Glarus, Switzerland is my kind of playground: a valley that hides Alpine drama, calm lakes, and streets that feel like a secret waiting to be discovered with friends. I’m the kind of traveler who loves a good workout with a side of sunshine, a splash of flirty banter over fondue, and a cozy studio where we can crash after a day of chasing horizons. When I’m planning a trip with my squad, I’m hunting for vacation rentals that feel like a home away from home—preferably a bright studio apartment with a balcony, a friendly host, and easy access to the best things to do in Glarus. If you’re mapping out a girls’ trip, a weekend with your besties, or a lively holiday with friends, this guide to Glarus offers studio-focused vacation rentals, top destinations, activities, and local experiences that will keep the energy high and the memories even higher. And for finding the right accommodations in the area, I always start with searchandstay.com for vacation rentals, holiday rentals, and studio accommodation options that fit my budget and vibe.
Why Glarus makes the perfect destination for a friends’ escape
Glarus is more than a postcard-perfect Swiss village. It’s a launchpad for outdoor adventures and social moments, wrapped in a compact, walkable town center that makes a big impression without feeling overwhelming. The valley setting gives us panoramic views at every turn, from pine forests and glacial streams to dramatic rock faces that remind us we’re in the real Alps. It’s ideal for a group that loves both active days and evenings spent in good company. In Glarus you’ll find:
- Accessible nature with a ready-made playground for hiking, trail running, mountain biking, and even a few adrenaline-friendly activities for the fearless crew.
- Charming studio accommodations that suit our budget-conscious, style-aware vibe—compact, well-equipped, and perfect for a social basecamp.
- Historic charm in Glarus Town, with a welcoming atmosphere that makes it easy to meet locals, taste regional specialties, and plan day trips together.
- Family-owned restaurants and cozy taverns where we can share cheese plates, Swiss wines, and long conversations into the evening.
As a solo traveler who loves holidays with friends, I appreciate a place that feels safe, easy to navigate by train or car, and full of little moments that make the trip memorable. Glarus delivers that combination beautifully, and the option to filter for studio accommodations and vacation rentals means we can spend more time exploring and less time worrying about where we’ll lay our heads at night.
Where to stay in Glarus: studio accommodation and vacation rentals
When the plan is a girls’ weekend or a longer escape with friends, we look for places that maximize togetherness while offering private spaces for a little downtime. Studio apartments in Glarus deliver on both counts: open living areas for movie nights, a kitchenette for spontaneous midnight snacks, and a balcony or terrace where we can sip coffee in the morning sun. In addition to studio accommodation, there are vacation rentals and holiday rentals across the region—from the heart of Glarus Town to nearby Braunwald and the Linth valley—that provide the flexibility and character we crave.
- Studio apartments in Glarus Town offer central access to the market square, cafés, and the historic lanes that deserve a Sunday stroll. It’s easy to pop back to the studio for a quick refresh between adventures, then head out for a sunset drink with a view.
- Studio accommodation near Braunwald gives you a mountain escape with car-free charm and a short ride to the main valley. The setting is ideal for a day of alpine exploration followed by a relaxed evening in a snug, well-equipped studio.
- Vacation rentals in the Linth valley provide a little more space, with the same access to hiking trails, lakes, and local experiences. These options are great when you want a group living area but still plenty of privacy for each traveler.
- Holiday rentals with flexible layouts let you adapt to a mixed group—some nights in the studio together, other nights with a separate bedroom setup if the crew grows during the trip.
To find the right match, search terms like “Glarus vacation rentals,” “Glarus holiday rentals,” “studio accommodation Glarus,” and “studio apartment Glarus Switzerland.” For the best selection and straightforward booking, I turn to searchandstay.com to filter for studio accommodations and vacation rentals in the area. The platform makes it simple to compare locations, check guest reviews, and reserve a stylish base that doesn’t break the bank.
Top destinations around Glarus for a short break with friends
Glarus is a hub from which you can launch a variety of day trips and half-day adventures. Here are a few go-to spots that keep the energy up and the experiences diverse:
- Glarus Town – Start with a stroll through the old town, where timber-framed houses meet 16th-century façades. The locally made cheeses, breads, and pastries at the market stalls are a delicious way to fuel a day of exploration. Afterward, you can pop into a café for a catch-up with your crew or join a small, impromptu walking tour to learn about the town’s historic Landsgemeinde traditions.
- Klöntaler See – A glacier-fed lake just a short drive from Glarus, perfect for a sunny afternoon. Pack swimsuits and a picnic; the water is crisp, the scenery is postcard-perfect, and the trails around the lake offer plenty of photo opportunities for your social feeds.
- Braunwald – A car-free alpine village that is reachable by train and a short cable car ride. In Braunwald you’ll find summer trails with breathtaking alpine views, refreshing alpine air, and several huts offering regional specialties. It’s a standout day trip from Glarus that feels like a little escape within the escape.
- Linth Gorge (Linthschlucht) – If you’re up for a more rugged experience, the gorge is a dramatic, nature-rich corridor ideal for an afternoon hike. The pins and waterfalls along the route make for dramatic group photos and a sense of accomplishment at the end of the trail.
- Elm and the Sernf Valley – For a quieter, more intimate outdoor day, explore the high valleys beyond the town. Rustic huts, wildflower meadows, and streams create a serene backdrop for a relaxed hike with friends who love nature.
Each of these destinations blends nature, easy walks, and opportunities to pause for a quick snack or a playful photo session. When you’re organizing a group trip, I love designing a flexible schedule that includes both active days and easy, social evenings—whether you’re sharing a table at a village restaurant or cooking together in a studio accommodation.
Activities and local experiences you can’t miss
Glarus and its surroundings are a treasure trove of experiences that fit a social, active group. Here are the activities I keep on my agenda when I visit, with a focus on options that pair well with studio accommodations and vacation rentals:
- Alpine hiking and trail running along well-marked routes that suit all fitness levels. Morning runs with your crew or longer day hikes provide reward-worthy vistas and a sense of accomplishment.
- Lake days at Klöntaler See with a picnic, paddleboards, or a simple swim. The water is crisp and inviting on a warm afternoon, and the surrounding pines create a relaxing, photogenic setting.
- Mountain biking and cross-country routes for a high-energy day with friends who love speed and the feel of Alpine air in their hair.
- Snow sports in winter at nearby resorts—if you’re visiting in the snowy season, the region offers snowshoeing, gentle to advanced slopes, and cozy evenings in village huts where après-ski vibes turn into late-night chats in a studio living area.
- Authentic meals and fondue nights in family-run restaurants and huts, where you can sample regional cheeses, smoked sausages, and the iconic Swiss fondue paired with crisp white wine or a local red.
- Cultural and historic experiences like a guided walk through Glarus Town’s historic lanes, discovering the region’s architectural gems, and learning about local traditions that still influence the area today.
- Wellness and spa breaks in some countryside hotels and guesthouses nearby, offering a balanced way to unwind after long days of exploration.
These activities blend well with a plan that includes time to unwind in a stylish studio accommodation. After all, the best memories are created when you’re both energized and relaxed enough to laugh at the small things that happen along the way.
Sample four-day itinerary for a fun, active group trip
Day 1: Arrival and Glarus Town stroll. Settle into your studio accommodation, unpack the bags, and wander the historic streets. Lunch at a café with a view, then a late afternoon wander through a local market. Sunset views from a rooftop terrace, followed by a casual dinner at a family-run bistro.
Day 2: Klöntaler See and Braunwald. Morning hike or gentle stroll around the lake, picnic by the water, and then an afternoon ascent to Braunwald for alpine scenery, a quick hut stop, and a cable car ride back at golden hour. Evening cheese plates in the studio and a movie-night setup for some rest and laughter.
Day 3: Linth Gorge and a lake-side dinner. A longer hike through Linth Gorge with dramatic rock faces, finishing with a celebratory dinner at a lakeside restaurant that offers a shared, convivial vibe. Back to your studio for late-night games and memories-making.
