OUR FAVOURITES
Places Worth Knowing
The most memorable places are rarely found by following an itinerary.
They are discovered slowly: through conversations, quiet recommendations and the habit of returning. This collection brings together the people, places and landscapes that have shaped our understanding of the region—and that we hope will shape yours.
BUILT BY HAND
Architecture Shaped by Time
The western Bernese Oberland is defined as much by its buildings as its mountains. Weathered timber, carved façades and centuries-old farmhouses speak of craftsmanship, patience and a way of building that has remained remarkably consistent across generations.
MUSEUM
Obersimmental Museum
Housed in one of the valley’s finest seventeenth-century farmhouses, the museum offers an intimate introduction to rural life in the Simmental. Original interiors, traditional craftsmanship and everyday objects reveal how generations once lived, worked and shaped the region.
HISTORIC BUILDING
Grand Chalet
Built in 1756, the Grand Chalet remains one of Switzerland’s largest wooden houses. Originally constructed for cheese production, it stands today as an extraordinary example of Alpine craftsmanship and rural ambition.
WALKING ROUTE
Simmental House Trail
One of the best ways to understand the region is to look closely at its houses. This self-guided trail passes remarkable farmhouses, each distinguished by intricate woodcarvings, painted inscriptions and centuries of architectural tradition.
VILLAGE
Rougemont
Just beyond Saanen, Rougemont is one of the region’s most beautifully preserved villages. Centuries-old timber chalets line the quiet streets beneath the church, while the surrounding landscape opens towards the Pays-d’Enhaut. A place worth visiting slowly, preferably without much of a plan.
MUSEUM
Museum der Landschaft Saanen
A thoughtful introduction to the history and culture of the Saanenland, exploring the region through agriculture, craftsmanship, architecture and everyday life. An ideal first stop for understanding the landscape beyond its postcard image.
HISTORIC BRIDGE
Pont Turrian
Spanning the Sarine near Rougemont, this covered timber bridge is a beautiful example of traditional Alpine engineering. Quietly tucked away, it rewards those willing to venture beyond the main road.
HISTORIC RUIN
Ruins of Mannenberg Castle
Perched above Zweisimmen, the ruins of Mannenberg Castle offer a tangible connection to the region’s medieval past. A short walk leads to sweeping views across the Simmental and the remains of a fortress that once guarded the valley.
CHURCH
Zweisimmen Reformed Church
Standing at the heart of the village, the church has shaped community life for centuries. Its timber interior and peaceful setting reflect the quiet character of the Simmental.
HISTORIC VILLAGE
Historic Village of Saanen
One of Switzerland’s finest preserved Alpine villages, where centuries-old chalets, fountains and cobbled streets create an atmosphere that has changed remarkably little over time.
FROM THE LAND
The Landscape in Practice
Long before it became a destination, this was a working landscape. Alpine dairies, family farms and small producers continue to shape both the scenery and the culture, preserving traditions that remain central to everyday life.
ALPINE DAIRY
Maison de L’Etivaz
High in the Pays-d’Enhaut, L’Etivaz AOP is still produced over open wood fires in traditional Alpine chalets during the summer months. A visit offers a rare insight into one of Switzerland’s most respected cheesemaking traditions.
ALPINE DAIRY
Le Sapalet
One of the region’s traditional mountain dairies, where cheese continues to be made during the summer grazing season. Visiting offers a glimpse into a way of life that has changed remarkably little over generations.
DAIRY
Molkerei Gstaad
A local institution where generations have come for fresh milk, regional cheeses and dairy products from surrounding farms. Simple, authentic and deeply connected to the agricultural identity of the Saanenland.
ALPINE FARM
Muhof
Perched above the valley, Muhof reflects the quiet rhythm of Alpine farming. Seasonal produce, traditional methods and an enduring connection to the surrounding landscape make it a place worth seeking out.
FARM SHOP
Buure Chäsi Gstaad
A trusted local address for regional cheeses, yoghurts and carefully selected produce from nearby farms. It offers a genuine taste of the area’s agricultural heritage without pretence.
