Switzerland mountains in winter. The best ski resorts in Switzerland, prices. View mountains in Switzerland
Switzerland is a country of interest to travelers from various countries.
On the territory of this amazing country there are numerous resorts where all conditions for winter and summer recreation are created. Winter holidays in Switzerland are very popular, and it consists of winter sports. A variety of tours attract with a rich program and include interesting and exciting entertainment. It's no surprise that Switzerland is one of the most popular ski destinations.
Winter holidays in Switzerland are suitable for people of all ages; ski resorts will be interesting for both adults and children.
A classic tour that includes travel on the famous Glacier Express through the Alps. The train journey takes about 7.5 hours. During this time, the train crosses 291 bridges, passes through 91 tunnels and rises to a height of 2033 m. During the trip, stunning views of natural landscapes open up. The price of the tour starts from 600 francs and depends on the route, the number of passengers, the date of booking, the room where you will be staying and some other factors.
Winter holidays in Switzerland can be different. So choosing another tour, which is suitable for those who have only a few days to rest. An excellent option would be a 5-day vacation, including a visit to two cities at once - Interlaken and Lucerne. An exciting unaccompanied excursion through the mountains will give you an unforgettable experience. Tourists spend the first 2 nights in the city of Interlaken, and then 2 days in Lucerne with a trip to Mount Pilatus. In addition, during your visit to Lucerne there will be time to explore the sights of the city. This tour involves accommodation in three-star hotels located in city centers. Hotel rooms are equipped with everything necessary, in particular shower, toilet, TV, radio, telephone.
In addition to ski resorts, thermal resorts in Switzerland are in demand, where you can have a pleasant and healthy vacation, enjoying the amazing mountain scenery while simultaneously being in pools with hot water right in the open air. Such a winter holiday in Switzerland is accompanied by skiing and snowboarding along the mountain slopes located on the territory of the resorts. There are ski slopes.
During the winter season in Switzerland you can have a great time skiing or snowboarding. Another exciting activity is paragliding, which will be a real delight for adventure and thrill seekers. Paragliding is possible on skis or snowboards. Beginners fly accompanied by an instructor. The flight lasts from 15 to 20 minutes, at different altitudes. Winter holidays in Switzerland in the form of paragliding are popular from December to April. A suitable place for this sport is Belalp. In addition, you can appreciate the beauty of the snow-capped mountains by taking a hot air balloon flight.
Ski resorts in Switzerland have several types of slopes, including toboggan runs. This entertainment will give you an unforgettable experience; sledding is no less interesting than skiing and a very popular winter holiday in Switzerland.
Another fun way to diversify your winter holiday in Switzerland is to stay in an igloo village. Depending on preferences and capabilities, igloos are offered in different price categories. Igloos designed for more than 4 people are perfect for relaxing with the whole family or company. Some ice and snow rooms include Jacuzzis and hot water baths. Special feelings arise while being in a jacuzzi located in the open air. At night, those who wish can go snowshoeing. Guests are offered hot dishes and mulled wine. The beds are made of ice, and people sleep on warm sheepskins. For young and married couples, there are special romantic igloos with carved walls depicting pretty patterns, swans, and dolphins. Therefore, a winter holiday in Switzerland can be romantic
Popular ski resorts in Switzerland
- Davos
- Zermatt
- Crans Montana
- Verbier
- Adelboden
- Grindelwald
- Gstaad
- Champery is a resort located high in the mountains.
- Arosa is a small ski resort for families.
- Villars
- St. Moritz
One of the most influential banking centers, one of the most prosperous countries in the world, owner of the best European ski resorts, Switzerland is a small state in Western Europe, located in the heart of the Alps. Find out on the Tour Calendar why the most favorable time to visit this mountainous country is considered to be from December to February and from May to September.
Tourist season in Switzerland
An impeccable ecological situation, breathtaking natural landscapes and the best ski resorts in Europe are not all the reasons for such a high tourist popularity of Switzerland, which annually attracts 10 million people. It is impossible to imagine Switzerland without Geneva and Zurich, where priceless artistic, musical and architectural treasures of Europe are stored, without first-class hotels with well-trained service, without a high level of medical care and excellent balneological centers, as well as regular summits and congresses of the highest level. In fact, everyone experiences Switzerland differently. A millionaire associates it with comfort, reliability and respectability, while a common man associates it with the pristine beauty of nature and the prim restraint of the population. Due to the favorable climate, holidays in the country are relevant throughout the whole year.
High season in Switzerland
First of all, Switzerland is a leading winter holiday destination, so the lion's share of tourist flow into the country occurs at the height of the ski season from December to early March. This period coincides with the New Year and Christmas time. Pre-holiday bustle reigns everywhere, and a sense of magic is in the air. Travelers equally go to both large cities and ski resorts. Fortunately, the latter are in complete order with apre-ski. It's no secret that a holiday in Switzerland is suitable for the rich, or at least for people who are not very strapped for money. So, in winter, even some of them may be shocked by the astronomical costs for accommodation and the average bill in a restaurant. In general, saving money in Switzerland is a sign of bad taste. Another high season period in the country is the summer peak months, which are very popular for excursion tourism. Of course, in terms of the number of tourists it is slightly inferior to winter, but in large cities there is no shortage of foreigners. There is also quite a decent demand for recreation “in the lap of nature” - at lake or thermal resorts. And this, of course, is immediately reflected in the pricing policy of hoteliers.
Low season in Switzerland
The low holiday season in Switzerland occurs in late autumn and early spring (with the exception of Easter week). Many ski centers are closed, but resort towns continue to receive tourists as before. The weather is not entirely friendly, but there is no crowding, and travel agencies make good deals on travel packages. As for independent travel, the choice of accommodation will be a determining factor in pricing. You can't count on big discounts from hoteliers in major Swiss cities. The demand there is always great, because the off-season period is typical only for tourism, but in the business world it is the most active time. It often becomes more profitable to book hotels from travel agencies that buy rooms in advance at attractive prices, rather than on various booking platforms. But here you need to look at the situation. It would also be a good idea to keep an eye on ticket specials, which are often offered by some airlines at this time.
Best time for excursions
Switzerland is the charm of old cities, the splendor of over 1000 castles, an abundance of museums and galleries, as well as winding trails along charming alpine meadows. Switzerland is a real paradise for the adventure seeker: mountaineering, paragliding, canoeing and much more. When talking about this country, one often has to use the word “most”, since it is here that the “world’s most terrible bridge”, “the world’s largest lake”, “the world’s largest ice grotto” and many other “most himself." When is the best time to plan to explore the country? It must be admitted that at the height of summer there are quite a lot of tourists in Switzerland, so if you have the opportunity to reschedule your vacation to another date, we advise you to take advantage of it. April, May and June are excellent times for city sightseeing tours; in September and October you can safely go to mountain passes (often they are still covered with snow until mid-June). You can travel to the south of Switzerland, abounding in subtropical vegetation, even in late autumn due to the mild climate throughout the year.
Beach season in Switzerland
One of the popular holiday destinations in Switzerland is relaxation on the country's numerous lakes, despite the fact that most of them are of glacial origin. Lakeside beaches, like ski resorts, are equipped at the highest level. The beach season on Lake Geneva lasts from mid-July to August. And on Lake Lugansk and Lake Maggiore on the border with Italy they begin to swim in early June. Here, at the height of summer, the water warms up to +26 °C. Thanks to the subtropical climate uncharacteristic for the country and protection from the winds by the high mountain slopes, sunbathing in the south of the country is possible even in September-October. By the way, rest on Swiss reservoirs is unlikely to be passive. Activities such as yachting, windsurfing, golf, etc. are available here.
