English Corner

A sophisticated fondue on the toboggan run? In Engelberg, you can rent a fondue sled; all you have to do is find the perfect spot for your DIY fondue. Image: HO

Ten magical fondue experiences for this winter

Anita Suter

When temperatures drop, the desire for fondue increases. Whether in a cozy mini-chalet, a mountain gondola, or even a tuk-tuk, these ten destinations promise an unforgettable celebration of Swiss cheese.

Few things capture the spirit of winter quite like sharing a steaming pot of fondue on a chilly evening. These ten places will make it an unforgettable experience full of warmth, flavor, and magic:

Historic Fondue Cruise

A fondue on rails? Yes, that's possible too. Thanks to the Rigi Railways, you can enjoy this in a particularly charming setting. On the winter ascent to Rigi Kulm, an aperitif is served first, followed by the fondue in a heated carriage. This is not only cozy but also historic: the legendary «Carriage 6,» built in 1911, is the oldest electric cogwheel railway carriage in the world. It has seating at five tables for a maximum of six people each, and the tour runs for groups of 20 or more. Departure is at 5:55 pm from Goldau. More information.

Chalet in the Magic Garden

At «Le Petit Chalet», the journey to fondue is an experience in itself. The Hotel Le Grand Bellevue in Gstaad masterfully transforms its garden into a magically illuminated winter wonderland. Nestled within this glowing setting, the charmingly decorated chalet welcomes guests to savor inventive fondue creations — from rich goat cheese and truffle blends to a delicate vegan version crafted with organic cashews.

The fondue chalet is located in the middle of the enchantingly illuminated garden of the Hotel Le Grand Bellevue Gstaad. Image: courtesy of the hotel

The chalet, which is almost unbeatable in terms of coziness, can accommodate up to 18 guests; for groups, it can accommodate 24. More information.

Private fondue with a view

The Vitznauerhof on Lake Lucerne exudes romance — and its fondue experience is no exception. Guests can savor it in complete privacy on their balcony, overlooking the Alpine panorama. To keep the chill at bay, hot water bottles are thoughtfully provided.

Anyone wanting to enjoy a fondue with a stunning view of Lake Lucerne will find themselves in the right place at the Vitznauerhof. Image: HO

The «Private Fondue with a View» package includes one night in a premium double room with breakfast and access to the spa. The experience is available until mid-December, and again from mid-March through the end of April. The hotel remains closed in between. More information.

Takeoff in Davos

A fondue in a mountaintop restaurant is already a great experience – but in Davos, they take it a step further. Those who indulge in this cheesy delight on the Jakobshorn can then fly home – or at least down from the mountain. The unusual concept is «Fondue meets Paragliding,» where the calories are digested in flight. It goes without saying that you're not left to your own devices, but rather in the care of a professional paraglider (in a tandem flight). More information.

Top-class sledding fun

An open-air fondue in the snow— simple, spontaneous, and unforgettable. In the Engelberg holiday region, this alpine dream becomes reality. The adventure begins at the Fürenalp mountain restaurant, where guests pick up a sled — not just any sled, but one fully equipped with everything needed for the perfect fondue for two.

With the fondue sled from the Fürenalp mountain restaurant, you can enjoy your fondue wherever you like. Image: HO

The sled comes packed with everything you need: a fondue set, cheese blend with bread and spices, a bottle of wine or a thermos of tea, and cozy thermal seat cushions or blankets. All that’s left to do is glide onto the slopes and find the perfect spot for your DIY fondue adventure. More information.

«Chäs Stuba» in Klosters

Who can resist the thought of truffle fondue? At the cozy, alpine-style «Chäs Stuba» in the Sunstar Hotel Klosters, guests can indulge in this irresistible treat. The menu also features beloved Swiss classics, from rich raclettes to Grisons specialties like Pizokel.

The «Chäs Stuba» in Klosters offers not only fondue, but also many other Swiss and Grisons specialties. Image: Sunstar Hotels Management

Enjoy a leisurely meal in a small group or in a group of up to 30 people. More information.

Creative in Grindelwald

At the Hotel Resort «Bergwelt» in Grindelwald, the name says it all. Nestled in the imposing Jungfrau Region, it offers not only wonderful accommodations but also exceptional dining experiences. Starting in December, «Almer's»—named after the first person to summit the Eiger—will be serving fondue. Here, tradition meets creativity: the menu features not only classic moitié-moitié but also more unusual interpretations, such as an «Alpine Herb Chili with Prosecco» variation. A Toblerone mousse completes the festive meal with breathtaking views of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau mountains. More information.

Fondue workshop in cheese paradise

At the Appenzell show dairy, fondue turns into an experience. Here, the perfect blend isn’t crafted in the kitchen but at your own table — tailored to your taste. With expert guidance and a selection of Appenzell cheeses and fine ingredients, guests create a personalized fondue as distinctive as they are.

At the Appenzell Show Dairy, homemade fondue is prepared right at the table – with fun, flavor, and good company. Image: Appenzell Show Dairy

In a relaxed atmosphere, participants cook, stir, taste, and enjoy – a sensory delight for groups of six or more. The culinary experience lasts approximately 45 minutes (excluding meal time) and is available daily by prior arrangement, starting at 39 Swiss francs. More information.

Fondue and Zurich sightseeing by eTuktuk

Tuk-tuks are usually associated with Southeast Asia — where curries and other exotic dishes reign supreme. But the creators of the Fondue-eTuk had a different idea: turning the classic three-wheeler into a cozy, cheese-filled sightseeing adventure. Up to four guests can gather around the small table inside, wrapped in sheepskin rugs and blankets, as the quirky, professionally driven vehicle zips through Zurich — even in the chill of winter. More information.

Gondolas on Lake Thun

This winter, you can enjoy a delicious fondue in a cozy and private setting in Gwatt on Lake Thun. The Deltapark Vitalresort has installed three snug Gstaad gondolas on its grounds, each accommodating up to four people, starting November 22nd.

The Deltapark Vitalresort on Lake Thun attracts visitors with three fondue gondolas, each seating up to four people. Image: HO

The fondue gondolas are located on the ground floor – the culinary delights will take you to new heights. In addition to various fondues, including the secret house blend, there is also a selection of appetizer platters to choose from. More information.