A flawless tourist destination, Switzerland possess some of the most spectacular scenery in the world. Everything can be reached quickly and easily, and even the journey to your final destination is never long and exhausting. You can enjoy the gentle landscape, discover what it means to be free in a natural setting and really enjoy the thrill of a perfect holiday. Swiss people are kind and friendly. They genuinely care about the well-being of their visitors and their environment.

Switzerland is a land of incredible variety. Picturesque medieval villages abound and the scenic lakes and rivers seem to have a special sparkle. The cities, while relatively grand, blend charm and comfortable human-scale settings. The rural scenes are perhaps the finest in the Western world.

Culture

Switzerland encompasses four cultures: French , Italian, Swiss-German and Romansh. In general, the French and Italian areas are more lively and cosmopolitan and the German area more conservative and sedate. The Romansh area is the least known and developed.

Walkers, Hikers & Trekkers

For walkers, hikers & trekkers, it is a paradise with thousands of miles of clearly marked footpaths winding through breathtaking scenery. We have explored this wonderful country for 25 years and have barely scratched the surface! Snow capped peaks and Glaciers give way to high meadows with a riot of colourful Alpine flowers and tinkling cow bells. In between are countless blue / green lakes in the deep glacially formed valleys. Towns such as Luzern and Bern are spotlessly clean and packed with places of interest.

Climate

Switzerland is particularly different in Summer and Winter. It's almost like two different countries. In the warm season, there are one set of places that are particularly fine to go sightseeing or hiking or shopping or night clubbing. When snow covers the slopes, it's time for spectacular skiing.

Places To Visit

Zurich: You're likely to enter or leave the country through Zürich. Consider at least a short stay. A great place for shopping and dining, a few good sights, a fine lake, and a good base for day trips. The five-star hotels are among the best in the world, and one or more of the smaller four-star hotels is among the best in its class you're likely ever to see

Luzern: After the mountains, Luzern's a second favorite for many. You can skim it in two hours, but it really deserves more time. And it makes an excellent base for delightful excursions nearby and beyond. Main sites in the city include the Kappelbrucke, the Lion Monument and, for many, the National Transport Museum. The marvelous lake and nearby mountains are easily reached by tram, boat or train..

Montreux/Lausanne : A good base for excursions. If you want to pause in this region, consider Glion-sur-Montreux, sitting on a cliff above the city. You'll find a very good hotel with gardens, an excellent view of the city, lake and Chillon, and a fine table. We have an extensive article from a guest correspondent that will fill you in much more fully on visiting Montreux and the surrounding area.

Geneva: A pretty city, few tourists find Geneva a worthwhile destination. (About Geneva, it has been said, "A fine place to live, but I wouldn't want to visit there.") The Tourist Office can describe an enjoyable walk around town, including the heart of the old city.