18 Most Beautiful Mountain Villages in Switzerland

As travel enthusiasts, the current time is perfect for exploring some of the most beautiful mountain villages in Switzerland to offer. With populations under 5,000, these locations provide the ideal setting for the slow travel experiences we all crave.

If there’s ever been a perfect time to lose oneself in a dreamy destination, it’s now. Imagine immersing yourself in a place with breathtaking scenery, abundant charm, and renowned delights like chocolate and cheese. In today’s unpredictable world, the allure of a country that prides itself on political neutrality is undeniable, and we’d all toast to that!

Switzerland is our chosen magical destination, a place that seems to have leaped from the pages of a fairytale or a Tolkien novel. It’s an ideal spot on any European bucket list, perfect for slow, independent travel.

Why Choose Switzerland for Slow Travelers?

Our blog emphasizes slow travel, and Switzerland is a top choice for several reasons:

• Abundant Nature: With vast open trails and an abundance of nature, it’s easy to escape the beaten path.
• Beautiful Landscapes: From picturesque lakeside towns and alpine meadows to the rugged, snow-covered peaks of the Alps, Switzerland offers stunning landscapes with relatively smaller crowds, inspiring many Hollywood movies.
• Quaint Small Towns and Villages: Exploring lesser-visited destinations is a hallmark of slow travel, and Switzerland has many charming small towns and villages perfect for days of exploration.
• Rail Travel: Switzerland’s extensive domestic rail network makes even the least-traveled areas accessible by train, cable cars, and funiculars. Rail holidays are incredibly popular, offering exciting routes and itineraries ideal for slow travel.
• Road Trips: Driving through Switzerland is a fantastic way to experience the country. With a size comparable to Vermont and New Hampshire combined, you can explore an entire nation in 2-3 weeks.

18 Must-Visit Villages in Switzerland

Let’s embark on a journey through some of Switzerland’s most enchanting villages that you must add to your itinerary.

1. Gimmelwald

Population: 130

Often mistaken for the busier town of Grindelwald, Gimmelwald is a hidden gem in the Lauterbrunnen Valley. This mountain village is remote, stunningly beautiful, and traffic-free, embodying the essence of a perfect Swiss village.

Perched on a cliffside, Gimmelwald is ideal for day hikes, leisurely lingering, and chatting with locals. The village offers breathtaking views of towering peaks and green valleys below. Travelers often come here to hike, with numerous trails offering spectacular scenery, including views of Jungfrau Mountain.

For an adrenaline rush, take the gondola up to Schilthorn, a 10,000-foot peak. Board the Luftseilbahn Stechelberg-Mürren-Schilthorn aerial tramway in Gimmelwald, connect in Mürren, and take the cable car to the summit. Enjoy coffee or lunch at Piz Gloria, a revolving restaurant with stunning views.

Getting There: Take the train from Bern to Interlaken Ost, then connect by train to Lauterbrunnen. From there, a postal bus to the Stechelberg cable car station will get you to Gimmelwald.

2. Grimentz

Population: 385

Located in southern Switzerland near the borders of France and Italy, Grimentz is one of Europe’s most beautiful skiing destinations. This storybook village sits in an alpine valley nearly a mile high on the northern slopes of the Pennine Alps.

With a population under 500, Grimentz exudes Swiss charm with traditional chalets adorned with carved wooden ornamentation and bright colors. Modern resorts reflect the village’s architecture while providing luxury accommodations.

Grimentz is renowned for downhill and cross-country skiing, snowboarding, mountaineering, and a thrilling toboggan run. In summer, mountain biking and hiking are popular activities. A folk music festival in July attracts visitors to enjoy music in stunning surroundings. For traditional local dishes, Becs de Bosson Restaurant offers a cozy atmosphere for dinner.

Getting There: Drive from Geneva or take a 2-hour train ride from Geneva airport to Sierre. From there, the local post bus runs directly to Grimentz, or a taxi takes about 25 minutes.

