Gstaad

In terms of size, Gstaad is just your average Swiss village, but its reputation as a fashionable mecca for the jet-set is global. Surrounded by some of Switzerland's finest alpine scenery, Gstaad lies in the south west of the country, about two hours' drive from Geneva or Zurich on the boundary between the Bernese Oberland and the Vaud Alpes.

Gstaad is a friendly car-free village. A rather charming, attractively located place full of restored weathered-wood chalets between four gently sloping valleys. It is pleasing with a variety of sporting activities and social events during most of the year.

Most summertime tourists visit Gstaad for the endless walking path. In winter; a magnificent ski area is served including about 60 ski lifts, which enable runs to be varied in accordance with individual tastes. Cable cars ferry you into the mountains - and the local tourist travel pass, the Gstaad Easyaccess Card will save you money on these as well as giving you a range of other benefits. In summer, Gstaad plays host to several world-class festivals and tournaments including the Menuhin Classic Music Festival, the ATP Tennis Championships and the Polo Silver Cup. In January, don't miss the hot-air balloon festival in Chateau-d'Oex.

Getting to Gstaad
Gstaad is located in South West Switzerland, 148 km (92 miles) from Geneva, the nearest airport. Travel time from Geneva is 1 3/4 hours by car and 3 hours by train. The resort is 178 km (110 miles) from Zurich and 60 km (37 miles) from Berne.

From Geneva, take the train to Montreux and change trains for Saanen/Gstaad. From Zurich, take international train connections to Spiez and change trains for Zweisimmen. In Zweisimmen change trains for Gstaad.