Ski season in Switzerland
Switzerland boasts the most respectable ski resorts in the world and the best ski schools for both adults and children. Holidays in the Swiss Alps are considered truly elite, so don't be surprised if you have to share the piste with some famous top model or popular pop star. This is common practice here. The mass opening of the ski season begins a week before Christmas, although a number of ski resorts welcome their guests already in the last days of November. The season closes in mid-March - mid-April. However, some high-altitude stations and several ski centers on Alpine glaciers operate until the summer. Cultural life in Swiss resorts is in full swing. In addition to interesting show programs offered by local restaurants and entertainment venues, the season is always marked by interesting competitions and celebrations. For example, in mid-January the “Snow Sculpture Festival” is held in Grindelwald, and the international curling championship “Bull-Trophy” is expected in the same month. And in Zermatt in April, many world pop stars flock to the three-day music festival “Zermatt Unplugged”.
Wellness season
Switzerland is experiencing growth in its wellness tourism sector. The Swiss are the healthiest nation in the world; it is not without reason that millions of tourists choose their country, annually visiting numerous balneological resorts. Absolutely every thermal complex has baths with hot water from healing springs, a hammam, a gym, a water park, medical offices and entertainment industry establishments. As a rule, such thermal complexes operate on the basis of hotels located in the most secluded corners of the country, on the shores of picturesque lakes or surrounded by Alpine mountains. They operate all year round, but the best time to visit them is the second half of spring, early summer and early autumn. Wellness centers at ski resorts are, of course, in great demand in the winter.
It's time for holidays and festivals
The Swiss holiday calendar easily extends throughout the year. The most significant state and religious dates include: December 6 - St. Nicholas, December 25 - Catholic Christmas, December 26 - St. Stephen, December 31st - St. Sylvester or New Year, January 2 - St. Berthold, end of March - beginning of May - Easter, August 1 - Confederation Day or Swiss National Day, August 15 - Assumption of the Virgin Mary, November 1 - All Saints Day. It is impossible to imagine Switzerland without rich folklore traditions, ritual festivals and alpine celebrations. However, as a rule, each canton has its own - this is due to the multinationality of the country. Therefore, unfortunately, it will not be possible to mention them all. But we will still try to list the largest ones. In mid-February - early March, a real carnival madness called “Fasnacht” takes place in Basel. The holiday opens on the Monday after Ash Wednesday and consists of a large costume procession accompanied by a musical orchestra. The Swiss capital also follows carnival traditions. Only the carnival in Bern begins not on Monday, but on Thursday, immediately after Ash Wednesday. Its main symbol is the Bernese bear, which opens the holiday. The culmination of the fun takes place on Saturday, on this day a grand parade is organized, and in the evening the audience is treated to a luxurious theatrical performance and a gala concert. The third Monday in April in Zurich hosts the traditional spring festival “Six Rings”, which marks the welcome of spring. The apogee of the celebration is the public burning of a straw effigy. Summer is the time of festivals. So, in the first days of July, tens of thousands of people flock to Montreux to enjoy jazz music at the Montreux Jazz Festival; a little later, the mountain resort of Verbier delights the ears of its visitors with works of classical music for two weeks.
Climate in Switzerland
In general, we can say that Switzerland is dominated by a continental type of climate. However, different regions are characterized by large amplitudes of temperature fluctuations. The higher the altitude, the colder the weather and the higher the humidity level. The northwestern and central parts of the country are influenced by the Atlantic; in the east, the alpine climate subtype prevails in the mountains, and in the south, on the border with Italy, the subtropical Mediterranean climate prevails. Winters in Switzerland are quite cold and snowy, while summers are warm and rainy.
Switzerland in spring
The beginning of spring in Switzerland is marked by a slight increase in average daily temperatures. In the lowlands the thermometer reaches +8 °C..+9 °C. Geneva and Zurich are warmest, while central Bern is a couple of degrees cooler. It is still frosty in the mountains, but most resorts record above-zero temperatures at the height of the day. March is a rather capricious month. Already in the first days of March, young grass appears in the southern regions, but it is possible that after some time this part of the country will be covered by a cold wave. The April weather picture is strikingly different from March, especially in the west and south of the country. The active flowering season begins here. Magnolias, camellias and tulips bloom in open ground. At midday, the air sometimes warms up to +14 °C. It is also warm in Bern - at least +13 °C. This month there is an increased chance of rain, so don't forget to take an umbrella with you. But in the mountains there is still snow, spring has not yet arrived here. May heralds the fast approach of summer. It marks the start of an active excursion season: the sun wins back more and more hours from inclement weather, daylight hours become gradually longer, and there is no longer any need to wrap yourself up in the usual winter clothes. If you go to Zurich, you will expect at least +19 °C, a little more restrained in Bern - about +17 °C. Most ski resorts have already completed the next season, but there are also those where the snow continues to remain confident. For example, in Zermatt. Eternal ice reigns here.
Temperature and weather in Switzerland in spring
| Weather in March | Weather in April | Weather in May | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Berne | +8 | +12 | +16 |
| Geneva | +10 | +14 | +18 |
| Interlaken | +9 | +13 | +17 |
| Zurich | +11 | +15 | +20 |
| Lausanne | +8 | +13 | +17 |
| Lugano | +8 | +12 | +16 |
| Zermatt | +10 | +15 | +18 |
| Basel | +10 | +15 | +18 |
Switzerland in summer
Summer is a fairly wet season in the Swiss valleys, but it is warm. The average air temperature for the season in the north in the central regions ranges from +19 °C to +24 °C during the day, and from 11 °C to 14 °C at night. In the south of the country the weather is somewhat hotter. On some days the thermometer can reach +28 °C..+32 °C, but such temperatures are surprisingly easy to bear. As evening approaches, the air cools down sharply, so it would be a good idea to take a light jacket with you. In July, there is an active swimming season on many lakes in the country. The coolest water is on Lake Geneva, its maximum temperature is about +20 °C. Lake Zurich is slightly warmer - from +22 °C to +23 °C. And in Lugansk there is a real beach paradise, here the water can warm up to +26 °C! Summer in the foothills is ideal for enjoying alpine nature. During the day it is not so cold - +15 °C..+17 °C. And at an altitude of over 2000 m - within +5 °C..+10 °C.
Temperature and weather in Switzerland in summer
| Weather in June | Weather in July | Weather in August | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Berne | +20 | +22 | +21 |
| Geneva | +22 | +26 | +25 |
| Interlaken | +20 | +24 | +23 |
| Zurich | +21 | +24 | +23 |
| Lausanne | +21 | +24 | +22 |
| Lugano | +20 | +23 | +22 |
| Zermatt | +22 | +24 | +23 |
| Basel | +22 | +24 | +23 |
Switzerland in autumn
In September you can already feel the light breath of autumn, but the overall climatic background of the country is quite pleasant. This is especially true in the southern cities of Switzerland. The sun shines for at least 6 hours a day, the heat recedes, and comfortable warm weather sets in instead. This month there is significantly less rainfall here than in the summer season. Although in the central regions it rains quite often. In the mountains, the first snow may fall at the end of September. In October, autumn comes into its own in Switzerland: the air cools down sharply and gusty winds begin to blow. Despite rare rains, the weather is often cloudy. Light frosts are possible at night. In the Alps, negative temperatures are already dominant, and sometimes snowfalls occur. November is not the best time to vacation in the country. The cities are quite uncomfortable: damp, cloudy and windy. Despite above-zero temperatures, short-term frosts are possible. It starts to get dark early, so the main tourist crowd spends their evenings in bars or restaurants. Ski resorts are much more fun. There, by the end of the month, the ski season opens, and instead of dirty slush, there is fluffy white snow under your feet.
