Gstaad: the last paradise in a crazy world

“The last paradise in a crazy world.” This quote by actress Julie Andrews aptly describes the coexistence of nature, traditional alpine farming, chalets, and the fashionable village of Gstaad. This hike lets you experience and enjoy both facets. At the starting point of the hike at Saanenmöser station, follow the signpost for Schönried. After a short distance, turn right onto the promenade path. Incidentally, the street name perfectly characterizes the path. This first section is also signposted as Schönriederweg with the number 447. Under the title History Path, the region’s history is presented on eleven panels. You reach Schönried on a mostly flat but occasionally descending gravel path with views of the two peaks Gummfluh and Rübelhorn. In Schönried, turn right into Waldmattenstrasse and then left into Grubenstrasse. From here, follow the signpost Gstaad Panoramaweg, which is also a fitting name. Shortly afterward, the route branches off to the right and leads over a gravel path to Saali. Now the landscape can really be enjoyed. A legend tells that God wanted to rest a bit during the creation of the world. The imprint of his hand is said to have shaped the Saanenland. The five fingers formed the valleys with Gstaad at the center. Alternating between roads and well-maintained gravel paths, partly twisting, the hike leads through Gruben to Gstaad. Before the return journey, the discrete charm of this village can be experienced while strolling in the car-free town center.