7 Hidden Gems to Visit in Switzerland

Switzerland is renowned for its stunning landscapes, pristine lakes, and charming cities. While many travelers flock to popular destinations like Zurich, Geneva, and Lucerne, the country also boasts a treasure trove of hidden gems that offer a more intimate and authentic Swiss experience. These lesser-known locales provide a glimpse into the heart of Swiss culture and natural beauty, often with fewer crowds and at a more relaxed pace. From quaint villages nestled in the Alps to serene lakeside towns, exploring these off-the-beaten-path destinations can make for an unforgettable Swiss adventure.

Guarda

Guarda is a picturesque village perched in the Engadin valley, about 30 minutes north of the town of Scuol. Known for its beautifully preserved 17th-century houses adorned with sgraffito, a decorative technique etching designs into the plaster, Guarda is a living museum of traditional Engadin architecture. The best time to visit is in the summer or fall when the weather is mild, and the surrounding nature is perfect for hiking. For a cultural experience, visit during the Chalandamarz in March, a festival where children ring bells to drive away winter.

What to do: Take a leisurely walk through the village to admire the sgraffito on the buildings, and hike the surrounding trails for breathtaking views of the Lower Engadin valley.

Where to Stay & Eat: Enjoy local cuisine at Restaurant Meisser, located in the historic Hotel Meisser, or try the cozy atmosphere of Pensiun Aldier for traditional dishes.

Where to Shop: Visit the local craft shops for unique handmade items, such as the Butia Guarda, which offers a selection of regional products and souvenirs.

Travel Tip: Don't miss the Schellen-Ursli Path, a themed trail based on the famous Swiss children's book, which takes you through the story's key locations in Guarda.

Val Müstair

Tucked away in the eastern corner of Switzerland, near the Italian border, Val Müstair is a remote valley that promises tranquility and untouched nature. It's about a two-hour drive from St. Moritz, making it an ideal retreat for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle. The valley is home to the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Benedictine Convent of Saint John, boasting impressive medieval frescoes. Visit in the winter for cross-country skiing or in the summer for hiking and cycling.

What to do: Explore the Convent of Saint John, hike the Biosfera Val Müstair nature park, or cycle along the scenic routes in the valley.

Where to Stay & Eat: Stay at the historic Hotel Helvetia in Müstair for a comfortable stay and dine at their restaurant for regional specialties.

Where to Shop: The valley has several local shops selling traditional crafts, including the Butia dal Müstair, which offers a range of local products.

Travel Tip: Visit the Val Müstair during the annual S-chellinada bell-ringing festival, a unique cultural event that celebrates the region's pastoral traditions.

Ernen

Ernen is a hidden gem located in the canton of Valais, about an hour's drive from Brig. This charming village is renowned for its music festival, the Musikdorf Ernen, which attracts classical music enthusiasts from around the world. The village's well-preserved architecture and the surrounding landscape of the Binntal Nature Park make it a perfect destination for both culture and nature lovers. Visit in the summer to enjoy the music festival and the lush greenery of the valley.

What to do: Attend a concert at the Musikdorf Ernen, explore the Binntal Nature Park, or visit the Ernen church with its remarkable organ.

Where to Stay & Eat: The Restaurant Alte Tenne offers a cozy atmosphere and delicious local cuisine, while the Hotel Erner Garten provides comfortable accommodations.

Where to Shop: Browse the village's artisan shops for unique souvenirs, such as the local ceramics and woodcrafts.

Travel Tip: Make sure to explore the surrounding hamlets, each with its own character and beautiful traditional houses.

Lavaux Vineyard Terraces

The Lavaux Vineyard Terraces are a stunning UNESCO World Heritage site located along the northern shores of Lake Geneva, near the city of Lausanne. These terraced vineyards offer panoramic views of the lake and the Alps, and the area is dotted with wine cellars and tasting rooms. The best time to visit is during the autumn harvest season when the vineyards are bustling with activity, and the colors are spectacular. For a unique experience, take the Lavaux Express, a small tourist train that meanders through the vineyards.

What to do: Enjoy wine tasting at the local cellars, hike the terraced paths for incredible views, or take a boat cruise on Lake Geneva.

Where to Stay & Eat: Indulge in the gastronomic offerings at Auberge de la Gare in Grandvaux, which also offers charming accommodations with lake views.

Where to Shop: Visit the local wineries to purchase bottles of the region's famous Chasselas wine directly from the producers.

Travel Tip: Don't miss the opportunity to dine at one of the terraced vineyards' restaurants, where you can enjoy local cuisine paired with exquisite wines and stunning scenery.

Saillon

Saillon is a medieval village located in the heart of the Valais region, about 20 minutes from Martigny. This fortified town is known for its thermal baths, historic buildings, and the Farinet Vineyard, the smallest vineyard in the world. Saillon is an ideal destination for those seeking relaxation and a step back in time. Visit during the autumn for the grape harvest and to enjoy the mild weather.

What to do: Relax in the Les Bains de Saillon thermal baths, explore the medieval towers and walls, and visit the Farinet Vineyard.

Where to Stay & Eat: Les Bains de Saillon offers not only thermal baths but also comfortable accommodations and a restaurant serving local Valais specialties.

Where to Shop: Browse the local artisanal shops for handcrafted items and regional delicacies, such as the village's own dried meats and cheeses.

Travel Tip: Check out the Farinet footbridge, a suspension bridge offering stunning views of the Rhône Valley and the surrounding vineyards.

Romainmôtier

Nestled in the Jura Mountains, about 30 minutes north of Lausanne, Romainmôtier is a tranquil village with a rich history. Its centerpiece is the Romanesque Romainmôtier Abbey, one of the oldest monastic churches in Switzerland. The village is surrounded by forests and streams, making it a perfect spot for nature walks and relaxation. Visit in the spring or summer to enjoy the lush greenery and the serene atmosphere.

What to do: Tour the Romainmôtier Abbey, take a stroll through the village's charming streets, or hike in the nearby Jura Mountains.

Where to Stay & Eat: Enjoy a meal at the Café du Jura, which offers traditional Swiss dishes in a cozy setting, and stay at a local bed and breakfast for a homey experience.

Where to Shop: The village hosts a small market where you can find local produce and crafts, perfect for souvenirs or gifts.

Travel Tip: Don't miss the Clunisian cultural events that take place throughout the year, celebrating the village's monastic heritage.

Gruyères

While Gruyères is known for its cheese, this medieval town located in the canton of Fribourg, about an hour from Lausanne, is also a cultural hub with a fairy-tale charm. The town is home to the Gruyères Castle and the HR Giger Museum, dedicated to the Swiss artist known for his work on the film "Alien." Visit in the spring or fall to avoid the summer crowds and to enjoy the town's picturesque setting.

What to do: Explore the Gruyères Castle, visit the HR Giger Museum, and take a walk through the cobbled streets of the town.

Where to Stay & Eat: Dine at La Maison du Gruyère, where you can enjoy traditional Swiss dishes and watch cheese being made, and stay at one of the charming inns in the town.

Where to Shop: Gruyères has several boutique shops offering local crafts, including the famous Gruyère cheese, and other Swiss specialties.

Travel Tip: Make sure to try the meringue and double cream dessert, a local delicacy that is not to be missed when visiting Gruyères.