Only accessible by car, bike or bus, Lauenensee’s twin lakes sit above the valley in beautifully striking contrast to the pastureland below. Looping trails trace both basins, shifting between open views and shaded forest, with benches for well‐earned breaks. Summer brings paddling and picnics, while winter quiets the area into snowshoe terrain.

Near Lake Lauenen, Mattestübli Beizli is a quintessential mountain chalet for dinner with storybook charm. Ride in on a horse-drawn carriage through snowy lanes, then settle into a wood‐lined dining room where the owner cooks fondue over a traditional fire. This is the star dish on the menu, but it’s perfect for families or couples seeking warmth, cosy corners and a memorable meal without fuss. Kids love sledding down the mountain after supper.

Set within a stark, almost lunar landscape, Lake Sanetsch is defined by its electric‐blue water and dramatic dam. Summer suits long shoreline walks, cold swims and packed picnics; winter brings demanding snowshoe routes best left to the fit and confident. Access requires commitment via cable car or long valley hikes, but the reward is horizon‐wide views and a sense of true alpine scale at 2,000 metres.

In the beautiful village of Gsteig, Bären draws devotees of alpine classics with signature open‐fire raclette and cheese fondue. Locals and visitors flock here post‐hike or sans skis, dunking potatoes, pickles and crusty bread into lava‐hot cheese pots. Dark timber interiors and views of the Diablerets give it a comforting lodge feel, while bottles of fruity Valais
whites are easy to sip across an afternoon. Weekends fill up fast.