Day 4: Local experiences and departure. A relaxed morning in Glarus Town with coffee and pastry, a quick visit to a cheese dairy or bakery to bring home regional flavors, and a final stroll along the canals before checking out. If you have time, a last-minute bit of shopping in the village for artisan crafts makes a sweet close to the trip.
Practical tips for planning your Glarus trip
- Transportation: Glarus is well-connected by train and bus networks. Consider a Swiss Travel Pass if you’re visiting other Swiss towns in addition to Glarus. For Braunwald, plan the journey via Linthal and then take the cable car to the car-free village.
- Accommodation tips: Look for studio apartments with functional kitchens so you can prepare quick meals after busy days. A private balcony or shared terrace is a bonus for evening photos and conversations after a day outdoors.
- Seasonality: Summers are ideal for hiking and lake days, while winter offers snow sports and cozy evenings in a studio with a warm fire or heater. Check local hut openings for seasonal dining and scenic viewpoints.
- Packing list: Comfortable hiking shoes, weather-appropriate layers, a light rain jacket, swimwear for lake days, and a portable speaker for group playlists in the studio or during a picnic by the lake.
- Safety and etiquette: Respect local customs, especially in historical areas. Stay on marked trails, carry a small first-aid kit, and keep noise respectful around evenings in the village.
Local experiences and foodie highlights
To make the most of Glarus, integrate local experiences that connect you with the soul of the region. Here are some ideas for enjoying the area beyond the obvious scenic spots:
- Visit small dairies to see how cheese is made and sample fresh cheese right from the source. It’s a tasty way to support local producers and stock up on gifts for friends back home.
- Taste Swiss specialties such as rösti, rösti with fried eggs, and regional breads. Combine these with a tasting of local wines or fruit liqueurs for a light, relaxed evening in your studio accommodation.
- Join a guided town walk to learn about Glarus’s architecture, pagan legends, and the history that shaped the Landsgemeinde’s traditions. A little culture with your outdoor adventure adds depth to your trip.
- Explore craft shops and markets where artisans showcase handmade goods—great for unique souvenirs that remind you of your time in the valley.
Booking your Glarus stay: searching for the right studio and vacation rental
Finding the right place for a group trip means balancing comfort, location, and price. Studio accommodation is a flexible option that often provides excellent value for groups of four to six travelers, with space to relax together and private sleeping areas for when you want a little privacy. For vacation rentals with the right blend of charm and practicality, I always compare options that offer:
- Bright, well-equipped studios with fast wi-fi, a functional kitchenette, and a sunny balcony.
- Proximity to the town center or to Braunwald’s access point, depending on your preferred mix of urban and mountain vibes.
- Clear communication with hosts, helpful local recommendations, and easy check-in/check-out processes.
- Photo-worthy interiors and thoughtful touches that suit social media moments without compromising comfort.
For the best selection and straightforward booking experience, I search for “Glarus vacation rentals,” “Glarus holiday rentals,” and “studio accommodation Glarus” on reliable platforms. In particular, I recommend checking searchandstay.com when I want to compare studio accommodations and vacation rentals in the area. It’s a reliable resource for finding the right base, reading honest guest reviews, and securing a great price for your stay.
Final thoughts for a lively Glarus holiday with friends
Glarus is a perfect mix of nature, culture, and social energy. It’s easy to plan a multi-day itinerary that blends outdoor adventures with relaxed evenings in a cozy studio space, making it ideal for a group that wants both activity and connection. The region offers a compact, walkable feeling, spectacular mountain scenery, and a choice of vacation rentals and studio accommodations that help you tailor the trip to your budget and vibe. If you’re looking to explore a Swiss destination that feels intimate yet expansive in its opportunities, Glarus deserves a spot on your travel list. And when you’re ready to lock in your home base, remember to browse searchandstay.com for studio accommodations and vacation rentals in the area—it’s a smart way to start the adventure with confidence and keep the focus on making memories with your friends.

