Are you a cheese lover who is visiting Switzerland? Then you’ve come to the right place.
As you surely know Switzerland is renowned for producing some of the finest cheeses in the world. During your vacation in this beautiful country, there are numerous opportunities to explore and sample these exceptional cheeses. One of the best ways to do this is by visiting one of the many cheese factories in Switzerland.
Switzerland takes pride in its premium chocolates and cheeses, which are among the country’s most distinguished products.
As you journey to the cheese production facilities, you’ll be treated to breathtaking landscapes along the way. Immersing yourself in Swiss culture and learning about their products is a delightful way to enrich your trip.
La Maison du Gruyère
Nestled in the scenic southwestern region of Switzerland, not far from the northern shores of Lake Geneva, lies the enchanting medieval town of Gruyères. It is an ideal destination for a memorable day trip, but it also holds the potential for an extended stay, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in its captivating charm.
One of the must-visit attractions in Gruyères is the renowned La Maison du Gruyère, a cheese factory where the beloved Swiss cheese of the same name is produced. It is no secret that Gruyère cheese holds a special place in the hearts of the Swiss (by the way, personally also my favorite cheese, by far), surpassing other local cheeses in popularity.
Once you’ve paid your admission fee at La Maison du Gruyère, the excitement begins. A friendly staff member greets you and provides a delightful assortment of Gruyère cheese samples, accompanied by an audio guide that will accompany you throughout the captivating exhibition.
Cheese production takes place in the mornings, offering visitors the opportunity to witness the process during 2-4 sessions.
During your visit, you’ll have the opportunity to engage your senses fully. You can touch, smell, observe, and, of course, savor the various elements associated with a cheese that has been cherished since the remarkable year of 1115.
Rest assured, with over 900 years of practice under their belt, the experts at La Maison du Gruyère possess an unrivaled wealth of knowledge and expertise.
La Maison du Gruyère perfectly complements a visit to the chocolate factory Maison Cailler nearby, making for an exceptional pairing.
How to get there
La Maison du Gruyère is located just behind the train station in Gruyères.
Address: Pringy, Pl. de la Gare 3, 1663 Gruyères
Emmentaler Cheese Factory
If you were to request a child to create a depiction of Swiss cheese, the outcome would likely resemble a slice of Emmental cheese. The Emmentaler is truly an iconic cheese, famous for its large holes. Some mischievous individuals have even claimed that these holes represent the most delectable aspect of Emmental cheese. For me personally, and most of the friends I’ve talked to about it, it’s probably the least tasty swiss cheese. But the tastes are known to be different and there must be people who like it. After all, over 17,000 tons of the protected Emmentaler AOP cheese are produced each year in Switzerland.
Located in the picturesque village Affoltern i.E within the Emmental Valley, you can witness its production. As the most famous variety of Swiss cheese, Emmentaler is the focus of this show cheese dairy, where visitors can participate in cheese-making workshops alongside regular tours and tastings.
To attend a workshop, advance registration is required, which can be done via phone call or email. Tickets can be purchased at the venue after reserving your spot on the tour. Although the workshop comes at a premium cost, it includes an 8-kilo block of cheese shipped to your home address.
Experience the art of Emmental cheese-making up close and savor delicious samples at the conclusion of your tour. Enhance your visit with a stop at the factory’s own restaurant, where you can indulge in delectable fondue, making it an essential part of your visit.
By the way, the Kambly cookie factory is not too far from Affoltern either.
How to get there
The Emmental cheese factory is located in the center of the village of Affoltern im Emmental. The train ride from Bern takes just under an hour.
Address: Emmentaler Schaukäserei, Schaukäsereistrasse 6, Affoltern im Emmental
Appenzeller Cheese Factory
In eastern Switzerland, a total of 52 sites meticulously craft eleven distinct varieties of Appenzeller cheese. Astonishingly, nearly 9,000 tonnes of this delectable cheese are produced each year. Appenzeller cheese is known for its distinctive strong aroma and either fruity or nutty flavor, depending on the cheese’s age. The three primary types of Appenzeller cheese include Classic, Surchoix, and Extra.
Located in the municipality of Stein, southwest of St. Gallen, the Appenzeller Cheese Factory is a top tourist attraction in the area. Visitors from around the globe come to witness the cheese-making process firsthand.
Open 364 days a year, the factory accommodates visitors at any time, with extended hours during the summer. However, it’s important to note that the cheese-making process can be observed only until 3 PM, regardless of the season. Its proximity to Zurich makes it an ideal day trip destination from the city.
