Switzerland
Switzerland is the country that looks like a screensaver but actually exists. Snow capped peaks rising above emerald green valleys. Crystal clear lakes reflecting medieval villages. Trains that wind through mountain passes, over stone viaducts, and past waterfalls so close you could reach out and touch them. It is one of the most beautiful places on Earth, and the Swiss have built a transportation system so precise and efficient that experiencing all of it is remarkably easy.
The country sits at the crossroads of four cultures: German, French, Italian, and Romansh. That diversity shows up in the food, the architecture, the language, and the atmosphere, which changes noticeably as you move from Zurich to Geneva to Lugano. Switzerland is small enough to cross by train in a few hours, but varied enough that every region feels distinct.
Where to Go
Interlaken and the Jungfrau Region are the Swiss Alps at their most dramatic. Sitting between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz, Interlaken is the adventure sports capital of Europe, with paragliding, skydiving, canyoning, and whitewater rafting all available. The train ride to Jungfraujoch, the highest railway station in Europe at 11,332 feet, passes through the heart of the Eiger and emerges into a world of glaciers and snow.
Zermatt is the car free village at the base of the Matterhorn, one of the most recognizable mountains in the world. In winter, the skiing is world class. In summer, the hiking trails offer views that are difficult to process. The Gornergrat Railway takes you to a viewpoint where you can see 29 peaks above 13,000 feet.
Lucerne is a lakeside city with a medieval old town, the famous Chapel Bridge, and easy access to Mount Pilatus and Mount Rigi. It is one of the most charming cities in Europe. Lake Geneva in the French speaking west has Montreux, Lausanne, and the Lavaux vineyard terraces, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where grapes have been cultivated since the 12th century.
Lugano in the Italian speaking south has a Mediterranean feel with palm trees, lakeside promenades, and excellent Italian food at Swiss quality standards.
Where to Stay
The Buergenstock Resort above Lake Lucerne is a stunning cliffside property with an infinity pool that seems to float above the lake. Badrutt’s Palace in St. Moritz is the legendary grand hotel that has been hosting royalty and celebrities since 1896. The Chedi Andermatt combines Swiss alpine tradition with contemporary Asian design. For something more intimate, Hotel & Spa Lenkerhof in the Bernese Oberland is a hidden gem with outstanding food and a relaxed atmosphere.
Let Us Plan Your Switzerland Trip
Switzerland is best experienced by train, and the Swiss Travel Pass makes it remarkably simple. We will help you plan a route that connects the highlights, choose between summer and winter experiences, and find the hotels and mountain excursions that match your style and budget.
