Giswil(Switzerland) Travel 2026: Cheap Flights, Hotels & Top Attractions

For stunning alpine views and easy hiking access, stay in the center of Giswil, where Hotel Alpenhof offers panoramic mountain rooms with direct views of the Bernese Alps. This boutique hotel is just a 5-minute walk from the Brigsee Lake trailhead and features modern Alpine architecture.

Alternatively, choose Gasthof Bergwirt, a family-run guesthouse known for authentic Swiss cuisine and cozy wooden interiors. Located near the Susten Pass hiking network, it’s ideal for nature lovers seeking quiet retreats. Both accommodations provide excellent access to the Engadine Valley trails and seasonal events like alpine flower festivals. Book early during summer months.

Giswil itself lacks large spas, but nearby Hotel Alpenhof features an indoor heated pool and sauna room, perfect for unwinding after a day of hiking amid the Bernese Alps.

For a more luxurious experience, visit Mürren's high-altitude wellness centers, just 30 minutes away, offering mountain-view saunas and holistic treatments. Local therapists also specialize in post-hike muscle recovery massages—ideal for adventure travelers.

Alternatively, enjoy nature-based wellness: morning forest walks along Brigsee Lake or guided meditation sessions in the alpine meadows enhance mental clarity and physical well-being, all within the pristine Swiss landscape.

For families, Gasthof Bergwirt stands out with spacious family suites, a dedicated children’s play area, and fully equipped kitchens for self-catering.

The hosts welcome kids with small gifts, local storybooks, and customized hiking maps. Their restaurant offers child-friendly meals featuring regional ingredients like Swiss cheese potato cakes.

Located just 10 minutes from Brigsee Lake, the property provides safe shallow shores perfect for toddlers to splash. The hotel also welcomes pets, making it ideal for families traveling with animals. Easy access to alpine trails ensures fun for all ages.

Don’t miss the annual Alpabzug festival in summer, when herds descend from high-altitude pastures accompanied by traditional costumes and alpine horns—a breathtaking spectacle.

Visit the Obwalden Folklore Museum to explore local crafts, farming tools, and customs. Many guesthouses offer hands-on workshops like cheese-making and wool weaving, where you can craft your own piece of Swiss heritage.

In the evenings, attend a traditional village concert featuring folk music played on alphorns and wooden flutes, immersing yourself in authentic Alpine culture.

The Brigsee Loop Trail (4 km) is Giswil’s most popular hike, offering scenic views of Schiltberg Peak and the Röybach Valley. It’s ideal for all levels and features well-marked paths with benches and viewpoints.

For a more challenging adventure, hike to Susten Pass (~8 km), passing through ancient pine forests and alpine meadows teeming with wildlife like ibex and red kites. Bring trekking poles and plenty of water.

All trails are clearly signposted, with rest shelters and observation platforms. Best hiked early in the morning to avoid afternoon thunderstorms and enjoy crystal-clear mountain vistas. Free maps are available at local hotels.

Must-try dishes in Giswil include the Obwalden Cheese Platter, made from alpine milk, offering rich, complex flavors perfect with dark rye bread.

Try Bergschaf Rösti—a hearty stew of tender beef and potatoes slow-cooked with fresh herbs. Available daily at select guesthouses like Gasthof Bergwirt, it’s often sold out; reserve ahead.

Sample Apfelwein, a locally crafted apple wine that’s sweet and slightly effervescent. For dessert, indulge in Mandelkuchen, a delicate almond-chocolate cake with a crisp crust and soft center—classic in northern Switzerland.