Bid farewell to the stereotypes of Switzerland as a winter retreat. Instead, join us as we uncover the hidden gems and scenic vistas that await those who venture into the embrace of Swiss summer. Pack your bags and embark on an unforgettable Swiss getaway that celebrates the beauty of nature in its most enchanting form.
Switzerland’s resorts may seem synonymous with ski slopes and wintery escapes, but many also serve as summer holiday havens. Perched high up in the mountains, a Swiss mountain resort holiday offers the perfect place to get away from it all. Leave behind the hustle and bustle of the towns and cities below and take a deep breath of fresh mountain air, basking in the surrounding nature and rugged landscapes. Whether you’re looking to unwind on a wellness retreat or get active outdoors with hikes and mountain biking excursions, the perfect resort is waiting for your arrival.
The one to pick for a quintessential Swiss chocolate-box summer mountain experience.
The peaceful village of Zermatt is bursting with authentic alpine charm, backed by magnificent views of the Matterhorn. Those in search of a Swiss getaway with a classic storybook look will be truly spoilt here. The town centre is the hub of Zermatt, with plenty of options for shopping, a plethora of restaurants to sample, and a full calendar of summer events.
Zermatt offers a range of fantastic hiking trails accessible via mountain lifts. Those looking to get active in the great outdoors can partake in paragliding, mountain biking, and even summer skiing.
Visit the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise, Europe’s largest summer ski area. And those that don’t wish to don a pair of skis won’t want to miss out on views across the Italian, French and Swiss Alps and the highest Glacier Palace in Europe — all accessible via Europe’s highest cable car.
Take Europe’s highest open-air cog railway up the Gornergrat for spectacular panoramas of the Matterhorn, over 3,000 metres up in the air. You might even get the chance to spot wild ibex. For an even more incredible experience, watch the sunrise from up top or enjoy a sunset dinner.
The one to pick for a remote retreat in rugged surroundings.
Like a miniature version of Zermatt, but much sleepier, Saas-Fee offers an authentic fairytale Swiss retreat away from the pressures of everyday life. Lovingly referred to as ‘The Pearl of the Alps’, Saas-Fee is full of appeal and character — and an insider tip, it’s a must visit for all of the serious hikers out there.
Take a ride on the world’s highest underground railway, the Metro Alpin, up to the Mittelallalin at a height of 3,500 metres. At the top, take in the 360-degree views of the surrounding peak as you dine in the revolving restaurant.
Pay a visit to Ice Cave Allalin, nestled inside the Fee Glacier. See the wonderous formations in the 2,000-year-old ice, both natural and hand carved.
Head for a personalised wellness retreat at The Capra, a Luxury Boutique Wellness Hotel, and indulge in a number of relaxing treatments — perfect for a couple’s getaway.
The one to pick for a mountain holiday jammed packed with activities.
Comprising two different towns, Crans-Montana offers guests a larger mountain resort experience without compromising on the Swiss charm. Surrounded by several lakes, including five within the heart of the resort (connected by a lovely 10-kilometre themed walk), it’s perfect for water enthusiasts. Lac Grenon, nestled right in the centre of Montana, is not to miss. And there’s an array of lakeside activities for all the family to enjoy here, from swimming, to fishing, and water sports.
There are plenty of outdoorsy activities in Crans-Montana, not just limited to the lakes. Get active with cycling, walking, mountain hiking, golf (with three nearby courses), and even lakeside volleyball.
There's a range of summer events for keen sports spectators, such as WHOOP UCI Mountain Bike World Series, Omega European Masters, and Wildstrubel by UTMB.
Whether you’re searching for a foodies’ paradise or a wellness wonderland, enjoy Crans-Montana’s finest fare at one of its Michelin-starred restaurants or book into the resort’s Six Senses spa for a summer wellbeing escape.
The one to pick for a holiday brimming with lakeside mountain elegance.
St Moritz, a quintessential Swiss summer destination, offers so many options when it comes to activities amid breathtaking alpine beauty. Its pristine lakes, like Lake St Moritz, beckon with opportunities for swimming, sailing and paddleboarding. With its charming town centre and stunning vistas, St Moritz is the epitome of a summer Swiss retreat.
With several lakes to explore in the area, you're spoilt for choice. Don't miss Lake Silvaplana and Lake Sils, both within a 10-minute drive of St Moritz. Lake activities include stand-up paddleboarding and sailing, plus kite surfing and windsurfing on Lake Silvaplana.
Your Swiss lake escapades aren’t limited to staying on top of the water. Head to St Moritz’s nearby forest lakes and take a serene dip for a truly unique lake bathing experience.
You'll of course find the usual Swiss mountain activities such as hiking, biking and climbing, as well as golf, horse riding and ice skating. You'll also find plenty of summer events to attend, such as the 30th British Classic Car Meeting and jazz festival.
The one to pick for an adrenaline-fuelled Swiss getaway packed with activities.
Verbier, a Swiss Alps summer paradise, entices with its vibrant alpine ambience and abundance of outdoor adventures. From thrilling mountain biking trails to serene hiking paths, there's no shortage of activities for nature enthusiasts. With access to mountain lakes like Lac de Louvie, summer in Verbier offers opportunities for swimming, fishing and paddleboarding amid impressive alpine scenery.
Active experiences go beyond the usual outdoor activities here. As well as hiking and mountain biking, partake in the region's adrenaline-fuelled activities like sky diving, paragliding, climbing, and cross-country scooters.
Head to the top of nearby Mont Fort, 3,330 metres in the air, and hop on a 1,400-metre-long zipline that descends 383 metres.
There's a variety of events and festivals happening here throughout summer, ranging from the Verbier Festival for classical music to the Verbier E-bike festival.
