15 Years of Keeping Saanenland Safe –  and a New Initiative to Give Back

Florence Châtelet Sanchez is transcending the boundaries of gastronomy. The holistic foodista I meet Florence in her Geneva apartment, as colourful and sparkling with energy as her personality.

The pulse of contemporary art in Gstaad

“Great things are done when men and mountains meet,” wrote William Blake. Julia Scheuer brings this sentiment to life with her extraordinary mountain-inspired works, combining duct tape and acrylic paint. Showcased at the Gstaad Flower Shop from 27 February to 2 March. Julia is partnering ...

Piguet’s December auction in Geneva offered a fleeting glimpse into the bygone world of well-born and well-bred statesmen of the twentieth century.

Renowned comic artist Zep, creator of “Titeuf”, has embarked on a new artistic journey. His latest project, “L’Odyssée de Doublecroche”, blends drawing and music in a symphonic performance. Accompanied by violinist Renaud Capuçon and pianist Guillaume Bellom, ...

24 January, the 12th edition of the Alpina Cup took place under radiant sunshine, bringing together students from the Gymnasium in Gstaad, Gstaad Hockey players (juniors and seniors) and Institut Le Rosey for a spirited competition in skiing and ice hockey. The annual event, initiated to foster closer ...

For over 35 years, Fiona Romang-Müllener has been teaching students the art of cross-country skiing. What does it take?   Fiona shared her insights with GstaadLife.

Golf in the Alps is t y pica lly a summer activity, as lush greens yield to snow-covered landscapes in winter. However, in Saanen, the sport persists year-round, thanks to an indoor golf facility that combines technology with training. Indoor Golf Gstaad, situated in the heart of Saanen, provides local ...

The Gstaad Yacht Club recently hosted two events, bringing to the forefront the intricate relationship between sailors, water, and survival.

I’m no interior designer, but I’ve come to think of home decoration as a bit like a game of dominoes – make one change, and it sets off a chain reaction. Our domino moment came in June when we sauntered along to the Gstaad Palace Hotel’s garage sale. We bought a gorgeous bolt ...

Interview with Festival Director Ombretta Ravessoud Ombretta Ravessoud of Sommet Musicaux.

Exhibition by Ueli Hertig and Kurt Hofmann at the Heimatwerk in Saanen

Gstaad’s historic Park Hotel is set to begin an exciting new chapter as it joins the prestigious Four Seasons family. The confirmation, long speculated but unverified until now, marks a significant milestone for the luxury destination and its guests.

A new Year in a complex world. I grapple with an age-old tradition: resolutions. January has long been a time to draw lines in the sand and make promises to ourselves – to eat better, exercise more, save money, or call family more often.

This year, the Sommets Musicaux festival celebrates a milestone: its 25th anniversary. Festival Director Ombretta Ravessoud shares what special surprises await the audience during this landmark edition.

When others are celebrating, they are in the kitchen: the region’s top chefs face their most stressful time of the year during Christmas and New Year’s Eve. Amid culinary brilliance and immense pressure, it becomes clear how passion and teamwork keep the fire alive.

Throughout my life, I’ve lived in metropolitan centres like New York, Los Angeles, and London, where I was born. I also built a house in the California desert, but never thought I would fall for the seductive charm of the Gstaad Valley. The tiny village of Gsteig offers me an idyllic and timeless ...

Gstaad native Andrea von Siebenthal’s latest documentary, “More Than Brothers”, is set to make its local debut this February at our community cinema. This poignant 23-minute film delves into the harrowing aftermath of the U.S. military’s 2021 withdrawal from Afghanistan, spotlighting ...

On Saturday, 1 February, Gstaad will host the popular Swiss television show “SRF bi de Lüt – Live”, transforming the village into a vibrant stage for this winter festival. Hosted by Fabienne Gyr and Salar Bahrampoori, the live broadcast will feature prominent guests and personalities ...

The Swiss TV show “SRF bi de Lüt” will feature scenes from the historic Gstaad fire of 1898. To bring this pivotal event to life, an SRF film crew recently staged reenactments in Saanen, where its charming old houses served as a stand-in for Gstaad’s past.

Graff’s Love Story Comes to Life

Xavier Rey de Lasteyrie on the Pleasure of Sharing Possibilities for People

Toby Ryter is a freeride skier turned videographer who has turned his passion into a career. Toby spoke to GstaadLife about powder, adventure and friendship.

A rising star in sailing 2024 has been a milestone year for Anja von Allmen, a key racing member of the Gstaad Yacht Club (GYC). Making history, Anja participated as a trimmer in the inaugural America’s Women’s Cup with Alinghi Red Bull Racing. Though her team faced a dramatic setback in ...

Registering a car in a foreign country can feel like braving a dragon’s lair armed with nothing but paperwork and hope. Do you have the right forms? Will you incur unforeseen fees? Will you get sent home for forgetting some obscure document? No wonder we gave the decision to import our car to ...

The Gstaad New Year Music Festival 2024/25 has concluded another successful chapter. The final concerts took place on Saturday, 11 January, wrapping up 14 days filled with 22 captivating musical events.

