Immerse yourself in the heart of Switzerland's Bernese Highlands, where the Swiss Highlands Trail offers an exhilarating weekend of trail running and breathtaking vistas. Nestled in the charming village of Gstaad, this event transforms the region into a playground for endurance athletes seeking both challenge and beauty. The centerpiece of the festivities is the "Highlander 60," a grueling 62-kilometer trek that ascends an impressive 3,589 meters. This epic journey through rugged terrain tests even the most seasoned runners with its combination of steep climbs and technical single-track trails winding through dense forests and along rocky ridges. For those looking for something more manageable yet still demanding, there's the "Highlander Marathon," a 42-kilometer course that conquers nearly 3,000 meters in elevation gain over two days. Shorter but no less intense options include the "Highlander 25" and "Highlander 15," which offer runners opportunities to experience the region's challenging trails without committing as much time. The event also caters to families with the "Highlander Family Challenge," allowing parents to share their final kilometer with a young runner, fostering an atmosphere of camaraderie and fun. The terrain throughout is steeped in mountain expertise, featuring technical single-track paths through lush forests, rocky ascents that test your strength, and panoramic ridges where stunning views of the Bernese Alps serve as inspiration. Refreshment points along the way offer local specialties to fuel runners' efforts with a friendly atmosphere that encourages recharging between bouts of effort. Beyond the race itself, Gstaad offers visitors plenty of activities to enjoy. Take a ride on the Glacier 3000 cable car for an unforgettable experience atop Europe's peaks via the Peak Walk suspension bridge, or opt for a thrilling descent down the Alpine Coaster if you prefer your adrenaline in more controlled settings. Whether you're here for the grand challenge or simply to soak up the beauty of Switzerland’s highlands, the Swiss Highlands Trail promises an event that blends raw effort with stunning landscapes and warm camaraderie. Don't miss out on this unique opportunity to explore one of Europe's most picturesque running destinations. For those staying beyond race day, the region offers a wealth of activities to complement your trail-running experience, ensuring you leave Gstaad not only refreshed but also enriched by its natural beauty and local culture.
Races Offered
HIGHLANDER 60
Sep 26, 2026
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Distance —
62K
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
06:00
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Fr115.00
HIGHLANDER FAMILY
Sep 26, 2026
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Distance —
24K
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
10:45
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Fr70.00
HIGHLANDER 25
Sep 26, 2026
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Distance —
25K
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
11:00
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Fr62.00
2D CHALLENGE
Sep 26, 2026
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Distance —
56K
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
13:30
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Fr0.00
HIGHLANDER 15
Sep 26, 2026
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Distance —
15K
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
13:30
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Fr40.00
HIGHLANDER "Marathon"42
Sep 27, 2026
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Distance —
42K
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
08:00
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Fr85.00
Weather History
These values represent the 3-year monthly averages for September in Gstaad.
thermostatTemperature
7.2° / 17.8°
wb_sunnyFeels like
5.4° / 16.7°
light_mode
Avg sunshine hours
9h 5m
water_drop
Avg rainfall
5.3 mm
ac_unit
Avg snowfall
0.1 cm
air
Avg wind speed
5.4 km/h (Light breeze)
opacity
Sweat loss rate
Low
terrain
Course conditions
Firm and slightly soft
sunny
Max UV Index
Moderate (3.5)
humidity_mid
Humidity
84.3%
wb_twilight
Sunrise
07:09
nightlight
Sunset
19:41
About Gstaad
Learn more about the host city, Gstaad.
Gstaad is a mountain resort in the Bernese Highlands in Switzerland. The village is at 1050 m altitude, with local skiing only up to 2200 m, but it's linked by ski-lift to the higher areas of Les Diablerets.
