Charmey

The ski resort of Charmey and the mountain village of the same name, in the Gruyère region, have retained all their charm. Visitors will find a complete tourist infrastructure in the midst of unspoilt nature. An ideal place for experienced skiers, who can take the Rapido Sky cable car to the summit of Vounetz.

The Charmey ski resort

A snowpark, floodlit cross-country ski runs and an indoor swimming pool complete the resort’s sporting offer. If you want to relax a little, there’s nothing better than a visit to the Bains de la Gruyère. And for lovers of regional culture, a visit to the local museum is not to be missed.

With 30 km of slopes, gondolas, 3 ski lifts and a new chair lift, the Charmey ski resort offers many possibilities.

Let yourself be captivated by a landscape straight out of a fairy tale. Charmey, a small family resort, will delight lovers of winter sports and powder snow. And the highlight of the day is a hot thermal bath: a pure delight!

The Charmey resort is committed to sustainable development.

Every year, the Charmey resort offers an opportunity to learn to be environmentally friendly, to respect nature and to change a few things in your daily life.

Every year, Charmey organises a sustainability week.

The programme focuses on helping farmers, understanding their way of life and their work. Workshops are also organised, for example a mobile phone repair workshop in the Vigousse with the Repair Café in Fribourg. There are also food collection and preparation sessions, lectures, meditation sessions… The perfect cocktail to raise awareness about sustainable development and what is happening on the planet. And of course, children are part of the event!

Unforgettable experiences at Charmey

The complex has a zip-line valley, with a course consisting of no less than 13 zip-lines that can be up to 300 metres long. In addition to the incredible sensations you will experience, the view from the zip line is breathtaking! For even more thrills and fun, it is also possible to practice this activity at night! In addition, in the late afternoon you will have the opportunity to slide down the metal ropes while admiring the sunset —a dream come true!

To keep the thrills going, let yourself be carried away by paragliding! As well as discovering the sensation of flying, you’ll be in an ideal environment! Don’t forget to look under your feet to see the trees, which will seem tiny from above. What’s more, no particular level is required to take part in this experience.

The mountain resort of Charmey in summer

When you think of mountain gastronomy, you think of cheese… What about making your own? It’s possible at Charmey during the summer season! From 9.45 am you will be immersed in the life of the mountain pastures in the Vounetz chalet. The Piller family has lived there for 18 years. The programme of the activity is as follows: 1 hour of cheese making and tasting! You can also buy other cheeses. A great activity to do with family or friends.

How about climbing the sometimes steep mountain roads on an electric bike? It requires less physical effort, but it’s just as much fun! Ride the roads and paths of the resort without pressure in an experience you won’t forget.

Hotels in Charmey station

Hotel Cailler ****

Directly connected by a tunnel to the Gruyère spa, Hotel Cailler offers charming rustic rooms and good cuisine.

The Gruyère spa features a Turkish bath, a sauna area, beautiful swimming pools and numerous wellness facilities. There is also a sports centre nearby.

In addition to the beautifully furnished double rooms, you can also choose a spacious junior suite or a flat with lounge.

Hotel Romantik l’Etoile ***

Located in the centre of the small village of Charmey in the Gruyère region, Hotel Romantik l’Etoile is set in a restored 17th-century building. It offers free Wi-Fi access and free private parking.

All of the rooms at Hotel Romantik l’Etoile are equipped with wooden furniture, cable TV, a minibar, a safe and a hairdryer.

The restaurant and brasserie serve seasonal regional cuisine. A varied breakfast buffet is served every morning.

Hotel de Gruyères ***

Located on the outskirts of the town of Gruyères, the Hotel de Gruyères offers quiet rooms decorated in a rustic style, with free Wi-Fi and a balcony.

Most of the rooms offer a panoramic view of the Chamois and Broc teeth.

During your stay you can enjoy the garden and terrace, perfect for relaxing in the warmer months. There is also a spa, gym and meeting room.

Skiing in Charmey: the resort’s strengths

Charmey, located in the canton of Fribourg, is a Swiss resort that combines the tranquility of a mountain village with the authenticity of the Fribourg Pre-Alps. Just 30 minutes from Fribourg and an hour from Lausanne, it offers an ideal getaway for those looking to ski away from the crowds. With 30 km of perfectly groomed slopes and an orientation that guarantees good snow conditions throughout the winter, Charmey is a family-friendly destination, welcoming and full of rural charm.

A welcoming and natural ski area

The Charmey ski area is located between 900 and 1,620 meters above sea level and offers 13 slopes suitable for all levels. The lower areas, which are wide and protected by the forest, are ideal for beginners and families, while the upper areas offer more technical slopes and panoramic views of the Gruyère valley and the Moléson massif.

The ski lift system is efficient and fast, and the atmosphere on the slopes is calm and uncrowded, allowing you to enjoy skiing in the heart of nature.

A family-friendly and authentic atmosphere

Charmey retains its identity as a traditional alpine village, with wooden chalets, working farms, and authentic local life. The atmosphere is relaxed and family-friendly, ideal for those looking to disconnect from the urban pace.

Families particularly appreciate the quality of the ski school, the friendliness of the instructors, and the proximity of all amenities. Activities for children and sledding areas complete an offering designed for all audiences.

Wellness and thermal baths in the Pre-Alps

One of Charmey’s biggest attractions is its thermal baths, Les Bains de la Gruyère. This modern wellness center features indoor and outdoor thermal pools, a sauna, a hammam, and a relaxation area with mountain views.

After a day in the snow, there is nothing better than enjoying the hot water in front of the snow-capped peaks of the Vanil Noir, an experience that combines rest, silence, and nature.

Gastronomy from the heart of Switzerland

Gastronomy is one of the pillars of the region. Charmey is in the heart of Gruyère, the birthplace of the famous cheese of the same name.

Restaurants and mountain huts offer local specialties such as fondue moitié-moitié, raclette, and seasonal game dishes.

The culinary atmosphere is warm and unpretentious, but with a quality that reflects the most authentic Swiss tradition.

Nature, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing

In addition to downhill skiing, Charmey offers many activities in contact with nature. There are several marked snowshoe trails, cross-country skiing routes, and 15 km of cross-country ski trails that wind through forests and snow-covered meadows.

The resort is also a starting point for excursions to the Jaunpass and the Gastlosen massif, ideal for those seeking more expansive views or more athletic activities.

Tips from the I Love Ski community for skiing in Charmey

• Start your day early: The morning light over the Gruyère valley offers unique landscapes and pristine slopes.
• Visit Les Bains de la Gruyère: A thermal bath at sunset with views of the Alps is the best reward after skiing.
• Savour the local fondue: Nothing is more authentic than a moitié-moitié fondue accompanied by a Fribourg white wine.
• Explore on snowshoes: The Vanil Noir trails are perfect for discovering the mountains in silence.
• Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere: Charmey is the ideal place for stress-free skiing in direct contact with nature.