The Georgian pianist Nino Kupreishvili enchanted her audience in Rougemont’s historic church with a deeply moving performance for the Gstaad New Year Music Festival—an homage to the courageous pianist Pavel Kuschnir.

The exceptional German pianist Luca Sestak and his trio captivated the audience at the Lauenen church with youthful energy and virtuosic flair. Playfully blending classical music with jazz and rock, their performance delighted the crowd.

On Monday, 13 January, the Filmpodium Saanenland will screen the Iranian film “A Dragon Arrives!” by Mani Haghighi at the Kino Gstaad.

The inaugural edition seems to have convinced the international exhibitors. They have all decided to return to offer their contemporary art treasures to the local audience during the winter season. Newcomers such as Pace and Marian Goodman will also join the fair, adding further depth to its offeri ...

Rescue reflections. In November, a new chapter began in our lives with the arrival of George – the gorgeous Griffon. He’s a 5-year old rescue from northern Spain, and to say his life up until now has been rough would be an understatement.

Bergbahnen Destination Gstaad AG is investing in the future to create unforgettable experiences for its guests. Rather than viewing today’s rapid changes as a challenge, the company sees them as an opportunity to innovate.

Nada Stauber, a talented visual artist based in Lausanne, will present her latest works at L’Ermitage in Château-d’Oex until 19 January. Her pieces, a blend of acrylic painting and iPad art, depict flowers and mountains in a near-abstract style, offering a fresh take on contemporary ...

Keep your furs flawless with innovative refrigerated cabinets.

Darcy Mottier-Scheers is a force of nature. An international skater turned educator who has given so much to the children in the region, Darcy took a break from her busy schedule to meet with GstaadLife, reflect on the past 30 years, and look ahead to the future.

A NEW MASTERPIECE AT NAEGELI

Jana Katancik Creates a Magical Experience in the Chocolate Shop

The 19th edition of the Gstaad New Year Music Festival, running from 27 December to 11 January, once again promises a dazzling array of international stars and rising talents, all within a warm and intimate setting.

EFG Private Banking in Gstaad has moved from Promenade 25 to a newly built chalet at Promenade 2a. Since December 2024, Manuel Blanco, branch manager of EFG in Gstaad, and his team have been welcoming their clients in a premium location.

The majestic landscapes have inspired generations to create communities that reflect architectural excellence, social systems, and hospitality. In this “Village Test”, we will compare the two across several key criteria to offer a balanced perspective on their unique offerings.

The tuxedo’s roots can be traced back to the late 19th century in the United States, particularly in the social circles of New York. The pivotal moment in its creation occurred in 1865, when American businessman and socialite James Brown Potter visited the renowned Tuxedo Park Club.

The Winter Shopping Guide: Although skiing conditions are sensational, you might be in the mood for some apres-ski shopping.

Rolf Tännler, affectionately known as “Mr. ZURICH” in Gstaad, built a stellar reputation for trust, expertise, and customer service. Now an independent broker in partnership with Lehmann & Partner Consulting AG, he continues to support clients from his Gstaad office.

On 29 December 2024, the Oldtimer Galerie Toffen hosted its seventh classic car auction in Gstaad. Serge Stotzer, principal, owner and auctioneer, will again wield the gavel. He spoke with GstaadLife ahead of this year’s event to talk bidding, diplomacy and, of course, cars.

Telmont Champagne stands as a remarkable symbol of craftsmanship, heritage, and dedication to producing some of the finest sparkling wines in the world. Known for its premium quality and its connection to the rich history of the Champagne region, Telmont offers a unique experience to wine enthusiasts ...

Kevin Perren is a ski instructor at Ski School Rougemont. Kevin spoke to GstaadLife about his 10 years instructing students, motivation and marriage proposals.

The GYC Racing and Sailing Teams have had an extraordinary finish to 2024, with standout performances from members in both national and international competitions. The club has launched a dedicated donation campaign to support these talented athletes and continue growing the GYC’s influence in ...

At 2am on 1 January a few years ago, I found myself watching a couple of people get involved in a classic New Year’s Eve stand-off over who should get the solitary taxi which had just drawn up at the Gstaad Palace Hotel. They both opened a door and got into the car.

The support program for GP emergency care will continue this winter. With the backing of the canton, local municipalities, and Spital STS AG, SarinaMed AG is responsible for the proven project that received widespread approval last year. 

It's precision snowmaking ahead of the season launch. After an intense preparation phase, Gstaad’s first ski areas opened on Saturday, 14 December.

In Saanenland, traditions blend seamlessly with modernity, and the entrepreneurial spirit thrives. Our region owes much of its charm and character to the small businesses that line our streets – boutiques, workshops, and family-run enterprises where innovation meets dedication.

For the first time in its history, Saanen has elected a female municipal president, marking a pivotal moment for the region. Petra Schläppi, representing the Swiss People’s Party (SVP), secured a decisive win with 980 votes, outpacing her competitors David Schmid (FDP) with 704 votes and ...

ÉPHÉMÈRES by DH is a charming concept store in Saanen, that has been delighting visitors since 2015. Housed in a traditional Swiss chalet dating back to 1850, the boutique spans two inviting levels and offers approximately 80 square meters of thoughtfully curated space.

