The Best of the Swiss Mountains this Summer

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Saas-Fee/Saastal

The holiday region Saas-Fee/Saastal features the car-free village of Saas-Fee, situated at 1,800 metres in the Swiss Valais. Surrounded by 18 majestic peaks soaring above 4,000 metres, the Saas Valley offers a unique blend of alpine charm and adventure. In the summer and autumn months, the region transforms into an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise, boasting a plethora of activities from hiking and biking to via ferrata and glacier experiences.

SaastalCard: Free cable cars from the first overnight stay

From your very first overnight stay in the Saas Valley, guests receive in almost every accommodation the complimentary SaastalCard, unlocking a host of benefits that enhance your mountain getaway. This card grants free unlimited access to the postbus network throughout the Saas Valley and complimentary use of the cable cars during your stay (excluding the Metro Alpin) in summer and autumn. Additionally, cardholders enjoy up to 30% discounts on various activities, ensuring both convenience and value during your visit.

Explore the Saas Valley: A Tapestry of Villages and Trails

The Saas Valley is a haven for hikers, home to four charming villages—Saas-Fee, Saas-Grund, Saas-Almagell, and Saas-Balen—each offering a unique base for alpine exploration. With over 350 km of marked hiking trails, the region caters to all levels, from casual strollers to experienced mountaineers. Three standout routes, in particular, showcase the valley’s dramatic landscapes and rich natural beauty:

Almagell High-Altitude Trail

This panoramic trail starts from the mountain station of Kreuzboden above Saas-Grund  and traverses through lush alpine meadows and rocky ridgelines. Hikers are treated to sweeping views of the Mischabel mountain massif, including the iconic Dom, Switzerland’s highest entirely Swiss mountain at 4,545m. Midway along the route, the Almagelleralp mountain restaurant offers a welcome rest stop, serving traditional Swiss dishes in a scenic alpine setting. The trail then winds through tranquil larch forests, across hanging bridges, and past glacial streams, making it an ideal day adventure.

Monte Moro Pass

For those drawn to dramatic scenery and a touch of history, the Monte Moro Pass trail is a must. This historic cross-border route links Switzerland and Italy and was once used by mule traders. The trail begins at Mattmark reservoir and ascends toward the golden Statue of the Golden Madonna, which stands sentinel at the border. Along the way, hikers are immersed in high-alpine surroundings with views of the Monte Rosa massif, including the east face of Dufourspitze, the highest peak in Switzerland. The route offers both cultural significance and cinematic scenery, making it a rewarding full-day trek.

Chamois Trail

Ideal for wildlife lovers, the Chamois Trail winds gently from the mountain station of Hannig down to Saas-Fee and is named for the agile mountain goats that often make appearances along the rocky slopes. The hike begins at the Hannig mountain station and follows the mountain flanks, revealing a spectacular glacier landscape that has drawn visitors to Saas-Fee for over 150 years. The first half of the route ends at the former moraine of the Fee Glacier, where the glacier’s retreat has sculpted a unique scree landscape crisscrossed by small streams that feed a glacial lake.

The trail continues over the flanks of the Mischabel mountain massif and along the lake’s edge to the Gletschergrotte mountain restaurant, a perfect spot for a rest amid dramatic alpine scenery. After your break, cross the winter ski slope to reach the start of the ‘Bodmen’ irrigation channel (Suone) at Bifig barbecue hut. From there, the Suone trail leads to Grundbiel. The final stretch follows a tarmac road to the panoramic bridge, concluding at the bus terminal in Saas-Fee.

These trails, easily accessed thanks to the SaastalCard’s free cable car and bus transport, highlight the diversity and majesty of the Saas Valley’s alpine terrain.

Thrills on the Rocks: Via Ferrata Adventures

For those craving adrenaline and altitude, the Saas Valley’s via ferrata routes offer an unforgettable blend of hiking, scrambling, and climbing—all while securely clipped into a fixed cable system. These protected climbing paths let adventurers scale vertical rock faces and narrow ridgelines with relative safety, combining the thrill of mountaineering with accessibility for non-experts. Two standout routes in the region are the Mittaghorn and Britannia via ferratas, each offering distinct challenges and awe-inspiring scenery.