Switzerland is a country of interest to travelers from various countries.
On the territory of this amazing country there are numerous resorts where all conditions for winter and summer recreation are created. Winter holidays in Switzerland are very popular, and it consists of winter sports. A variety of tours attract with a rich program and include interesting and exciting entertainment. It's no surprise that Switzerland is one of the most popular ski destinations.
Winter holidays in Switzerland are suitable for people of all ages; ski resorts will be interesting for both adults and children.
A classic tour that includes travel on the famous Glacier Express through the Alps. The train journey takes about 7.5 hours. During this time, the train crosses 291 bridges, passes through 91 tunnels and rises to a height of 2033 m. During the trip, stunning views of natural landscapes open up. The price of the tour starts from 600 francs and depends on the route, the number of passengers, the date of booking, the room where you will be staying and some other factors.
Winter holidays in Switzerland can be different. So choosing another tour, which is suitable for those who have only a few days to rest. An excellent option would be a 5-day vacation, including a visit to two cities at once - Interlaken and Lucerne. An exciting unaccompanied excursion through the mountains will give you an unforgettable experience. Tourists spend the first 2 nights in the city of Interlaken, and then 2 days in Lucerne with a trip to Mount Pilatus. In addition, during your visit to Lucerne there will be time to explore the sights of the city. This tour involves accommodation in three-star hotels located in city centers. Hotel rooms are equipped with everything necessary, in particular shower, toilet, TV, radio, telephone.
In addition to ski resorts, thermal resorts in Switzerland are in demand, where you can have a pleasant and healthy vacation, enjoying amazing mountain scenery while simultaneously being in pools with hot water right in the open air. Such a winter holiday in Switzerland is accompanied by skiing and snowboarding along the mountain slopes located on the territory of the resorts. There are ski slopes.
During the winter season in Switzerland you can have a great time skiing or snowboarding. Another exciting activity is paragliding, which will be a real delight for adventure and thrill seekers. Paragliding is possible on skis or snowboards. Beginners fly accompanied by an instructor. The flight lasts from 15 to 20 minutes, at different altitudes. Winter holidays in Switzerland in the form of paragliding are popular from December to April. A suitable place for this sport is Belalp. In addition, you can appreciate the beauty of the snow-capped mountains by taking a hot air balloon flight.
Ski resorts in Switzerland have several types of slopes, including toboggan runs. This entertainment will give you an unforgettable experience; sledding is no less interesting than skiing and a very popular winter holiday in Switzerland.
Another fun way to diversify your winter holiday in Switzerland is to stay in an igloo village. Depending on preferences and capabilities, igloos are offered in different price categories. Igloos designed for more than 4 people are perfect for relaxing with the whole family or company. Some ice and snow rooms include Jacuzzis and hot water baths. Special feelings arise while being in a jacuzzi located in the open air. At night, those who wish can go snowshoeing.
Guests are offered hot dishes and mulled wine. The beds are made of ice, and people sleep on warm sheepskins. For young and married couples, there are special romantic igloos with carved walls depicting pretty patterns, swans, and dolphins. Therefore, a winter holiday in Switzerland can be romantic
- Davos
- Zermatt
- Crans Montana
- Verbier
- Adelboden
- Grindelwald
- Gstaad
- Champery is a resort located high in the mountains.
- Arosa is a small ski resort for families.
- Villars
- St. Moritz
- a country rightfully considered one of the most beautiful in the world. The area of the country does not exceed the area of the Moscow region, however, it is on the territory of this Alpine state that there are a lot of beautiful places that attract tourists who love natural beauty, sightseers and photographers.
Chillon Castle in Montreux, the former residence of the Dukes of Savoy, is one of the most picturesque in the country. It is located on the shores of Lake Geneva, the first mention of it is contained in chronicles of the 12th century. Now the castle complex includes 25 buildings dating back to different eras. The historical interiors of the castle help tourists immerse themselves in the life of the medieval era.
Not far from Bellinzona there are three castles - Castelgrande, Sasso Corbaro and Montebello. The first castle, Castelgrande, is famous for its fortifications dating back to the Roman era; the second - Sasso Corbaro or Unterwalden Castle - is a powerful fort of the 15-16th century; in the third castle - Montebello - today there is a historical museum, the exhibition of which includes extensive collections of weapons, manuscripts, ceramics and jewelry of the 15th century. All three castles are protected as UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Lake Leman (Lake Geneva) and the Lavaux vineyards are a natural attraction that attracts ecotourists, photographers, and enotour lovers. For centuries, Lake Geneva has successfully replaced the sea for the Swiss, offering ample opportunities for a beach holiday. The northern shore of Lake Leman is framed by the slopes of the Alpine mountains, crowned by the Mont Blanc peak, and on the left bank of the lake lie the terraces of the Lavaux vineyards. The Swiss are confident that local grapes ripen under the rays of three suns - a real luminary, its rays reflected from the surface of the water, and under the influence of heat accumulated by the stone slabs of the terraces.
The Matterhorn peak is the symbol of Switzerland and the most photographed peak in the world.
The mountain is located on the border of Switzerland and Italy, and is considered the most difficult peak for climbers to conquer, having a height of 4478 m.
The Swiss Aletsch Glacier (Aletschgletscher) is a famous natural attraction and the largest glacier in the Alps. Its length is about 24 km. The Aletsch Glacier is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and claims to be one of the "Seven Wonders of Nature".
The Rhine Falls (Rheinfall) is the leader among tourists visiting water attractions in Switzerland. And although it is not a record holder in size, the Rhine Falls is considered the deepest waterfall in Europe: more than 700 cubic meters of water falls from its top every second at a speed of 23 m/s. In the center of the waterfall there is an observation deck literally floating above the water.
The most beautiful cities in Switzerland will be presented in a separate ranking.
Switzerland - the best places
Appenzell
One of the most beautiful and romantic places in Switzerland is the village of Appenzell, located at the foot of the Swiss Alps. This is an ideal place for tourists who want to enjoy privacy and pristine beauty of nature.
Kandersteg
The Kandersteg ski resort is a very popular place among tourists. The town is located just an hour's drive from the capital of Switzerland, which makes it even more attractive for vacationers. In our next article we will talk about the main entertainment, accommodation and food in this truly paradise.
La Chaux-de-Fonds
If you want to fully experience the culture of Switzerland, go on holiday not to large tourist-oriented cities, but to secluded small villages where the spirit and way of life of the past have been preserved. We will tell you about one of these places today in our article - welcome to La Chaux-de-Fonds!
