The climate of Gstaad
Gstaad, a picturesque town in the Swiss Alps, is classified under the Köppen climate system as ET, signifying a Tundra environment. This predominately cold-climate region is characterized by low temperatures and moderate precipitation throughout the year. The monthly average temperature oscillates between a chilly -8.8°C (16.2°F) in
February and a moderately warm 19.3°C (66.7°F) in
August. Moreover, the relative humidity ranges from 79% to 89% annually, showing consistent humidity levels throughout the year.
On a monthly average, Gstaad experiences rainfall values that fluctuate from 13mm (0.51") during
September to 53mm (2.09") in
May. Notably, May stands out as the wettest month, while September is classified as the driest. On the other hand, snowfall is prominent in the colder months, with the heaviest snowfall recorded from 193mm (7.6") in
December to 236mm (9.29") in
January. The substantial snowfall experienced in winter months contrasts starkly with virtually no snowfall from May through September.
Gstaad is also graced with significant daylight hours that vary from 8.7 hours in December to 15.8 hours in
June, contributing to the extensive sunshine duration. The direct sunlight duration ranges from a minimal 5 hours/day during December and January to a peak of 10.2 hours/day from June to August. The UV Index stands at 2 for most months, except for in the summer when it reaches 4. Finally, average wind speeds fluctuate between 6.5km/h (4mph) in August and 9.2km/h (5.7mph) in December.
The best time to visit Gstaad
Considering the climate conditions, the summers in
Gstaad between
June to
August could be regarded as the most pleasant time to visit. The temperatures during this time hover from 16.9°C (62.4°F) to 19.3°C (66.7°F) with extensive sunshine duration peaking at 10.2 hours/day. The UV index also hits a yearly high of 4, favourable for outdoor activities. Rainfall is also moderate, ensuring pleasant weather for tourists to enjoy sightseeing and recreational activities.
The worst time to visit Gstaad
January and
February can be challenging months for visiting
Gstaad due to the adverse weather conditions. Observing the climate data, these months have the lowest average temperatures ranging from -8.8°C (16.2°F) to -0.3°C (31.5°F), with snowfall hitting a peak of 193mm (7.6") to 236mm (9.29"). Consequently, the harsh winter conditions can affect mobility and limit outdoor activities for tourists not accustomed to intense cold and snow.
Spring weather in Gstaad
Spring weather in
Gstaad starts from
March and lasts through
May, with rising temperatures varying from -2.5°C (27.5°F) to 12.3°C (54.1°F). March has a high snowfall of 203mm (7.99") reducing to a minimal 10mm (0.39") by May. Importantly, May receives the maximum rainfall, with 53mm (2.09") over 11.3 days. Despite the rain, daylight hours increase noticeably during this season, culminating into 15 hours in May, providing ample light to explore this Alpine haven.
Summer weather in Gstaad
June to
August constitute the summer months, and these mark the warmest climate phase in
Gstaad. Notable is a temperature range from 16.9°C (62.4°F) to 19.3°C (66.7°F), and no snowfall averages are recorded during this period. The UV Index is at its highest at 4 during these months. Rainfall is present but moderate, and ample sunshine of up to 10.2 hours guarantees long bright days.
Autumn weather in Gstaad
Autumn in
Gstaad spans from
September to
November. While temperatures decline from 15.1°C (59.2°F) to 1°C (33.8°F) across these months, rainfall levels considerably fluctuate from a low of 13mm (0.51") to 33mm (1.3"), providing a moderate autumn climate. Snowfall returns in November with an average of 108mm (4.25").
Winter weather in Gstaad
Winter in
Gstaad showcases its most defining characteristics. From
December until
February, average temperatures range from -8.8°C (16.2°F) to -0.3°C (31.5°F). Snowfall is highest during these months, peaking at a significant 236mm (9.29") in
January. Days are notably shorter with daylight hours reducing to 8.7 hours. Despite the cold, the winter season brings with it spectacular snow-laden Alpine views.
Weather in January
Weather in
Gstaad during
January is typically cold with the average temperature ranging from -8.8°C (16.2°F) to -0.3°C (31.5°F). Fresh snowfall is likely during this month which adds to the seasonally picturesque landscapes of the Swiss countryside, making January ideal for winter sports such as skiing and snowboarding.
Weather in January »Weather in February
February in
Gstaad sees a slight decrease in temperature lows yet maintains the same average temperature high as
January. Snowfall decreases in volume but is still prevalent. With an average of 161mm (6.34") of snowfall, February is still a prime month for winter sports activities.
Weather in February » Weather in March
March marks the transition from the frigid winter to milder spring climate. Snowfall sees a hike to an average of 203mm (7.99"), the highest in the year bringing with it a last huzzah for the skiing season. This month sees a noticeable spike in rainfall to 39mm (1.54"), the third-highest in the year; a tell-tale sign that winter is soon to end.
Weather in March »
Weather in April
April in
Gstaad signifies the true beginning of spring. Temperatures start to rise, with the average fluctuating between -1.1°C (30°F) and a comparatively mild 8.8°C (47.8°F). Snowfall drastically drops to an average of 57mm (2.24"), signaling the overall departure of winter.
Weather in April » Weather in May
The pleasant climate in
May marks the arrival of the warm season in
Gstaad, where average temperatures hover between 2.3°C (36.1°F) and 12.3°C (54.1°F). The mountains become a hiker's paradise with the last traces of snow departing until late autumn.
Weather in May »Weather in June
June in
Gstaad carries the spirit of late spring with warmth radiating from the lush Alpine meadows. Average temperatures range between a mild 5.9°C (42.6°F) and a pleasant 16.9°C (62.4°F), making this a popular time for tourists.
Weather in June »
Weather in July
July typically showcases the highest average temperatures of the year for
Gstaad, from 7.9°C (46.2°F) to 19.1°C (66.4°F). This month also sees a decrease in average relative humidity to 79%, the lowest the year has to offer. The summer sun is prevalent during this month, allowing for memorable mountain hikes and outdoor activities.
Weather in July » Weather in August
The weather conditions in
August are similar to those in
July, with average temperatures fluctuating slightly from 7.8°C (46°F) to 19.3°C (66.7°F). The daylight hours being long and plentiful,
Gstaad continues to magnetize summer tourists.
Weather in August »Weather in September
September signals the arrival of autumn in
Gstaad. The weather gradually cools down with the average temperature ranging from 5.2°C (41.4°F) to 15.1°C (59.2°F). The average cloud cover begins to mount hinting at the upcoming foggy autumn mornings.
Weather in September »
Weather in October
October in
Gstaad showcases a blend of crisp autumnal days and chilly nights. As the trees start to shed their leaves, the landscapes become a collage of amber and gold. Though the rainfall is moderate at an average of 23mm (0.91"), the month is quite dry compared to the rainy summer.
Weather in October » Weather in November
November is when
Gstaad embarks on its transition from autumn towards winter. With the average temperature dipping from 1.5°C (34.7°F) to 5.2°C (41.4°F), the chill soon starts to set in. Snowfall reappears in November, accumulating to an average of 108mm (4.25"), setting the stage for the upcoming skiing season.
Weather in November » Weather in December
Gstaad in
December is a winter wonderland with the highest snowfall of the year reaching 236mm (9.29"). Average temperatures are low, ranging from -6.4°C (20.5°F) to 1°C (33.8°F), the coldest observed throughout the year. Heaps of fresh snow transform Gstaad into a perfect skiing destination.
Weather in December » [Resources]