Gstaad Gstaad, located at the junction of four valleys in the Bernese Oberland, is a playground for the rich and famous. While the town has its share of moderately-priced hotels, the place to see and be seen is the Palace Hotel, constructed in 1912, with its castellated walls and neo-Medieval exterior. The center os this exclusive resort is paneled main salon which contains an enormous stone fireplace. The hotel also has restaurants, bars, and recreational facilities. With its upscale stores, trendy nightspots, and expensive hotels, Gstaad is not a destination for the budget traveler St. Moritz This town, on the southern side of the Alps at an altitude of 6,000 feet, may be the most fashionable winter resort in the world. The area has been known for its mineral springs for thousands of years. Only more recently has it become the winter home of movie stars, politicians, and movers and shakers in the world of finance. The oldest ski school in the world is located here, and there are five ski complexes surrounding the town. The most popular time for skiing is February and March, and the town's most fashionable hotel is the mock-Gothic century-old Palace Hotel. Zermatt Zermatt may not attract as many jet setters as Gstaad and St. Moritz, but this tiny town at the base of the Matterhorn has its share of exclusive resort properties and fashionable boutiques. Because there is more snow in this part of Switzerland than some areas, it is possible to ski here into the summer months. The Matterhorn defied efforts of the world's best mountain climbers for years. In 1865, within a few days of one another, an English climber made the ascent to the top from the Swiss side of the mountain, and an Italian climber reached the top from the Italian side. Information about the Matterhorn's challenge to climbers, and exhibits about local history van be found at the Alpine Museum. Klosters This charming ski resort in the eastern part of the country has long been a getaway spot for the rich and famous. Robert Louis Stevenson is said to have finished writing Treasure Island in Klosters. The town, named for a cloister built in the 13th century, is said to be a favorite with European royalty. There are two main skiing areas, with trails suitable for a wide range of skill levels. |
