Gstaad Uncovered: 7 Hidden Summer Experiences Only Locals Know

By Silvanna Pacheco, March 19, 2026

Our commitment to you is a true insider’s perspective, one that moves beyond the polished Gstaad Promenade and into the quiet, authentic corners of the Saanenland. Come with us to explore a few hidden treasures only Gstaad locals know.

Step away from the curated highlights and into a world where the mountains serve as the ultimate historians. From the rhythmic toll of cowbells in the summer pastures to the centuries old craftsmanship of the timber chalets, the real story of the Alps isn’t found in a brochure, it’s felt in the thin air and the slow, steady pulse of local life. Here are seven hidden summer experiences in Gstaad that will position you as a true alpine insider:

1. Lake Arnen
While Lake Lauenen is a famous beauty, Lake Arnen (the Lac d’Arnon) is the local secret. Tucked away at 1,542 meters, it is surrounded by dense pine forests that give the water a deep, emerald hue. You can rent a traditional wooden rowing boat or bring a picnic to one of the secluded bays only accessible by the footpath circling the lake.
Insider Tip: Stop at the charming restaurant Huus am Arnensee for a glass of local wine on the terrace; it offers a serene atmosphere.

2. Glacier 3000 Day Trip
Though located in the neighboring Canton of Vaud, Glacier 3000 is an essential day trip from Gstaad. The summer highlight is the Alpine Coaster, Europe’s highest tracked toboggan run. This one-kilometer descent features 520-degree circles and steep curves six meters above the ground. Since you control the brake, you can choose between a scenic glide or a high-speed adrenaline rush reaching 40 km/h. Don’t Miss: The Peak Walk by Tissot, the world’s first suspension bridge connecting two mountain peaks (read more about suspension bridges in our blog); and the Glacier Walk, a secure trail across permanent snow.

3. Wild Strawberry Foraging in the Saanenland
During July and August, the forest edges around Saanenmöser and Turbach become a treasure trove for Walderdbeeren (wild woodland strawberries) and blueberries. Locals spend Sunday mornings foraging along the hiking trails. The Secret: Look for south-facing slopes near the tree line. Remember to pick only what you’ll eat that day; these tiny berries are infinitely more flavorful than store-bought varieties but extremely delicate.

4. Artisan Aromas: Chocolate & Fondue
Step away from the big-name boutiques and follow the scent of roasted cacao to a local icon. The Gstaad Chocolate Shop remains an example of true craftsmanship in a world of mass production. Following centuries-old traditions, they hand-make every single product from scratch. By prioritizing fresh ingredients like local mountain milk and cream, they offer a real taste of the Alps. For a more rugged culinary experience, try Fondueland Gstaad. You can order a Fondue Backpack from local dairies like Molkerei Gstaad. It comes stocked with an enamel pot (=caquelon), a secret cheese blend, artisan bread, and wine. The “Big Pot” Destinations: Hike to one of the giant wooden fondue pots (oversized picnic huts shaped like actual caquelons) at Wispile, Schlittenweg, or Vorderes Horneggli for a 360-degree dining view. Our team will assist you in booking all tours in the region.

5. Candlelight Tastings in the Cheese Grotto
Deep beneath the village lies the Gstaad Cheese Grotto, a former water reservoir housing over 3,000 wheels of Berner Hobelkäse AOP. This is a working cellar, not a museum. You can book a candlelight tasting to try different “vintages” of cheese in the very place they are aged. Entry is via a steep ladder, it feels like entering a secret treasure vault.

6. The Gstaad Summer Event Calendar
While the village center is famous for its charming chalet-style promenade lined with high-end designer boutiques and luxury watchmakers, the true energy of a Gstaad summer is found in its world-class events:

Swatch Beach Pro Gstaad (July 1–5, 2026): Watch Olympic-level beach volleyball in a stadium built amidst alpine meadows.

EFG Swiss Open Gstaad (July 11–19, 2026): Known as the “Wimbledon of the Alps,” this is Switzerland’s most prestigious tennis tournament. Family Day is typically held on the first Tuesday.

Menuhin Festival Gstaad (July 16 – Sep 5, 2026): Founded in 1957 by legendary violinist Yehudi Menuhin, this is one of Europe’s premier classical music festivals. Celebrating its 70th Anniversary under Artistic Director Daniel Hope, the theme is “Family Matters.” Concerts are held in intimate historic churches in Saanen and Lauenen.

7. Exploring the Nearby Villages
Beyond the glitz of Gstaad lies the true essence of Saanenland. While the main town captures the world’s attention, the surrounding Bernese Oberland villages provide an authentic, down-to-earth alpine escape, each boasting a unique charm all its own.

Saanenmöser
Situated at the highest point of the pass between Saanen and Zweisimmen, Saanenmöser is a favorite for those who love wide-open spaces and maximum sunshine. The mountains are crisscrossed with easy-to-moderate hiking trails that offer constant views of the surrounding peaks without the steep inclines found elsewhere.

Saanen
Saanen is the historic heart of the region. With its preserved 15th century wood chalets and narrow streets, it feels like stepping back in time. It is known as the Menuhin Village, a sanctuary where the legendary violinist, Yehudi Menuhin, found his muse.

Lauenen & Lake Lauenen
Immortalized in a famous Swiss rock song (Lauenensee), this village and its namesake lake are the epitome of “Heidi” country. Lake Lauenen is a protected nature reserve where you can take a horse-drawn carriage from the village up to the lake for a truly timeless experience.

Choosing the authentic path doesn’t mean sacrificing quality; it means choosing memorable experiences. Whether you’re foraging for wild berries or listening to Mozart in a 15th-century church, the “real” Gstaad is waiting to be discovered. Start planning your custom swiss vacation today!

Gstaad Uncovered: 7 Hidden Summer Experiences Only Locals Know

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