Relaxing winter excursions

Play mini golf with a twist, on ice! At 1,800 metres above sea level, in the heart of the Elsigenalp ski and hiking paradise, grab a hockey stick and puck and take on the 9-hole course on ice. Thanks to floodlighting, you can also play in the evening and round off the fun with a fondue at the mountain restaurant.

Enjoy peace and wide-open landscapes on the largest high plateau in the western Swiss Alps. The 5.5-kilometre circular trail leads through snowy scenery and is perfect for slowing down. Stop for a relaxing break at the Berghotel Engstligenalp, Berghaus Bärtschi or Restaurant Steghorn.

Oeschinensee is world-famous, but did you know that it can freeze over in winter? When the ice is safe and officially open, two circular routes of around 30 or 90 minutes lead across the frozen mountain lake in the Jungfrau-Aletsch UNESCO World Heritage Site. Winter hiking boots are recommended.

Mürren is considered one of the most beautiful mountain villages in Switzerland. But did you know that it also made skiing history? Switzerland’s first ski school in 1930, the first Alpine Ski World Championships in 1931 and the legendary Inferno Race, held since 1928, are all closely linked to Mürren. Join the village tour every Wednesday at 5pm to discover these and many other stories from the car-free mountain village.

Did you know that boats also operate on Lake Thun in winter? From mid-November to the end of March, enjoy snow-covered shores, crisp winter air and Alpine views on the route between Thun and Interlaken West. For an extra cosy experience, choose a cheese fondue or fondue chinoise meat fondue cruise.

Winter kayaking may not sound particularly relaxing, but on Lake Brienz, it can be just that. Glide across the calm water and enjoy the winter mountain scenery from a completely new perspective. A dry suit keeps you comfortably warm.

You don’t have to travel to the far north for a husky sled ride. Around Les Reussilles in the Grand Chasseral region, enjoy a 45 to 90-minute ride with Siberian huskies through the winter landscape. A true hidden gem in the Bern Region.

When was the last time you took a horse-drawn carriage ride? Whether for a special occasion or simply a relaxing break, the local Hauswirth family business offers scenic rides through the Saanenland all year round. Their experience, careful treatment of the horses and well-maintained carriages and sleighs create a truly atmospheric experience. On request, the ride can be rounded off with a stop at a local inn for food or an aperitif.

You deserve a break. Treat yourself to a relaxing escape in the Gstaad holiday region, the perfect place to switch off and recharge. Seven dedicated wellness hotels, additional properties with high-quality spa facilities and the indoor pool at the sports centre make the region a true haven of relaxation.

The easy-going Unterseen lakeside path is open in winter, too. In the tranquil natural setting of the Bernese Oberland, the path follows the shimmering waters of the Aare river and Lake Thun to the Weissenau-Neuhaus nature reserve, past forest clearings, ancient tree stands and the listed castle ruins of Weissenau.

At the Igloo Restaurant in Kemmeriboden-Bad, a fondue always tastes out of this world, whether it’s a romantic and intimate ‘dinner for two’ or a convivial get-together with friends. 

A night beneath the skies of Gantrisch Nature Park feels truly magical. Far from light pollution, you can admire constellations, see the Milky Way in striking clarity and with a bit of luck even spot the Northern Lights. Whether on a guided stargazing experience, a full moon snowshoe tour, or at the Space Eye: this winter adventure becomes an unforgettable moment in nature.