Gstaad

Gstaad became an international resort in the twentieth century and attracted a particular kind of wealthy visitor, but the local building code kept the traditional chalet form compulsory - so the village presents as timber and gabled roofs rather than towers, and the money is behind the facades rather than on display. The promenade is pedestrianised. Its events calendar carries the profile: an international beach volleyball tournament in July, the Menuhin Festival - founded by Yehudi Menuhin, who lived nearby - through the summer, and the Swiss Open tennis on clay. Around it the Saanenland is genuine farming country, and the walking and cross-country network is extensive.

What to look for

• Compulsory chalet building - a code that keeps the village looking traditional.
• The Menuhin Festival - founded by the violinist, held through the summer.
• A pedestrian promenade - the centre closed to through traffic.
• Working farm country around - the Saanenland beyond the resort.

When to go

December to March or July to September. Two days.

Practical notes

It is among the most expensive places in Switzerland and prices are not confined to the luxury hotels. Between seasons much closes. The village is small; the appeal is the setting and the calendar rather than sights.

Nearby

Lauenensee is up the side valley; Chateau-d'Oex is west along the line.

Key facts