Schönried is a charming chalet village at 1,230?m on the sun-drenched terrace of the Gstaad Saanenland in the Bernese Oberland, Switzerland
. Known for its traditional wood-chalet architecture and flower-lined balconies, the village exudes rustic Alpine elegance
Summer Highlights
Hiking & Mountain Activities
Take the Horneggli chairlift directly from town, then explore hikes up to the Rinderberg (2,079?m) ridge or across alpine meadows to Rellerli. These panoramic trails offer spectacular views and wildflower-strewn landscapes
Visit to the Alp
From mid-July to early August, join a guided stroll from Horneggli up to the mountain alp to see cows grazing and cheese-making in action—plus incredible views—before riding back or hiking onward
Mountain Biking & Golf
Scenic mountain biking routes encircle the village; nearby golf courses offer a relaxing sport amid stunning vistas
Nature & Hidden Corners
Discover the tranquil Arnensee lake, surrounded by forest paths, boat rentals, and fishing opportunities
Winter Delights
Skiing & Snowboarding
Schönried is part of the Gstaad Mountain Rides ski region, featuring 105?km of pistes, snow parks, and ski-cross terrain, with slopes accessible via Horneggli and Rinderberg lifts
Cross-Country Skiing & Snowshoeing
Enjoy 18?km of groomed cross-country tracks between Schönried and Saanenmöser, suitable for all levels. Snowshoe trails are also available on Rellerli
Winter Hiking
Numerous signposted winter trails (Ww6–Ww17) range from short strolls (~25?min) to panoramic loops of several hours, some ending at cozy fondue huts along the way
Family Fun
From toboggan runs and igloo building to husky rides and curling on natural ice rinks, the region offers plenty for families in winter
Typical Food & Local Specialties
Fondue & Raclette
Savour traditional Swiss cheese dishes—fondue and raclette—with dairy sourced locally.
Molkerei Schönried
The local dairy cooperative produces around 25 varieties of cheese, yogurt, and butter from alpine-grazed cows and goats. You can visit its two village stores, and even pick up a fondue backpack to enjoy in nature
Alpine Restaurants & Mountain Huts
Swiss-style seasonal menus are served in cozy huts along the slopes and in village restaurants, often with terraces offering breathtaking views
Local Shops
Small Alpine Boutiques
The village center hosts alpine fashion, local crafts, and souvenirs sold in charming shops and ateliers
Local Cheese & Dairy Shop
The Molkerei Schönried store sells fresh cheese and dairy products, direct from the alpine cooperative
Nearby Gstaad
Just a short ride away, Gstaad offers higher-end boutiques, bookstores (e.g. Librairie des Alpages), chocolate shops, and galleries
Festivals & Cultural Life
Gstaad Menuhin Festival (mid-July to early September)
A world-class classical music festival founded in honor of Yehudi Menuhin, with concerts across the region including Schönried and Saanen
EFG Swiss Open Gstaad (July)
A prestigious ATP clay-court tennis tournament held in Gstaad, drawing international players and visitors to the region
Swatch Beach Pro Gstaad (July 2026)
Beach volleyball event combined with relaxed mountain atmosphere at the Gstaad Open—fun, sporty and social
Slopesound Festival (Winter in Saanenmöser)
A winter music festival blending alpine vibes with live performances and ski slope atmosphere
Nature & Hiking Overview
Schönried offers a network of well-marked hiking trails year-round:
In summer: scenic ridge hikes (to Rellerli, Horneggli, Panoramaweg), alpine meadows, lake circuits.
In winter: designated winter-walking routes Ww6 to Ww17, some leading to fondue huts or panoramic viewpoints