Beyond the slopes: What to do in the Swiss Alps

  • Stubble & Co
  • Tips & Ideas, Travel
Mountain landscape with a pool reflecting the scenery Mountain landscape with a pool reflecting the scenery

Kafi Crème in hand, leafing through a copy of Kinfolk, sweeping views of the Lohner mountain range cast out before you. An early rise followed by a hike up the 600 meter Engstligen, one of Switzerland’s highest waterfalls. Exploring the alpine village of Adelboden, from seeing the historic 15th century church, taking a dip in the Panorama Swimming Pool, or sampling a signature dish of Swiss fondue.

You’ll likely know the Swiss Alps is an ideal destination for hitting the slopes, trying your hand at a variety of snow sports. But what you might not know is the Swiss Alps, specifically the Bernese Oberland region, offer up other unique pursuits and experiences that make it a worthwhile destination for your next adventure. No matter the season, no matter your sporting level.

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Mountain landscape with green valleys and misty peaks

ALPINE RETREAT

Embrace elevated comfort and style at the Brecon Hotel, surrounded by the natural beauty of Adelboden. Discernable by its earthy tones, raw materials, and 1970s charm, The Brecon embodies a place to escape the hustle and bustle for just a moment. A place to slow down, decompress, and relish in a secluded slice of luxury.

Take in the all-encompassing views from your balcony, getting lost in a book as you gear up for the day ahead. Wind down after a walk on the trails with an afternoon tea in the comfort of the eclectic living room space. Head to the spa to recharge or enjoy an apéritif by the pool under the watchful eye of Gross Lohner.

Cozy living room with brown leather chair, plant, and lamp.
Man reading a magazine by a pool with greenery in the background
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HIKING AND TRAIL WALKING

With the Brecon as your base, it’s time to venture out and see what the region has to offer. It’s not just slopes that make the Oberland special. In this one area alone, you’ll find hundreds of trails, comprising everything from short walks to multi-day hikes. Not only does this provide a way to stay active at a slow-pace, but it puts you directly into the heart of the landscape. Every lake, every mountain, every animal: you’re getting the up-close-and-personal experience.

Our recommendation: Adelboden to Engstligen Falls, a site that’s been under federal nature conservation since 1948. This 4.5 hour walk starts off in the quaint village of Adelboden, steering you South through forest alongside the Engschlinge river until you reach the roaring Engstligen as your final destination. Crack open a cold drink to admire the views and hear the ringing bells of Simmental cattle grazing the surrounding Engstligenalp.

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Tennis court with mountains in the background

Historic village escape

Bernese Oberland has a number of quaint villages tucked away in the folds of its rolling hills. Exploring them is a must. Let’s take Adelboden, known for its heritage aesthetic and charming atmosphere. Before you set off down the slopes or head out on a day of hiking the trails, start off in the village by grabbing a coffee at the Expressionist Cafe, navigating the traditional wood carvings at the Trummer village shop, or taking in the historic routes of the church, which has been a landmark of the village since 1433.

Living room space with brown leather chairs, a coffee table, and a Hybrid Backpack

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