Gsteig bei Gstaad is in the Bernese Oberland, on the route to the Col du Pillon. Transport connections are also important when choosing where to stay: the village does not have its own railway station; buses connect it with Gstaad, the Col du Pillon and Les Diablerets. Village history and alpine farming come together here with hiking and nature destinations.
The church, the village name and the mule track
Gsteig Church is a plastered building with a steep, shingle-covered gabled roof, dormers and a three-storey choir tower. It was dedicated to Saint Theodul in 1453; after 1500, it became independent from the parish of Saanen. The village name also reaches far back into the past: Gsteig was first mentioned in a document in 1312 under the name Chastalet. Chastalet referred to a watchtower, defensive tower and refuge. The former mule track to the Col du Pillon can still be seen alongside the inn. Alpine farming is practised in Gsteig, and a livestock market has been held here since 1727.
Hikes and nature destinations
The Chastalet circular trail takes you through the landscape and history of Gsteig. The moderately difficult hike is 6.6 kilometres long and takes about two and a half hours. There are information boards along the trail, and a brochure is available from the tourist office. The brochure’s availability may change. The circular trail combines a manageable time commitment with the landscape and historical themes that shape the route.
The Gsteig cross-country ski trail starts in the village. It is moderately difficult, 5.2 kilometres long and takes about an hour. In direct comparison, at around an hour, the ski trail is shorter than the two-and-a-half-hour circular hike. Snow conditions may vary. Parking for the trail is available at the trail entrance in Innergsteig or at Gsteig School; parking options may change.
Local excursion destinations include the Burg Falls, Lake Arnensee and the nature reserve on the Oldenhorn. The Burg Falls are a gorge near Gsteig with waterfalls and steep slopes. Important access information: the route is suitable only for experienced mountain hikers. It includes narrow bridges and stairs, as well as some steep and exposed sections. The approach from Gsteig via Innergsteig involves an ascent of about 150 metres. Check local conditions before your visit and take your own mountain-hiking experience into account when planning.
In the area around Gsteig, Lake Sanetsch can be circled in about an hour and a half. Water and access conditions may vary. This gives you the option of spending time outdoors beside the lake, which can be circled, and, when conditions allow, taking a short swim.
Alpine farming and a fondue experience
For a culinary highlight, try the Fondue Caquelon Gsteig experience. It includes eight oversized fondue pots and two specially equipped huts, each with space for up to eight people. The experience includes ingredients for an outdoor fondue or raclette. As operational arrangements and service details may change, check the current arrangements in advance.
Discover more destinations: Saanen, Saanen, Gstaad, Lauenen.
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