15 Enchanting Mountain Villages in Europe

Zermatt, Switzerland

Zermatt comes highly recommended by numerous travel experts—not only for its stunning views of the Matterhorn (which are undeniably a major attraction). As Dave Miller, owner of International Alpine Guides, points out, “Zermatt is a car-free town rich in history and one of the original Swiss mountain resort destinations.” He advises taking the Gornergrat Railway for “incredible vistas of the Matterhorn and the surrounding high alpine peaks.” In town, Zeb Blais, an IFMGA guide and founder of Blackbird Mountain Guides, notes that “there's a wealth of Swiss culinary delights on every street,” while Duncan Greenfield-Turk, chief travel designer at Global Travel Moments, recommends a stay at The Omnia for “stunning views in a prime location.”

Cameron Temple, director of The Luxury Chalet Company, emphasizes an essential addition to any Zermatt itinerary: “Visiting the mountaineers’ cemetery is a true privilege and an absolute must if you're in Zermatt. It encapsulates the awe and wonder of the Alps, showcasing the limits people pushed while conquering the Matterhorn, a legacy that endures today,” he explains.

Chamonix, France

For what Blais describes as “unmatched access to hiking, climbing, trail running, biking, and even paragliding,” Chamonix is the place to be. “Chamonix stands as the heart of alpinism and ski mountaineering in the Alps, if not globally,” Miller states. “Nestled in a deep valley flanked by French Alps that soar nearly 16,000 feet, the town epitomizes the vibrant alpine sporting culture.” When it's time to relax from adrenaline-fueled adventures, Miller recommends taking a ride on the Aiguille du Midi cable car, which transports you “to high glaciers at over 12,000 feet in just about 20 minutes.”

Innsbruck, Austria

While Innsbruck is officially classified as a city, Dinogo A-List travel advisor Gwen Kozlowski insists it embodies the essence of a classic mountain town, with some delightful extras. 'Indeed, there’s a lift that connects the heart of the town to the mountains, perfect for hiking, visiting an alpine zoo, or simply enjoying drinks with a view of the valley. But Innsbruck offers so much more,' she explains. 'It’s a cultural treasure, featuring stunning palaces, excellent shopping, and amazing local eateries. A short day trip can lead travelers to beautiful monasteries, national parks, and even a schnapps trail.'

Grindelwald, Switzerland

Switzerland is home to an abundance of stunning mountain towns, but Nadya Phelan, an expert in European destinations with Goway, highlights Grindelwald as a must-visit. 'This charming Swiss town feels like it's at the end of the road, with a train heading north and breathtaking views of ski hills and hiking trails,' she shares. During the day, Phelan recommends taking a scenic cliff walk or a leisurely hike, followed by indulging in fondue or chocolate tasting. For those seeking more spectacular mountain vistas, she suggests taking the train to the top of Jungfraujoch to stand among glaciers and towering peaks. Temple emphasizes that Grindelwald is also fantastic for families: 'The Grindelwald First cable car and adventure pass offer endless fun and are absolutely worth it.'

Keswick, England

While many visitors flock to the market town of Keswick for the stunning Derwentwater, one of the larger lakes in the Lake District, it also qualifies as a mountain town. The surrounding area boasts several peaks, including Helvellyn and Skiddaw, offering excellent opportunities for hiking and mountain biking. In spring, the Keswick Mountain Festival hosts a variety of outdoor sports events, such as swimming and trail running, along with live music and other entertainment. Regardless of the season, there’s always something to keep you engaged in Keswick.

Cortina d'Ampezzo, Italy

'Cortina d'Ampezzo is renowned for hosting the Winter Olympics, but this delightful ski town in the Italian Dolomites has much more to offer beyond its snowy slopes,' says Erin Trager-Kusman, founder of ETK Travels, affiliated with SmartFlyer. She notes that the town is 'surrounded by breathtaking hiking and biking trails,' making it a true haven for adventurers. Often referred to as the 'Queen of the Dolomites,' Cortina d'Ampezzo is also celebrated for its array of hotels and resorts. 'The newly opened Faloria hotel serves as an ideal base for exploring the region, seamlessly combining resort luxuries with the charm of a boutique alpine retreat,' she explains. Greenfield-Turk adds that his favorite is Cristallo Resort & Spa, which is currently being renovated and will reopen as a Mandarin Oriental property in summer 2025.

