to people-watch. Views from the rooms stretch out over the mountains, blanketed with carpets of Alpine wildflowers or fresh white snow depending on the time of year. The live music at dinner and the famous celeb hangout, the ‘GreenGo’ club make this a great place to be once the sun goes down. Shop in designer boutiques D&G, Louis Vuitton and Prada are just some of the designers that can be found gracing the main street of Gstaad. Popular with fashionistas like Valentino himself, Gstaad caters for uber fashionable and trendy clientele. Shopaholics will be in their element as the boutiques are all within walking distance of each other, with plenty of cafes and restaurants in between to provide a re-fuelling hot chocolate or bite to eat. Pick up items such as cigars, whisky and of course chocolate for some high-quality bargains. Unwind in the spa at Ermitage A boutique five-star hotel in the village of Saanen, Ermitage boasts one of the best spas in the Alps. Book a couple’s treatment room and enjoy a massage on soft mattresses laid on Sahara sand, or sink into one of the giant copper baths filled with rose petals. Those looking for something a little more active can check out the gym and indoor and outdoor swimming pools, including heated saltwater and freshwater baths. The Ermitage also boasts several steam rooms and saunas. The traditional Swiss spa rooms require no clothing to enter, so live like a local and get comfortable! Take a helicopter flight Gstaad’s natural beauty is unrivalled by any other mountain destination; what better way to see it all than by helicopter? Take to the air and enjoy a scenic flight to spot crystal clear mountain lakes, lush woodland and traditional Swiss dairy farms, altogether looking like a scene straight out of The Sound of Music. Fly to a nearby hillside for a picnic lunch; take a spin through the Alps and absorb the natural wonders. Arrange to be picked up at Geneva airport and be in Gstaad in just 20 minutes, saving a two hour drive.

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7 Comments

  1. WOW! I love this place.I like going hiking.I love the first picture “hike to 3000”. If I have got a chance to do that, that must be an unforgetable experience!

  2. “The last paradise in a crazy world” is a wonderful way of describing Gstaad. I think a stay at Gstaad Palace followed by shopping at Louis Vuitton and Prada is just the perfect way to spend a weekend. I appreciate the hiking opportunity, but I’ll just appreciate the breathtaking scenery from afar – or from the spa.

  3. Switzerland is one of the best countries on earth! It has such a peaceful atmosphere to it. I don’t know much about Gstaad but the photograph of the landscape makes me want to visit. Just like Jack, I’d love to hike to Glacier 3000 – I reckon I’d need to do some training first though! Starting at the lovely sounding wooden restaurant would be the perfect way to prepare me for the trip, i love independent eateries

  4. I would to take a helicopter trip over Gstaad. Not sure on the hiking though and a wire bridge. Not my cup of tea. I always say that you need luxury if you visiting somewhere cold. You will need comfort and pampering when coming out of snowy conditions.

  5. Switzerland is one of my favourite places, so much beautiful countryside. Looks like a great place to stay active. I’d also love to take a helicopter trip over Gstaad, bet it would be so beautiful! Unwinding in a spa also sounds ideal.

  6. This place just seems so stunning I would want to try and do it all in one trip I guess if you climbed the glacier you would earn the luxury of a spa and shopping without the guilt.

  7. I’m heading to Gstaad for the last weekend of skiing in March. Can’t wait. Going to hit Glacier 3000 as well. Hope the weather permits a crossing of the peak walk – it looks amazing!

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