Bern Canton, Gstaad
Distance: 9.20 km.
Walking time: 2h 40 min.
Elevation gain: 260 m.
Highest point: 1,310 m.
Access: Car, train or bus.
Parking: at Gstaad train station - 46.475792, 7.282568
Train: stop at Gstaad train station.
Bus: stop at Gstaad train station.
It is quite an easy excursion, great for a family hike. I have done this trail twice - first with a friend and later with my parents. I am yet to do this hike with my toddler, but I am convinced he will love the idea of being close to the river and possibly spotting some fish; seeing cows, hens, and possibly other farm animals. It is not a popular hiking loop, which means it is very quiet and peaceful for the mind.
There were a few benches and picnic opportunities on the stones above the river or grass meadows. There is only one Restaurant Sunne-Stübli (~7 min walk deviating from this trail). More cafes or restaurants can be found in Gstaad. There may also be an opportunity to buy local cheese products close to the local farm.
The trail follows a forest way, tarmac road and gravel paths. Commencing the hike from the train station, there is a large steep hill to get through to start the hike outside of Gstaad village. Initially, the hike is at the bottom of the valley (lower part of the loop), following the river and Via Alpina Route 1 Stage 16. The route is between the trees with occasional access to the river or on large stones above it. Those access points act as great spots for a picnic or a break! At the beginning, the river floats quietly and later it gets louder with a few small waterfalls. We also came across a few information boards about the area. Once reaching the turning point of the loop, there is a small elevation climb, following single-width tarmac road. Once at the top and before returning, the views open up. The mountains stay visible to the front and left side until just before reaching Gstaad. The path is very pleasant to follow. Just before Gstaad, it reaches the forest.
If the loop seems too long, I would recommend hiking half of this route in the opposite direction (following the top of the loop), until reaching Turbach village. From there, it is possible to catch a bus back to Gstaad. Please refer to SBB website for the bus timetable.
More information about hiking routes can be found on SchweizMobil website here. Gstaad Tourismus offers more hikes around the valley here. More information about the village, the valley, its events and general information can be found on Turbach website here.
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