Mediterranean Ease Meets Tradition: Gstaad Palace Celebrates Italianà

29.05.2026 | from Gstaad Palace AG

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Gstaad Palace AG
Image rights: Gstaad Palace AG

29.05.2026, Just in time for the season opening on June 22, 2026, the traditional house unveils a new culinary highlight: 'Gildo’s al Fresco' – the breezy outdoor summer version of 'Gildo’s Ristorante'. The new outlet pays homage to Gildo Bocchini, who, as Maître D’, held the reins for nearly five decades. Roy Emerson, the greatest Grand Slam winner of all time, has been part of the Palace family even longer. This summer, he plays in the 52nd and final 'Roy Emerson Tennis Weeks'.


Italy is in the air: With 'Gildo’s al Fresco', the renowned winter restaurant of Gstaad Palace receives a summer stage for the first time. The new concept is understood as a tribute to the Mediterranean lifestyle, bringing the colours, scents, and relaxed atmosphere of an Italian summer day to Gstaad. Inspired by Tuscany, a stylish trattoria ambiance is created in the open: shades of yellow, rich greens, and natural materials meet the mountain air of Gstaad. 'Gildo’s Ristorante' is a staple at Gstaad Palace. It is a reminder of our legendary Maître D’, Gildo Bocchini. With 'Gildo’s al Fresco', we bring southern flair to our garden – with the unmistakable lightness and cheerfulness that 'Gildo’s' has always stood for. And who knows: the namesake might occasionally appear, delivering one of his legendary arias at the table, being a great opera fan,” enthuses Andrea Scherz. The culinary focus is on light Italian summer dishes – from fresh antipasti and classic pasta dishes to selected meat and fish specialties. A treat are pizzas baked in the traditional Neapolitan oven.

52 Years of Roy Emerson at Gstaad Palace Known affectionately as 'Emmo': For over five decades, the name is emblematic. Roy Emerson is inseparably linked to Gstaad Palace. This summer marks the 52nd and final edition of the legendary Roy Emerson Tennis Weeks. The Australian Grand Slam winner, raised on a farm in Queensland, brought not only sporting excellence to Gstaad but also values such as fairness, camaraderie, and consistency. What began as a sports week evolved into an institution characterized by traditions off the court, long-standing friendships among tennis fans, and the close relationship with the owner family. 'What we have been able to build with Roy and Joy Emerson over the past 52 years is unparalleled. The Roy Emerson Tennis Weeks have provided us with many exciting matches on the Palace courts and even more joyful hours into the night. They will always remain an integral part of the history of Gstaad Palace,' explains Andrea Scherz.

High above Gstaad: the Walig Hut The Walig Hut has been part of the alpine cultural landscape above Gsteig for centuries. Built in 1783, it originally served as a simple alp hut for farmers and their cattle. Stone, weatherproof wood, and original functionality are its foundation. The rustic hut has been an integral part of the Gstaad Palace experience for years. The journey itself is an experience – the path leads through forests and meadows up to 1,700 meters, where peace, vastness, and views of the Diablerets massif and the gentle Saanenland await. Culinary offerings are also aligned with alpine traditions: regional products and classic Swiss dishes such as a hearty Moitié-Moitié fondue on an open fire are the focus for both lunch and dinner. During the summer season, up to four people can stay overnight in the alp hut – simple, authentic, and with maximum experience value.

Eventful Mountain Summer in Gstaad The Gstaad Palace summer goes far beyond culinary delights and combines nature, enjoyment, and tradition in all facets. Hikes to the Turbachtal or Lake Arnensee, excursions to Glacier 3000 with the breathtaking Skywalk, encounters with the Wispile goats, or a relaxed picnic in the sprawling Palace garden. Culinary highlights include the Swiss National Day on August 1. The fondue party under the starry sky is also very popular. The same goes for the Seafood Night, also open-air. Meanwhile, a Gstaad institution is the weekly Sunday brunch with seasonal products and live cooking stations.

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Conclusion of this article: « Mediterranean Ease Meets Tradition: Gstaad Palace Celebrates Italianà »


Gstaad Palace AG


The first-class five-star superior hotel Gstaad Palace, which first opened its doors in December 1913, has been owned by the Scherz family for three generations, making it one of the last family-run establishments in Europe where personalities bring a first-class hospitality culture to life.

The 90 rooms and suites of the seasonal hotel, with an exceptional panorama of the Bernese Oberland, skillfully combine contemporary glamour with alpine coziness. In five restaurants, the landmark of Gstaad serves Swiss, Italian, and international specialties as well as a gourmet cuisine awarded 16 Gault Millau points. The hotel's own nightclub GreenGo is known for legendary parties and its illustrious clientele.

The Palace Spa pampers guests' senses over 1800 square meters. In summer, the 'PISCINE' with Olympic dimensions and four tennis courts are available. With the Walig Hut, an alp from the year 1783 at 1700 meters above sea level, the Gstaad Palace offers a unique refuge where guests can experience the true luxury of the Saanenland, peace, tranquility, and authenticity up close.

Note: The "About Us" text is taken from public sources or from the company profile on HELP.ch.

Source: Gstaad Palace AG, Press release

Original article published on: Mediterrane Leichtigkeit trifft auf Tradition: Gstaad Palace zelebriert Italianà