Hotels in Saanen

Saanen: A Serene Alpine Haven Where Glaciers Embrace Small-Town Charm

Nestled in the heart of the Swiss Alps, Saanen is a charming village in the Canton of Bern that exudes timeless beauty and tranquillity. Surrounded by majestic mountains and lush meadows, it serves as a gateway to breathtaking hikes and winter sports. Discover the enchanting architecture of traditional chalets, savour local delicacies in quaint eateries, and immerse yourself in the vibrant cultural scene. With its picturesque landscapes and serene atmosphere, Saanen is a perfect retreat for nature lovers, romantics, and those seeking an authentic alpine experience away from the crowds.

Top locations to stay in Saanen

In Saanen, Canton of Bern, Switzerland, Gstaad, Zweisimmen, and Crans-Montana are outstanding areas to stay. Gstaad is renowned for its stunning mountain scenery and upscale ambiance, while Zweisimmen offers excellent skiing and mountain activities. Crans-Montana combines skiing with vibrant après-ski culture. For first-time visitors, Gstaad is best suited due to its charming atmosphere and accessibility to attractions.

1. GstaadOpens in a new window: Gstaad is a delightful resort town known for its stunning mountain scenery and upscale charm. Nestled in the Bernese Alps, it offers a perfect blend of luxury and outdoor activities. Popular among ski enthusiasts, Gstaad boasts an extensive network of slopes and trails for all levels. In addition to skiing, visitors can enjoy leisurely walks through the picturesque village, indulge in shopping at high-end boutiques, and explore quaint cafés. Gstaad's cultural scene is vibrant, with events like the Gstaad Menuhin Festival showcasing classical music in a breathtaking setting. This is an ideal spot for those looking to experience both adventure and sophistication in a stunning alpine environment.
2. ZweisimmenOpens in a new window: Zweisimmen is a charming village that serves as a gateway to the scenic Simmental valley and an ideal base for outdoor lovers. With its focus on skiing and mountain activities, it’s perfect for winter sports enthusiasts and hikers alike. The area offers a more laid-back atmosphere compared to its neighbouring resorts, making it a great place for families and those seeking a tranquil retreat. Explore the stunning landscapes through hiking trails or take the scenic train ride to nearby attractions. Zweisimmen is also known for its local shops and friendly ambiance, providing an authentic Swiss experience amidst breathtaking scenery.
3. Crans-MontanaOpens in a new window: Crans-Montana is a vibrant resort town that effortlessly combines stunning mountain vistas with a lively atmosphere. Renowned for its excellent ski slopes, it attracts winter sports aficionados while also offering a myriad of summer activities, including hiking and golfing. Crans-Montana is known for its bustling shopping streets filled with chic boutiques and artisanal shops, making it a great spot for those looking to indulge in a bit of retail therapy. The cultural scene here is lively, featuring galleries and events that celebrate local art and traditions. With its diverse offerings, Crans-Montana is a fantastic destination for travellers seeking both adventure and a taste of Swiss culture.

4 tips for savvy savings when booking a hotel in Saanen

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most budget-friendly time to visit Saanen is during May, October, and November, when hotel prices tend to be lower. For a truly enriching experience, a stay of at least 2 to 3 days is recommended to fully appreciate the area's historic landmarks and cultural attractions. During your visit, you can enjoy activities related to skiing, hiking, and mountain sports, as well as explore the breathtaking scenery and luxurious spas that Saanen has to offer. This time frame provides great value for money, allowing you to delve into the charm of this small town while keeping your expenses in check.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: To uncover last-minute deals to Saanen, begin by exploring the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute Deals sections on Hotels.com, where you may discover discounted rates on hotels as your travel date approaches. Additionally, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications to stay informed about flash sales and exclusive promotions, helping you seize opportunities to save. The Smart Shopping tool available via the app allows you to compare hotel prices and amenities, ensuring you're more likely to see the best options. If prices drop or rooms become available, you’ll be promptly notified, making it easier to secure a spontaneous getaway.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices can fluctuate based on factors such as the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year, so being flexible with your travel dates may help you save on your stay at a hotel in Saanen. For those seeking a distinctive experience, boutique hotels often provide a more personalised touch and may offer better value. When you book through Hotels.com, we’ll inform you whether the price for your chosen dates is above or below the average. If the price is on the higher end, we’ll suggest alternative dates that could be more affordable, helping you to secure the best possible deal.
4. Consider your location: Hotels situated near the city centre usually tend to be more expensive, but with Saanen's excellent public transport links, you may discover a more affordable independent hotel located a bit further out that remains well connected. For those wishing to explore alternative, less crowded neighbourhoods or even lesser-known nearby towns, there is often excellent value for money to be found. Opting for these alternative destinations could provide a more authentic and budget-friendly experience.

Best time to go to Saanen

Saanen experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 24.8°F (-4.0°C), while July is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 59.7°F (15.4°C). May tends to be the wettest month. The peak travel months to visit Saanen are July to September, which see a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, accompanied by light rainfall. In contrast, April, May, and November are ideal if you're looking for a calmer vacation, marked by light rainfall and mostly sunny to mostly cloudy conditions.