This immersive excursion offers an introduction to the array of herbs and spices that contribute to the robust flavor of Appenzeller cheese, a glimpse into their cellar housing up to 12,500 cheese wheels, and, of course, an engaging live demonstration area.
The self-guided cheese factory tour provides a glimpse into the art of cheese-making and includes delicious samples of their finest products. With adult tickets priced at 12 CHF, the tour offers excellent value as it includes both samples and gifts.
How to get there
Just 17 minutes by bus from St. Gallen, you’ll find the Appenzeller cheese dairy in Stein. Look for the building with three giant slices of cheese in front of it and a sign that says “Cheese Factory”.
Address: Appenzeller Schaukäserei AG, Dorf 711, 9063 Stein
Maison de la Tête de Moine
The name Tête de Moine, meaning “monk’s head” in English, stands out as an intriguing and somewhat peculiar appellation for a cheese. Interestingly, Tête de Moine cheese was originally crafted by monks, adding to its historical significance. However, enjoying this cheese involves a unique and specific serving method. Rather than simply purchasing a block of Tête de Moine, it is traditionally presented on a specialized plate and skillfully scraped using a special blade.
For those seeking to delve deeper into the realm of this distinctive cheese, la Maison de la Tête de Moine is the ultimate destination. This establishment encompasses a museum, a charming old-fashioned cheese factory, a delightful café, and a store. Embarking on a tour of Maison de la Tête de Moine grants you valuable insights into the cheese’s rich history, traditions, and its distinctive serving technique. Undoubtedly, this experience is well worth your time and attention.
The cheese factory itself serves as an annex to the Bellelay Abbey and operates from February to December. The most popular and affordable way to explore the factory is through a self-guided tour, facilitated by an iPad that provides informative guidance. However, if you prefer a more immersive experience, guided tours are also available, allowing you to even partake in the cheese-making process.
How to get there
This place is a bit off the beaten track. Getting there can be a bit of a challenge. But it’s still doable, thanks to Switzerland’s extensive public transportation network.
In the village of Bellelay, about an hour and a half from Bern, you’ll find la Maison de la Tête de Moine.
Address: Le Domaine 1 Bellelay, L’Auberge 154, 2713 Saicourt
Airolo Cheese Factory
The ideal time to visit the Airolo cheese factory is in the morning, between 8 AM and 12 PM, when fresh milk is delivered and the cheese-making process commences. Visitors can linger in the viewing area to observe the cheesemakers at work.
It’s hard to resist the temptation of sampling their offerings at the on-site shop or restaurant. In addition to cheese, the factory produces cream, butter, yogurt, and even ice cream. Visitors can also try their hand at making their own cheese with milk from Gottard cows. The cheese has to be left to mature for three months, after which the factory will send it to all the visitors who have a permanent address in Europe.
After indulging in these delicious treats, consider taking a leisurely walk through their museum to aid digestion and further enhance your experience.
How to get there
Airolo is located in the canton of Ticino, the sunny south of Switzerland. Getting there is a bit of a chore, but if you’re in Ticino, a quick stop at the cheese factory might be worth a detour.
Address: Caseificio dimostrativo del Gottardo SA, Via Fontana 3, 6780 Airolo
Morteratsch Alpine Cheese Factory
Easily accessible by public transport, the Morteratsch Alpine Cheese Factory is situated just minutes from the Morteratsch train station near the glacier. It is undoubtedly the premier Swiss cheese factory in the area, offering tastings and tours of the cheese production process.
The factory is unique for its continued use of traditional cheese-making methods, such as open-fire production, which has become increasingly uncommon in Switzerland. This extraordinary experience is well worth your time if you find yourself in the region.
Visitors can observe the production process twice daily, at 9 AM and 1 PM. The on-site restaurant provides an opportunity to sample local fare, and visitors can purchase cheese to take home. It is important to note that the factory operates only during the summer season, typically from mid-June to October.
How to get there
Please note that this destination is not in the immediate vicinity of Zurich or Bern. Pontresina is situated in the Engadin region, which is part of the Canton of Grisons.
To reach the cheese dairy, take the train or bus from Pontresina to Morteratsch. This could serve as an excellent side trip if you’re visiting St. Moritz or traveling from Italy.
Address: Morteratsch 4, 7504 Pontresina
Alpine Cheese Factory Marbach
The scenic Entlebuch region boasts breathtaking vistas and is home to its very own cheese dairy. Established in 1981, the business expanded in 2008 to include a modern production facility with an inviting visitors’ gallery. Owned by the Juan family, this factory pioneered buffalo mozzarella production in Switzerland.
