Gstaad Glam: Switzerland’s Most Stylish Ski Town

Dotted with snow-capped mountains, charming weathered-wood chalets and an unsurprising smattering of fir trees, Gstaad is the epitome of alpine chic.

14 December, 2021

Words by: Georgina Groom

Gstaad oozes glamour and style and is as picture-book-pretty as anywhere on earth.

Elizabeth Hurley

Nestled
between Geneva and Zürich, the white powder landscape of Gstaad is famed
for its luxurious lifestyle. With 14th-century churches and
traditional chocolate shops neighbouring private ski clubs and
designer outlets, this is Switzerland’s answer to elegance. Gstaad’s
hypnotic setting has attracted some of the world’s most famous
faces, from Madonna and Grace Kelly to Julie Andrews and Jacqueline
Kennedy.

Home to 124 miles of dramatic scenery, every angle here oozes
postcard-worthy perfection. Crisp winter days should be spent
skiing, snowboarding or sledging, whilst serene summer stays should
look like hiking, polo and golf. Visit from 22-30 January to
experience the visual splendour of its annual hot air balloon
festival.

Gstaad is a destination populated with just as many people as
wildlife, so expect to brush shoulders with large families of
alpine cows and swarms of Saanen goats. The best part? The
village’s thriving cultural community pays homage to its rich
heritage, meaning a hefty chunk of its snazzy boutiques and snug
boltholes are family-owned – check out Gstaad Palace, Pinte
Bar and Hotel Olden.