Mittaghorn Via Ferrata

Rising to 3,144 metres, the Mittaghorn via ferrata is a challenging and exposed route for experienced climbers or fit novices with a head for heights. The tour starts at the mountain station of the 1st section of the Alpin Express at Morenia in Saas-Fee and ascends steeply over rock faces, ridges, and narrow ledges, using metal rungs, ladders, and fixed cables to aid the climb. Along the way, climbers are rewarded with expansive views of the Saas Valley, the Mischabel mountain massif, and the Mattmark Dam below. The summit offers a true alpine experience without the need for technical climbing gear beyond standard via ferrata equipment. The descent is typically made on foot along a marked trail, offering a full-day mountain adventure.

Britannia Via Ferrata

This quite new route is somewhat less exposed but no less exhilarating, and it’s ideal for those looking to combine their climb with a taste of glacial adventure. The Britannia via ferrata begins near the Egginerjoch and weaves its way through rocky outcrops and moraine landscapes toward the famous Britannia Hut, a classic stop on the Haute Route from Chamonix to Zermatt. The route features steel cables, ladders, and pegs, with panoramic views of the surrounding glaciers and 4,000-metre peaks all along the way. Thanks to its moderate difficulty and stunning surroundings, it’s a favourite among intermediate adventurers and a great introduction to high-alpine via ferrata routes.

Both routes are easily accessible via cable car and supported by the SaastalCard’s free transport network.

Pedal Through Paradise: Biking in the Saas Valley

With over 80 kilometres of designated biking trails, the Saas Valley is a dream destination for cyclists of all levels—whether you’re after a gentle scenic cruise or a quad-burning mountain climb. The region’s diverse network of routes winds through larch forests, alpine pastures, and alongside glacial streams, all set against the breathtaking backdrop of snow-capped 4,000-metre peaks.

One of the most rewarding and picturesque routes leads cyclists from Saas-Grund to the Mattmark Dam, the highest earth-fill dam in Europe. This route follows a steadily ascending, well-maintained mountain road that traces the Saaser Vispa river valley, passing through rugged alpine scenery and flower-filled meadows. The climb to Mattmark Lake, the turquoise reservoir at the top, is manageable for most intermediate riders and is dotted with viewpoints perfect for a scenic break or picnic. Once at the dam, riders are treated to panoramic views of the surrounding peaks, including the Strahlhorn and Monte Moro Pass. For those with extra energy, the circuit around the reservoir offers an additional loop through stark, glacier-carved terrain.

Thanks to the SaastalCard, transporting bikes is easy and cost-free on most cable cars and PostBus routes throughout the valley, allowing riders to plan one-way descents, reach higher-altitude starting points, or simply give their legs a break after a day of riding. However, starting in 2025, bicycle reservations will be mandatory on selected Postbus tourist routes during the summer season from May to October. These routes experience high bicycle traffic, and the reservation system ensures guaranteed transport and helps avoid unexpected disappointments due to limited capacity. This added step provides peace of mind, ensuring your bike travels with you hassle-free.

Glacier Experiences and Beyond

Saas-Fee’s proximity to glaciers allows for unique summer skiing opportunities and guided glacier tours. The Mittelallalin at 3,500 m a.s.l., accessible via the Metro Alpin (not included in the SaastalCard), offers year-round snow sports and houses the world’s highest revolving restaurant, providing diners with 360-degree alpine views.

Whether you’re a hiker, climber, cyclist, or simply seek the serenity of the mountains, the holiday region of Saas-Fee/Saastal offer an unforgettable summer and autumn experience, enriched by the convenience and benefits of the SaastalCard.