Switzerland is a country that you fall in love with at first sight. If the purpose of your trip is a first-class holiday and getting to know the local culture, customs and traditions, feel free to choose the Mürren ski resort, where you can not only enjoy the beauty of the majestic Swiss Alps, but also visit a lot of attractions in the surrounding area.
Neuchâtel
In the northwestern part of Switzerland is the wonderful city of Neuchâtel, famous for its castle and lake of the same name. The medieval architecture of the city, combined with a special atmosphere, makes it so attractive to tourists. You will learn more about entertainment, food and accommodation in Neuchâtel in our next article.
Bad Zurzach
Among the many health resorts in Switzerland, Bad Zurzach is considered to be one of the best, a town where the largest thermal center in Europe is located. What else is remarkable about the resort and why you should choose it, you will learn from our new material.
Switzerland is famous not only for its excellent ski resorts and cultural attractions, but also for its beautiful nature. The town of Brienz is proof of this, because it is here that one of the cleanest lakes in the country is located - Lake Brienz.
The town of Vevey, located in western Switzerland on the coast of Lake Geneva, is one of the main resorts on the Swiss Riviera. Our article will help you get to know the city and its attractions better.
One of the best ski resorts in Switzerland, Verbier, is located in the southern part of the country and is famous for its developed infrastructure and excellent conditions for active recreation. The resort is perfect for traveling with the whole family, because there is a lot of entertainment for children of different ages.
Villars is one of the many ski resorts in Switzerland. The town will especially appeal to families with children, because there are all the conditions for an active and fun holiday for both adults and children. We will tell you more about the snow slopes, attractions and entertainment at the resort later in our article.
Grindelwald
Switzerland is famous throughout the world for its ski resorts. One of the most popular is Grindelwald, located in the canton of Bern. From our article you will learn more about the infrastructure and features of recreation at the resort.
One of the elite and, accordingly, expensive resorts in Switzerland is Gstaad - a city that welcomes all guests of the country with luxurious hotels and chic restaurants, the best ski slopes in Europe and a lot of entertainment for every taste.
Davos is one of the most popular ski resorts in Switzerland and a great place for a family holiday at any time of the year. Convenient location, excellent climatic conditions, the best hotels and restaurants in the country - all this makes Davos even more attractive to tourists.
Interlaken
The Swiss resort of Interlaken, located in the heart of the Swiss Alps, is very popular among all guests of the country. The city is famous for its attractions, as well as the unique landscapes of the majestic mountains and the crystal clear waters of lakes Thun and Brienz.
Lauterbrunnen
One of the most beautiful places in Switzerland is Lauterbrunnen, a small village located just an hour's drive from Bern.
The main attractions of Lauterbrunnen are the Staubbach and Trummelbach waterfalls. Our next article will tell you what else to see in this corner of paradise, where to stay and what to try.
Leukerbad
Leukerbad is rightfully considered the most popular health resort in southwestern Switzerland.
Numerous thermal baths with outdoor and indoor pools, jacuzzi, saunas are just a small part of what this complex of thermal springs can offer tourists.
The resort town of Locarno is located in the south of Switzerland, just 10 kilometers from the border with Italy. Stunning landscapes and interesting sights make Locarno a favorite destination for tourists. Read more about the town further in our article.
Oberhofen am Thunersee
Oberhofen am Thunersee is a relatively small city in Switzerland, located in the canton of Bern. The main attraction of the town is the castle of the same name on the right side of Lake Thun. Our new article will tell you what else to see and where to visit in Oberhofen am Thunersee.
The ski resort of Saas-Fee, located in the south of Switzerland, is considered one of the best holiday destinations in the entire country. Excellent trails, an abundance of cultural and natural attractions, as well as all the conditions for a comfortable pastime attract tourists from all over the world to Saas-Fee.
St. Gallen
The highest mountainous city in Switzerland, St. Gallen, will delight tourists with the cleanest air, an abundance of attractions, including even UNESCO heritage sites, and delicious cuisine with an abundance of seafood and cheeses.
St. Moritz
St. Moritz is one of the best ski resorts in Switzerland.
Luxurious hotels with a full range of services, the best slopes and clean air are the main advantages of St. Moritz. You will learn more about what else St. Moritz can offer tourists in the following article.
Schaffhausen
Schaffhausen, located in the north of beautiful Switzerland, is very popular among all guests of the country. Most of the buildings in the city are made in the medieval style, which gives Schaffhausen even more beauty and charm.
Engelberg
Engelberg, whose name translates from German as “mountain of angels,” is the oldest ski resort in Switzerland, where thousands of tourists come all year round for active recreation, as well as to enjoy the pristine beauty of nature and the purest mountain air.
Bad Ragaz
Arriving in Bad Ragaz, you will get an unforgettable experience of communicating with nature. Charming local landscapes, the cleanest air of the Alps and sunny weather typical of Bad Ragaz, combined with a calm, measured atmosphere, make a holiday here pleasant and psychologically comfortable.
Bellinzona
Switzerland is a beautiful country, but Alpine and border towns, which have preserved their originality since ancient times, arouse special flavor and interest among tourists. Such is the beautiful Bellinzona, which we will talk about in a little more detail in our article.
Lucerne is rightfully considered the most beautiful and romantic city in Switzerland, with which you fall in love unconditionally once and for all from the first minutes of your stay. The city is rich in attractions; some of the most luxurious hotels and restaurants in the country are located here.
Bern, the capital of enchanting Switzerland, is not the most popular destination among tourists, and for good reason. The city can rightfully be called one of the most beautiful in the country. Many interesting museums, parks and original fountains located in the historical center of Bern make it incredibly attractive to tourists.
One of the largest and most beautiful cities in Switzerland is Geneva, located in the southwest of the country. It is here that the majestic Palais des Nations, the beautiful Saint-Pierre Cathedral, the famous Wall of the Reformation and, of course, the stunning Lake Geneva are located.
Lausanne is one of the largest cities in Switzerland, located in the southwest of the country, 100 km from the capital, Bern. Tourists are happy to come to Lausanne to relax and see its attractions. Read more about the city in our next article.
When is the best time to go to Switzerland?
Summer to Switzerland
In summer, Switzerland is famous for its hiking trails, warm sun in the valleys, blue lakes, and on the other hand, the whole summer landscape is covered with snow-white mountain peaks and glaciers that never melt. Switzerland has an impeccable ecology, stunning landscapes, it is difficult to choose the best time to travel; it is a pity that, due to visa conditions, tourists from Russia or Ukraine can stay in this country for a rather limited time. Many Swiss ski resorts look even more attractive in the summer.
Winter in Switzerland
Most tourists visit Switzerland in the winter from December to March and, as you understand, go to ski resorts, this country is especially good at Christmas and New Year, although at this time prices creep up a little. It is interesting that cities such as Geneva and Zurich are more visited in winter; prices for souvenirs and restaurants can be expected to increase, so a trip to Switzerland can be very expensive even for tourists from Western Europe.
Some peak season is in July and August, but it is still inferior to winter. I will say that summer in Switzerland is in no way inferior to the cool and snowy winter, and prices at this time fall slightly, so decide for yourself. The low season in Switzerland is early spring and late autumn, although tourists can specially come to Switzerland during Easter week. It is very good to go to Switzerland during the May holidays. During the Low Season, almost all ski resorts are closed, along with their adjacent hotels.