The one to pick for a serene mountain retreat overlooking a verdant valley.
Villars, a serene Swiss resort, boasts stunning mountain vistas and offers traditional outdoor activities like hiking, cycling and mountain lifts, perfect for those seeking a peaceful Swiss mountain retreat without the isolation. You can even be in the lakeside town of Montreux in less than an hour. Thanks to its lower altitude, Villars showcases lush, rolling landscapes. Perched on a shelf overlooking the Rhône Valley, it exudes a sense of connectedness amid its tranquil surroundings.
Experience the thrill of golfing in the Alps. The local 18-hole course offers unparalleled views of the majestic Mont Blanc, creating a picturesque backdrop for your game.
Those looking for a day out and about are in luck, with Montreux just an hour away by public transport. Head to this popular lakeside town, famed for its summer jazz festival. Sitting on the shoreline of Lake Geneva, take in even more remarkable vistas and stroll the promenade to visit Château de Chillon, the most visited historic building in Switzerland.
Less than an hour’s drive away, you’ll find Glacier 3000. Open year round, here you’ll find more than just winter skiing experiences. Take in the 360-degree views in the crisp summer air or embark on the Tissot peak walk — across the world’s only suspension bridge that links two mountain peaks.
The one to pick for a serene getaway amid nature's beauty.
Nestled in an idyllic landscape of forests and lakes, Arosa exudes a laid-back Swiss loveliness and warm hospitality. This tranquil resort offers traditional activities like hiking, cycling, and mountain lifts, ideal for those seeking a peaceful retreat. Perfect for a multigenerational getaway, Arosa has been deemed as one of Switzerland’s best ‘Families Welcome’ resorts.
Discover Arosa's abundant hiking trails, totalling over 200 kilometres, perfect for exploring its gorgeous landscape. Don't miss the renowned 10 Lakes Hike, spanning 15 kilometres through crystal-clear mountain lakes. Immerse yourself in nature's beauty as you journey from one pristine lake to the next, a truly unforgettable experience.
Indulge in a wellness getaway at Tschuggen Grand Hotel, its iconic and expansive Bergoase Spa carved right into the mountain. Unwind in the sauna and steam bath or enjoy a relaxing treatment.
Create your own work of art out in natural Swiss surroundings with cairn building. Traditionally used as waymakers and memorials, these carefully curated stacks of stones have in the modern day become artistic pursuits.
The one to pick for a mountain holiday in Switzerland’s rugged wilderness.
Andermatt, a remote and rugged mountain pass town, invites with its untamed beauty. Beyond traditional hiking and mountain biking, it offers diverse activities such as golfing and fishing. Situated amid glorious alpine vistas, Andermatt promises a tranquil escape for outdoor enthusiasts seeking adventure in Switzerland's pristine wilderness.
We haven’t forgotten to mention one of Switzerland’s most famous exports — its cheese. And here you have the chance to make your own cheese just as the traditional Swiss dairy workers once did, backed by the stunning scenery.
One of the best ways to take in Andermatt’s mountainous locale is to get out and about, driving among the hills. Explore at your own pace with a scenic driving experience through the Alps, winding through the mountain passes. Perhaps even do it in the luxury of a vintage car.
Book in for a stay at The Chedi Andermatt, and you’ll find its Eastern-inspired spa with Tibetan relaxation lounge, boasting a range of treatments to soothe mind, body, and soul. The spectacular indoor pool is encased in a glass house that leads through to the outdoor pool, all backed by the glorious landscape of the Swiss Alps.
The one for a bucket list rail journey.
Guests seeking to combine multiple Swiss summer mountain resorts on a bucket-list worthy trip should look no further than the Glacier Express. Linking Zermatt, Andermatt and St Moritz, travel in style through the Alps on this classic train journey.
Choose an ‘Excellence Class’ ticket for first-class luxury along your journey. You’ll enjoy the ride with a guaranteed window seat, a five-course menu, and concierge service throughout.
Opt for a delectable three-course meal or sample a range of culinary specialities as you take in the views.
On the eight-hour journey from St Moritz to Zermatt, you'll travel across 291 bridges and through 91 tunnels (including three spectacular spiral tunnels) taking in vistas of the Rhine Gorge, the Landwasser Viaduct and the Oberalp Pass.
Switzerland, renowned for its winter wonders, unfolds a different kind of magic as the sun warms its landscapes. While the coldest season often steals the limelight, the Swiss summer holiday quietly beckons with its own array of delights.
While Switzerland boasts some of the continent’s loveliest lakes and mountains, perfect for a summer holiday, you’ll find even more opportunities to bask in the summer sun in glorious landscapes across the Alps and Italian Dolomites.
Discover a small town feel at slightly lower altitudes around the Austrian Alps during the summer months. Set off on outdoor adventures and hikes in St Anton or Lech, indulge in family fun in Serfaus-Fiss-Ladis, or explore the medieval town of Kitzbühel, all backed by the region’s epic panoramas.
Bask in bucket-list-worthy scenery on an Italian lakes and mountains holiday. Explore Tyrolian villages or embark on a wellness retreat before experiencing the ‘Enrosadira’, when the Dolomites’ peaks start to glow pink at sundown. Or, sun yourself by the infamous lagos of Garda or Como.
It’s not all about the South of France in the summer; the country’s mountain resorts have just as much to offer in the warmer months as they do winter. Stroll around beautiful Megève, sampling its fares. The perfect spot for families of all sizes and generations, check into a summer chalet in Morzine, and enjoy a multitude of summer experiences, such as horse riding, paintballing, paddleboarding, and summer sledge runs.
