HIDDEN GEMS

The secret places in Switzerland you need to know!

Away from the tourist crowds, Switzerland hides some truly magical places, from quiet valleys and hidden waterfalls to charming villages and little-known viewpoints.
hese special hidden gems were all personally discovered and photographed by Markus Manfredi, Swissaround photographer, filmmaker, and author of the Magical Switzerland Guide.
Each post not only showcases the most beautiful hidden places in the country but also provides practical hiking information right at the start, a clear map with elevation profile, helpful FAQs, and the option to share your own impressions in the comments.
This is how you discover Switzerland in the most authentic and personal way through the lens of Swissaround.

Dandelion meadow near Gais in Appenzell with a rustic wooden barn the village in the valley and wide views of the Appenzell mountains beneath a clear blue sky.

Gais in Appenzell – Spring hike through a sea of dandelions with panoramic views and photo spots

This spring hike near Gais in Appenzell leads you straight into a sea of dandelions with wide open views of the Appenzell mountains. Just above the village the meadows turn bright yellow in spring and the route follows peaceful cow pastures and soft rolling hill trails. And let’s be honest where else can you hike right through blooming dandelion fields with an alpine panorama as your backdrop?

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16. January 2026 1 Comment
A panoramic view of Saint Saphorin in Lavaux with vineyards in the foreground and Lake Geneva glowing at sunset.

Lavaux Vineyards in Autumn – Scenic Hike Through Saint-Saphorin on Lake Geneva

The Lavaux region, with more than 800 hectares (1,977 acres) of vineyards, is one of the largest wine-growing areas in Switzerland. Nestled between Lake Geneva and the steep slopes of the UNESCO World Heritage Site, the vineyards of Saint-Saphorin shine in golden colors during autumn. What makes this hike truly special is that it leads almost entirely through terraced vineyards – where else can you walk right in the middle of a wine paradise?

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13. September 2025 2 Comments
Autumn drone view of Lej Nair with colorful forest and a clear view toward Lake Silvaplana

Lej Nair – 3 Lakes Hike in the Engadin Autumn Magic

Lej Nair is a hidden gem near St. Moritz in the Engadin valley, a scenic mountain lake famous for its autumn reflections and golden larches.
A true hidden gem for autumn lovers. Surrounded by golden larches and set in the colorful landscapes of the Engadin, this 3 lakes hike offers one of the most impressive autumn experiences in the Swiss Alps. Perfect for nature photographers and travelers seeking peace and tranquility.

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1. September 2025 1 Comment
Aerial view of Lake Palpuogna with bright turquoise water and an impressive mountain backdrop during summer

Palpuognasee – Scenic Hike from Preda, Albula Valley

Everyone knows the famous Albula Pass in the canton of Grisons. However, not the colored mountain lake located above the train station Preda, which lies at an altitude of over 1900 meters. A beautiful circular hike that is not only beautiful in summer but also worth a top excursion in autumn. Because here you can find larches that turn gold money in autumn.

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18. August 2025 No Comments

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