Reviews Gstaad

Since not everybody in our group skis (guilty), each year we try to find a ski resort where we can all do our own thing. This time it was Gstaad. At first I was reticent, but it turns the station is less see-and-be-seen and more just plain chic, with the atmosphere still managing to be laid-back. The car-free village centre is a nice touch. My husband found the ski area a little on the modest side, but I personally loved the walking trails that take you between the chalets, and especially the spas - those were definitely worthy of Gstaad's reputation!

• Charming and elegant village
• Your every whim is provided for
• So many spas!

• Limited ski area
• Constant reminders that you're in a jet-set destination when talking to people

Vorderlanersbach and Lanersbach are two small villages where there is very little atmosphere. Some restaurants and hotels fand a nice quiet atmosphere. For apres-ski there were a few too many places full of Germans. Eggalm and the skiing in Lanersbach is not suitable for beginners - 1 blue run that might as well be red. The connection to Mayrhofen is also very difficult for beginners. Advanced skiers are well catered for though. I prefer Mayrhofen's atmosphere and the immediate connection to the ski area.

As everyone does not ski in our group of friends (including me), every year we try to find a resort where everyone can have a great holiday. And this year it was Gstaad. I was reluctant at first, but the resort is more interesting than it seems at first, and has a great pedestrian area. We spend lots of time (window) shopping in the resort center, where the atmosphere is relaxed and friendly. For skiing, my husband thought the area was rather small, but he appreciated the quality of the slopes. With the other non-skiers, we loved the walking trails among the pretty chalets and especially the spas! Gstaad lives up to the reputation of being a world-class, good all-round ski resort.

• Plenty to do for non-skiers
• Nice pedestrian resort centre

• Quite expensive
• Ski area a little limited (for advanced skiers)

First holiday alone with my husband for a long time! We decided to brave the long journey to test this famous resort and it turns out its well worth a visit. Everything is done to make people feel at ease. The night life is absolutely insane though so choose your accommodation carefully or you might not sleep well! Even though the resort is a bit glitzy, we still felt at home. The small downside is perhaps the cost but then compared to some resorts in France, it was worth making the effort. We may come back in some time. I think we might be hooked!

• Great for mixed groups
• The ski area

• Long journey
• A bit expensive

We chose this resort as the wife is expecting so couldn't ski with me. We had an amazing holiday, watching the world go by in the cafes and walking along the many, lovely hiking paths. I managed get in some top skiing without feeling like I was leaving Sally out of it.

• Great hiking circuit
• Good apres ski

• Sometimes the glamour gets a bit much!