Off-season in Switzerland
You should not think that hotels greatly reduce prices in the off-season, because at this time business travelers who travel to Switzerland on business are more active.
To save money on hotels, you can take an excursion trip to Switzerland from April to June; in September and October, summer begins on the mountain passes, and it is at this time that they are completely free of snow. A mild climate awaits travelers in the south of Switzerland; you can travel here in late autumn.
Beach season in Switzerland
The beach season in Switzerland is short-lived and runs from the end of July to the end of August, this applies to Lake Geneva, a little wider than the season on lakes near the Italian border, this applies to Lake Lugansk and Lake Maggiore. Remember that the coldest is Lake Geneva, the temperature in it is unlikely to exceed 20 degrees, Lake Zurich is slightly warmer up to 23 degrees, the warmest Lake Lugansk is up to 25 degrees.
Ski season in Switzerland
The ski season runs from December to the end of March; if you go in January, you will find a lot of different festivals. In the high mountainous regions of Switzerland there are serious snow deposits, there is a high probability of avalanches and the volume of precipitation. For example, in Engelberg there is snow 3 meters high. If you want more sun at any time of the year, choose a region a little higher; there is constant fog in the lowlands of Switzerland.
Many foreign tourists prefer to live in Zurich, and from there go on excursions to Basel, Lucerne, Bern and Geneva; if your destination is French-speaking Switzerland, then it is better to live in Lucerne and Montreux, from here it is not far to the Golden Pass. The most expensive city in Switzerland is Geneva, followed by Zurich, followed by Lucerne, Bern and Basel. There is nightlife in Zurich; in other cities there is nothing to do after 8 pm, especially in winter. It is already dark at 4 o'clock in the afternoon, which makes winter holidays in Switzerland unpleasant. During the Christmas holidays, Basel is very proud, cozy, has a good fair, of course Basel is a little inferior to Christmas Zurich where there are several Christmas markets and the main Christmas tree of Switzerland.
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According to an ancient legend, when God distributed the wealth of the earth's bowels, there was not enough of it for the country in the very heart of Europe, Switzerland. To correct this injustice, God gave her high mountains, shining glaciers, stormy waterfalls, picturesque valleys, beautiful rivers and clear azure lakes. The unusually beautiful views of Switzerland attract thousands of tourists; it is like a special world - magical and bewitching, making you believe that paradise does exist. And it doesn’t matter what time of year you travel, the landscapes of Switzerland will not disappoint in any season and in any weather.
The climate in Switzerland as a whole can be called moderate, however, this is very general, because each canton, depending on its geographical location, has its own landscape and climate. The natural areas of Switzerland are diverse - from the Arctic to the tropics: mosses and lichens grow high in the mountains, the slopes are covered with coniferous and deciduous forests, and in the south of the country, on the coast of lakes, the lush southern greenery of cypresses, magnolias and palm trees pleases the eye. Switzerland attracts tourists in winter with its famous ski resorts; in summer, the mountains and passes of Switzerland are greeted with amazing landscapes, and crystal clear lakes offer beach holidays comparable in level to the resorts of the Mediterranean Sea.
Holidays in the Swiss Alps
Switzerland and mountains are two inseparable concepts, because mountains occupy more than half of the country’s territory. In Switzerland, there are three natural regions: the Jura mountain range stretches in the northwest, the Swiss Plateau in the center, and the Alps, which occupy the entire southeast of the country. According to scientific data, the Alps appeared as a result of the collision of tectonic plates in ancient times, but, amazingly, researchers claim that the Swiss Alps are still in the process of formation - their height increases every year, however, by only one millimeter. Experts believe that a powerful earthquake can cause the mountains to grow faster, and they will reach 7 thousand meters, however, this may not happen very, very soon, in about a couple of million years.
The Swiss Alps stretch for almost 200 kilometers, presenting a unique landscape of beautiful mountain passes and valleys, sloping slopes and snow-capped peaks.
Holidays in the Swiss Alps in winter include, of course, ski resorts, which are considered the best in the world. Abundance of snow, impeccable slopes, the best ski training, cozy hotels, cafes and restaurants with excellent cuisine, the highest level of service - everything here is created for an ideal holiday. Sports fans will find excellent trails for downhill and cross-country skiing, snowboarding and airboarding, sledding slopes, speed skating areas and even ice diving. Those who love more relaxing leisure will be offered hiking, sledding, healing at thermal springs, winter fishing, and getting to know the unique culture and traditions of Switzerland, so this is not just a vacation, but a real winter fairy tale come to life!
The Swiss Alps in summer attract, first of all, their stunning mountain panoramas, but relaxation, of course, is not limited to simple contemplation of beauty. In almost any region of the Alps, tourists are offered bicycle tours and walking routes of varying difficulty, and some of the most beautiful places in Switzerland can only be reached on foot; beginners and experienced climbers will also try their hand at the Alps. In any case, all tourist routes run among uniquely beautiful peaks and valleys with colorful villages, and in each, even the smallest, they will certainly offer accommodation with maximum comfort. By the way, all night stops take place only in special mountain shelters; you won’t be able to sit by the fire here - lighting a fire is allowed only in emergency cases to attract the attention of rescue services, and you can set up a tent camp only far from the shelters and only for the duration of the night from 8 pm to 8 a.m. The summer Alps will also greet you with their amazingly beautiful and clean lakes, some of which are suitable for diving, windsurfing or fishing.
Mount Matterhorn
The most famous of the Alpine peaks is the Matterhorn, located in the Pennine Alps on the very border of Switzerland and Italy. The peak, which has an almost regular pyramidal shape, rises far from other peaks, among plains and low hills, so nothing prevents you from admiring it from all sides, and perhaps it is this isolation that gives Mount Matterhorn so much charm. The Matterhorn is caught in the cameras of travelers much more often than other attractions. On this occasion, local residents even made a joke that for tourists on a trip to Switzerland, the main thing is that the Matterhorn appears in the background of the photo. However, the Swiss themselves could not help but appreciate the beauty of this mountain; it was not without reason that the producers of the world-famous Swiss chocolate Toblerone placed its image on the packaging of their products, and in 2004 the Matterhorn took pride of place on a commemorative gold coin worth 50 francs. So this mountain can safely be considered a symbol of Switzerland!
The Matterhorn rises to 4,478 meters above sea level; if you look closely, you can see that the mountain has two peaks, located at a distance of about a hundred meters from each other. One of them, located in the east of the ridge, is called the Swiss peak, and the western one, which is only one meter lower than its “neighbor”, is called the Italian peak, but they are called that not at all according to their countries - both are located on the very border, just to the east The first ascent was made from the territory of Switzerland, to the west - from Italy. By the way, Matterhon with its steep cliffs is one of the most extreme destinations for climbers, so the mountain remained inaccessible for a long time, and only in 1865 a group of professional climbers managed to conquer the peak. But no matter how harsh and dangerous the Matterhorn is, it invariably attracts climbers in any season.
Often, to admire the Matterhorn in its full glory, they climb the nearby Gornergrat mountain - a journey to a height of more than three thousand meters can be covered on foot or on a panoramic train that can overcome steep climbs. It will take you to the very top, and along the way you will see amazing views of forests and picturesque waterfalls.
