Winter activities in Switzerland

With 53 cable cars and 220 kilometres of slopes in total Gstaad is one of the most popular Swiss destinations for skiing and snowboarding fans. But even if you don’t want to glide down to the valley on skis, you are in just the right place in Gstaad. As sledging runs, snow parks and panoramic hiking trails will keep you amused. Every winter lover will find just their thing in Gstaad.

There is an ice rink right in the middle of Gstaad town centre. You can lace up your skates here and take a spin around a few laps or even play ice hockey. By the way, the ice rink is right next to the promenade. You can find more information and the opening hours here.

Whether in the sunshine or on a crystal clear night – enjoy whizzing downhill on the traditionally built wooden sledge. You race down to the valley on specially prepared slopes. Torches light the way for you at night. Sledging fans really get their money’s worth with eight action-packed runs. The selection ranges from the family sledging run in Sparenmoos to full-moon sledging on the Wispile. Anyone who wants even more of an adrenaline rush can switch to an airboard.

Guaranteed snow, huge variety, large area – the “Gstaad Mountain Rides” winter sports resort is a paradise for skiers and snowboarders. Thanks to the unique glacier skiing area in the Bernese Oberland you can enjoy winter sports here from the end of October to the beginning of May. For anyone who can hardly wait: you can find an overview of the skiing areas here.

Are you looking for a really special skiing experience? Then choose heliskiing. After a flight of just a few minutes, the helicopter is already setting you down in no man’s land. The breathtaking runs in the mountains get pulses racing skywards. You will be captivated by the alpine panorama and the powder and corn snow on your way back down to the valley.

Whether you’re a beginner or professional, classic cross-country skier or skating fan – the Gstaad holiday region is considered to be a top cross-country skiing area in Switzerland. You are sure to find a trail that is right for your level of difficulty in the different areas. Find out more about the individual trails here.

Explore the Bernese Oberland on a dog sled. Good-natured Siberian and Greenland dogs who love racing pull you through the snow. On the one hand you will have great fun, on the other hand you get to know lots of new things and experience an unforgettable time with the dogs. On the excursion there is also enough time to answer your questions, take some photos and enjoy working with the animals.

You can enjoy the clear winter air and view over the snowy mountains in total peace on more than 30 prepared winter hiking trails. Pink and yellow boards show you the way to your destination and cosy restaurants invite you to while away the time along the way.

You can explore unspoilt natural landscapes during snowshoe tours. You cross untouched fields of snow and birch forests covered in a deep blanket of snow and hike along iced up waterfalls. Local guides show you the most stunning spots.

The region’s micro climate offers the best conditions for hot air balloon rides. You float gently up into the sky with the hot air balloon. Once up there, you are surrounded by silence. With just the wind to move you on. You can enjoy a stunning view over the mountains and valleys. You can find more information here.

Discover the wonderful nature all around with a horse-drawn carriage ride – a romantic excursion without a doubt. Let yourself be pulled through the snow-covered landscape of the Gstaad holiday region. You can find more information here.

The Gstaad Palace team naturally provides the perfect end to your winter’s day: let us pamper you in our spa complex or enjoy your favourite drink with us.

And if you cannot be doing with winter, snow and skis at all but are still looking for paradise: experience Gstaad in the summer.

Summer activities

Welcome to a
winter paradise.
Welcome to Gstaad.

Ice skating

Sledging

Skiing and snowboarding

Heliskiing

Cross-country skiing

Dog sledding

Winter hiking and snowshoeing

Hot air balloon rides

Horse-drawn carriage rides