Escape to Switzerland: 5 peaceful villages to explore
What's the story
Switzerland is known for its gorgeous landscapes and calm surroundings, and it has some of the most picturesque villages that serve as perfect peaceful getaways.
These villages allow you to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and spend some time amidst nature and tranquility.
From beautiful chalets to mesmerizing mountain views, each village has its own charm.
Here are five idyllic Swiss villages promising a peaceful retreat.
Waterfall Valley
Lauterbrunnen: A valley of waterfalls
Lauterbrunnen is located in a valley with towering cliffs on either side and greenery all around.
Called the "Valley of Waterfalls," it features 72 waterfalls tumbling down the cliffs.
From the village, you can find countless hiking trails leading to breathtaking viewpoints and hidden treasures in the valley.
You can either take a stroll or hike more challenging trails while soaking in the natural beauty around you.
Adventure Hub
Grindelwald: Gateway to adventure
Grindelwald is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts looking for adventure amid spectacular scenery.
Nestled at the foot of Eiger Mountain, it is a gateway to several activities such as hiking, skiing, and mountain biking.
The village also has charming streets dotted with traditional Swiss chalets and local shops where visitors can get the true taste of Swiss culture.
Alpine beauty
Zermatt: Iconic Alpine views
Zermatt is famous for the picture-perfect view of the Matterhorn Mountain, one of the most famous peaks of Switzerland.
This car-free village makes the perfect destination for anyone looking to relax in the lap of alpine beauty.
Tourists can walk along picturesque trails or get on cable cars into higher altitudes for panoramic views over snow-capped mountains.
Peaceful Heights
Wengen: Tranquil mountain escape
Perched on a sunny terrace above Lauterbrunnen Valley lies Wengen—a tranquil mountain escape reachable only by train or footpath from Lauterbrunnen below—offering peace from traffic noise elsewhere across Europe's busy cities.
With no cars allowed here either, except service vehicles, this quaint resort town offers plenty of opportunity not just for relaxation but also exploration through walking routes into surrounding forests towards nearby peaks like Jungfrau Region's highest point at 4,158m above sea level.
Secluded charm
Gimmelwald: Hidden gem in Bernese Oberland
Unlike some other destinations in Bernese Oberland region, Gimmelwald is still untouched by tourism.
However, that is due to its remote location high up the mountainside overlooking the Lauterbrunnen Valley below.
Only reachable through a cable car ride on Schilthornbahn line between Stechelberg and Murren stations, here you'll find yourself in completely natural surroundings.
Offering an unparalleled sense of seclusion and serenity, it is unmatched anywhere else in the country.