 

Crans-Montana

Tucked high above the Rhône Valley on a vast sunlit plateau, Crans-Montana is a name that might first ring bells for British skiers familiar with its sprawling pistes and glittering après scene. But come summer, this dual-village resort in the heart of Valais swaps snow for sun, revealing an entirely different — and arguably more enchanting — alpine personality. This is the Swiss summer you didn’t know you needed.

Crans-Montana becomes a hub of culture, wellness, sport, and outdoor adventure, all packaged with a touch of Swiss sophistication and ease that British holidaymakers will find refreshingly civilised. The infrastructure impeccable, and with excellent rail links via Geneva or Zurich, it’s as accessible as it is rewarding.

Crans-Montana isn’t about extreme remoteness or rustic minimalism; it’s about elegant immersion. Boutique shopping lines the promenades, luxury spas nestle beside glacier-fed lakes, and a calendar bursting with world-class events ensures every week offers something exceptional — from high-energy mountain biking to jazz concerts. For families, romantics, and solo travellers alike, this is a summer alpine resort that balances action with repose.

Standout Experiences and Signature Events

UCI Mountain Bike World Championships (10–14 September 2025): This year, Crans-Montana takes centre stage as it hosts the Cross-Country Olympic events of the 2025 UCI Mountain Bike World Championships. The world’s elite mountain bikers will converge on the resort, navigating challenging alpine terrains in what promises to be a thrilling spectacle.

Omega European Masters (28–31 August 2025): A staple in the European golf calendar, the Omega European Masters returns to the Crans-sur-Sierre Golf Club. With a history spanning over 70 years, this tournament attracts top golfers and celebrities alike, swelling the town’s population and creating an electric atmosphere.

Wildstrubel by UTMB® (18–21 September 2025): Trail running enthusiasts can partake in the Wildstrubel by UTMB®, a series of races ranging from 10 km to 113 km. Participants will traverse breathtaking alpine landscapes, including pastures, forests, and historic water channels known as ‘bisses’.

Cultural and Family-Friendly Programs

Ambassadors of Music (14 June–17 July 2025): Experience a month-long series of free concerts featuring brass bands and choirs from around the USA, adding a melodic backdrop to the summer evenings.

Am Stram Gram Festival (10–13 July 2025): This family-centric festival transforms Crans-Montana into a playground of creativity and fun, offering circus performances, interactive workshops, and outdoor games for children of all ages.

Outdoor Activities and Wellness

From the hum of mountain bikes weaving through pine forests to the serenity of paddle-boarding on mirror-still alpine lakes, Crans-Montana delivers a multi-layered outdoor experience that’s pure alpine tonic. This is where the wellness crowd mingles with adventurers, and where your day might begin with a glacial hike and end with a soak in a panoramic spa, cocktail in hand.

Cycling

With routes suitable for both mountain and road biking, cyclists can explore scenic trails that wind through vineyards and alpine meadows.

Trail Highlights

• Crans-Montana Bike Park: The bike park features four downhill tracks—green, blue, red, and black—catering to different skill levels.  The green, for beginners, starts from Arnouva to the signal gondola station. The blue trail from Chetzeron to Arnouva is also ideal for beginners, while the red Mont Lachaux trail offers more adrenaline. The black Chetzeron trail is steep and technical, recommended for advanced riders.
• Cross-Country and Enduro Routes: With 14 routes available, riders can enjoy diverse terrains and scenic views.  The Tsittoret Waterfall route and the Bisse du Ro trail combine natural beauty with cultural landmarks.
• E-Bike Trails: For those seeking a less strenuous ride, 200 km of road cycling routes and 177 signposted mountain bike, cross-country, and enduro routes are accessible for e-bikes.

Hiking

Bisse du Ro: A Historic and Scenic Walk

The Bisse du Ro is a well-maintained trail following a 15th-century irrigation canal, offering hikers a unique blend of history and natural beauty.

• Trail Details:
  • Distance: Approximately 9.4 km round trip
  • Elevation Gain: Around 325 meters
  • Duration: 2.5 to 3.5 hours
  • Difficulty: Moderate; suitable for hikers with a head for heights

The trail features sections with wooden footbridges clinging to cliff faces, providing panoramic views of the Valais Alps. A notable highlight is the 124-meter-long suspension bridge, offering an exhilarating crossing with stunning vistas.

