In a region known for beauty and exclusivity, the Alpenblick Gstaad Foundation is pursuing a different ambition. Its president, Nathanael Perreten, speaks about affordable housing, accessible holidays and why social responsibility is becoming one of the most decisive issues for the future of Saanenland.

A double social responsibility
When Nathanael Perreten first stepped onto the grounds of the former Alpenblick holiday home, the project was not yet defined in figures or architectural plans. What struck him instead was the atmosphere. “I was overwhelmed by the place’s beauty and potential,” he recalls. “That moment became the starting point for a project with a clear social vision: Alpenblick should become a place that offers people a home, encouragement and new perspectives.” From the beginning, Alpenblick was conceived around two closely linked pilla rs: affordable housing for local residents and two buildings dedicated to holidays and educational stays. For Perreten, combining the two was essential.

“Affordable housing is one of the most pressing challenges in tourist regions like ours,” he explains. “As a region, we must offer people security and a chance to stay. At the same time, the holiday and education centre creates a space for rest, inspiration and exchange: for clubs, groups and also for people who are going through difficult phases in life.”

It’s not about luxury, but hope
A central aspect of the project is making holidays accessible to families who are financially or emotionally stretched – a concept rarely associated with Gstaad. Yet for Perreten, the social value is clear.

“Recreation should not be a luxury,” he says. “Families under pressure particularly need time when they can simply be together, without daily worries or expectations. We hope that time spent at Alpenblick will have a lasting effect, strengthening relationships and giving people new energy.”

Positioning such a project in Gstaad is a conscious statement.
“Gstaad stands for excellence and beauty,” Perreten says. “But that should not be exclusive. People with fewer resources also have the right to experience the extraordinary nature of the Saanenland, to rest, recharge and to feel part of a community. This is not a contradiction to the region; it is an addition that makes it more approachable and open.”

Turning this vision into reality, however, requires perseverance. Fundraising remains one of the greatest challenges.
“There is the vision on one side and reality on the other,” Perreten admits. “Seven million Swiss francs is a significant sum. Especially at this stage, without planning permission and without something tangible to show, it takes patience to keep explaining why this project matters.”
While many local craftsmen and businesses have already pledged support, the path ahead remains demanding.

“We were aware of the scale and financial implications from the outset,” Perreten says. “What drives us is the conviction that we are on the right track. Now it’s about professionalism, persistence and building confidence step by step.” He is keen to emphasise that social projects do not depend solely on major donors. Smaller, tax-deductible contributions also form an important part of the foundation’s funding.
“Of course, large contributions are important,” he acknowledges. “But many small donations mean many people saying: ‘This is important to us.’ That shared sense of responsibility is incredibly valuable.”
Beyond the immediate housing shortage, Perreten sees Alpenblick as addressing a much deeper issue.

“Affordable housing represents the future,” he says. “It allows people to stay, to put down roots, to start families and to take responsibility. Without it, a region loses not only people, but also diversity, engagement and identity.”

If projects like Alpenblick fail to materialise, the consequences would extend far beyond the property market. “The shortage of skilled workers would worsen,” Perreten warns. “But even more critically, the social fabric of the valley the clubs, schools, community life would be weakened.”

Despite the long timelines, Perreten remains motivated.
“When I think about what Alpenblick will make possible, it gives me energy,” he says. “A place where people feel supported, because they’ve found a home, or because they’ve been able to step away from everyday pressures and recharge.”

For Nathanael Perreten, Alpenblick is ultimately about safeguarding the future of the Saanenland through responsibility, belonging, and the conviction that a strong region leaves no one behind.

JEANETTE WICHMANN

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Read more about the project in this GstaadLife article - A Heartfelt Project