At the foot of the Matterhorn there are famous resorts: on the Italian side - Breuil-Cervinia, and on the Swiss side - Zermatt, which is one of the ten best resorts in the Alps in terms of the quality of snow cover and ski slopes. In the summer, Zermatt invites fans of hiking, climbers and simply lovers of a relaxing holiday and the landscapes of Switzerland. You can get to Zermatt by train from the major cities of Switzerland, Milan, Stuttgart and Munich. By car you can get to the Tasch resort, and from there you can take an electric taxi to Zermatt or take an electric bus.
Mount Pilatus in Switzerland
In central Switzerland, southeast of the city of Lucerne, Mount Pilatus rises - no less famous than the Matterhorn, but if the latter became famous thanks to its image on chocolate, then Pilatus gained fame because of the legends associated with it. According to one version, the name of the mountain is translated as “wearing a hat” - its peak is tightly shrouded in clouds, it seems as if it is actually wearing a snow-white headdress. But a more common version explains the name of the peak after Pontius Pilate, the procurator who condemned Jesus Christ to execution. Tradition says that Pilate, tormented by remorse, committed suicide, and then his body was thrown into the Tiber, but the river did not accept the sinner and carried the remains to the shore. The same thing happened when trying to drown the body of a suicide in the Rhone and Lake Geneva, after which he was taken to a remote corner of the Alps and thrown into a deep reservoir at the foot of a high mountain. After this, the peak began to be called Pilatus, and local residents believed that the restless soul of the procurator was wandering along the mountain paths, and woe to anyone who met him. And so Pontius Pilate constantly brought troubles - villages in the vicinity of the mountain suffered from rockfalls, mudflows, floods and hurricanes. This continued for a long time, until one theological student, who was fond of black magic, achieved that the soul of the procurator began to appear only once a year, but for several more centuries the authorities, believing the legend, forbade anyone to climb the mountain. And in the Middle Ages, it was believed that winged dragons lived here, guarding palaces with untold riches and kidnapping beautiful girls.
Fortunately, the times when people were afraid to visit Pilatus have long gone into oblivion, because this mountain is rightfully considered one of the most beautiful places in Switzerland, and tourists with great pleasure climb to its top to enjoy the grandeur of the mountain landscapes, wonderful clean air and entertainment that will take your breath away.
The height of Pilatus is 2128 meters above sea level. There are three ways to get to the top: on foot (the climb will take about four hours), using the cable car from the town of Kriens or by train from the town of Alpnachstadt. This train, by the way, is the steepest in the whole world - the angle of inclination of the railway in some places reaches 48°, and only special gears and rails allow it to overcome such a rise.
At the top of Pilatus, tourists, in addition to breathtaking views, will find a wide variety of leisure options. The winter Pilatus and Snow&Fun park will give you the most impressions - along four tracks of different lengths you can ride on sleds, snow scooters, “bagels” and other snow-entertaining types of transport. From a height of just under one and a half thousand meters, you can ride on a toboggan - a useless sleigh of the Indians of North America, or test your own courage with the help of the Powerfan attraction, where you will have to “fall” from a height of about 20 meters and only at the very ground will the daredevil be caught by a thin rope. You should definitely take the Dragon Pass route - the road will go through caves and grottoes, where the walls are painted with illustrations of legends about dragons - they were drawn by local artist Hans Erni at the beginning of the 20th century. And, of course, restaurants with traditional Swiss cuisine and souvenir shops with cute little things will complement the impression of being on Mount Pilatus - one of the best and most mysterious places in Switzerland.
Lake Geneva
Switzerland is often called the “country of mountains and lakes”; the mountains here really occupy a significant territory, and the lakes of Switzerland, of which there are more than one and a half thousand, are distinguished by their extraordinary beauty and crystal clear water. The largest lake in the Swiss Alps and the second largest freshwater body of water in Central Europe is Lake Geneva, lying in the floodplain of the Rhone River, often called Leman by locals.
Lake Geneva, even in photographs, amazes with its magnificence, let alone when you see it in person! It simply fascinates with its pristine beauty and the unusually deep and pure color of the water; it is often compared to a mirror - the Alps shelter it so reliably from the wind that the water surface is almost always unshakable, and in it, as if in a mirror, mountain peaks, vineyards, tall fir trees, houses and medieval castles on the slopes.
The crescent-shaped Swiss lake is located on the border with France, or rather, the border runs right in the middle of the reservoir. Along the northern coast, which belongs to Switzerland, there are numerous resort towns, which are called the Swiss Riviera for their luxury and respectability. Lake Geneva is protected from the cold northern winds by the Alpine mountains, so it has a pleasant mild climate, and the coast is surrounded by the greenery of subtropical plants. Beach holidays in Switzerland are truly unique - only here you can sunbathe on the beach while admiring the snow-capped mountain peaks. However, the swimming season here is quite short - the water warms up very slowly and only becomes warm in July-August. However, a variety of water sports and cruises are available for tourists, as well as horse riding, cycling, walking, golf, mountaineering, paragliding and hot air ballooning.
One of the most impressive natural attractions of Switzerland is the Rhine Falls, located in the canton of Schaffhausen near the small town of Neuhausen am Rheinfall. Despite the fact that the height of the Rhine Falls is only 23 meters (about the size of a seven-story building), it is considered the largest in Europe, because it has no equal in terms of the volume of water falling from the cliffs - in winter, 250 cubic meters fall down every second, in summer, During the period of rapid melting of mountain glaciers, up to 700 cubic meters fall from the cliff.
According to scientists' research, this waterfall is very ancient and began to form about 500 thousand years ago during the Ice Age, when huge masses of ice easily changed the topography and sharply turned river beds. The Rhine Falls finally acquired their appearance about 15 thousand years ago - this is how we can see it today.
The spectacle of the Rhine Falls is not just impressive, it shakes to the core - the width of the threshold reaches 150 meters, huge streams of water fall down with noise and roar, and, swirling with snow-white foam, disintegrate into millions of splashes, shimmering like a rainbow in the sun.
The best way to enjoy the unusually beautiful and menacing spectacle is from observation platforms. One of them departs from the shore and extends above the river, very close to the place where the waterfall falls; it seems that the water colossus is moving straight towards you and the wildly roaring stream is about to pick you up and carry you away in an unknown direction. Another site is located on a high rock, rising like an island in the middle of the river; a small ship sailing from both banks will take you here. From this site, the Rhine Falls can be seen from above; from here it will not seem so formidable, but will fascinate you for a long time with its stunning view.
It is easy to get to the Rhine Falls from Zurich through the cities of Winterthur, Schaffhausen, Newhausen or Bülach; this can be done either by car or by public transport - train or bus, depending on the chosen route.
Swiss national park
For those who want to see all the truly alpine landscapes at once, the ideal place is the Swiss National Park, located in the canton of Grisons in the Engadin Valley. An area of 172 square kilometers covers harsh bare rocks, densely pine-forested slopes and alpine and subalpine meadows dotted with fragrant flowers, home to chamois, mountain goats, deer, elk, wolves, brown bears, foxes, lynxes, golden eagles and many other representatives of the animal. peace.
Swiss National Park is the oldest national park in Europe and the only one in Switzerland. The history of its creation is very interesting. By the beginning of the twentieth century, this territory was completely developed by man, and, as usual, in a very barbaric way - forests were mercilessly cut down, scarce natural resources were thoughtlessly used. In 1914, it was decided to completely stop any economic activity here and monitor how capable nature is of self-healing. And the result was not long in coming - nature, freed from human intervention, came into its own - dense forests rustled on the slopes again, meadows were covered with flowers, and animals and birds found shelter.
