There is something quietly special about the village of Gstaad in winter. Snow-covered mountains, crisp Alpine air and a strong sense of tradition create a setting that feels both peaceful and full of possibility. At the heart of it all sits Gstaad Palace – a Swiss icon since 1913 – where heritage, hospitality and thoughtful family experiences come together with ease.
Winter here is not about one defining activity. It is about choice, rhythm and creating space for every member of the family to enjoy the season in their own way.
A setting that shapes the winter experience
The landscape surrounding Gstaad Palace sets the tone from the moment guests arrive. Snow-laden forests, open mountain views and traditional Alpine villages provide a backdrop that feels timeless and reassuring. You’ll navigate your winter stay at Gstaad Palace between outdoor exploration and moments of comfort indoors, creating a rhythm that suits you and your family perfectly.
Gstaad winter experiences designed for adults
For adults, Gstaad Palace offers a programme that extends far beyond the ski slopes. Those seeking exhilaration can explore untouched terrain through heli-skiing, while private ski tours led by former World Cup racers offer an opportunity to refine technique with expert guidance.
Alongside these high-energy experiences are moments rooted in atmosphere and tradition. Outdoor fondue enjoyed beneath open skies offers a deeply Swiss way to experience winter, while horse-drawn carriage rides through snow-covered valleys feel quietly nostalgic. Husky sledding across frozen landscapes adds a distinctive adventure that many guests experience for the first time here.
Together, these experiences allow adults to engage with Gstaad Palace’s signature magic in different ways – adventurous, refined or unhurried – depending on the day.
Sammy's Kids Club: a winter programme created entirely for young guests
Separate from the adult experiences, Sammy’s Kids Club is Gstaad Palace’s dedicated Kids’ Club, accredited by the Luxury Childcare Association. Offering children their own winter world shaped around creativity, routine and festive joy, the club follows a carefully curated calendar designed to bring winter traditions to life in age-appropriate and engaging ways throughout the season.
Children can take part in gingerbread workshops, cookie baking, Christmas wreath making and decorating the Kids’ Club tree, enjoying hands-on activities that feel both familiar and special. Story-led experiences such as Fairy Tale Land, Christmas cinema evenings and themed movie nights create moments of calm, while livelier events like pyjama parties, talent shows and children’s discos bring energy and excitement.
Nature and Alpine tradition also feature strongly. As part of the winter programme, children can meet St Bernard dogs brought in for special seasonal visits, learning about their place in Alpine history through gentle, supervised interaction. Visits from reindeer and other farm animals further connect children to the setting and traditions of a winter in Switzerland.
Led by trained childcare professionals, the programme balances structure with imagination, ensuring children feel settled, inspired and genuinely cared for throughout their stay.
A family winter that feels effortless
What sets Gstaad Palace apart is how seamlessly everything comes together. While children enjoy enriching days in Sammy’s Kids Club, parents are free to immerse themselves in the wider destination, confident that their children are safe, happy and well cared for.
At Gstaad Palace, luxury is not defined by scale or spectacle, but by peace of mind, thoughtful experiences and the freedom for every member of the family to enjoy the season in their own way.
Discover Gstaad Palace’s full seasonal activity programme below: