For the traveler who craves dramatic alpine scenery, easygoing charm, and a dash of playful energy, Glarus Süd in the canton of Glarus, Switzerland, checks all the boxes. It’s the kind of place where morning light over pine forests slides across wide balconies of penthouse spaces, where a group of friends can chase sunrise hikes, and where evenings unfold with good food, great company, and a sense of adventure that keeps the trip moving. When you’re planning a getaway with friends, this region delivers the perfect mix of vacation rentals and holiday rentals, from high-end penthouse accommodation with panoramic mountain views to cozy Alpine retreats tucked into the hills. If you’re searching for a destination that proves that Switzerland isn’t all postcard-perfect crowds, Glarus Süd will have you booking again before you’ve even unpacked.
Why Glarus Süd, Glarus, Switzerland is a standout destination
Glarus Süd sits in the southern portion of the Glarus canton, offering a gateway to the Alps with valleys that sparkle after a fresh snowfall and meadows that glow golden during long summer evenings. The landscape is big, but the pace can be relaxed—perfect for a group getaway where you want both adventure and downtime. The town of Glarus nearby adds a dash of culture and history, including charming streets lined with traditional Swiss architecture, local bakeries, and markets that hum with friendly chatter. Whether you arrive by train or car, you’ll feel the Swiss hospitality as soon as you cross the threshold of a vacation rental or holiday rental designed to accommodate friends traveling together.
In Glarus Süd, you’ll find a variety of accommodation destinations to suit every vibe. If you’re chasing a chic weekend with friends, a penthouse accommodation with floor-to-ceiling windows and a balcony that looks out over the valley makes a spectacular base. For those who want a more intimate morning routine, a well-appointed apartment or chalet can offer a cozy, convivial setting to share breakfast pastries and plan the day’s adventures. The region’s vacation rentals are well suited to groups and families, with plenty of space to spread out, cook together, and still feel like you’re staying somewhere special rather than just a hotel.
Activities and local experiences you can’t miss
One of the big draws of Glarus Süd is the sheer variety of experiences accessible from your base, many of them day-trip friendly from a stylish penthouse or a welcoming holiday rental. Here’s a taste of what to incorporate into your itinerary:
- Hiking and mountaineering — The hills and valleys around Braunwald and Linthal offer trails for all levels. Start with an easy lakeside stroll beside a sparkling stream, then ramp up to higher plateaus where alpine flowers bloom in waves and the air tastes like clean pine. If you’re up for a challenge, tackle a day hike toward the ridges that overlook the Linth valley and reward yourselves with a sunset view you’ll remember for years.
- Braunwald day trip — Braunwald is a car-free alpine resort reachable by funicular, and it’s a delight for groups. In summer you’ll find alpine meadows dotted with cows and bright wildflowers; in winter, it’s a snowscape playground for cross-country skiing and toboggan runs. After a day on the trails, retreat to a sunny terrace at your penthouse or a mountain restaurant for a tasting of local cheeses and seasonal specialties.
- Scenic lakes and water activities — Klöntalersee, a pristine alpine lake framed by rugged peaks, makes a perfect backdrop for a picnic, a paddle, or a candid photo session with friends. Even if you’re not renting a boat, the shoreline is a magical place to unwind, chat, and soak up the views. For a low-key afternoon, choose a lakeside perch, sip something refreshing, and let the water’s hush set the mood for your crew’s conversations.
- Sunrise views and sunset cocktails — The way light spills over a balcony in a penthouse or a high-floor holiday rental is a small luxury in itself. Start the day with a coffee on the terrace as fog lifts off the valley, then gather for a sunset toast as the mountains glow pink and orange. It’s a simple ritual that makes the transition from daytime exploration to evening relaxation feel like a ritual you designed.
- Local gastronomy and markets — Traverse small towns in the Glarus region to sample traditional Swiss dishes, from fresh bakery items to hearty regional specialties. Weekends bring markets where you can pick up local cheeses, cured meats, and seasonal produce to enjoy back at your vacation rental. Pair your feast with a bottle of Swiss wine or a local beer as laughter fills the dining space.
- Day trips from Glarus Süd — If your group wants to widen the loop, you’re still within easy reach of the broader Glarus area and neighboring regions. A short drive or train ride can open up additional trails, charming villages, and cultural stops, all with the comfort of returning to your penthouse or rental at night ready for a second day of discovery.
The beauty here isn’t just the landscapes; it’s the energy you feel when you’re traveling with friends, moving between active days and relaxing evenings. It’s a place that invites you to be social, to try new trails, to share a laugh on a sunlit balcony, and to remember that some of the best moments happen when you’re not rushing from site to site but savoring the company you came with.