3. Interlaken

Population: 5,319

Interlaken, situated between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz, is a traditional Swiss resort town built around a 12th-century monastery. This picturesque town is a stepping-off point into the surrounding mountains, accessible from two train stations.

Interlaken is known for its outdoor activities, including hiking, mountaineering, skiing, and heart-pounding adventures. It’s also one of Switzerland’s best Christmas market towns, perfect for visiting during the holiday season.

The town features a mix of traditional log-style houses and colorful buildings, shops, and restaurants, all surrounded by lush woodlands, upland meadows, and snow-capped mountains.

Getting There: Regular trains from Zurich and other major Swiss cities run to Interlaken, which has two stations: Interlaken Ost (East) and Interlaken West. Interlaken West is closer to the town center.

4. Stein am Rhein

Population: 3,182

Stein am Rhein, located west of Lake Constance near the German border, is a fairytale town known as the “gem on the Rhine” River. The medieval old town is pedestrian-only, featuring well-preserved houses with brightly painted facades around the town hall square.

Visitors come for the history and culture, with highlights including a former Benedictine monastery, Roman fortress ruins, and Hohenklingen castle. Enjoy traditional local food at Burg Hohenklingen restaurant and explore the town’s charming streets.

Getting There: Take the express train from Zurich to Schaffhausen, then connect to a local train to Stein am Rhein in just under 2 hours.

5. Andermatt

Population: 1,242

Andermatt is a premier skiing destination in the Swiss Alps, surrounded by towering peaks. With an elevation of over 4,700 feet, it offers abundant winter sports opportunities, including downhill and cross-country skiing, winter hiking, and ice skating.

Non-skiers can take the cable car to Gemssock for breathtaking views from nearly 9,900 feet. The village features narrow lanes lined with traditional timber chalets, shops, restaurants, and hotels. For a special treat, dine at one of several restaurants on the mountain.

Getting There: The train from Zurich to Andermatt takes under 2 hours.

6. Gstaad

Population: 9,200

Gstaad, in the German-speaking Alps of southwest Switzerland, is an upscale resort town known for its luxury hotels, elite boarding schools, and designer shops. Famous for skiing and attracting celebrities and royalty, Gstaad offers stunning panoramic views from cable cars and numerous downhill runs and cross-country trails.

Visitors come year-round for the scenery, activities, and peaceful Alpine ambiance.

Getting There: Bern-Belp Airport and Geneva International Airport are the closest international airports. The train ride to Gstaad via the scenic GoldenPass Montreux-Oberland Bernois railway line is a must-do experience, taking around 1.5 hours.

7. Champex-Lac

Population: 500

Champex-Lac, in the Val D’Arpette, has 500 residents and is popular for skiing, hiking, and stunning views. In winter, enjoy downhill and cross-country skiing, ice skating, and walking with St. Bernard dogs. Summer offers excellent hiking, including the Tour du Mont Blanc, a 105-mile trek around Mont Blanc.

Enjoy local specialties at Restaurant La Table du Glacier with mountain views.

Getting There: Champex-Lac is 6 miles uphill from Orsieres, accessible by a 15-minute drive or regular buses. Martigny is the closest city, 30 minutes away by car, with Geneva around 2 hours away.

8. Giswil

Population: 3,513

Giswil, located on Lake Sarnen in Obwalden, is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Explore the lake, hike, cycle, and camp in this picturesque village surrounded by snow-capped peaks, alpine meadows, and quiet forests.

Hike Giswilerstock, a 1,825-foot peak overlooking the lake, on a five-hour round trip or a shorter hike from the Fluonalp restaurant.

Getting There: Trains from Lucerne to Giswil take 30 minutes.

9. Adelboden

Population: 4,000

Adelboden, in the Bernese Alps, is a popular ski destination known for the FIS Ski World Cup and 53 miles of ski terrain. In summer, enjoy hiking, mountain biking, and riding trotti-bikes down paved mountain trails.

