dossier

Walking in Gstaad

WALKING IN GSTAAD

**** Hotel Steigenberger

Set just above the fashionable resort of Gstaad this 4* chalet-style hotel really does have something for everyone. It’s a rare mix too, with lots of ‘homely’ touches perfectly complementing the overall stylish decor. All Breakaway guests will be staying in superior south-facing rooms with balcony (or terrace) and panoramic mountain views. All boast CNN TV, radio, minibar, hairdryer and bath robes.

Saturday   Arrive in Gstaad

Arrive in Gstaad with time for a swim, enjoy a sauna or relax with a book on your balcony before dinner .

Sunday  Saanenland Orientation Walk  12km/7.5mi/3.5hr

Today’s circular walk affords the most splendid views of Saanen, Gstaad and the Vaudoise Alps. Starting directly from the hotel, your path winds first down through shady copses and flower-strewn meadows, before coming out at the elegant promenade at Gstaad. Lunch in one of the many chalet-style restaurants, then follow the corn-flower blue river to the charming Alpine hamlet of Saanen – fine C15 church with impressive wall paintings in the choir . Back past isolated farmsteads in time for complimentary tea and cakes on the hotel’s panoramic sun terrace.

Monday  Lake Launensee  13km/8mi/3.5hr

The crystal-clear waters of Lake Launensee lie at the head of the valley,  overlooked by the mighty Spitzhorn and snowy crowns of its blue-tinged glaciers. The local Post Bus (no charge) takes you through the Launensee Nature Reserve – look out for marmots, chamois and rare birds of prey – and down to the tranquil shores of the shimmering lake below. Lunch at the lakeside restaurant – lovely views to the mountains ahead – then wind down through a lively kaleidoscope of flower-filled meadows, shrub and lush green Alpine pasture to the beautifully unspoilt resort of Launen. Your final stretch takes you through the peaceful Turbachtal glen and back to the hotel.

Tuesday  Wispile Ridge Walk  11km/7mi/3hr or 14km/9mi/4hr

Today begins with a free gondola ride to gain the crest of the Wispile (1907m) then a choice of easy ridge walks, each affording magnificent long views north over the corrugated landscape. Your descent is full of contrasts taking in open meadows, attractive chalets and idyllic verdant valleys.

Wednesday  Gsteig to Gstaad  11km/7mi/3hr

A short ride on the local Post Bus (included) takes you to the charming hamlet of Gsteig where today’s walk begins. It’s a simply glorious mix: crocuses flush the hillsides with colour , cattle graze in the valleys and the majestic peaks of the Mittaghorn (2334m) and Spitzhorn (2806m) tower above the timber-built  chalets bright with geraniums and petunias. Lots of time later this afternoon to relax by the pool, go shopping in Gstaad or to sample the famous Hobelkase cheese – unique to this part of the country, it is usually served as ultra-thin shavings, often as an aperitif, and accompanied by a glass of fruity chilled white wine.

Thursday  Circular Walk to Rougemont  12km/7.5mi/3.5hr

A truly delightful walk passing farmsteads, bubbling mountain brooks, gently rolling hills and dense forests. Although only a few kms from Gstaad, the picturesque village of Rougemont lies in French-speaking Switzerland, so look out for the menu du jour at lunch! Your return is a lovely high level walk against a scenic mountain backdrop via Underbort and back to Gstaad.

Friday  The Rellerli Ridge Walk  12km/7.5mi/3.5hr

The panoramic Rellerli Ridge walk is simply a must. Accessed via the free gondola, it offers a day of unforgettable views: the classic trio of the Eiger , Monch and Jungfrau peaks rise from the lush green meadows and stand like sentinels above you as you discover the very best of the Bernese Oberland.

Saturday  Return home

WALKING DETAILS

The paths are well-maintained and immaculately signposted. There are moderate ascents on most days, and longish descents on days when a cable car is used to gain altitude.  Note: Some ski lifts/cable cars do not operate in early/late season when alternative walks will be proposed.

Note: Some ski lifts/cable cars do not operate in early/late season when alternative walks will be proposed.