Tips:

• Start at the Plans-Mayens parking area in Crans-Montana.
• For a longer hike, continue to the Tseuzier Dam (Lac de Tseuzier), adding approximately 7 km to your journey.

Plaine Morte Glacier: High-Altitude Adventure

For seasoned hikers seeking a more challenging experience, the Plaine Morte Glacier trek offers a journey through alpine landscapes and glacial terrains.

• Trail Details:
  • Distance: Approximately 34.4 km point-to-point
  • Elevation Gain: Significant; suitable for experienced hikers
  • Duration: Varies; typically a full-day hike
  • Difficulty: High; recommended for experienced hikers

The trail can be accessed via the Violettes cable car, leading to the Plaine Morte Glacier at an elevation of 2,927 meters. From there, hikers can explore the glacier and surrounding peaks, such as Mont Bonvin, offering breathtaking views of the Rhône Valley and the Bernese Alps.

Tips:

• Due to the challenging nature of this hike, proper equipment and preparation are essential.
• Check cable car operating hours and weather conditions before setting out.

Water Activities

Crans-Montana is a haven for water enthusiasts, offering a plethora of activities set against the stunning backdrop of the Swiss Alps.

Lac de la Moubra: A Family-Friendly Oasis

Lac de la Moubra is the go-to spot for families and casual swimmers. With its fine grassy beach, it’s perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and picnicking. The lake also offers stand-up paddle-boarding and pedal boats for rent, making it an ideal location for both relaxation and light adventure.

Etang Long: The Wakeboarding Hub

This lake features a wake park equipped with a 120-meter line, catering to both beginners and professionals. Activities include wakeboarding, water skiing, monoskiing, wakeskating, and even wake surfing. The Beach Club here provides a Mediterranean vibe with its sandy beach, deckchairs, and a bar serving refreshments.

Etang Grenon: Tranquility in the Heart of the Resort

Located centrally, Etang Grenon offers a serene environment for those looking to unwind. While not primarily known for water sports, it’s a picturesque spot for leisurely walks and enjoying the alpine scenery.

Additional Lakes: Exploring Beyond

Crans-Montana boasts several other lakes, each with its unique charm:

• Lac d’Icogne: A peaceful setting popular among walkers and picnickers.
• Lac de Chermignon: Known for its tranquility, it’s a favourite for mountain fishing enthusiasts.
• Lac de Miriouges: A family-friendly lake with charming paths along the water’s edge and nearby forests to explore.

Adventure Sports: Canyoning and Rafting

The surrounding areas of Crans-Montana offer canyoning and rafting experiences. These guided tours take you through the region’s stunning gorges and rivers, providing an unforgettable adventure.

Wellness

If your idea of a perfect summer includes more Zen than zipline, Crans-Montana may just be your alpine oasis.  Whether you’re sipping herbal tea lakeside at the Beach Club, plunging into a rooftop spa pool with panoramic views, or indulging in a massage infused with Alpine botanicals, this Swiss resort offers the perfect blend of nature, nurture, and indulgence. Wellness isn’t just an amenity here — it’s an integral part of the summer lifestyle.

Beach Club at Lac de la Moubra: Open until mid-August, this lakeside retreat provides a sandy beach, sun loungers, and water activities like paddle-boarding. It’s an ideal spot to relax and enjoy the alpine scenery.

Six Senses Crans-Montana: This spa offers innovative treatments such as the Biohack Recovery Lounge and Swiss Chocolate Wrap. Facilities include multiple saunas, steam rooms, and a rooftop heated pool with massage jets.

Guarda Golf Hotel & Residences: The spa features a heated indoor pool, whirlpool, sauna, steam room, and fitness centre. Treatments include massages and facials, with a private spa suite available for couples.