Today, the Swiss National Park continues to develop naturally and live a quiet, peaceful life, disturbed only by tourists, while visiting rules are very strict. Only walking is allowed here, it is forbidden to leave the paved paths, light fires, set up camps, leave any traces of your presence, fishing and hunting, collecting herbs and flowers are prohibited, even for loud noises you can be fined. If you want to spend more time in the national park (it’s still not possible to go around it in one day - the total length of the trails is 80 kilometers), then you can stay overnight at the Il Fuorn hotel or the Chamana Cluozza hut, where guests will be provided with comfortable rooms and will be pampered with delicious national cuisine.
Entrance to the park is free, and there are also free parking lots nearby. The best time to visit the park is considered to be the warm season; in winter it is also open, but only short walks are provided along some paths cleared of snow. But just in winter, in the nearby village of Zernets, where the information office of the national park is located, winter sports competitions, festivals and marathons, farmers' markets are held, and you can go on an entertaining tour to the unusual 17th-century village of Guarda.
The easiest way to get to the Swiss National Park is from Zurich by train to Zernez, and then take a bus to the park, or by car, the journey takes about 2.5-3 hours.
Verzasca River
Probably, the definition of “the most” fits many places in Switzerland: the best ski resorts in Switzerland, the most picturesque lakes, the most beautiful mountains and the cleanest rivers are also located in Switzerland, and of them the most transparent in the world is Verzasca. It originates on the glaciers of a mountain 2864 meters high and carries its waters to Lake Maggiore, located between Italy and Switzerland. The Verzasca path lies through the picturesque valleys of the Italian-speaking canton of Ticino, the length of the river is very short - only 30 kilometers, but this entire distance is simply replete with amazing landscapes - Verzasca runs between mountain slopes, dressed in the lush greenery of chestnut forests and vineyards, and along the banks there are ancient stone buildings Swiss villages, which only adds to the charm of the amazing views. The depth of Verzasca in some places reaches 15 meters, the water in it changes color from bright blue to emerald green and is so transparent that the bottom, strewn with multi-colored stones, is visible to the smallest detail.
Many, having seen the purest Verzasca, feel the desire to take a dip, however, the water in it is icy even in the hottest weather, its temperature does not exceed 10 degrees, and due to strong undercurrents it is quite dangerous, as the signs on its banks warn about. But still, there are extreme sports enthusiasts who don’t mind the cold, and more heat-loving tourists have the opportunity to swim - along the riverbed there are natural depressions where the water has time to warm up to an acceptable temperature. Verzasca is especially popular among divers, who are certainly not deterred by the icy water, because from the bottom they take stunning photographs; the most spectacular photographs are from the depths, where, through the crystal clear water, the shores and the sky with running clouds are visible. The only thing that divers will not be able to see and capture is the underwater world of Verzasca, since, despite the cleanest water, there is a complete absence of flora and fauna. For a long time it was believed that the reason for this was the increased acidity of the water, but studies carried out in 2009 showed that the pH composition of the water is the most common, but why there is no flora and fauna in the river remains a mystery.
Among the land attractions of Verzasca, charming Swiss villages are noted, where the age of houses made of layered gneiss stone reaches several hundred years; a stone arched bridge, built in the 17th century and called Roman either because of its authorship by the Italians, or because of the similarity of architecture, and a gigantic stone dam 220 meters high. It gained worldwide fame thanks to the filming of one of the Bond films, GoldenEye, where Pete Brosnan spectacularly jumps into the water from a great height. By the way, anyone can repeat Bond's mind-blowing stunt - there is a bungee jumping area on the dam - if you're brave enough, an unforgettable experience is guaranteed!
The area around the city of Locarno is called the most beautiful place on the Verzaschi River; you can get to it by train from Zurich, Basel or Lucerne. By car, the route will be along the A2 highway to Magadino airport, and then you need to turn onto the A13 highway.
Lauterbrunnen Valley
Experienced travelers call the Lauterbrunnen Valley one of the most beautiful and amazing in the whole earth - in fact, it is a deep crevice located between steep kilometer-long cliffs, the valley stretches eight kilometers in length, and in width it occupies no more than a kilometer. From here you can see three majestic peaks - Jungfrau, Mönch and Eiger (translated - Virgin, Monk and Ogre), landscapes of a mountain valley, but the main thing here is the numerous waterfalls. The name Lauterbrunnen itself translates as “many springs.” There are 72 waterfalls in the valley, stunning in their beauty.
The journey to the waterfalls begins from a picturesque village that bears the same name as the valley - Lauterbrunnen. It is here that you can book sightseeing tours or guided walking tours.
The most famous and impressive waterfalls are Staubbach and Trümmelbach. Staubbach amazes with its power and natural strength - streams of melt water pour down from 300-meter cliffs; due to the great height, the water, reaching the ground, breaks on the stones and turns into the smallest water dust, reminiscent of fog or a cloud. The Trümmelbach waterfalls are the only ones in Europe located deep in the rocks and accessible to the public. Over thousands of years, melt waters descending from the peaks have washed spiral depressions in the stone, through which thundering streams, overcoming a dozen cascades, descend into the valley. You can get to the waterfall by underground funicular, and then tourists, following galleries and bridges, descend to the foot of the mountain, admiring the incredibly beautiful spectacle of running water.
The most beautiful places in Switzerland can be seen from the top of the Schilthorn, which can be reached using a ski lift. There, at the top, in addition to the observation deck, which offers a panorama of eternal glaciers and mountain peaks, there is a revolving restaurant “Piz Gloria”, where the filming of the film about the famous agent 007 “On Her Majesty’s Secret Service” took place.
Another attraction of Lauterbrunnen is the Jungfrauban railway - its final station is located at an altitude of 3545 meters above sea level and is the highest railway station in the whole world and is called the “Top of Europe”.
You can get to Lauterbrunnen by car or train from Zurich to Interlaken, from where a train runs to the valley.
The last ten kilometers of the Jungfrauban railway go through a tunnel, from where the train emerges into the dazzling whiteness of another natural landmark of Switzerland - the largest glacier in the Alps, called Aletsch. Its length is approximately 25 kilometers, area is about 120 square kilometers. Glaciers are formed from compacted layers of snow that turn into ice under their own weight. Aletsch consists of three glaciers with an average thickness of about one hundred meters, the branches of the glacier, converging at Concordia, reach a maximum thickness of about 1 thousand meters, here the glacier turns into a frozen river one and a half kilometers wide. The apparent silence and silence of Aletsch are deceptive - it lives and moves, sliding at a speed of 200 meters per year to the southeast, and at an altitude of about 1500 meters above sea level, the Aletsch turns into the Massa River, which flows into the Rhone.
Local residents have always treated Aletsch with respect and even fear; if he was mentioned in legends, they were certainly called the “white giant”, and this is not surprising - at night, sounds similar to groans and the ringing of steel swords are clearly heard from the direction of the glacier. Even skeptics find it difficult to believe that they are created by the movement of a huge mass of ice, and therefore there are many tales about ghosts and human souls languishing under the thickness of ice.
