I first heard about Swiss Holiday Park from one of my Swiss friends. Every winter, he goes there with his family to unwind. The way he described the peace, the calm, and that recharged feeling! It sparked a real curiosity in me. I instantly knew I had to experience it for myself.
So I went there without further delay. I can honestly say it was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. Swiss Holiday Park has now become my favourite staycation spot in Switzerland. I got everything I expected and knew here.
But let me be honest! Not everything was perfect. There were a few things I wish I had known before going, like what to pack for the spa, or how early you need to book if you want a specific room. That’s exactly why I’m writing this guide for you.
Whether you’re a local Swiss resident like me or visiting from abroad, this article is designed to give you a complete, no-fluff guide to Swiss Holiday Park.
In this guide, I want to give you everything you need to know, not just the basics. I’ll walk you through exactly what to expect, how to get there, what to bring, and how to make the most of every minute, just like I would if we were sitting down over coffee.
Whether you’re planning a family trip, a romantic weekend, or a solo escape, this is your complete guide to Swiss Holiday Park based on real experience, not just brochures.
Where is it located?
Swiss Holiday Park is located in Morschach, Canton of Switzerland, on the shores of Lake Lucerne.
I traveled to there on the train. I took the SBB train to Switzerland and then there is the short 20-minute bus trip that leads you directly into the park.
If you drive in by private car, there is also free parking offered.
Overview of Swiss Holiday Park
If you’ve never stayed at Morschach, you’re in for something special. It’s a small, unspoilt village on the shores of Lake Lucerne, with views of the mountains that are almost surreal. And there, set into the hillside, is Swiss Holiday Park, and believe me, it’s no ordinary resort. It’s the largest summer and recreation centre in Switzerland, and yet it’s still small enough to feel welcoming, friendly, and efficient.
The thing about Swiss Holiday Park is that it is an all-around complex. It is not actually a hotel but an experience. You’ve got the wellness centres, the sports centers, the family activities, the restaurants, and the set of accommodations all within walking distance of each other. Whether you are coming as an adult couple who just want to do a spa vacation or as an extended family group with hyperactive kids, it actually has something for everybody’s travel profile.
Another thing that I just love is that once you get there, you never need to use an automobile at all. Everything is within walking distance, and the resort itself is much the same as a little village, only instead of traffic and sounds, thermal pools, skiing lifts, and bowling alleys.
Fair warning, however: because it’s so sought after, it is very crowded on school holidays, and especially so with family groups. If you do desire peace and quiet, however, do come mid-week or off-peak. I assure you, the ambiance is entirely different and for the best.
How to Get There
Getting to Swiss Holiday Park is easier than you might think, and part of the trip is a spectacular one. I’ve taken both the car and the train or bus, and really, there’s a lot to recommend each.
If you’re driving, it’s a 1.5 hours from Zurich. Weather permitting, I’d recommend the scenic route alongside Lake Lucerne. The twisting roads, towering mountains in the distance and sparkling views of the lake make it feel like the vacation begins before you even arrive. On-site there is plenty of parking (paid), and it’s well-organized. Just don’t forget to check if your hotel package includes free parking, not all do.
If you are taking public transport, they also have a fantastic location. Take the train to Brunnen, on the main Zürich–Gotthard line. From there, it’s a quick bus trip up to Morschach. The buses are timed pretty decently with train arrivals, and you’ll get a wonderful view as the bus ascends up to the resort.
Pro Tip: If you have a Swiss Travel Pass, the whole ride is covered by train, bus, and all. Just verify schedules on the SBB app before you head out.
And if you’re planning on hitting the road this winter, watch the road conditions and weather as your travel date approaches. The roads get ploughed well, but a bit of contingency never hurts, especially if snow’s in the forecast.
Accommodation Options at Swiss Holiday Park
One reason I like the Swiss Holiday Park so much is that the accommodation is so flexible. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple for a romantic weekend,or a family with three kids and a stroller, there’s an option that fits and it doesn’t feel cookie-cutter resorting either.
You can choose between:
- 3-star and 4-star hotel rooms
- Holiday apartments
- Hostel-style group rooms
- Camping & motorhome spots (in the warmer seasons)
Hotel Rooms
Hotel rooms are a good option if comfort and convenience are your main priorities. I stayed in a double room with a mountain view once, and waking up to those Alps speechless out the window is something I’ll never forget. All accommodations include daily housekeeping, breakfast (except in press packages) and direct access to the spa area.
Holiday Apartments
My favourite so far has been the holiday apartment, particularly for longer stays. We had a small kitchen, which was really great for making breakfast and easy dinners. They’re modern and spacious and are great if you want privacy or if you’re travelling with kids. You still have access to all of the resort facilities, but you have even more of a sense of it being your own place.
If you are overcharged for an item, you can yell Nein danke! as loud as you want, all the way down a Swiss mountain, and the store won’t refund your 2 Francs (true story).
Personal Tip: Take some basic groceries with you or shop at the Coop located in Brunnen before you check-in. There’s an on-site store, but it’s limited and slightly more expensive.
