Gstaad

Gstaad: Alpine Elegance in the Swiss Mountains

Perched in the Bernese Oberland and nestled within the Saanenland valley, Gstaad is a timeless Swiss luxury resort town celebrated for its quiet prestige, pristine natural beauty, and curated sense of exclusivity a favorite among travelers searching for the best luxury destinations in the Swiss Alps.

Unlike the towering high-rises of some ski resorts, Gstaad maintains a human scale: chalets, manicured forests, and mountain panoramas define the landscape. Its winter season draws skiers seeking both excellent slopes and refined luxury, making it one of the top picks for a luxury ski holiday in Switzerland; its summer brings hiking, festivals, and a tranquil alpine pace, appealing equally to guests planning a Swiss Alps summer getaway.

The town also hosts a surprising vibrancy beneath its calm façade: art galleries, high-end boutiques, gourmet dining, and a cultural calendar including the renowned Menuhin Festival and international polo tournament that gives Gstaad a soft but compelling pulse of sophistication.

Gstaad Palace: A Legend in the Alps

Standing proudly above the town, Gstaad Palace is one of the most iconic luxury hotels in Switzerland and a member of The Leading Hotels of the World, drawing guests in search of the best five-star hotel in Gstaad.

Heritage & Legacy

First opened in 1913, the hotel has remained under family ownership the Scherz family since 1947, now run by the third generation making it one of Switzerland's few remaining family-owned luxury resorts. This enduring legacy of discreet, refined hospitality is a key part of what makes Gstaad Palace a standout among historic luxury hotels in the Alps.

Architecture & Ambience

Its façade, with turrets and alpine-chalet styling crossed with château elegance, is a true landmark rising from the forest like a fairy-tale castle. Interiors balance traditional and modern touches, weaving in alpine woodwork, refined textiles, and warm tones that evoke both comfort and prestige the hallmark of authentic Alpine chic hotel design.

Rooms & Suites

The hotel offers 90 stylish rooms and suites, many designed to frame views of mountains, forest, or village rooftops, with several featuring private balconies, corner turrets, or even a Jacuzzi ideal for guests seeking a luxury hotel room with mountain views in Gstaad. Accommodations range from cosy rooms of around 43 sqm to spacious Junior Suites of 46–55 sqm, up to the exceptional 240 sqm Penthouse Suite with a 150 sqm terrace, private sauna, and Jacuzzi one of the most sought-after luxury penthouse suites in the Swiss Alps. Elegant furnishings combine comfort, light, and alpine charm throughout.

Culinary & Hospitality

With five restaurants, including Le Grand Restaurant, La Fromagerie, Gildo's Italian restaurant, and Le Grill, alongside a relaxed lobby bar, the stylish Bar du Grill, and the legendary GreenGo nightclub, Gstaad Palace emphasizes high-quality regional ingredients and genuine hospitality a top destination for travelers seeking the best restaurants in Gstaad. The hotel is known for its ability to merge local Swiss charm, including its celebrated truffle and champagne cheese fondue, with refined international dining experiences touched by Asian and Mediterranean influences.

Wellness & Leisure

The 1,800 sqm Palace Spa is a sanctuary of tranquillity, featuring nine treatment rooms, a private spa suite, saunas, steam baths, relaxation areas with panoramic mountain views, an indoor pool, and a unique seven-room hammam experience a top choice for guests researching the best spa hotels in the Swiss Alps. In summer, the outdoor "Piscine" and heated outdoor hot tubs, kept at 36.5°C year-round, provide a refreshing contrast to snow-filled winters, while a state-of-the-art gym and activity room round out the leisure offering for a truly complete luxury wellness retreat in Gstaad.

For more information, availability, and booking, please visit the official website of the hotel: www.palace.ch

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Gstaad Palace located?

Gstaad Palace sits on a hill overlooking the town of Gstaad in the Bernese Oberland region of Switzerland, offering sweeping views of the Saanenland valley and the surrounding Swiss Alps.

How many rooms and suites does Gstaad Palace have?

The hotel offers 90 rooms and suites, ranging from cosy rooms of around 43 sqm to spacious Junior Suites and the standout 240 sqm Penthouse Suite with its own private terrace, sauna, and Jacuzzi.

When was Gstaad Palace built, and who owns it?

Gstaad Palace opened in 1913 and has been owned by the Scherz family since 1947, now managed by the third generation, making it one of the few remaining family-run luxury hotels in Switzerland.

How many restaurants does Gstaad Palace have?

The hotel features five restaurants, including Le Grand Restaurant, La Fromagerie for traditional Swiss cuisine and fondue, Gildo's for Italian dining, and Le Grill, alongside two bars and the GreenGo nightclub.

Does Gstaad Palace have a spa?

Yes. The 1,800 sqm Palace Spa includes nine treatment rooms, a private spa suite, saunas, steam baths, an indoor pool, an outdoor pool with Jacuzzi, and a distinctive seven-room hammam experience.

Is Gstaad Palace open year-round?

No. The hotel typically operates seasonally, with a winter season from mid-December to early March and a summer season from mid-June to early September; guests should confirm exact dates on the official website.

Is Gstaad Palace suitable for families?

Yes. The hotel offers a dedicated Palace Kids program, family-friendly rooms and suites, and outdoor activities for children, alongside its five-star amenities for adults.

Is Gstaad known for skiing or summer activities?

Both. Gstaad's winter season draws skiers to its well-connected slopes, some just a short walk from Gstaad Palace, while summer brings hiking, the Menuhin Festival, an international polo tournament, and a relaxed Alpine pace.

What makes Gstaad Palace different from other luxury hotels in Switzerland?

Its century-long family ownership, château-meets-chalet architecture, five distinct restaurants, and 1,800 sqm spa set it apart, alongside its status as a longstanding member of The Leading Hotels of the World.

Can guests rent out the entire Gstaad Palace hotel?

Yes. Gstaad Palace can be booked exclusively in full, including all suites, event rooms, restaurants, the GreenGo nightclub, and the Palace Spa, for private events or full-buyout stays.