The tradition of Swiss cheese

Among its gastronomic treasures, Swiss cheese holds a special place thanks to the quality of its milk, production techniques passed down through generations and the passion of true artisans of flavour. Let’s discover together the history, most famous varieties and best tasting experiences this corner of Europe has to offer.

A brief history of Swiss cheese

Switzerland’s cheesemaking tradition dates back over a thousand years, when monks and mountain communities began producing cheese as a way to preserve milk for longer periods. Thanks to the richness of alpine pastures, Swiss milk has always had unique qualities — the secret behind the excellence of its cheeses.

During the Middle Ages, Swiss cheese became an important trading commodity, exported to major European cities. Cheese trading expanded along the alpine routes, where merchants carried precious wheels across mountain passes to the noble courts of Europe.

Today, Switzerland boasts over 450 varieties of cheese, each with its own distinct character and flavour — a testament to the country’s remarkable gastronomic diversity. Every region has developed its own specialities, influenced by climate, geography and local culture. From cheeses made in lush alpine pastures to those crafted in fertile valleys, each one tells a story of its land and people. Many Swiss cheeses are protected by PDO (Protected Designation of Origin) status, ensuring their authenticity and quality.

The most famous Swiss cheeses

Among the many types of Swiss cheese, some have become true gastronomic icons known worldwide.

Emmental

Recognisable by its famous holes, Emmental is one of the most iconic cheeses in the world. It has a mild, slightly nutty flavour and is perfect for fondue or sandwiches.

Gruyère

With its firm texture and complex taste, Gruyère is a versatile cheese — delicious on its own or as a key ingredient in classic Swiss dishes like fondue.

Tête de Moine

This cheese stands out for both its intense flavour and its unique way of being served. It’s shaved into delicate rosettes using a girolle, which enhances its rich aroma and texture.

Vacherin Mont d’Or

Creamy and enveloping, this cheese is often enjoyed by the spoonful and pairs wonderfully with local white wines.

Appenzeller

A bold, spicy cheese whose secret lies in the blend of herbs used during its maturing process.

Sbrinz

One of Switzerland’s oldest hard cheeses, similar in style to Parmigiano Reggiano. It’s typically enjoyed grated or in thin flakes.

Formaggio d’alpeggio (alpine cheese)

Produced in high mountain dairies during the summer months, this is one of the most authentic expressions of Swiss cheesemaking tradition.

Cheese tasting experiences in Switzerland

The best way to appreciate Switzerland’s cheesemaking heritage is to take part in tasting experiences right where the cheeses are made.

1. Tastings near vineyards: certain Swiss regions, such as the Lake Geneva area or Valais, offer the opportunity to pair local cheeses with fine Swiss wines — a complete food and wine experience that showcases the true flavours of the land.
2. Visits to traditional dairies: in many alpine regions, you can visit historic dairies, watch the cheesemaking process and join guided tastings. Among the most fascinating places to visit are the Gruyères Cheese Dairy, where you can see how the world-famous Gruyère is produced, and the Emmentaler Schaukäserei, which offers an immersive journey into the world of Emmental.

Other remarkable dairies include the Appenzeller Dairy, where you can discover the secrets behind the famous spicy cheese, and the Maison de la Tête de Moine, where visitors can learn the delicate rosette-cutting technique.

Beyond these well-known names, Switzerland is dotted with small artisanal dairies, especially in regions such as Valais, Ticino and the Bernese Oberland, where authentic, high-quality cheeses are still produced and often sold directly by the cheesemakers themselves.

The charm of glamping in Switzerland

For those who want to experience Swiss traditions while staying close to nature, glamping in Switzerland is the ideal choice. Sleeping in luxury lodges surrounded by alpine meadows or in stylish tents overlooking the mountains lets you enjoy local traditions — including cheese production — in a unique, relaxing environment.

Switzerland is a dream destination for cheese lovers and food enthusiasts. With its long cheesemaking tradition, distinctive flavours and unforgettable tasting settings, it offers the perfect journey for anyone seeking authenticity and pleasure. If you want to fully immerse yourself in this culture, glamping among the Swiss mountains is the perfect way to combine comfort, flavour and nature in one extraordinary experience.