Hostel & Group Rooms
Affordable Queens groups and school trips. If you’re not fussy and just need a place to crash for the night, this is a reasonable option if not the quietest, especially on weekends.
Camping
And if you visit in summer and love nature, the camping area is wonderfully located. I haven’t had the experience to try it yet, but I’ve heard great things from friends who have been traveling in RVs.
Choose based on the way you travel with comfort, flexibility or a budget in mind. But whatever you choose, it’s all within walking distance from the primary resort areas.
Top Things to Do at Swiss Holiday Park
For anyone who thinks Swiss Holiday Park is all about the spa, think again. One reason I return again and again is the staggering range of things to do. Whether you’re here with your family, a romantic partner or adventuring all by your lonesome, you’ll find plenty of activities to fill your days or not do a damn thing (also acceptable!).
Wellness & Spa
First off, let’s talk about my fave – the wellness and spa area. On a hot, azure weekend, the heated outdoor pool is among the best aspects of checking in, particularly when there’s snow dusting the mountains and steam puffing up all around you. It’s like being in an Alpine mini-dream.
Inside, you’ll find a Roman-Irish thermal bath, as well as saunas, a steam room, and various whispered quiet zones. You can also book massages and beauty treatments. I had a back massage to ease the distress of a long hike and came back feeling like a new person. It’s a beautiful spa and never too crowded unless it is the weekend.
Tip: If you bring a towel and robe you can avoid rental fees, or find out if your accommodations include access to the spa.
Activities & Sports
This is where the Swiss Holiday Park excels. There are countless activities here, both indoor and outdoor, that it’s practically impossible to be bored.
And there’s bowling, billiards, climbing walls, squash courts, and a gigantic indoor play area inside. Outside, depending on the season, you can ski, snowshoe, hike, mountain bike, or even paraglide. They also feature a small rope park and a mini go-kart track, which kids could enjoy and, honestly, so could you.
One afternoon, I took a guided e-bike tour, which was amazing whizzing along paths that had vistas of Lake Lucerne and the adjacent Alps. You are one with nature here.
Note: Some activities are at an additional cost, so plan ahead and pick wisely.
Family & Kids
If you have kids, this place is heaven. I went once with my niece and nephew (5 and 8), and they didn’t want to leave. There’s a massive Aqua Park with slides, splash zones, a lazy river, and a baby pool. There is also a children’s world indoor playground, pony rides, and a small petting zoo outside.
The staff are incredible at making you and your family comfortable from baby care rooms to children’s menus in the eateries. Everything is well-thought-out and it makes traveling with littles ones so much more sane.
Bonus: There’s even childcare on offer for a couple of hours a day, so parents can soak and get a massage guilt-free.
Swiss Holiday Park is the type of place where you can as much or as little as you like. From high-energy days of play to full-on wellness, it has something for every mood and energy level, and that’s what makes it so great.
Dining at Swiss Holiday Park
One of the things I was surprised I liked so much about my first visit was the variety and quality of food. You’ll find a number of dining choices within Swiss Holiday Park, whether it’s fast and child-friendly, or a more intimate sit-down meal for any taste and budget!
There are four primary restaurants on the property:
- Restaurant Panorama – This is the fancier alternative and has beautiful views of Lake Lucerne. I had a seasonal rösti that was truly delicious. Perfect for a casual dinner or date night.
- Il Gusto – Their Italian menu is just what the doctor ordered when you’re craving pizza or pasta. It’s relaxed, festive, and very family-friendly.
- Schwiizer Stube – If you crave some classic Swiss food such as fondue or Zürcher Geschnetzeltes, this is the place to be. Cozy and rustic.
- Snack Bar Neptun – This one’s near the pool, perfect if you want to grab something to eat or drink after taking a dip.
Pro Tip: Make reservations for dinner, especially on weekends or holidays. I found out about that one the hard way when I sat down to eat 40 minutes later with a very angry stomach!
If you are staying in an apartment, you can cook your own meals. There’s a little store on-site, but I suggest stopping at a Coop or Migros in Brunnen for a larger selection and better prices.
Best Time to Visit
True, Swiss Holiday Park is a great place to visit anytime of the year and I had previously been there in summer and winter and both are equally attractive. But when is the best time to plan a visit?
If you’re a fan of colder weather, I suggest visiting between December and March. The mountain views, while snowy, are people-stoppers, and how about soaking in the warm outdoor spa while it’s snowing? Pure magic. It is also a good base for skiing or snowshoeing in the area.
For hiking, biking , and other outdoor sports, late spring through early fall (May through October) is ideal. The hiking trails in Morschach and around Lake Lucerne are beautiful, and everything is so green, fresh, and alive. And the outdoor areas, including the rope park or playgrounds, are wide open.
My tip: Stay away from the school holiday weeks if you want peace and quiet. It does get pretty busy with families, particularly in February (winter holiday) and July/August (summer break).
September is my favourite time to visit! The weather is still warm, the crowds are thinner, and the scenery is just unbeatable.