The village features a network of hiking paths for all abilities and ages, making it a year-round destination for outdoor activities.

Getting There: Trains from Bern and Zurich connect to Adelboden, with the final leg of the journey by bus.

This concludes our journey through some of Switzerland’s most enchanting villages. Each village offers a unique blend of natural beauty, outdoor activities, and cultural experiences, making them perfect for slow travel and immersive exploration. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or a bit of both, these Swiss villages promise unforgettable experiences in one of the world’s most picturesque countries.

10. Murren

Population: 415

Murren, nestled at an altitude of 1,650 meters (5,413 feet), offers spectacular views of the Eiger, Monch, and Jungfrau mountains. This car-free village is accessible via cable car and train, preserving its pristine, serene atmosphere.

During winter, Murren is a haven for skiers with well-groomed pistes and stunning alpine scenery. In summer, it transforms into a hiking paradise, with trails like the Northface Trail offering breathtaking panoramas.

For an unforgettable experience, take the cable car up to the Schilthorn summit. This peak was made famous by the James Bond film “On Her Majesty’s Secret Service” and features the revolving Piz Gloria restaurant. Enjoy a 360-degree view while savoring Swiss cuisine.

Getting There: From Interlaken, take the train to Lauterbrunnen, then switch to the cable car to Murren.

11. Guarda

Population: 155

Perched high in the Lower Engadine region, Guarda is a picture-perfect village known for its well-preserved traditional Engadine houses with painted facades. This quaint village has inspired many artists and was the setting for the famous children’s book “A Bell for Ursli.”

Guarda is a place where time seems to stand still. Wander through its narrow lanes, admire the unique architecture, and visit the village church for a glimpse of local history.

Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty of hiking and biking trails, including routes that offer stunning views of the surrounding peaks and valleys. Guarda is also a great base for exploring the Swiss National Park.

Getting There: Reach Guarda by train from Zurich to Klosters, then transfer to the regional train to Guarda.

12. Lauterbrunnen

Population: 2,452

Lauterbrunnen, situated in a stunning valley with sheer rock faces and cascading waterfalls, is one of Switzerland’s most picturesque villages. The valley features 72 waterfalls, the most famous being Staubbach Falls, which plunges nearly 300 meters.

The village is a gateway to the Jungfrau region, offering access to renowned hiking trails, such as the Eiger Trail and the Jungfrau Eiger Walk. Winter sports enthusiasts will find excellent skiing, snowboarding, and sledding opportunities.

For a memorable experience, take the train from Lauterbrunnen to Jungfraujoch, the “Top of Europe,” at 3,454 meters (11,332 feet). The journey offers spectacular views of the Aletsch Glacier, the longest glacier in the Alps.

Getting There: Trains run regularly from Interlaken to Lauterbrunnen.

13. Wengen

Population: 1,300

Wengen, a car-free village perched on a sunny terrace above the Lauterbrunnen Valley, is renowned for its traditional wooden chalets and stunning alpine scenery. It’s a popular destination for both winter sports and summer hiking.

In winter, Wengen hosts the famous Lauberhorn ski races, attracting thousands of spectators. The village offers a range of skiing and snowboarding options, as well as tobogganing and winter hiking.

Summer brings a wealth of hiking trails, including routes to Kleine Scheidegg and Männlichen, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks. The village’s charming atmosphere and family-friendly activities make it a perfect year-round destination.

Getting There: Reach Wengen by train from Interlaken to Lauterbrunnen, then transfer to the cogwheel train to Wengen.

14. Zermatt

Population: 5,800

Zermatt, located at the foot of the iconic Matterhorn, is one of Switzerland’s most famous mountain resorts. This car-free village offers world-class skiing, mountaineering, and breathtaking scenery.

Winter sports enthusiasts will find a vast ski area with over 360 kilometers of pistes, while summer visitors can enjoy hiking, mountain biking, and climbing. The Gornergrat Railway takes visitors up to an elevation of 3,089 meters (10,135 feet), offering stunning views of the Matterhorn and surrounding peaks.