Crans Ambassador: Provides a spa with an indoor pool, sauna, hammam, and fitness facilities, perfect for relaxation after outdoor activities.

Sustainable Tourism Initiatives

Crans-Montana is committed to sustainable practices:

• Renewable Energy: The resort utilises solar panels and wood pellet heating systems in public buildings.
• Swisstainable Label: Several hotels, including Six Senses and Guarda Golf, have earned the Swisstainable label for their eco-friendly operations.
• Local Heritage: The Colombire Hamlet offers immersive experiences that celebrate local culture and traditions, promoting longer stays to reduce travel impact.

Hidden Gems and Insider Tips

Looking to go beyond the guidebooks? Crans-Montana is full of quietly spectacular spots that reward curious explorers. Here are a few local favourites to add to your must-see list:

• Cascade de la Tièche: Tucked away in a tranquil valley, this stunning waterfall is a serene reward at the end of a gentle hike. Pack a picnic and enjoy nature’s soundtrack.
• The Glacier ‘Marmite’: Not your average rock formation — these natural potholes carved by glacial meltwater offer a fascinating peek into the area’s geological past. A unique sight for adventurous hikers.
• Pra Baron Cheese Farm: This unassuming alpine farm produces some of the region’s most authentic cheese. What makes it truly special? The sweeping mountain views you’ll enjoy with every bite.
• La Ferme de l’Essencier: A sensory delight, this farm grows herbs used in Ricola sweets and distills their own essential oils. It’s a fragrant, educational stop nestled in nature — and a great place to pick up natural, local products.

Crans-Montana isn’t just a ski resort reinventing itself for summer — it’s a full-fledged alpine lifestyle destination that seamlessly blends outdoor adventure, cultural richness, and tranquil luxury. Whether you’re chasing adrenaline on two wheels, sipping wine after a vineyard hike, or floating on a crystal-clear lake, every moment here feels elevated — in altitude and experience. With its deep-rooted commitment to sustainability, family-friendly festivals, world-class events, and charming local secrets, Crans-Montana offers more than just a holiday. It’s a mountain summer, redefined — and once you’ve experienced it, you’ll find yourself dreaming of your return long before the snow falls.

 

The Jungfrau Region

The Jungfrau Region is a tapestry of picturesque alpine villages, each with its own unique charm and appeal. Grindelwald, nestled beneath the towering Eiger, is a lively hub perfect for adventurers, offering access to thrilling hikes, mountain biking, and the First Cliff Walk. Lauterbrunnen, set in a dramatic U-shaped valley, enchants with its 72 waterfalls, flower-filled meadows, and proximity to the Trümmelbach Falls. Perched on a sunny plateau, Wengen is a car-free resort known for its nostalgic cogwheel train access and breathtaking views of the Lauterbrunnen Valley. Across the valley, Mürren offers a tranquil, car-free escape with rustic chalets and direct access to the via ferrata and Schilthorn. Meanwhile, Interlaken, though technically outside the core mountain ring, serves as the gateway to the region, bustling with shops, restaurants, and lakeside adventures. Together, these villages create a harmonious blend of alpine tradition, outdoor thrills, and serene landscapes, making the Jungfrau Region an unforgettable summer destination.

Hiking Trails: Step into Nature’s Masterpiece

With over 500 kilometers of marked trails, the Jungfrau Region is a hiker’s haven. Here are some standout routes:

• Schynige Platte to First: This 16 km trail offers panoramic views of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau peaks. The path meanders through alpine meadows and past pristine lakes, making it a favorite among seasoned hikers.

• Männlichen to Kleine Scheidegg: A gentle 4.7 km walk suitable for families, this trail provides stunning vistas of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

• Eiger Trail: Running along the base of the Eiger’s north face, this 6 km trail offers an up-close experience with one of the Alps’ most iconic peaks.For detailed trail maps and current conditions.

Visit the Jungfrau Region’s official hiking page.