Where to stay: penthouse and other vacation rentals in Glarus Süd
Accommodations in Glarus Süd range from contemporary penthouse suites with sweeping views to intimate chalets tucked into the hillside. If you’re planning a celebration or a slow, indulgent escape, a penthouse accommodation offers space, comfort, and a dash of luxury—think expansive living areas, a dining space perfect for group meals, and a balcony that becomes an extra room during golden hour. A modern penthouse often features:
- Open-plan living areas with floor-to-ceiling windows that frame the Alps
- Private or semi-private balconies with seating for sunset chats
- Fully equipped kitchens and dining spaces ideal for hosting a group meal
- Spacious bedrooms with plush bedding and ample storage
- Smart home features and reliable Wi-Fi for streaming and planning your day
- Easy access to hiking trails, city centers, and local markets
But not every night needs to be a penthouse night. The region also hosts a variety of vacation rentals that capture the same sense of place—cosy chalets with wood-panelled interiors, balconies that face sunlit mornings, and living spaces designed for socializing after a big day outdoors. The best part is that these accommodations are typically designed with groups in mind, offering multiple bedrooms, ample bathrooms, and common spaces where conversation can flow as freely as the mountain air.
When you’re choosing between penthouse accommodation and other vacation rentals in Glarus Süd, consider how you’ll spend your time. If you’ll be up early and out late, a penthouse with generous windows, heated floors, and a central location gives you the flexibility to come and go with ease. If your group prefers a cosy, close-knit vibe with a kitchen where everyone can pitch in, a larger chalet or apartment might be the better fit. Either way, you’ll be in a place designed to make a group feel at home while still feeling like you’re on a real Swiss holiday.
Sample 3-day itinerary for a friends’ escape in Glarus Süd
Day 1: Arrival and acclimation. Check into your penthouse or vacation rental, unpack, and toast the view from the balcony. Spend the afternoon exploring the town of Glarus, stopping for coffee and a pastry, then head back to your accommodation for a sunset welcome with light bites. Evening: a casual dinner at a local restaurant or a potluck in your rental, followed by stargazing from the terrace.
Day 2: Alpine adventures. Take a morning cable car or a scenic hike to a higher vantage point. Pack a picnic to enjoy on a lookout ridge. In the afternoon, return to Braunwald for a more relaxed pace—perhaps a spa moment in a resort café or a late afternoon walk along a lake. Sunset drinks on the penthouse balcony, followed by a recipe night where everyone contributes a Swiss dish they love.
Day 3: Local culture and farewell. Visit a nearby market for fresh produce and cheeses, then spend the day exploring more trails or a gentle boat ride if the weather allows. Close the trip with a celebratory dinner in a cozy restaurant, sharing photos and memories from the trip, and planning the next adventure in Glarus Süd.
Practical planning tips for your trip
Seasonality matters in Glarus Süd. Summer brings long days, vivid wildflowers, and peak hiking; autumn carries cooler air and magical light; winter unveils snow-draped landscapes perfect for cross-country skiing and cozy evenings. When you’re choosing vacation rentals or a penthouse, consider:
- Proximity to trails and cable cars — easy access can save precious time during a busy day of activities.
- Balcony or terrace size for pre-dinner chats and sunrise coffees.
- Kitchen size and equipment if your group enjoys cooking together.
- Wi-Fi reliability for streaming playlists, navigation, and sharing day-by-day plans with the group.
- Availability of parking if you’re arriving by car, especially with a larger group.
Booking tip: in peak seasons, penthouse accommodations and holiday rentals in Glarus Süd tend to book quickly. If you’re aiming for a specific view or a particular layout, it’s wise to secure your dates several months in advance. Consider a few flexible dates to score a better rate while still enjoying the same incredible landscapes and activities.
Where to find accommodations in the area
When you’re ready to search for the perfect place to stay in Glarus Süd, Glarus, Switzerland, a smart choice is to use a dedicated platform that curates vacation rentals and holiday rentals suited to groups. For a streamlined search and a curated collection of penthouse options and other accommodations, visit searchandstay.com. The site focuses on finding the right place for your travel style, helping you compare penthouse features, guest reviews, and location details so you can reserve with confidence. Whether you’re drawn to a chic city-edge penthouse with a balcony that frames the Alps or a sunny family-friendly apartment closer to the town center, searchandstay.com makes it simpler to locate accommodations in the Glarus Süd area that meet your needs.
As you plan your trip, remember that Glarus Süd isn’t just about the scenery—it’s about the experiences you share with friends. The combination of outdoor escapades, cozy evenings, and the convenience of well-designed vacation rentals makes it a destination you’ll want to revisit. Whether you’re dreaming of a glam penthouse with a dramatic panorama or a warmly styled apartment where your crew can spread out and relax after a day of Alpine adventures, you’ll find options in Glarus Süd that fit your vacation rental desires and your budget.
In addition to the obvious draws of hiking, lakes, and alpine villages, the region offers a relaxed pace ideal for holidays with friends. Swap stories over Swiss chocolate and espresso, plan the next day’s route while perched on a balcony, and let the crisp mountain air sharpen your sense of adventure. The charm of Glarus Süd lies not only in its towering peaks but in how easily you can turn a few days into a lasting memory—one where every sunrise over the valley is a promise of more to explore, and every sunset on the terrace becomes a final, perfect moment of your Swiss escape.
So pack light, bring a sense of curiosity, and let the Swiss Alps in Glarus Süd welcome you with open arms. From vacation rentals that accommodate large groups to penthouse suites designed for spectacular views and shared laughter, this region offers a hospitality-forward experience you’ll want to repeat. With easy access from Glarus, a handful of charming villages, and a calendar full of outdoor activities and cultural discoveries, your next holiday with friends could start right here in Glarus Süd, Switzerland.