Zermatt’s charming village center features traditional Swiss chalets, boutique shops, and gourmet restaurants. For a special treat, dine at Chez Vrony, a mountain restaurant offering delicious Swiss cuisine and stunning views.

Getting There: Trains run regularly from Zurich and Geneva to Zermatt.

15. Soglio

Population: 200

Soglio, located in the Bregaglia Valley near the Italian border, is often described as a “gateway to paradise.” This small village features cobblestone streets, stone houses, and terraced gardens overlooking the valley.

The Palazzo Salis, a historic hotel, is a must-visit for its beautiful gardens and panoramic views. The village is surrounded by hiking trails, including routes to the stunning Val Bregaglia and the Sentiero Panoramico.

Soglio is a place to slow down and appreciate the natural beauty and tranquility of the Swiss Alps. Enjoy local dishes at Stüa Granda, a charming restaurant with a terrace offering breathtaking views.

Getting There: Drive from Zurich or take a train to St. Moritz, then a local bus to Soglio.

16. Saas-Fee

Population: 1,600

Saas-Fee, known as the “Pearl of the Alps,” is a car-free village surrounded by thirteen 4,000-meter peaks. This high-altitude resort offers excellent skiing, snowboarding, and glacier hiking.

In winter, Saas-Fee is a paradise for winter sports enthusiasts, with over 150 kilometers of slopes and a snow park. Summer visitors can enjoy hiking, mountain biking, and the thrilling Gorge Alpine, a via ferrata through a narrow gorge.

The village center features traditional Swiss chalets, shops, and restaurants. For a unique dining experience, visit the world’s highest revolving restaurant, Allalin, at 3,500 meters (11,482 feet), offering panoramic views of the surrounding peaks.

Getting There: Trains from Zurich or Geneva to Visp, then a local bus to Saas-Fee.

17. St. Moritz

Population: 4,800

St. Moritz, located in the Engadine Valley, is one of the world’s most famous and luxurious ski resorts. Known for its stunning alpine scenery, upscale hotels, and glamorous atmosphere, St. Moritz has hosted the Winter Olympics twice.

Winter visitors can enjoy world-class skiing, snowboarding, and tobogganing. The Cresta Run, a natural ice skeleton racing toboggan track, is a must-try for thrill-seekers. Summer activities include hiking, mountain biking, and sailing on Lake St. Moritz.

The town center features high-end boutiques, gourmet restaurants, and elegant hotels. For a taste of local cuisine, dine at Chesa Veglia, a historic farmhouse-turned-restaurant offering traditional Swiss dishes.

Getting There: Trains from Zurich to St. Moritz take around 3 hours.

18. Appenzell

Population: 5,700

Appenzell, located in the northeastern part of Switzerland, is a charming village known for its colorful houses, traditional customs, and stunning landscapes. The village center features beautifully painted wooden facades, boutique shops, and cozy cafes.

Appenzell is a great base for exploring the nearby Alpstein massif, with hiking trails leading to panoramic viewpoints, alpine meadows, and mountain lakes. The Ebenalp cable car takes visitors up to the Äscher cliff restaurant, a must-visit for its breathtaking views and unique location.

The village is also known for its rich cultural heritage, with traditional music, dances, and festivals held throughout the year. Try local specialties like Appenzeller cheese and rösti at one of the many traditional restaurants.

Getting There: Trains from Zurich to Appenzell take around 2 hours.

Conclusion

Switzerland’s enchanting villages offer a perfect blend of natural beauty, outdoor activities, and cultural experiences. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or a bit of both, these villages provide an ideal setting for slow travel and immersive exploration. From the car-free serenity of Zermatt and Murren to the luxurious ambiance of St. Moritz and Gstaad, each village promises unforgettable experiences in one of the world’s most picturesque countries. So pack your bags, embrace the slow travel philosophy, and get ready to explore the enchanting villages of Switzerland.