Biking Adventures: Ride Amidst Majestic Peaks

Cyclists can revel in a variety of trails catering to different skill levels:

• Eiger Bike Trail: A challenging route that takes riders from Grindelwald to the foot of the Eiger, offering both physical exertion and breathtaking scenery.

• Lauterbrunnen to Mürren: This trail ascends from the valley floor to the car-free village of Mürren, providing a mix of paved and gravel paths.

• Hasliberg Circular Trail: Ideal for intermediate riders, this loop offers diverse terrains and panoramic views.

Bike rentals, including e-bikes, are available in major villages. For more information, check out the Jungfrau Region’s biking section.

Via Ferrata: Climbing with a Twist

For those seeking a blend of hiking and climbing, the region’s via ferrata routes offer thrilling experiences:

• Mürren-Gimmelwald Via Ferrata: This 2.2 km route features suspension bridges and ladders, providing adrenaline-pumping moments with safety cables throughout.

• Tälli Via Ferrata: Located near Gadmen, this is one of Switzerland’s oldest via ferrata routes, offering a challenging climb with rewarding views.

Ensure you have the appropriate gear or consider hiring a guide. More details can be found 

Accommodation

Whether you’re seeking luxury or budget-friendly options, the Jungfrau Region caters to all:

• Luxury: Victoria-Jungfrau Grand Hotel & Spa in Interlaken offers opulent rooms and world-class amenities.

• Mid-Range: Hotel Berghaus in Wengen provides cozy accommodations with stunning views.

• Budget: Valley Hostel in Lauterbrunnen is a favorite among backpackers for its affordability and central location.

Dining

The region boasts a mix of traditional Swiss cuisine and international flavors:

• Bergrestaurant First: Located above Grindelwald, it offers hearty meals with panoramic mountain views.

• Bistro Breitlauenen: A quaint spot between Wilderswil and Schynige Platte, renowned for its fruit cake and serene ambiance.

• Restaurant Weidstübli: Situated in Lauterbrunnen, it serves authentic Swiss dishes in a rustic setting.

Explore more dining options here.

Water Activities

Beyond mountains, the region offers exhilarating water experiences:

• Canyoning in Grimsel: Navigate through gorges, jump into pools, and rappel down waterfalls.

• River Rafting on Lütschine: Experience the thrill of white-water rafting amidst stunning landscapes.

• Stand-Up Paddleboarding on Lake Brienz: Enjoy a tranquil paddle with views of the surrounding peaks.

For bookings and more activities, visit Outdoor Switzerland.Outdoor

Jungfrau Travel Pass

• What it covers: Unlimited travel on trains, gondolas, funiculars, and buses within the Jungfrau Region.

• Key routes included: Interlaken to Grindelwald, Lauterbrunnen, Mürren, Wengen, Kleine Scheidegg, First, and Schynige Platte.

• Notable exclusions: The final segment from Eigergletscher to Jungfraujoch (Top of Europe) is not fully included but offered at a discounted rate.

• Duration options: Available for 3 to 8 consecutive days.

• Best for: Visitors planning multiple mountain excursions and village-hopping.

More info: Jungfrau Travel Pass Official Site

Swiss Travel Pass

• What it covers: Unlimited travel across the entire Swiss public transportation network including trains, buses, boats, and many mountain routes.

• Extras: Free entry to 500+ museums and discounts on many mountain railways.

• Notable exclusions: Some Jungfrau region mountain rides (e.g., Jungfraujoch final stretch) require a supplement.

• Duration options: 3, 4, 8, or 15 consecutive days.

More info: Swiss Travel Pass Overview

Insider Tip:

If you’re focusing solely on the Jungfrau Region, the Jungfrau Travel Pass provides better value. However, if your itinerary includes multiple Swiss cities or regions, the Swiss Travel Pass offers broader flexibility.

Andermatt

Nestled in the heart of the Swiss Alps, Andermatt is a picturesque village that transforms into a summer paradise, offering a blend of adventure, relaxation, and natural beauty. Surrounded by majestic peaks and alpine meadows, Andermatt provides an ideal setting for hiking, biking, and exploring the rich cultural heritage of the region.