VINEYARD
Cave Alain Emery
Just beyond the Alpine valleys, the vineyards of Valais introduce another layer of western Switzerland’s food culture. Alain Emery’s small family estate produces expressive wines that reflect both tradition and place.
DAIRY
Molkerei Lenk & Käserei
A long-established dairy showcasing the exceptional quality of milk from the surrounding Alpine pastures. Fresh cheeses, yoghurts and regional specialities reflect a tradition that continues to shape life in the valley.
DAIRY
Molkerei Zweisimmen
For generations, local farmers have brought their milk here to be transformed into some of the Simmental’s finest cheeses and dairy products. Whether you’re picking up provisions for a picnic or simply curious about the region’s agricultural traditions, it offers an authentic taste of everyday Alpine life.
BREWERY
Simmentaler Brauerei
Inspired by the landscape that surrounds it, Simmentaler Brauerei produces small-batch beers with a strong sense of place. Combining traditional brewing techniques with contemporary creativity, it has become a favourite among locals looking to celebrate the flavours of the valley.
BUTCHER
Bure Metzg Gstaad
A respected local butcher known for carefully sourced meats, traditional recipes and regional specialities. It’s a wonderful place to discover the flavours of the Saanenland and experience an enduring part of everyday village life.
CHOCOLATIER
Gstaad Chocolate Shop
Handcrafted pralines, seasonal creations and beautifully presented Swiss chocolate make this a delightful stop while exploring Gstaad. Small in scale but full of character, it celebrates one of Switzerland’s most cherished traditions.
PATHS & LANDSCAPES
Places That Reward a Slower Pace
The landscapes surrounding Haus Mannenberg are best experienced on foot. Alpine meadows, ancient forests, quiet valleys and mountain lakes reveal themselves gradually, inviting a slower pace and a closer connection to the rhythms of the natural world.
MOORLAND
Sparenmoos
Switzerland’s largest high moorland offers gentle walking trails with sweeping views across the Simmental and Bernese Alps. Particularly beautiful at sunrise, sunset and during the quiet months between seasons.
NATURE RESERVE
Lauenensee
Framed by wetlands and forest, Lauenensee is one of the region’s most tranquil landscapes. Early mornings and evenings reveal a quieter side of this protected Alpine lake.
THERMAL SPRING
Weissenburgbad
Hidden deep within a narrow valley, the remains of this once-celebrated spa tell the story of a forgotten Alpine retreat. Today, its mineral spring and peaceful surroundings make it one of the region’s most atmospheric walks.
MOUNTAIN LAKE
Seebergsee
A striking Alpine lake surrounded by meadows and limestone peaks. Its clear waters and peaceful setting make it one of the Bernese Oberland’s most rewarding destinations away from the larger crowds.
MOUNTAIN RANGE
Gastlosen
Often referred to as the ‘Swiss Dolomites’, the dramatic limestone cliffs of the Gastlosen offer some of the most distinctive scenery in western Switzerland, whether admired from the valley or explored on foot.
WATERFALL
Iffigfall
One of the Bernese Oberland’s most impressive waterfalls, cascading from the high Alps into the Lenk valley. Easily reached on foot and especially dramatic after rainfall or the spring snowmelt.
NATURE PARK
Diemtigtal Nature Park
One of Switzerland’s largest regional nature parks, Diemtigtal is a landscape of flower-filled Alpine meadows, traditional farmsteads and quiet mountain valleys. It offers exceptional walking throughout the year while preserving the cultural landscape that has defined the region for centuries.
PANORAMA TRAIL
Rinderberg – Gstaad
Connecting Rinderberg with Gstaad, this panoramic trail winds through Alpine meadows, traditional farmhouses and open mountain landscapes. It’s one of the finest walks in the region, rewarding hikers with uninterrupted views across the Simmental and Saanenland.
MOUNTAIN RESTAURANT
Spiegelberg
Set high above the valley, Spiegelberg combines spectacular mountain scenery with warm Alpine hospitality. Whether stopping for lunch or simply admiring the view, it captures the quiet charm of life above the tree line.
MOUNTAIN
Hundsrügg
A broad mountain ridge offering far-reaching views across the Bernese Oberland and Fribourg Alps. Particularly rewarding at sunrise or sunset, it’s a peaceful alternative to some of the region’s busier viewpoints.