Insider Tips & Personal Advice
I’ve made a couple of trips to Swiss Holiday Park now, so I’ve learned a few things I wish I had known the first time around, so let me save you some trouble.
What to Do:
- Book ahead, especially on holidays and weekends. Rooms and spa slots can be booked up quickly.
- Unless the spa is part of your stay, bring your towel and a bathrobe, or charges can add considerably to your bill.
- Browse for package deals on their site. Some come with spa entry, half-board meals or discounts for activities, all of which will help keep costs down.
- Take the SBB app and train if you are coming from elsewhere in Switzerland, connections to Brunnen, then to Morschach by bus, are well-coordinated.
- Plan at least 2 nights. A night isn’t quite enough to enjoy it all without rushing.
What to Avoid:
- Don’t expect silence during the school holidays (it’s a very family hotel). If quietude is what you’re after, hit the trail in the middle of the week or in the shoulder seasons.
- Don’t lean too heavily on the on-site shop, it’s small and more expensive. If you’re staying in an apartment, do your shopping in Brunnen.
Personal Tip: Bring slippers! Traverse from the spa to the hotel and wellness areas in your very own snuggly pair.
By honestly planning a bit, you can stretch things a bit further. And even after you’ve figured it out, it’s one of those you’ll want to come back to, again and again.
Who Should Visit?
Swiss Holiday Park is so versatile, it has become one of my favourite weekend trips. But for what you’re in the mood for, it may be a perfect fit or just not your vibe.
Perfect For:
- Families with children – This is a family place. For kids’ pools and hours-long water slides and child care services, it’s all designed to make the wee ones happy (and the parents chill).
- Couples – The SPA and wellness parts are a fantastic romantic getaway, especially if you go mid week when it’s a lot quieter!
- Active travelers – Full of hiking, biking, skiing, and indoor activities, your dance card will be full.
- Budget-conscious travellers – With the range of places to stay on offer, there is a solution for backpackers or students to stay here on the cheap.
Not Ideal For:
- You will find those who want complete quiet and isolation – This can be a busy place at the height of season.
- Luxury seekers – Clean, comfortable, well-run, but more ‘premium family resort’ than a five-star luxury retreat.
If you’re seeking a fun, picturesque, and flexible Swiss getaway, the Swiss Holiday Park ticks off a lot of boxes. Just customize your timing to your travel style.
Is It Worth It? Final Thoughts
So why might you actually want to take the trip to Swiss Holiday Park? For me, absolutely, yes.
So it was a delightful surprise to find this little Swiss village that exudes all the relaxing, adventurous, and family-fun goodness you need, within reasonable driving distance of a capital city (without all of the commercialism or try-hard pretentiousness). I always find something new when I’m there whether it’s one of the secret hiking trails, a spa treatment I haven’t tried, or just some new way to relax. It is, by Swiss standards, affordable and does provide real value if you avail yourself of what it includes.
That said, it’s not for anyone. If you’re after ultra-luxury or absolute isolation, this may not be your scene. But if you are the kind of person who enjoys a well-rounded holiday, who enjoys independent accommodation and combines nature with wellness and activity, then this is the perfect break.
Would I go back? 100%. I already did and likely will again next year.
Ready to Plan Your Visit?
If you’re thinking of going soon, my best advice is: book early, plan ahead and don’t forget your swimsuit. And please let me know if you have any questions or want a hand planning, I’m always keen to share more personal advice.
Family vacation, romantic getaway, or just a weekend away solo, no matter what memories you’re trying to make, this place has all you need to make it happen.
Questions about planning your trip? Or perhaps you’re uncertain what season you would most enjoy? I’d love to help! Tell us via the form below, and we’ll include your response on this page. Let us together compile the ultimate guide to NYC!
Don’t just take my word for it, now is the time to start planning your visit and I promise you once you’ve been you’ll get why so many of us return time and time again.
More info: Visit the Swiss Holiday Park official website [here].
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Swiss Holiday Park family-friendly?
A: Yes! It’s one of the most family-friendly resorts in Switzerland with pools, indoor play facilities, and even child care.
Q: Is it possible to visit Swiss Holiday Park and not remain overnight?
A: Absolutely! The spa, wellness centre, and a large number of activity facilities are available to visitors not staying at the resort for the day.
Q: How much does it cost to stay at Swiss Holiday Park?
A: It depends, but budget options, including hostel rooms, can theoretically start at any low price, while hotel and apartment pricing varies by season and package.
Q: What is the free parking at Swiss Holiday Park?
A: Yes, you can park there, but you have to pay if your room deal doesn’t include it always check ahead.
Q: Can I visit Swiss Holiday Park all year round?
A: Yes, it is open year-round, with activities that vary by season, such as skiing in the winter and hiking or biking in summer.
Q: How far is Swiss Holiday Park from Zurich?
A: It’s about an hour and a half by car, or by train then bus via Brunnen.
Q: Do I need to make a reservation in advance for spa treatments?
A: Yes, particularly on the weekends or during holidays, booking ahead is highly recommended.