Hiking Trails: Explore Scenic Routes

Andermatt boasts over 800 km of signposted hiking trails, catering to all levels of hikers. Some notable routes include:

• Pazolastock-Rheinquelle-Weg: A 10 km trail leading to the source of the Rhine River, offering panoramic views and alpine flora.

• Senda Sursilvana: A long-distance trail stretching 105 km, passing through traditional villages and diverse landscapes.

• Vier-Quellen-Weg: An 82 km trail connecting the sources of four major rivers, showcasing the region’s hydrological significance.

For detailed trail maps and information, visit the Switzerland Tourism Hiking Guide

Biking Adventures: Ride Through Alpine Landscapes

Andermatt is a haven for mountain biking enthusiasts, offering a variety of trails:

• Gotthardpass Trail: A historic route with challenging climbs and rewarding descents, providing stunning views of the surrounding peaks.

• Oberalp Pass: A scenic trail suitable for intermediate riders, featuring alpine meadows and serene landscapes.

• Airolo Mountain Bike Trail: A dynamic trail with exhilarating downhill sections and technical challenges.

Explore more biking options on the Andermatt Swiss Alps Biking Page.

Via Ferrata: Climbing the Diavolo Route

For thrill-seekers, the Diavolo Via Ferrata offers an adventurous climb:

• Diavolo Via Ferrata: Located in the Schöllenen Gorge, this route features 700 meters of wire rope, 265 iron pins, and two ladders, making it ideal for beginners and experienced climbers alike.

• Guided tours and equipment rentals are available through Basecamp Andermatt.

Accommodation:

Andermatt offers a range of accommodations to suit various preferences:

• Luxury: The Chedi Andermatt – A five-star hotel featuring elegant rooms, a world-class spa, and gourmet dining options.

• Mid-Range: Radisson Blu Hotel Reussen – A modern hotel offering comfortable rooms and excellent amenities.

• Budget: Hotel Sonne – A traditional hotel in the heart of Andermatt, providing cozy rooms and friendly service.

Dining:

Andermatt’s culinary scene offers a mix of traditional Swiss dishes and international cuisine:

• GÜTSCH by Markus Neff: A Michelin-starred restaurant offering classic French cuisine with a modern twist.

• The Japanese Restaurant: Located in The Chedi Andermatt, serving contemporary Japanese dishes in an elegant setting.

• Restaurant Ochsen: A cozy eatery known for its traditional Swiss specialties and warm hospitality.

Explore more dining options on the Tripadvisor Andermatt Restaurants

Water Activities:

Andermatt offers various water-based activities to cool off during the summer:

• Lake Uri: Ideal for swimming, paddleboarding, and picnicking by the shore.

• Uela Spa: Located in the Radisson Blu Hotel Reussen, featuring a 25-meter indoor pool, Finnish sauna, and steam bath.Andermatt Swiss Alps

For more information on water activities, visit Andermatt Swiss Alps Spa and Swimming

Travel Pass: Andermatt Guest Card

Guests staying overnight in Andermatt receive the Andermatt Guest Card, granting benefits such as:

• Free rides on the Furka Line diesel trains.

• Discounts on e-bike rentals, local attractions, and dining.

 

Arosa

Nestled in the heart of the Swiss canton of Graubünden, Arosa transforms into a vibrant summer retreat, offering a blend of serene landscapes and adventurous activities. Surrounded by majestic peaks and pristine lakes, this charming resort town provides an idyllic setting for hikers, bikers, and nature enthusiasts alike. With its car-free zones, fresh mountain air, and a plethora of outdoor pursuits, Arosa stands as a quintessential destination for those seeking both relaxation and adventure during the summer months.

Hiking Trails: Discover Arosa on Foot

Arosa boasts over 200 kilometers of well-marked hiking trails, catering to all levels of hikers. Some notable routes include:

• Eichhörnliweg (Squirrel Trail): A family-friendly 1.5 km trail where hikers can feed squirrels and birds amidst lush forests.