MOUNTAIN PASS
Jaun Pass
Linking the Bernese Oberland with the Fribourg Alps, Jaun Pass is one of the region’s most scenic mountain roads. Equally enjoyable by car, bicycle or on foot, it serves as a gateway to countless walks and panoramic viewpoints.
VIEWPOINT
Mittagsfluh
High above Boltigen, Mittagsfluh rewards the climb with one of the most impressive panoramas in the Simmental. On a clear day, the sweeping views stretch across valleys, forests and snow-capped Alpine peaks.
ALPINE VALLEY
Fermenttal
A quiet mountain valley where traditional farming continues to shape the landscape. Rolling pastures, scattered chalets and peaceful walking trails make it an ideal destination for those seeking a slower pace.
WATERFALL
Simmen Falls
Among the most powerful waterfalls in the Bernese Oberland, the Simmen Falls mark the source of the River Simme. A short walk brings visitors remarkably close to the cascading water, particularly impressive during spring and early summer.
MOUNTAIN TRAIL
Bühlberg Trail
Beginning above Lenk, this classic trail passes flower-filled meadows and grazing cattle while opening onto magnificent views of the Wildstrubel massif. A wonderful introduction to the region’s Alpine landscapes.
MOUNTAIN
Betelberg
A year-round mountain destination offering gentle walks in summer and family-friendly skiing in winter. Wide-open panoramas and peaceful trails make it a favourite with locals and returning visitors alike.
VALLEY WALK
Launen Trail
Following streams, forests and traditional Alpine farms, this peaceful route reveals a quieter side of the Saanenland. It’s an ideal walk for anyone wishing to experience the landscape at an unhurried pace.
VALLEY WALK
Turbach Trail
Hidden away from the main valley, Turbach offers one of the region’s most tranquil walking experiences. Gentle trails, traditional chalets and open meadows create a landscape that feels wonderfully untouched.
HISTORIC HAMLET
Abländschen
Nestled high in the mountains, Abländschen is a tiny settlement where traditional timber buildings, open pastures and dramatic scenery evoke the simplicity of Alpine life. A rewarding destination for walkers and photographers alike.
MOUNTAIN HUT
Soldatenhaus
Surrounded by Alpine meadows and mountain trails, Soldatenhaus is a traditional refuge that has welcomed walkers for generations. Its rustic character and peaceful setting make it a memorable stop in the high mountains.
ALPINE HUT
Grubenhütte
A simple mountain hut where traditional Alpine hospitality remains unchanged. Whether stopping for refreshments or simply taking in the surroundings, it offers an authentic experience of life in the mountains.
LONG DISTANCE TRAIL
Via Alpina
Stretching across Switzerland from Montreux to Liechtenstein, the Via Alpina is one of Europe’s great long-distance hiking routes. Several of its most beautiful stages pass through the landscapes surrounding Haus Mannenberg, connecting Gstaad, Lauenen and Lenk before continuing east into the high Alps.
MAKERS & CRAFT
Hands Behind the Region
Beyond its landscapes lies a remarkable tradition of making. From woodcarving and paper cutting to ceramics, textiles and independent galleries, these are the people and places preserving regional craftsmanship while giving it new expression.
PAPER-CUT ARTIST
Marc Schweizer
One of Switzerland’s most celebrated contemporary paper-cut artists, Marc Schweizer transforms a centuries-old folk tradition into intricate works of remarkable precision. His studio offers a fascinating insight into a uniquely Alpine art form.
BOOKSHOP
Librairie des Alpages
A destination for anyone interested in Alpine culture, architecture and mountain life. Carefully curated shelves celebrate the landscapes, traditions and stories of the Alps through beautifully selected books.
CRAFT SHOP
Heimatwerk Saanen
Dedicated to preserving Swiss craftsmanship, Heimatwerk brings together beautifully made objects, textiles and traditional crafts from across the region. A thoughtful place to discover pieces with genuine provenance.
