From its beginnings in 2001, the Festival of the Sommets Musicaux de Gstaad has become a prominent winter rendezvous for classical music enthusiasts. It is the premier winter festival and offers close proximity to the artists, as it takes place in the churches of Saanen and Rougemont and in the Gstaad chapel.
Under the artistic direction of Renaud Capuçon, the festival brings together young talent, artists of international renown, and orchestras and ensembles offering the loveliest of classical, contemporary and baroque music. The festival is built on three pillars: three concert cycles in three exceptional venues. Afternoon concerts in the Gstaad Chapel feature promising young talent, while evening concerts in Rougemont and Saanen enchant their audience with performances by most distinguished soloists and orchestras.
Concerts in the Saanen church are followed by gala dinners at the Gstaad Palace, a loyal partner of the Sommets Musicaux de Gstaad festival. These occasions offer a rare opportunity to bring together the artists, music-loving members of the public and partners of the festival.
The Sommets Musicaux Festival takes place in the winter sports resort of Gstaad in Switzerland.
There are several 5, 4 and 3-star hotels in the resort, so book in advance and contact the tourist office if necessary.
Suggested hotels:
1. The Gstaad Palace Hotel *****: Set on a hill overlooking the beautiful town of Gstaad, the Gstaad Palace offers a breathtaking view of the majestic Swiss Alps.
2. Bernerhof Gstaad ****: Located in Gstaad's pedestrian zone, this 4-star hotel offers 4 restaurants and a spa area with an indoor pool.
Gstaad lies in the Bernese Alps, which can be reached via Geneva or Zurich airports. You reach Gstaad by train through idyllic countryside on Swiss railways or you can travel by road.
Gstaad is the ideal place for unforgettable winter experiences and countless winter sports possibilities, as well as numerous spa centres where you can relax.
As the festival takes place in winter, Gstaad is often covered in snow, so boots and warm coats are strongly recommended.
If you are fortunate enough to be going to the gala dinner after a concert at Saanen Church, the dress code is Cocktail attire so enjoy a rare opportunity to dress up!
The Gstaad area is one of the hottest gourmet destinations in the entire Alpine region. Foodies from all over the world flock here for the variety of delicious cuisine, with exquisite flavours, skilful cooking and cosy, traditional restaurants. The restaurant scene has the highest density of GaultMillau points in Alpine Switzerland.
