10 great winter experiences in Gstaad

Having earned a Michelin star and 18 Gault Millau points, it’s fair to say that superstar chef Marcus G. Lindner knows a thing or two about running a restaurant. So his appointment to lead mountain restaurant Eggli is an exciting one indeed. The adventure begins when you arrive at the venue by cable car, before taking a seat and being wowed by the panoramic mountain views. When it comes to the food, the focus is on local, seasonal produce that shows off the flavours of the region, given a gastronomic twist by Lindner and his team, but still accessible (and delicious) for all. 

Please note: until further decisions by the authorities, the gastronomic offers at Bergrestaurant Eggli will be offered as takeaway only.

Gstaad is a real hotspot when it comes to winter sports – or should that be cool spot? Either way, the region offers incredible skiing and snowboarding on a huge variety of slopes to suit all abilities, whether you’re just starting out or a seasoned pro. And to give you peace of mind, you can book with a special guarantee that offers a refund or credit in case venues need to close due to a Covid-19 lockdown. Good to know.

Anyone who thinks hiking is only for summer should pay a visit to Gstaad’s snow-clad peaks. There are tons of well-marked winter hiking trails to explore that allow you to see the region in all its crisp, clear beauty. Choose your route and wind your way past towering mountains, deep valleys and Alpine villages. Whatever route you pick, remember that you can factor-in a stop at one of the many mountain huts or restaurants to replenish some of that energy.

Once you’ve done some skiing, why not try descending Gstaad’s mountains via a different method? Tobogganing is super-fun, exhilarating and also a great way of enjoying the breath-taking lanscapes around you. Gstaad boasts six toboggan runs, featuring routes suitable for all ages, including plenty for children. Try the Sparenmoos Run to zoom through open meadows and thick pine forests, hit the Eggli Run for mountain views of Sanetsch and Spitzhorn or head to the Saanersloch Run for something more challenging, with added refreshment stops along the way. As a nice bonus, the fee for renting a sledge is included in your ticket.

If you want to add a big dose of adventure to your skiing, ski touring is the one for you. Get away from the crowds and discover tucked-away areas where you’ll feel you have the whole of Gstaad to yourself. And as that means no ski lifts, you’ll be trekking up the slopes before hurtling down them, which is all part of the fun. There are a number of suggested routes to uncover (including some for beginners), each giving you a new perspective on Gstaad, and there’s also the option of booking a guided tour if you want some direction from an expert. After your ski adventure, stop in at a local restaurant to reward yourself.

Ever walked through an enchanted woodland? Now’s your chance. This new experience guides visitors of all ages (from nine years and above) through a wintry forest path that begins at the gateway to the beautiful Saanenland region, using snowshoes, poles, lamps and sledges. You’ll trek, climb and stomp your way through your surroundings and past illuminated sculptures, eventually arriving at another magical destination deep in the forest, where you’ll be treated to great food and drink with a welcoming atmosphere.

Another great thing about winter is that it’s the perfect time to eat fondue. Luckily, Gstaad is full of great venues at which to sample authentic fondue. For serious winter vibes, try eating your fondue in a giant, outdoor wooden fondue pot that seats up to eight people. You can even order a ‘Fondue Backpack’ with everything prepared for you. If you’re looking to go to a restaurant, Michel’s Stallbeizli offers traditional fondue with a direct view of the cow stable (where the animals will be eating and sleeping during winter), while Le Petit Chalet (at Le Grand Bellevue hotel) and Fondue-Hüttli (at Hotel Alpenland) are full of rustic charm. If it’s raclette you’re craving, Restaurant Saagi-Stübli at Hotel Gstaaderhof can deliver the goods while you keep toasty by the log fire.

Make the most of all the wonderful, crisp snow that Gstaad is blessed with by setting out on an exciting snowshoe hike. It’s a calming, relaxed way of soaking up the views and you can make it as easy or as challenging as you want it to be, meaning it’s suitable for all ages and abilities. Make your way over hilly moorland, marvel at the Bernese Alps, explore a nature reserve and hop on a gondola lift along the way. Plus, you can go the extra mile and pick a route that incorporates locally acclaimed restaurant Wasserngrat, where you can enjoy a perfectly baked, fluffy meringue.

A former fire engine station in Saanen has been transformed into a hub of play, arts and crafts, and discovery, where children – and adults – can lose themselves for a day. Think of it a little like a giant adventure playground with engineering and handicrafts mixed in, featuring a huge rope garden, marble runs, craft activities and much more. And if the weather doesn’t play ball, there’s a whole world of indoor activities to keep everyone busy.

Since you’re in one of Switzerland’s top snowsports regions, it makes sense to delve deep into winter sports history by trying one of its oldest activities: cross-country skiing. Trek across snowy paths, up hills, down mountains – wherever you like, essentially, with enough tried-and-tested trails to suit everyone. And because of the freedom that cross-country skiing allows, you can find a route that perfectly matches your interests. Nature-lovers should investigate the beautiful scenery across Lauenen and Turbach, night-owls will appreciate the Schönried-Saanenmöser floodlit night trail, sports-enthusiasts should challenge themselves on the varied runs at Sparenmoos, and experienced cross-country skiers looking to boost their training should head to Glacier 3000, a specialist area loved by the pros.