Reopening for the 2024 summer season on the 21st June 2024, guests are invited to discover an abundance of new guest experiences and Alpine summer activities for all to enjoy. 

Scenic Alpine hikes

A trip to Gstaad isn't complete without a hike with its 300KM of signposted trails and paths through moorlands, Alpine valleys, and high mountain peaks. The expansive network of hiking routes of varying difficulty, connected by lifts and cable cars, ensures there is a route for everyone to enjoy. Take a scenic gondola ride from Gsteig up to the awe-inspiring “Col du Sanetsch” where you can take an easy hike around the glistening Lake Sanetsch (perfect for wild-swimming). Cheese-lovers can round off the experience with traditional Swiss fondue and local wine at Ta Cave, accompanied by breathtaking views.

Of the several hikes accessible from the Palace, one that should not go amiss is the trek to the hotel's fairy-tale Walig Hut – around 2 and a half hours' walk. Located at 1,700 metres surrounded by panoramic views of Gstaad and the Saanenland, this authentic Alpine hut has belonged to the hotel since 1783 and is the perfect place to unwind post-hike, where hut warden Maurizo will prepare an authentic fondue stirred over the open fire and delicious mountain lunch with local charcuterie and cheeses. The Walig Hut is also available for overnight stays, accommodating a maximum of two adults and two children. Overnight stays start from CHF 1,600 (approx. £1,320) and includes breakfast, lunch and a 3-course dinner. 

Relax and unwind at the <>

Since 1928, the hotel's Olympic-sized pool, the <> has brought the flair of the Cote d'Azure to Gstaad. Guests and locals can spend the day poolside, soaking up the sun and mountain views alongside refreshing cocktails and light summer dishes from the pool bar.

New for this year, guests can also enjoy stand-up paddle yoga at the <> every Friday at 7pm from the 28th June to the end of August, which is the perfect activity to help build strength, balance, and encourage mindfulness. In partnership with Gstaad-Saanenland Tourism, children from 5 – 13 years old can also enjoy Yoga sessions by the pool every Monday at 11:30am (from 1st July).

Family fun

Gstaad Palace welcomes younger visitors with open arms at their dedicated Sammy's Kids Club. Children aged five to twelve will enjoy adventures of their own with a fun-packed programme of activities including movie nights with popcorn; jewellery making; encounters with llamas and alpacas; bouncy castle sessions; a family scavenger hunt; pyjama party; and open-air fairy tales in the magical hotel gardens. Younger guests will also have the opportunity to walk and groom the friendly resident St. Bernard dogs. A highlight of the summer season will be the ninth Mini Grand-Prix and taking place on Sunday 4th August. The Kid's Grand Prix invites children to compete on the racecourse in pedal-powered cars for their chance to win 1st, 2nd and 3rd medals. There will also be a mini funfair on the day with music, a merry-go-round and child friendly drinks & snacks. 

The Saanenland region is also a haven for all types of outdoor sporting adventures from adrenaline-inducing climbing, canyoning, mountain biking, paragliding and skydiving – perfect for active teenagers, through to the gentler options including golfing, paddleboarding and fishing,

Wild Swimming

With its abundance of crystal-clear lakes dotted around the mountains, Gstaad is a swimmers' paradise. In the summer months, swimmers can benefit from the many holistic health benefits of wild cold-water swimming, helping you to feel rejuvenated both mentally and helping with physical ailments such as inflammation, improving circulation and boosting your immune system. Recommended local spots include Lake Sanetsch in Valais and Lake Arnensee – more commonly referred to as 'Little Canada' due to its beautiful scenic landscapes.

Gourmet Gstaad

NEW Italian Table: Enjoy delicious Italian specialities in a secret and naturally private spot in the hotel's enchanting Palace gardens. A special table has been set up under a tree, where guests can enjoy a dedicated set menu of delicious Italian sharing plates alongside beautiful views of the Oldenhorn mountain.  The Italian Table experience has a maximum capacity of 5 people and is available upon request only. From CHF 230 (approx.£197) per person and CHF 140 (approx. £120) for children under 12 years.

Gildo Returns: Gstaad Palace's legendary Gildo Bocchini, the hotel's former Maître d'Hôtel is back on Saturday 6th July, offering an exclusive Italian menu for guests in all of the hotel's restaurants

Special Swiss Dinner: On Thursday 1st August, the Scherz family invites guests to a Swiss Aperitif in the garden and delicious four-course dinner in celebration of 733 years of Switzerland. Traditional folk music will be played throughout the evening and a grand firework display above the Palace will round off the evening. From CHF 200 per person (approx. £170)

Gstaad Palace will open for the summer season from 21 June- 8 September 2024. Rooms start from 893 CHF (approx. £807) per room, per night including breakfast and a culinary credit.

URL: www.palace.ch/en/

Imagery: https://www.dropbox.com/sh/sff8mlo9mky29s8/AAC9-zaeUX8D1JqB3B1c4vkZa?dl=0

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Notes to editors

First opened in 1913, Gstaad Palace has been owned by the Scherz family for three generations. The 90 rooms and suites of the seasonal hotel, with an exceptional panorama of the Bernese Oberland, skilfully combine contemporary glamour with Alpine comfort. Its five gastronomic outlets offer Swiss, Italian and international specialities, and its gourmet cuisine has been awarded 15 Gault-Millau points, while the hotel's own night club GreenGo is known for both its legendary parties and its illustrious clientele.

For media enquiries and images please contact Mason Rose

E: angelica@masonrose.com / alicia@masonrose.com  W: www.masonrose.com