Discover the Hidden 'Cheese Cathedral' Beneath Gstaad, Switzerland

Introduction to Gstaad and the Cheese Cathedral

Gstaad, a charming little town in Switzerland, is famous not only for its majestic mountains and luxurious resorts but also for a hidden gem - the 'cheese cathedral.' Here, the king of cheese, René Ryser, manager of the Gstaad Dairy Cooperative, invites us on a journey to explore this unique underground space.

The cheese cathedral is not a traditional church; rather, it is a three-tiered cheese cellar beloved by local farmers and food-loving travelers alike. To find the entrance, visitors must navigate past a mural that resembles a garage for lawnmowers more than a cheese storage facility.

Exploring the Cheese Cellar

As you step inside the cellar, the cool air and the glow from chandeliers create an enchanting atmosphere. You will be awestruck by the sight of over 3,000 wheels of cheese stacked high. According to Ryser, the total value of these cheeses is nearly 1 million CHF (approximately 1,118,000 USD), including a cheese sample produced in 1931 that showcases how cheese can be preserved without spoiling.

The cheeses here are primarily alpenkäse, a type made during the summer months when farms are at higher altitudes. To qualify as alpenkäse, the cheese must be produced on the slopes of the Swiss Alps and cooked over an open flame in copper pots. After maturing for 18 months, alpenkäse transforms into hobelkäse, boasting a rich flavor and drier texture.

The Cheese-Making Process

The traditional cheese-making process is intricate, and the aging of cheese is equally complex. Farmers must regularly turn the 24-pound cheese wheels to ensure proper air circulation, along with multiple salt baths in the first few weeks to prevent unwanted bacteria. The aging period can last anywhere from 18 to 36 months, with each cheese requiring its own specific time.

With over 40 years of experience managing the cheese cellar, Ryser emphasizes that determining the perfect moment for each cheese is a closely guarded secret, balancing texture, aroma, and the fluctuating prices of cheese in Europe.

Visiting and Cheese Experiences

Visitors can join a cheese cellar tour for around 28 CHF (approximately 33 USD). Those with a Gstaad travel card will receive a discount. In addition to exploring the cheese cellar, guests can enjoy fondue in the above-ground area, which offers beautiful views of the Saanen Valley.

You can also rent a fondue backpack from various local farms for an outdoor fondue experience while taking in the stunning countryside with grazing cows. Note that tours of the cheese cellar must be booked in advance, while fondue pots are served on a first-come, first-served basis.

Useful Information for Vietnamese Travelers

To reach Gstaad, travelers can fly from Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City to Zurich, then continue by train or bus to Gstaad. The flight takes about 12-14 hours, with round-trip airfare typically ranging from 15 million to 25 million VND depending on the travel season.

Regarding visas, Vietnamese citizens need to apply for a Schengen visa to enter Switzerland. The visa application fee is approximately 2 million VND, and processing usually takes 15-20 working days.

For food enthusiasts, a trip to this cheese cathedral will undoubtedly be an unforgettable experience, offering not just the chance to taste exquisite cheese but also to gain insight into Switzerland's unique culture and agriculture.

Article adapted and referenced from: Matador Network