I am planning a trip in late May/early June with my husband and parents. I had planned on staying 2 of our 6 nights in either Murren or Wengen but now one of my parents' friends have sold them on Gstaad instead. Has anyone been to both areas? I am most interested in viewing and being in the Alps, taking short hikes, and going up to one of the peaks (still deciding on Jungfrau vs Schilthorn). I would appreciate any feedback you have comparing the two. Thanks!
Posted by
Seattle, WA
16378 posts
Yes, we have been to both areas. Wengen/Mürren four times, in 4 trips tomSwitzerland. We have only been to Gstaas once, but for three nights--we went to watch the Swiss Open (tennis).
In my mind there is no comparison. I do not recall seeing soaring peaks from Gstaad, whereas in Murren one is surrounded by snow-capped peaks, and views of cliffs and waterfalls. I would ask the friends what in particular they liked about Gstaad. It is an upscale resort with fancy shops, hotels, and restaurants---but those amenities are not what we go to Switzerland for.
Posted by
Deep South, USA
139 posts
If a goal of your visit to Switzerland is to possibly run into Julie Andrews, Roger Moore, George Soros or Jeanne Moreau (some notable Gstaad home owners) then staying in Gstaad is your best choice (although the odds are probably higher during the ski season),
If your goal is to experience one of the most magnificent Alpine areas of the world then Lauterbrunnen, Murren or Wengen is a better choice.
Posted by
Florida
1443 posts
Take a look at both places on Google Maps. I've not been to Gstaad but GM shows me that it's lovely. Nevertheless, in terms of alpine beauty it is still far behind Wengen, Murren, Grindlewald, Lauterbrunnen, or Gimmelwald. Use GM and have a look for yourself.
Posted by
OP
Cleveland, Ohio US
36 posts
Thanks much everyone. This is helpful. I had looked at Google Maps and at pictures posted for several hotels/resorts in all those areas under the "view from my room" and I had come to the conclusion that the scenery was not as spectacular in Gstaad. Reading your experiences definitely helps. The resorts do look nice in Gstaad and meeting Julie Andrews would be just incredible....but scenery wins for me every time!
Posted by
Knoxville, TN, USA
7209 posts
Go for Wengen/Murren - there's no place else like the area. If you parents are sold on Gstaad then let them go, but tell them you're going to Murren. Sometimes it's too easy to "sell" people on a beautiful hotel room. A beautiful hotel room does not a vacation destination make!
Posted by
Atlanta, Georgia
451 posts
We love Murren and Wengen and have stayed in both. They are surrounded by amazing scenery!