• 10-Lake Hike: A scenic trail connecting ten crystal-clear mountain lakes, offering breathtaking views and opportunities for refreshing dips.

• Schanfigger Höhenweg: A panoramic high-altitude trail that traverses the Schanfigg valley, showcasing the region’s diverse flora and fauna.

For detailed trail maps and information, visit the Arosa Lenzerheide Hiking Guide.

Biking Adventures: Explore the Bike Kingdom

Arosa is part of the renowned Bike Kingdom, offering a diverse range of trails for mountain bikers:

• Hörnli Trail: A flowy singletrack trail suitable for intermediate riders, providing panoramic mountain views.

• Plessur Run: An exhilarating descent that challenges advanced riders with its technical sections.

• Schanfigg E-Bike Tour: A scenic route perfect for e-bikers, winding through picturesque villages and alpine meadows.

Bike rentals and more trail information can be found at the Arosa Lenzerheide Biking 

Via Ferrata: Climbing with a View

For thrill-seekers, the Tschirpen via ferrata offers an adventurous climb:

• Tschirpen Via Ferrata: Starting from Hörnli, this route combines hiking and secured climbing, leading to the Tschirpen summit with stunning vistas.

Guided tours and equipment rentals are available through Bergführer Arosa

Accommodation: Rest and Relaxation for Every Budget

Arosa offers a range of accommodations to suit various preferences:

• Luxury: Tschuggen Grand Hotel – A five-star hotel featuring a private mountain railway and a world-class spa.

• Mid-Range: Valsana Hotel Arosa – An eco-friendly hotel with modern amenities and sustainable practices.

• Budget: Hotel Altein – A comfortable option offering wellness facilities and proximity to hiking trails.

Dining:

Arosa’s culinary scene ranges from traditional Swiss dishes to gourmet experiences:

• Restaurant Muntanella: Offers refined Swiss cuisine with a modern twist.

• Gspan Restaurant: A cozy spot known for its hearty local specialties.

• Restaurant Twist: Located in the Valsana Hotel, it serves innovative dishes using regional ingredients.

Water Activities:

Arosa’s lakes provide perfect settings for summer water activities:

• Untersee Lake: Ideal for swimming, featuring a water trampoline and sunbathing areas.

• Obersee Lake: Offers paddle boating and a picturesque backdrop for relaxation.

For more information on water sports, visit the Arosa Lenzerheide Water Activities

Travel Pass: Arosa Card

Guests staying overnight in Arosa receive the Arosa Card, granting free access to:

• Local buses and the Rhaetian Railway between Lüen-Castiel and Arosa.

• Cable cars and gondolas, including the Arosa-Weisshorn and Hörnli Express.

• Various leisure activities and attractions.

Details can be found on the Arosa Card Information Page

The Best of the Rest

Davos

Europe’s highest town turns into a summer activity hub, attracting everyone from mountain bikers to classical musicians. With vast trails, a lively local scene, and serene alpine lakes, Davos balances the rugged and the refined.

• Activities: Hike or cycle over 700 km of trails, or windsurf and swim in Lake Davos. The nearby Sertig Valley offers peaceful walks and dramatic views.

• Events: Davos Festival – Young Artists in Concert (August) features emerging classical stars in unconventional venues.

• Stay: Hard Rock Hotel Davos combines cool comfort with mountain soul.

• Eat: Schneider’s Café-Restaurant is a locals’ favorite for regional dishes and irresistible pastries.

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There’s something almost surreal about summer in the Swiss mountains. Maybe it’s the way the light hits a glacier at golden hour, or how a wildflower meadow seems to hum with quiet energy. Each resort has its own rhythm—a unique way of celebrating the season once the snow recedes.

Switzerland in summer is full of quiet revelations and big skies. It’s a place to breathe deeper, move slower, and remember what travel can be when it’s rooted in nature, culture, and a touch of alpine magic. If you’re looking for a summer that leaves you with stories worth telling, start here—among the peaks.

Summer in Austria