ART GALLERY
16 Art Bar Restaurant
Part gallery, part gathering place, 16 Art combines contemporary exhibitions with an informal atmosphere. It reflects Gstaad’s quieter cultural side, where art is woven naturally into everyday life.
MUSEUM
Musée du Pays-d’Enhaut
Located in Château-d’Œx, this regional museum explores the craftsmanship, traditions and daily life of the Pays-d’Enhaut through thoughtfully curated exhibitions and one of Switzerland’s finest collections of paper cutting.
CERAMIC STUDIO
Atelier Catherine Louis
Working with natural materials and traditional techniques, Catherine Louis creates ceramics inspired by the colours and textures of the surrounding mountains. Each piece reflects a quiet appreciation for craftsmanship and place.
INTERIOR DESIGN
Marti Interiors
For decades, Marti Interiors has been shaping some of the region’s most beautiful homes. Carefully curated furniture, lighting and objects make it an inspiring destination for anyone with an appreciation for thoughtful design and understated Alpine living.
ROOMS WITH STORIES
Places Worth Lingering In
Some places are remembered not only for what they offer, but for the atmosphere they create. Historic hotels, mountain inns, cafés and restaurants where thoughtful hospitality, timeless interiors and a strong sense of place invite you to slow down and stay a little longer.
HISTORIC HOTEL
Gstaad Palace
For more than a century, Gstaad Palace has stood as one of Switzerland’s most recognisable grand hotels. Beyond its reputation lies a remarkable story of independent ownership, enduring hospitality and Alpine elegance.
RESTAURANT
Restaurant Le Grand Chalet
Set within one of Switzerland’s largest historic wooden houses, Le Grand Chalet offers traditional regional cuisine in an extraordinary architectural setting. The experience is as much about the house as it is about the table.
RESTAURANT
Kernen
A long-standing favourite in Schönried, Kernen pairs contemporary Swiss cuisine with genuine hospitality and an elegant Alpine atmosphere. Seasonal ingredients and careful craftsmanship define every visit.
COUNTRY INN
Rössli Feutersoey
Surrounded by meadows and mountain peaks, Rössli Feutersoey is a charming country inn known for its welcoming atmosphere and honest regional cooking. A wonderful stop while exploring the upper Saanenland.
HISTORIC HOTEL
Hotel Olden
Overlooking Gstaad’s promenade, Hotel Olden has long been a meeting place for locals, visitors and long-time residents. Its relaxed atmosphere and understated character have made it a favourite for generations.
MOUNTAIN HOTEL
Hamilton Lodge
Known to many as the former Alpine Lodge, Hamilton Lodge combines a relaxed atmosphere with direct access to some of the region’s best skiing and hiking. Informal, welcoming and full of character, it has become a favourite among outdoor enthusiasts.
MOUNTAIN INN
Berghaus Iffigenalp
Nestled at the foot of the Wildhorn massif, Berghaus Iffigenalp has welcomed walkers and mountaineers for generations. Its spectacular setting and unpretentious hospitality make it a rewarding destination in every season.
ITALIAN RESTAURANT
Corrado
A regional institution for more than thirty years, Corrado has earned a loyal following for its authentic Italian cuisine and warm family hospitality. It’s one of those rare places where locals and returning visitors gather time and again.
MOUNTAIN INN
Bären Gsteig
Set at the gateway to some of the region’s most spectacular mountain scenery, Bären Gsteig has welcomed travellers for generations. Traditional hospitality and hearty Swiss cuisine make it a destination in its own right.
RESTAURANT
Maison Hornberg
Set high above Saanenmöser, Maison Hornberg celebrates regional ingredients in a refined yet welcoming setting. The combination of thoughtful cooking, mountain views and warm hospitality makes it well worth the journey.
RESTAURANT
Hotel de Commune
Located in the heart of Rougemont, Hotel de Commune blends historic surroundings with refined seasonal cuisine. Whether for lunch on the terrace or a leisurely evening meal, it perfectly reflects the quiet elegance of the village.
RESTAURANT & GALLERY
Hüsy
Part restaurant, part gallery and part living archive of the region, Hüsy brings together traditional Swiss cooking, historic interiors and the art of paper cutting. It feels deeply rooted in the Saanenland rather than designed for visitors, which is precisely what makes it so memorable.
