The best walks and hikes around Gsteig bei Gstaad
4.7
(273)
2,497
hikers
34
hikes
Hiking around Gsteig bei Gstaad offers diverse terrain within the Bernese Alps, characterized by high alpine valleys, glacial landscapes, and numerous mountain lakes. The region features prominent peaks and ridges, including the Col du Pillon and areas around Glacier 3000. Hikers can explore a network of trails that traverse forests, open meadows, and rugged mountain passes. This area provides a range of hiking experiences from gentle lakeside walks to challenging alpine ascents.
Best hiking trails around Gsteig bei Gstaad
- The most popular hiking route is W39 Arnensee circular hike, a 2.2 miles (3.5 km) trail that takes 55 minutes to complete. This route circles the idyllic Arnensee lake, offering views of the surrounding mountains.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Viewpoint over Lake Retaud – Arnensee Lake Loop loop from Arnensee, a difficult 9.6 miles (15.4 km) path. It features significant elevation gain and panoramic views towards Lake Retaud and Arnensee.
- Local hikers also love the Arnensee Lake Loop – Arnensee loop from Feutersoey, a 9.0 miles (14.4 km) trail leading through mountain forests and open alpine meadows, often completed in about 4 hours 50 minutes.
- Hiking around Gsteig bei Gstaad is defined by high alpine valleys, glacial landscapes, and mountain lakes. The network offers options for various ability levels, from easy lakeside strolls to demanding mountain excursions.
- The routes in Gsteig bei Gstaad are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 260 reviews. More than 2500 hikers have used komoot to explore Gsteig bei Gstaad's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 9, 2026
4.8
(22)
245
hikers
3.55km
00:58
50m
50m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.3
(6)
49
hikers
15.7km
06:00
920m
920m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
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4.5
(8)
58
hikers
14.6km
04:53
660m
660m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.6
(5)
58
hikers
8.30km
02:27
250m
250m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(7)
60
hikers
12.8km
05:44
860m
860m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
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Popular around Gsteig bei Gstaad
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Tips from the Community
Located at over 2000 metres above sea level, on the border between Valais and the Bernese Oberland, Lake Sanetsch is an alpine basin of wild, lunar beauty. Its waters, characterised by reflections ranging from turquoise to deep grey, are framed by expanses of smoothed limestone rock and the perennial ice of the nearby Tsanfleuron. Reachable via a breathtaking panoramic road or a scenic cable car from Gsteig, the lake offers a high-altitude landscape where time seems to have stood still. It is a paradise for hikers and lovers of solitude, where alpine pastures give way to a stone desert, creating a unique chromatic contrast that makes the atmosphere around the dam incredibly evocative and primordial.
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Superb walk with a memorable visit to the TaCave restaurant
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beautiful reservoir surrounded by rugged mountain scenery. good to do with children. fairly wide path.
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At Huus am See, you'll not only enjoy regional and seasonal cuisine, but also a pedal boat or rowboat for a quick trip out on the water. Those who prefer a more wetter experience can also try stand-up paddling.
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A highlight of your circular hike around Lake Arnen is this waterfall, which flows down into Lake Arnen, nestled in nature.
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Unfortunately everything is closed in mid-November
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The Arnesee is a charming little mountain lake that can be walked around thanks to the paths that encircle it. Framed by 2,000-metre peaks, it itself is 1,500 metres above sea level.
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🌲🏞️ Lac de Sanetsch in the Swiss Alps is a beautiful destination for a circular hike that leads through breathtaking mountain landscapes. 🌄🚶♂️ 🚗 Lac de Sanetsch is located in the canton of Valais, Switzerland. You can easily reach the lake by cable car from Gsteig. The trip costs around 18 CHF for a round trip with the half-fare card. Parking is available in Gsteig, or you can take the bus to Gsteig. 🚶♂️The circular hike around Lac de Sanetsch is easy to moderate and takes around 1 to 2 hours. The trail is well signposted and leads through varied alpine landscapes 🏔🌲
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available around Gsteig bei Gstaad?
Gsteig bei Gstaad offers a wide selection of hiking experiences, with over 35 trails available. These range from easy strolls to challenging alpine ascents, catering to various fitness levels.
What kind of terrain can I expect on hikes in Gsteig bei Gstaad?
The region is characterized by diverse terrain within the Bernese Alps, including high alpine valleys, glacial landscapes, and numerous mountain lakes. You'll find trails traversing forests, open meadows, and rugged mountain passes, offering a rich variety of scenery.
Are there easy hiking options suitable for beginners or families?
Yes, Gsteig bei Gstaad provides several easy hiking options. For instance, the W39 Arnensee circular hike is an easy 2.2-mile (3.5 km) trail that takes about 55 minutes to complete, offering picturesque views around the idyllic Arnensee lake. The circular walk around Lake Lauenen is also popular and suitable for all, including those with strollers.
Are there challenging hikes for experienced trekkers?
Absolutely. For experienced hikers, routes like the Viewpoint over Lake Retaud – Arnensee Lake Loop loop from Arnensee offer significant elevation gain and panoramic views over Lake Retaud and Arnensee. The Wasserngrat also features a challenging ridge trail with exposed areas and steep drop-offs.
Can I find hikes with impressive mountain lakes in the area?
Yes, the region is renowned for its beautiful mountain lakes. You can explore the idyllic Arnensee, the legendary Lake Lauenen, or the picturesque Lake Lioson, often called the 'Pearl of the Alpine Lakes.' The Sanetsch High Valley also features the dammed Sanetsch Lake at 2,034 meters above sea level, with a 90-minute hike around it.
Are there any hikes that feature waterfalls?
Yes, the Sanetsch High Valley offers the opportunity to admire the Sanetsch waterfall en route. This area provides an impressive alpine experience with rugged mountain landscapes.
What are some notable viewpoints or landmarks to see while hiking?
Hikers can enjoy breathtaking views from several points. Glacier 3000 offers spectacular views from the 'Peak Walk by Tissot' suspension bridge. The Pic Chaussy Summit provides a 360-degree panorama, and the historic Sanetsch Pass offers views of the Valais Alps and the Diableret glacier world. The Höhi Wispile is also a popular starting point for hikes with picturesque views.
Are there dog-friendly hiking trails in Gsteig bei Gstaad?
Many trails in Gsteig bei Gstaad are suitable for hiking with dogs, especially those through forests and open meadows. It's always recommended to keep dogs on a leash, especially in areas with livestock or protected wildlife. The easy circular walks around lakes like Arnensee and Lauenen are generally good options for dogs.
Are there any circular hiking routes available?
Yes, circular routes are a popular option in the area. The W39 Arnensee circular hike is a well-known example, circling the beautiful Arnensee lake. The idyllic Lake Lauenen also offers an easy and popular circular walk.
What do other hikers enjoy most about hiking in Gsteig bei Gstaad?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 260 reviews. Hikers often praise the diverse terrain, from high alpine valleys to glacial landscapes and mountain lakes, as well as the well-maintained network of trails suitable for various ability levels.
Are there mountain huts or places to rest along the trails?
Yes, the region has several mountain huts and lodges. For example, the Wispile Mountain Lodge is a popular spot, and the Sanetsch High Valley features a small mountain restaurant near the lake. These provide opportunities for rest and refreshments during your hike.
What is the best time of year for hiking in Gsteig bei Gstaad?
The best time for hiking in Gsteig bei Gstaad is generally from May to October, when the trails are clear of snow and the weather is most favorable. During this period, you can enjoy picturesque views of mountains, forests, rivers, and wildflowers. Some higher alpine routes might be accessible later in the season.
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