Not every sporting event feels like a mountain retreat. In Gstaad, world-class tennis unfolds among timber chalets, flower-filled balconies and panoramic alpine landscapes, creating an atmosphere that feels remarkably intimate despite its international reputation.
Between matches, visitors drift from Michelin-starred restaurants to designer boutiques, scenic terraces and some of Switzerland’s most exceptional hotels. Here, the tournament becomes only one chapter of a destination that has long perfected the art of understated luxury. From where to stay and dine to the finest places for an aperitif after play, this is Elevatedliving’s guide to experiencing the Gstaad Swiss Open beyond the baseline.
The Tournament
Few events on the ATP Tour enjoy a setting quite like the Gstaad Swiss Open. Played on outdoor clay courts in the heart of the Bernese Alps, the ATP 250 tournament has welcomed generations of tennis greats for more than a century, earning a reputation as one of the sport’s most scenic and atmospheric stops. Held at the Roy Emerson Arena, just moments from Gstaad’s village centre, the championship combines elite competition with an intimate spectator experience that feels remarkably close to the action.
The 2026 edition unfolds from 11–19 July, beginning with qualifying rounds before progressing through the main draw to the singles final on Sunday. Alongside the on-court action, visitors can expect a lively tournament village, family-friendly activities, live music, and evening entertainment, creating an atmosphere that extends well beyond Centre Court.
Image credit: Fondation Beyeler
Where to Stay
From the timeless grandeur of Gstaad Palace and the contemporary alpine elegance of The Alpina Gstaad to the relaxed sophistication of Le Grand Bellevue, Gstaad’s finest hotels reflect the village’s distinctive approach to luxury. Whether overlooking the surrounding peaks, indulging in award-winning wellness or enjoying exceptional dining, each offers an elegant base from which to experience tournament week.
Where to Dine
Gstaad’s dining scene reflects the village’s effortless blend of alpine heritage and international flavour, ranging from elegant hotel restaurants to long-established local institutions. Le Grand at Gstaad Palace showcases classic fine dining in an iconic setting, while Megu brings contemporary Japanese cuisine to the Alps. Just beyond the village, 16 Art-Bar-Restaurant in Saanen pairs seasonal dishes with a striking design-led atmosphere, before Olden Restaurant rounds off the selection with its legendary pasta alla vodka and enduring place as one of Gstaad’s most beloved dining addresses.
Where to Sip
From morning coffee to sunset cocktails, Gstaad’s cafés and bars are as much a part of the tournament experience as Centre Court itself. The Mansard Rooftop at Miiro Hotel serves panoramic views alongside creative aperitifs, Harry’s Bar at The Alpina Gstaad offers timeless elegance after play, while Cappuccino is the village’s go-to address for speciality coffee and matcha between matches.
Image credit: Holidays To Switzerland
Where to Shop
Luxury shopping in Gstaad extends beyond international fashion houses, with a handful of destinations reflecting the village’s distinctive cultural character. Trois Pommes has long been one of Gstaad’s most iconic boutiques, curating an exceptional selection of international designer fashion within an intimate chalet-style setting. During the summer season, Gagosian Gstaad adds a contemporary artistic dimension, presenting museum-quality exhibitions from one of the world’s leading galleries just moments from the village promenade.
Where To Recharge
Beyond the tournament, Gstaad is equally renowned for its exceptional wellness offering. Six Senses Spa at The Alpina Gstaad blends innovative therapies with a holistic approach to wellbeing, while the Palace Spa at Gstaad Palace continues a long tradition of alpine relaxation in an elegant setting.
Le Grand Spa at Le Grand Bellevue offers one of the most extensive wellness experiences in the region, while the Ermitage Wellness & Spa Hotel provides a tranquil escape where mountain views, thermal facilities and restorative treatments encourage a slower pace between matches.