Krün, Germany

Nestled in the Upper Bavarian district of Garmisch-Partenkirchen, Krün is flanked by the stunning Wetterstein and Karwendel mountain ranges. The area boasts picturesque farmhouses, Baroque-style churches, cross-country ski trails, a seasonal natural ice rink, and breathtaking mountain views in every direction. Pro tip: Renting a car allows you to explore even more magnificent Bavarian Alps scenery along scenic drives.

Brixen, Italy

According to Trager-Kusman, Brixen (known as 'Bressanone' in Italian) is nestled in the heart of the Dolomites and 'enchants visitors with its breathtaking alpine vistas and a distinctive fusion of Italian and Austrian culture.' While its 'rich history and delectable cuisine' are certainly appealing, the outdoor activities—hiking, skiing, and cycling amid the stunning Dolomite backdrop—are what truly attract travelers. To wrap up your adventures, she recommends relaxing at Forestis, where the spa and outstanding dining offer a perfect conclusion to your day.

Lech, Austria

Temple characterizes Lech as “the epitome of Austria.” If you visit in winter, prepare for what he describes as “copious amounts of snow and an impressive array of skiing and snowboarding options.” Not a fan of winter sports? No worries! “Lech offers exceptional off-piste experiences, and the entire area resembles a magical winter wonderland,” he explains. For accommodations, consider starting your search at either Hotel Arlberg or Hotel Aurelio, though there are many other wonderful places to stay in town.

Braemar, Scotland

Braemar is a small Scottish village nestled in Cairngorms National Park, yet it boasts a remarkable reputation. It’s home to The Fife Arms, a luxurious five-star boutique hotel perfect for unwinding after a brisk day of hiking or fishing along the River Dee, featuring warm pubs, crackling fireplaces, and inviting guest rooms adorned with tartan, antiques, and local art. Every September, the village hosts the Braemar Gathering, a cherished Scottish event, and visitors can also explore Braemar Castle, a historical gem dating back to 1628.

Corvara, Italy

“Nestled in the breathtaking Dolomites of northern Italy, Corvara is located in the semi-autonomous region of South Tyrol, where three languages are spoken, primarily German and Ladin,” explains Miller. The unique blend of cultures, exceptional cuisine, and stunning scenery contribute to its allure, and he describes the local hiking as “difficult yet world-class.” History enthusiasts will find interest in the village’s WWI remnants, including visible ruins and trenches, while adventure seekers might consider tackling the via ferrata.

Mürren, Switzerland

Miller describes Mürren as “a quaint, unpretentious town perched on the edge of the stunning Lauterbrunnen Valley,” known for its “breathtaking views of the Jungfrau region and excellent hiking paths.” This car-free village is situated at an altitude exceeding 5,400 feet and proudly holds the title of the “highest continuously inhabited village in the canton of Bern.” Additionally, Miller sees Mürren as an ideal “launching point” for those traveling on the Jungfrau Railway, which traverses the Eiger en route to the Jungfraujoch.

Geilo, Norway

Nestled between Oslo and Bergen, Geilo is easily accessible via the Bergen line train and offers a plethora of activities to keep you entertained. Winter is especially popular in Geilo, renowned for its exceptional alpine and cross-country skiing. During the summer months, visitors can use the town as a base to explore the stunning Hallingskarvet and Hardangervidda National Parks.

Alagna Valsesia, Italy

“Alagna is a charming little town brimming with character and positive energy,” shares Blais. Nestled in the Italian Alps, this village has roots dating back to the 12th century, featuring original structures that are “treasures reflecting the area’s rich history.” As part of the Monterosa ski area, travelers can hop on a cable car for access to fantastic resort and backcountry skiing, as well as nearby towns like Gressoney-Saint-Jean and Champoluc.

Lenzerheide, Switzerland

“Lenzerheide is a true alpine haven in the Swiss Alps,” remarks Trager-Kusman. The town draws visitors year-round, offering “top-notch ski slopes in the winter and opportunities for hiking, biking, and refreshing swims in the pristine Heidsee Lake during summer.” With cozy mountain chalets and cafes, it also boasts a range of accommodations for all types of guests, including the must-visit Guarda Val, which Trager-Kusman describes as “an unmissable oasis.”