SEASONAL LIFE
Following the Rhythm of the Year
Life in the Alps has always been shaped by the changing seasons. Ancient customs, cultural festivals and local celebrations continue to mark the passing of the year, offering visitors an opportunity to experience traditions that remain deeply rooted in the region.
ALPINE TRADITION
Gstaad Züglete
Each autumn, decorated cattle return from the high Alpine pastures to the valley, accompanied by farmers in traditional dress and the sound of cowbells. More than a celebration, it is a living expression of the region’s agricultural heritage.
ALPINE MARKET
Saaner Märit
Held several times throughout the year, the traditional market brings together regional producers, artisans and local businesses. It offers a genuine glimpse into everyday life beyond the better-known resort destinations.
POLO TOURNAMENT
Hublot Polo Gold Cup Gstaad
Every August, one of the world’s most scenic polo tournaments unfolds against the backdrop of the Bernese Alps. Combining international sport with Alpine tradition, it has become one of Gstaad’s defining summer events.
CLASSICAL MUSIC
Gstaad Menuhin Festival
Founded by Sir Yehudi Menuhin in 1957, the festival has grown into one of Europe’s most respected classical music events. Concerts are held in churches, chapels and mountain venues throughout the Saanenland.
HOT AIR BALLOONS
Balloon Festival Château-d’Œx
Every winter, dozens of hot air balloons fill the skies above Château-d’Œx, transforming the valley into one of Switzerland’s most spectacular seasonal events. The tradition has become an iconic part of the region’s winter identity.
MUSIC FESTIVAL
Country Night Gstaad
For more than three decades, Country Night has welcomed internationally renowned musicians to Gstaad, creating an unexpected and much-loved tradition that adds another dimension to the region’s cultural calendar.
MOTORING EVENT
Gstaad Classic Car Rally
Beautifully preserved vintage automobiles wind their way through some of Switzerland’s most spectacular mountain roads during this much-loved annual gathering. It’s a celebration of craftsmanship, engineering and timeless design.
ALPINE CELEBRATION
Désalpe de L’Etivaz
One of the most authentic Alpine cattle descents in western Switzerland, where decorated herds return from the mountain pastures to the village. A celebration of craftsmanship, farming traditions and community that has remained largely unchanged for generations.
VILLAGE FESTIVAL
St. Stephan Volksfest
A traditional village celebration bringing together live music, regional food and local customs. More than an event, it’s an opportunity to experience the warmth and community spirit that continue to define life in the Simmental.
HIKING EVENT
National Hiking Day
Celebrated across Switzerland each year, National Hiking Day encourages people to discover the country’s remarkable network of walking trails. With countless routes beginning just beyond our doorstep, it’s the perfect excuse to spend a day exploring the mountains.
WELLBEING
Time to Slow Down
Wellbeing in the Alps is shaped as much by the landscape as by dedicated places of retreat. Mineral waters, mountain air, thoughtful spa rituals and time spent outdoors have long been part of life here. Whether seeking restoration after a day on the trails or simply a quieter pace, these are the places we return to when it’s time to slow down.
WELLNESS HOTEL
Lenkerhof Gourmet Spa Resort
Fed by its own natural sulphur spring, the Lenkerhof has been a place of relaxation and restoration for generations. Its extensive spa, outdoor thermal pool and mountain setting make it one of Switzerland’s finest destinations for wellbeing.
WELLNESS HOTEL
Ermitage Wellness & Spa Hotel
Surrounded by the mountains of Schönried, the Ermitage offers one of the region’s most comprehensive wellness experiences. Indoor and outdoor pools, tranquil gardens and panoramic Alpine views create an atmosphere dedicated to slowing down.
FITNESS STUDIO
Body Fit Zweisimmen
A modern fitness studio just minutes from Haus Mannenberg, offering everything from strength training to group classes. Ideal for guests wishing to maintain their routine while enjoying the mountains.
STORIES
Beyond the Guide
The places featured here are only the beginning. Through our journal, we explore the history, culture and quiet details that make this region unlike anywhere else in the Alps.