Open all year, the Marbach factory welcomes visitors at any time. Factory tours offer a glimpse of the artisans crafting a diverse range of cheese varieties. Additionally, you can participate in cheese-making workshops and learn the rare art of making buffalo mozzarella, a unique skill in Switzerland.
How to get there
Halfway between Bern and Lucerne lies the beautiful Entlebuch region and the village of Marbach. Arrival by train at Escholzmatt and transfer to the bus for your journey to Marbach.
Address: Dorfstrasse 16, 6196 Marbach
National Dairy Museum
The National Dairy Museum in Kiesen is a hidden treasure showcasing Switzerland’s cheese production history. This modest museum showcases an authentic 1815 cheese dairy and guides visitors through the history of Emmental cheese-making. The dairy ceased production in the late 19th century and was converted into a museum in 1974. This destination offers a unique historical perspective, making it an excellent choice for those who want to learn about cheese-making without the sensory overload of a factory setting.
Open exclusively on Wednesdays and Sundays from April to October, visitors should plan their visit according to the museum’s operating hours. For group guided tours outside of these hours, advance arrangements can be made by contacting the museum.
How to get there
Kiesen is a quaint village situated in the canton of Bern and is conveniently accessible by train, taking approximately 15-20 minutes from Bern and 10 minutes from Thun.
Address: Bernstrasse 15, 3629 Kiesen
Swiss Cheese FAQ
Why is Switzerland considered the cheese capital of the world?
Switzerland’s reputation as the cheese capital of the world stems from the integral role cheese plays in Swiss cuisine. Iconic Swiss dishes such as raclette, fondue, and various renditions of rosti all prominently feature cheese, making it indispensable in Swiss culinary culture. Moreover, Switzerland boasts a vast array of cheese varieties—over 450, to be precise.
What makes Swiss cheese unique and different from other cheeses?
Swiss cheese is distinct due to the traditional cheese-making processes and techniques passed down through generations contributing to the unique characteristics of it. Additionally, the milk from cows grazing on Alpine pastures, rich in diverse flora, imparts distinct flavors to the cheese. Finally, the maturation process, which often takes place in specialized cellars or caves, adds to the unique flavor profiles of Swiss cheeses.
What is the most popular cheese in Switzerland?
Gruyère cheese enjoys the most popularity among Swiss locals due to its mild flavor and versatility. Ideal for fondue, Gruyère complements other ingredients without overpowering them. Although Emmental cheese is the best-known Swiss cheese variety worldwide, it is less favored by locals compared to Gruyère.
Do Swiss people consume a lot of cheese?
Cheese is indeed a staple in Swiss cuisine, with the average Swiss person consuming approximately 22 kg per year. Although this is a significant amount, Switzerland is not the world leader in per capita cheese consumption. The neighboring country, renowned for its own “Fromage,” claims that title.
Which cheese factory is closest to Zurich?
The Appenzeller Schaukäserei in Stein, Appenzell, is the nearest cheese factory to Zurich, situated approximately an hour’s drive away.
How many cheese factories are there in Switzerland?
Switzerland is home to over 600 cheese dairies, ranging from large-scale operations like Le Gruyère AOP, Emmentaler AOP, and Appenzeller, to smaller mountain dairies that produce regional Bergkäse, which hikers may encounter during their treks.
Final Thoughts about Cheese Factories in Switzerland
In conclusion, Switzerland boasts a rich cheese-making heritage and offers a diverse range of opportunities for visitors to explore its renowned cheese factories and dairies. From the popular Appenzeller and Emmental varieties to the traditional methods employed at the Morteratsch Alpine Cheese Factory, there is something for every cheese enthusiast to enjoy.
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For history buffs, the National Dairy Museum in Kiesen provides a unique look into the evolution of cheese production. Those interested in hands-on experiences can participate in cheese-making workshops or observe the process at the Engelberg and Airolo cheese dairies. Additionally, visitors can indulge in delectable Swiss cuisine at on-site restaurants and bring home local cheeses as souvenirs.
Whether visiting the more accessible dairies near Zurich and Bern or venturing further into the picturesque Engadin region, Switzerland offers unforgettable cheese-related experiences set amidst stunning landscapes. So, plan your visit during the optimal seasons, and embark on a delightful cheese adventure that will leave a lasting impression.
