Reasons To
LOVE Switzerland
Small in size but big on experiences, Switzerland is awash with fascinating sights, exhilarating activities and intriguing traditions, presented in one remarkably beautiful package. Here, we pick some of our favourites.
1 Bern’s Old Town
t A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Swiss capital’s medieval Old Town is a real beauty. Its charming lauben (covered walkways) shelter independent boutiques, little cafés and buzzing bars hidden beneath cellar doors.
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2 Scenic rail Journeys
t Part of the fun of travelling around Switzerland is the journey itself. The country’s rail routes are truly extraordinary, both as feats of engineering and for the incredible scenery they pass through.
Discover Reasons to Love Switzerland
3 Rural traditions
t From Schwingen (wrestling) to Hornussen (a combination of golf and baseball), via cowbell ringing and alphorn playing, the past is still very much a part of modern Swiss life.
Discover Reasons to Love Switzerland
4 Lake Life
t Despite being a landlocked country, Switzerland’s myriad lakes mean getting near the water is always easy. Lakeside beaches throng all summer with sunbathers and swimmers, while quiet hiking trails lead to remote alpine lagoons.
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5 Sledging in the Jungfrau
t Take an exhilarating toboggan ride in this stunning mountainous region. Top of the list is the longest run in Europe – the epic 15-km (9-mile) descent from the top of the Faulhorn to the village of Grindelwald.
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6 Fondue
t Breathe in the irresistible aroma of molten cheese. The moitié-moitié – half Gruyère, half Vacherin Fribourgeois – is best washed down with a glass of local Chasselas wine.
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7 Historic treasures
t Whether St Gallen Abbey, Bellinzona’s castles or the fairytale Château de Chillon in Montreux, Switzerland’s rugged terrain is littered with history-laden sights that rival its natural wonders for your attention.
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8 Art in Basel
t Art enthusiasts flock to Switzerland’s cultural capital for its annual artistic showpiece Art Basel, but its world-class galleries and museums are a joy all year round.
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9 World-Class skiing
t From the epic powder runs of Zermatt – the highest resort in Europe – to family-friendly slopes, Switzerland offers a remarkable choice for skiers, freeriders and snowboarders on and off-piste.
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10 Hut to Hut hiking
t Join the Swiss in their national pastime – hiking to cosy cabins across the Alps. Whether run by the Swiss Alpine Club or privately owned, each offer the camaraderie of spending the night in the mountains.
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11 Zürich’s nightlife
t The largest city in Switzerland, Zürich is a go-to place for night owls. Head to dynamic Langstrasse, a reformed red-light district, for pubs, clubs and cocktail bars.
Discover Reasons to Love Switzerland
12 Wine tasting in the Lavaux
t Blanketing the hillside above Lake Geneva, the terraced vineyards of the Lavaux are a fine place for a Swiss wine initiation. Take a stroll along the myriad wine trails, where vignerons (winegrowers) lure visitors with tastings.