He splits his time between Stockholm and Gstaad, blending his love for freeriding, drone piloting, and videography. 27-year-old Toby Ryter’s debut short film, “ORKA – A Human-Powered Freeride Experience,” has earned a spot among the top five freeride films of 2024, solidifying ...

Rougemont’s Hotel-Restaurant Valrose has welcomed Ermes Elsener as its new General Manager. With over two decades of hospitality expertise, including 19 years managing Gstaad’s Hotel Olden and contributing to the launch of Dubai’s Grosvenor House, Elsener brings an impressive blend ...

Effective October 7, 2024, William Numa has assumed the role of Area General Manager for the Ultima Hotel and Promenade Gstaad. With a rich background in luxury hospitality, including leadership roles at Fairmont Monte Carlo and Hotel Barrière Le Carl Gustaf in St. Barth, Numa is set to redefine ...

Following the retirement of its longtime hosts Le Refuge l’Espace has closed its doors. This remote and iconic mountain restaurant now awaits a new caretaker to continue its legacy of hospitality in one of the Alps’ most breathtaking and extreme locations.

The Saanerhof Pub is a welcoming and cosy spot in the heart of Saanen. It serves as a meeting place for guests and locals of all ages. The perfect atmosphere for enjoying an after-work beer or a relaxed evening with friends, whether planned or spontaneous, ensures a comfortable and enjoyable experi ...

Qavjar, a brand celebrating authenticity and ancestral craftsmanship, is opening its boutique and seafood bar in Gstaad. The boutique, opened for the winter 2024/25 season, in collaboration with maison DEHESA, offers a unique blend of premium products and tasting experiences near the iconic Promena ...

Think bold, whimsical, and energetic, La Ferme Saint-Amour

Nestled in the heart of Gstaad’s idyllic chalet village, Kellerhals Carrard has brought its legal expertise closer to clients in the Saanenland. With its official opening in August 2024, the Swiss law firm expands its reach with a new office on the Promenade 58, designed to serve the distinct ...

At Le Foyer, the charming antique store nestled in the village of Flendruz, a collection of rare treasures awaits the visitors in this 18th-century chalet, which houses 350 square meters of exhibition space, where each piece tells its own story and is steeped in history. The owners, Yvette and David ...

Fondazione In Between Art Films proudly presents “Lantern With No Walls”, its inaugural exhibition showcasing works from its expansive Collection. This remarkable collection includes over 130 artist films, video installations, and single-channel works, embodying the dynamic interplay of ...

At the end of the year, local resident and wildlife photographer Griet van Malderen will showcase some of her most unique black-and-white photographs, created using a blend of rare and exquisite techniques. Each piece tells a story, not just through its subject but also through its medium – crafted ...

This winter, ENHAUT brings an extraordinary cultural experience to the Pays d’Enhaut with “Jeong”, an exhibition by renowned Korean artist Yang Soon-Yeal. The exhibit promises to celebrate art, film, music, and workshops, offering an engaging vernissage weekend for all ages.

It’s a quiet Tuesday evening at Zurich’s iconic Baur au Lac hotel. Known for hosting luminaries from Richard Wagner to Cate Blanchett, tonight the spotlight isn’t on a Hollywood star but on Manuel Blanco, a man whose name resonates strongly within the private banking world – ...

The 19th Gstaad New Year Music Festival returns this winter, offering 22 exceptional concerts between 27 December and 11 January across venues, including the churches of Saanen, Rougemont, Lauenen, and the Kapälli Gstaad. For the first time, the festival is making a special effort to engage young ...

Moving Scenes Picture this: Dame Maggie Smith glides into the kitchen after the dinner to personally congratulate the cook. No, this isn’t a scene from one of her exquisite movies. This is a real-life, where the culinary star is none other than Annie Hall (yes, like in the name-like film, but ...

Most of us who prefer drinking spirits straight develop this appreciation later in life. As our palates adapt to the complexities of a good mixed drink, the ingredients start to fall away. A Tom Collins may lead us to a martini, wherein we discover the bracing mix of botanicals that make a good gin ...

If you want to explore and learn about the natural wonders of the Saanenland landscape, a mountain leader is a good option. Marianne Moratti spoke to GstaadLife about how a hike with a mountain leader is so much more than just a hike.

The start of October marked the much-anticipated return of the Centenary Trophy to Saint-Tropez, the only regatta in the world dedicated exclusively to yachts over 100 years old. Hosted by the Gstaad Yacht Club (GYC) in partnership with the Société Nautique de Saint-Tropez, the event celebrated ...

You know that song, “The Twelve Pains of Christmas”? It’s one of my favourites at this time of year. As you might guess, it’s a parody on the “Twelve Days of Christmas,” and always makes me laugh so hard. According to the song, “The fourth thing at Christmas ...

This week, Piguet's auction in Geneva offers a fleeting glimpse into the bygone world of well-born and well-bred statesmen of the twentieth century.

Today marks the first Sunday of Advent, and with it, the festive season is officially underway. To help you embrace the holiday cheer, we’ve compiled a list of charming Christmas markets for you to explore.