If you’re a fan of high-quality cheese and chocolate, a trip to Switzerland should be on your travel radar. Recently, I had the chance to visit Malters, a small but charming village in the Lucerne region of Switzerland. Nestled amidst the rolling hills and stunning alpine landscapes, this quaint town isn’t just known for its picturesque scenery, but also for its proximity to some of the country’s finest dairy farms and chocolate makers.
One of the first things that hit me about Malters was how welcoming the locals were and how much pride they take in producing some of the best Swiss cheese and chocolate. While most tourists flock to cities like Zurich or Geneva for their culinary delights, I was pleasantly surprised to find that Malters had its own hidden gems in terms of food, and I had to share what I discovered with anyone planning a trip to this part of Switzerland.
In this guide, I’ll take you through everything I learned about buying Swiss cheese and chocolate in Malters. From the best shops to visit, to how to choose the finest products, here’s a look at the Swiss specialties that should be at the top of your shopping list.
1. The Best Swiss Cheese in Malters: A Cheese Lover’s Dream
When it comes to cheese, Switzerland is legendary. Whether you’re into soft, creamy varieties or strong, aged wheels, the Swiss know how to craft cheese like no one else. During my trip to Malters, I had the chance to sample several different types of cheese, and the experience was nothing short of amazing.
Where to Buy Cheese in Malters
The first stop on my cheese-hunting adventure was Käserei Malters, a traditional Swiss dairy that produces some of the finest cheeses I’ve ever tasted. Located just on the outskirts of the village, Käserei Malters is a small but well-established farm that specializes in artisanal cheeses. The moment I stepped inside the shop, the aroma of freshly made cheese hit me. The variety of cheeses they had on display was impressive, from the famous Emmental to more local varieties like Luzerner Alpkäse.
One of the things I noticed at Käserei Malters was how much attention the staff paid to each product. I had the chance to chat with the cheesemaker, who walked me through the different steps involved in crafting each cheese. They use milk from local cows that graze on the lush hills around the village, which really makes a difference in the flavor.
I highly recommend getting a few wedges of Gruyère and Appenzeller cheese, both of which are iconic Swiss varieties. Gruyère has a slightly nutty, sweet taste with a firm texture, while Appenzeller is a bit more tangy, with a slightly stronger, piquant flavor. Both of these make perfect accompaniments to any Swiss meal or cheese platter.
How to Choose Swiss Cheese
If you’re not sure what to pick, there are a few things to keep in mind. Swiss cheeses can range from mild to very sharp, so think about what kind of flavors you prefer. For those new to Swiss cheese, Emmental is a great starting point. Its mild, slightly nutty flavor and iconic holes make it instantly recognizable. If you’re a fan of richer, more intense flavors, go for a piece of Tête de Moine or Sbrinz, two hard, aged varieties that pack a punch.
Another great option to try is Raclette cheese. Traditionally used in the Swiss dish of the same name, Raclette is perfect for melting and serves as a mainstay during the colder months. You can find Raclette cheese at many shops in Malters, often paired with a Raclette grill for an authentic Swiss experience at home.
Pairing Cheese with Local Wines
While you’re at Käserei Malters, be sure to ask the staff about wine pairings. Many local wines from the region go perfectly with Swiss cheese, and the staff is always happy to offer recommendations. I tried a local Chasselas, a white wine known for its crisp, refreshing taste, which paired wonderfully with a selection of cheeses. The lightness of the wine didn’t overpower the cheeses, allowing the flavors to shine through.
2. Swiss Chocolate in Malters: A Sweet Experience
No trip to Switzerland would be complete without indulging in some Swiss chocolate. Known worldwide for its quality, Swiss chocolate is a treat for both the eyes and the taste buds. Malters, being so close to Lucerne, is surrounded by some fantastic chocolate makers, and I had the opportunity to explore several of them during my stay.
Where to Buy Chocolate in Malters
For anyone with a sweet tooth, Confiserie Bachmann in Lucerne is a must-visit. Though a short drive away from Malters, the shop is worth the journey. Bachmann is a local institution, renowned for their exquisite range of chocolates and pralines. Their Truffes au Chocolat (chocolate truffles) are exceptional, and the variety of filled chocolate bars they offer is mind-blowing. The chocolate here is silky smooth, with a perfect balance between sweetness and richness.
However, Malters itself has a hidden gem in Chocolaterie Gasser, a small family-run chocolate shop that specializes in handmade Swiss chocolate. Located in the heart of the village, Chocolaterie Gasser offers a wide selection of chocolates, from milk to dark varieties, as well as unique Swiss creations. One of the standout products I tried here was their Swiss Mountain Truffle, which combined dark chocolate with a delicate touch of Swiss mountain herbs—an unexpected but delightful flavor combination.
The Art of Choosing Swiss Chocolate
When it comes to selecting Swiss chocolate, there are a few guidelines to help you choose the best of the best. The first thing to consider is the cocoa content. Swiss chocolate makers often use high-quality cocoa beans, and many brands offer chocolates with varying levels of cocoa content, from 50% to 90%. If you’re a fan of rich, intense chocolate, go for the higher cocoa percentage.
For a more indulgent treat, I suggest trying Swiss Milk Chocolate—it’s smooth, creamy, and melts in your mouth. However, don’t overlook the Swiss Dark Chocolate, which tends to have more depth and a complex flavor profile. If you’re unsure which to choose, you can always go for a selection box, which gives you a taste of multiple varieties.
Another thing to keep in mind is the fillings. Swiss chocolate comes with all kinds of delightful fillings, from traditional hazelnut praline to more adventurous flavors like Swiss caramelized pear or hazelnut marzipan. Don’t hesitate to try the flavored varieties, as they’re often made with the same attention to quality as the plain chocolate.
Swiss Chocolate and Cheese Pairing
What I discovered while exploring Malters is that Swiss cheese and chocolate are not only great on their own but can also be paired together for a truly unique tasting experience. At some of the local cheese shops, I found a few recommendations for chocolate and cheese pairings that completely blew my mind.
For example, pairing a piece of dark chocolate with a small wedge of Gruyère creates an incredible contrast between the bitterness of the chocolate and the savory, slightly nutty flavor of the cheese. If you’re feeling more adventurous, try combining milk chocolate with a slice of Raclette cheese—melting the cheese just a little bit will add a layer of creamy richness that works perfectly with the sweetness of the chocolate.
3. Exploring the Local Market
If you’re looking to explore a bit more of what Malters has to offer, the local market is a must-visit. Held on weekends, the market showcases an array of local products, from cheeses and chocolates to fresh fruits and homemade jams. It’s the perfect place to buy some local delicacies to take home as souvenirs. Many of the farmers and producers I met were passionate about their craft, and the quality of their products was unmatched.
One of my favorite finds at the market was a selection of locally produced Swiss honey, which I paired with the cheeses I had purchased earlier. The honey’s floral sweetness was a great complement to the savory flavors of the cheese, and it was an unexpected delight that I’ll definitely be bringing home.
4. Final Thoughts on Shopping in Malters
In the end, shopping in Malters for Swiss cheese and chocolate is an experience I won’t forget anytime soon. The small, charming village has access to some of the best artisanal products in Switzerland, and the passion the locals have for their craft really shines through in the quality of the items they sell. Whether you’re a cheese connoisseur or a chocolate lover, Malters offers a unique, authentic Swiss shopping experience that you won’t find anywhere else.
For anyone planning a trip to this beautiful part of Switzerland, make sure to carve out time for food shopping. The local specialties are something you won’t want to miss, and they’ll provide you with the perfect mementos of your Swiss adventure.