Despite the outward coldness and inaccessibility of Aletsch, tourists with great pleasure go to see the unique glacier frozen in a bizarrely curved canyon-gorge, overgrown with relict forest; the Big Aletsch branch, reminiscent of an ice-bound river or a man-made winter road, is especially interesting. Aletsch looks very unusual in the summer, when the slopes of the canyon are covered with green grass and flowers, and a snowy river lies below your feet in icy silence.
Since 2001, Aletsch has been under the protection of UNESCO, and is also included in the list of candidates for the title of “Seven Wonders of Nature”.
Caves of Saint Beatus
In the canton of Bern, not far from the town of Interlaken on the north-eastern shore of Lake Thun, tourists are treated to a fascinating journey into the depths of the rocks - to the caves of St. Beatus. As the legend says, a long time ago, wealthy parents sent their son Suetonius to study in Rome, but the apostle Peter he met led him astray from the path of science, and the young man plunged headlong into religion, replacing hot Italy with the mountains of Switzerland. Suetonius took a new name for himself - Beatus and settled in a cave on Lake Thun, but first he had to fight the terrible fire-breathing monsters that lived in the mountain grottoes. For his numerous good deeds, local residents began to venerate him as a saint, and over time the caves acquired the name of Saint Beatus.
Since legends are associated with dragons, everything here is reminiscent of mythical creatures - right at the entrance and in the cave there are figures of fire-breathing monsters, in underground lakes you can sail on a boat in the form of a dragon, and nature itself seems to support the legend - stone blocks in some places are stacked like this in a bizarre way that, in fact, resembles the terrible toothy jaws of a monster.
Caves and passages located at a depth of 500 meters merge into mysterious labyrinths, overgrown with stalactites and stalagmites more than 40 thousand years old, underground rivers flow here and even small waterfalls rustle. In one of the grottoes you can meet the “owner” - St. Beatus himself, and those interested in science can look into the Mineral Museum.
Not far from the caves there is a restaurant that serves delicious dishes prepared according to ancient recipes, and on its roof you can admire the picturesque landscapes of Switzerland from observation platforms.
Holidays in Switzerland are at any time of the year synonymous with quality, excellent service and well-spent (albeit often considerable) money. Switzerland as a tourist destination is not as promoted as its other European neighbors - at least the closest France, Germany and Italy; however, noisy crowds of tourists would only harm this unique country in all respects, destroying the fragile and charming atmosphere of a European country with a rich and glorious history, carefully preserved traditions and noble, not pompous, dignity.
Holidays in Switzerland - pros and... pros
Switzerland is a universal destination. Whatever inclinations tourists have, this country is guaranteed to find something to their liking. This is confirmed by the frequency with which Switzerland appears in tour operator catalogs. Interesting excursion program? There is, and even what: Zurich and Basel, Bern, Lucerne and Geneva can boast of an amazing number of attractions for such a small country, both historical, cultural, and natural. Ski resorts? For every taste: high-society and democratic, located in the foothills of the Alps and “high-altitude”, ordinary and on the glacier, where you can ride in the midst of the summer heat. Holidays on the lakes? Please - Geneva, Zurich, Lucerne, Lugansk and Maggiore - each with a lot of cozy resort towns, a string of spa hotels and a rich cultural life included. Treatment? Perhaps not as famous as in some Baden or Karlovy Vary, but with the closest attention to the client, with healing air and miraculous mineral water. Finally, shopping, in addition to the obvious quality (who doesn’t know Swiss watches!) can also be profitable here - for this you should go to Switzerland during the New Year sales or visit the largest Foxtown outlet with more than 250 stores of famous brands.
Surprisingly, Switzerland is home to one of the most unusual diving places in the world - the clear Verzasca River, at the bottom of which you can spend hours looking at stones of all imaginable colors, and lifting your head, admire the coastal life almost undistorted by the water column.
In winter...
Winter is the “X hour” for Switzerland and the time of the largest number of tourists in its hospitable lands. The ski resorts of Switzerland welcome millions of adherents of alpine and cross-country skiing, snowboarding, snow scooters and other types of entertainment “transport”. The love of tourists for winter Switzerland is quite understandable: the local snow resorts, without exaggeration, have everything they need for a quality and comfortable holiday. The Alps cover more than half of the state's territory, and a chain of majestic ridges stretches along the southern border of the country for 200 km. What keen skiers especially appreciate is the large number of glaciers that provide a reliable “refrigerator” under the slopes. When the July heat is in the valleys, in Zermatt and Saas-Fee you still know how to cut through the virgin snow and ride on motor sleighs through the immaculately fluffy white valleys.
A separate line worth mentioning is the opportunity to combine a ski holiday with an excursion, which is especially suitable for those families where not all members of the household are eager to join the exciting everyday life of a skier. While the sports-minded part of the family is exploring new slopes, its passive members may well go to explore the many attractions of Swiss cities. For example, the ski resorts of the canton of Bern - Grindelwald or Gstaad - are located just half an hour from the capital of the country, so from here it is not difficult to pay a visit to the bears in the Bear Pit, pay tribute to Einstein and Paul Klee, check the time in the Clock Tower or introduce your offspring to didactic fountain "Child Eater".
Traveling around Switzerland
in summer...
Switzerland in the summer is slightly inferior in terms of tourist “population” to the winter season - but not at all because there is nothing to do here from May to September - it’s just that the “thousanders” of the Alps are too tasty a morsel for skiers from all over the world. Summer Switzerland gives tourists a comfortable and cool beach holiday on the picturesque shores of any of the country’s 16 lakes, excellent conditions for excursions for days on end at an average air temperature of +22.. +26 °C and a lot of opportunities for active activities - from hiking to rock climbing, mountain biking and even diving.
The recreational wealth of Switzerland is evidenced by the nickname given to the northern shore of Lake Geneva - the Swiss Riviera. However, other lakes are in no way inferior to this one. Montreux and Vevey - resorts with a rich history, which have seen many representatives of royal families, writers, artists and world-famous musicians - in addition to exceptional relaxation and very high-quality treatment (in particular, the world famous La Prairie clinic is located here) can offer a serious “excursion” (at least the Chillon Castle is worth it!) and a brilliant cultural life: the Montreux Jazz Festival has been hosting the best performers on the planet for almost half a century.
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...and at any time of the year
However, let’s digress from exclusively summer or only winter holidays in Switzerland - after all, the vacation may well fall in the off-season. We hasten to reassure “spring” and “autumn” tourists - charming Switzerland will be able to please you at any time of the year. Firstly, let us remind you that you can ski at the country’s ski resorts all year round. Secondly, although a holiday on the lakes, say, in April or October, will not please you with comfortable water temperatures, relaxation in top-class spa centers has not been canceled. Thirdly, Switzerland has a certain mysterious charm, thanks to which you don’t feel sad here even on the worst weather days. Finally, let’s mention the sights of Switzerland: the capital Bern can boast, for example, such unique places as perhaps the best Historical Museum in Europe, the ancient Clock Tower with a whole procession of figures marking the end of each hour, and real bears in the very center of the Old Town . In Lucerne, it is worth seeing the oldest covered pedestrian bridge in Europe, Kapellbrücke, the incredible Glacier Garden, the stunningly interesting Transport Museum with exhibits from model cars to a real airplane, and nine ancient towers, each of which is different from its predecessors. In short, any Swiss city will definitely find something to charm tourists of all ages, nationalities and interests - just come!
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