Gstaad, located in the heart of the Bernese Oberland, is synonymous with alpine charm and refined mountain living. Known for its luxurious chalets, quiet meadows, and well-maintained trails, Gstaad offers hikers a wealth of scenic routes through forests, valleys, and mountain ridges. Whether you’re visiting in summer or early autumn, hiking here means a mix of serenity and Swiss precision.
Here’s a curated guide to the top hiking trails in Gstaad, including duration, difficulty, starting points, and highlights to help you plan your perfect day in the Alps.
🌿 1. Lake Lauenen (Lauenensee) Loop
⏱️ Duration: 2–3 hours
🧭 Difficulty: Easy
📍 Starting point: Lauenen village (bus or car access)
Description: One of the region’s most iconic trails, this loop around the tranquil Lauenensee winds through meadows, past waterfalls, and under steep cliffs. Perfect for families and casual hikers, the area also offers picnic spots, wooden footbridges, and views of grazing cows. In summer, expect vibrant wildflowers and crystal-clear reflections on the water.
🏞️ 2. Wispile to Lake Arnen (Arnensee)
⏱️ Duration: 4–5 hours
🧭 Difficulty: Moderate
📍 Starting point: Wispile gondola summit
Description: After taking the lift to Wispile, descend through alpine pastures with constant views of the Diablerets and Wildhorn ranges. The destination is Arnensee, a secluded lake surrounded by forest and ideal for a swim or lakeside picnic. Return via taxi, shuttle, or by extending the hike into a loop.
🌲 3. Turbach Valley Trail
⏱️ Duration: 3 hours (one way)
🧭 Difficulty: Moderate
📍 Starting point: Gstaad village
Description: Less frequented than other routes, this trail leads hikers through the quiet Turbach Valley. Expect shaded forest paths, charming alpine huts, and old wooden barns. The peaceful ambiance and sound of flowing water make this an ideal route for those seeking solitude.
⛰️ 4. Hike to Rellerli Panorama Point
⏱️ Duration: 3–4 hours (round trip)
🧭 Difficulty: Moderate
📍 Starting point: Schönried
Description: This ridge trail climbs steadily to a stunning viewpoint with 360° panoramas of the Simmental and Saanenland valleys. The ascent rewards hikers with sweeping alpine views, and on clear days you can even spot the Eiger and Mont Blanc. Ideal for photography enthusiasts.
🏔️ 5. Weisshorn Summit Trail
⏱️ Duration: 2 hours
🧭 Difficulty: Easy to moderate
📍 Starting point: Horneggli chairlift summit (from Schönried)
Description: A family-friendly ridge hike with expansive views and several alpine huts along the route. Great for spotting marmots and wildflowers, especially in early summer. The trail can be extended toward Zweisimmen for those looking to make a full day of it.
🌳 6. Gstaad–Bissen–Gruben Round
⏱️ Duration: 2–2.5 hours
🧭 Difficulty: Easy
📍 Starting point: Gstaad Promenade
Description: A mellow loop trail that starts in the heart of the village and ventures into meadows, passing chalets and farmhouses. Perfect for a light afternoon walk or for travelers short on time who still want to enjoy nature just steps from their hotel.
🏔️ 7. Glacier 3000 Ridge Walk (Optional Extension)
⏱️ Duration: 1.5–2 hours
🧭 Difficulty: Moderate (due to altitude)
📍 Starting point: Glacier 3000 cable car summit
Description: Although technically just outside Gstaad, the Glacier 3000 experience is a must. At over 3,000 meters, the trail includes the spectacular Peak Walk — a suspension bridge connecting two summits. Snow-capped views year-round and icy terrain make this a unique contrast to the green summer trails below.
🪵 8. Rinderberg Panorama Trail
⏱️ Duration: 3.5 hours
🧭 Difficulty: Moderate
📍 Starting point: Rinderberg gondola (from Zweisimmen)
Description: This trail follows the ridgeline toward Parwengesattel and offers breathtaking views over the Obersimmental. The well-marked path passes through grazing pastures, offering the quintessential Swiss landscape of bells, cows, and alpine serenity.
🌾 9. Lauenen High Trail
⏱️ Duration: 4–5 hours
🧭 Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
📍 Starting point: Lauenen
Description: A loop trail that climbs high above the village for sweeping views over the glacier valleys and the Bernese Alps. Narrow in sections but well-maintained, this hike is suited for experienced walkers. Stop at a mountain hut for lunch and take in the silence.
🍃 10. Höhi Wispile Sunrise Hike
⏱️ Duration: 2.5 hours
🧭 Difficulty: Moderate
📍 Starting point: Wispile mid-station (or hike from bottom)
Description: Best done early in the day, this climb offers a golden sunrise over the valley. Bring a thermos of coffee and enjoy the calm before Gstaad wakes up. In summer, you may encounter herds of sheep or early-grazing ibex.
🧳 Tips for Hiking in Gstaad
🌦️ Always Check the Weather: Mountain weather changes fast — clear skies can turn stormy by afternoon.
🥾 Wear Proper Footwear: Even easy trails can be rocky or muddy.
🗺️ Trail Maps: Available at the Gstaad Tourist Office and online via the Wanderplaner app.
🧗 Local Guides: Guided alpine hikes and flora/fauna walks can be booked locally.
🚠 Use Lifts: Cable cars and chairlifts open up high-altitude trails — check operating hours.
Gstaad offers more than just luxury — it’s a walker’s haven where alpine beauty meets understated elegance. With trails for every level and scenery that surprises at every turn, this Swiss gem invites you to slow down, breathe deep, and hike in style.
