Topic: Discover Switzerland
When you think of Switzerland, people tend to think of Swiss army knives, cuckoo clocks, chocolate, cheese and snow. Winter sports, apres-skiing, fonduing, cosy chalets, open fireplaces, and mulled wine.
And when you think of summer destinations, Switzerland might not be the first… second… or even third place that springs to mind.
But let’s try this again. Close your eyes, and imagine swimming, hiking, sailing, clear blue lakes, fresh mountain air, and panoramic views. City breaks, luxury shopping, theatre trips, michelin-starred dining, vineyard tours, and river cruises.
Whether you’re moving to Switzerland and wondering what you’ll do all summer, or looking for a last minute getaway, here are just some of the reasons summer in Switzerland is worth a visit:
It’s the perfect place for an adventure! Create your own Top Gear experience, Jeremy Clarkson style, with a scenic drive across Switzerland. Beautiful alpine passes, stunning views, quiet roads, UNESCO heritage sites, and experience the best of Swiss hospitality. Switzerland Tourism, the Swiss tourist board, have put together a full itinerary in partnership with Mazda. Find out more here. Alternatively, you can also enjoy the Grand Tour thanks to the Swiss train service, (including some with panoramic views) which as expected is usually very punctual! Journey over a thousand kilometres, with 11 large lakes and 5 World Heritage Sites on your travels.
Speaking of World Heritage Sites, Switzerland has a total of 13 UNESCO World Heritage Sites that are all worth exploring. From the heart of watchmaking to pre-historic dwellings, there’s something for everyone… including the best way to indulge in culture while enjoying a glass of wine: Lavaux vineyard terraces.
(credit: Newly Swissed)
In addition to world-recognized wine terraces, there are 120 Michelin starred restaurants across the country, including three with the coveted 3 stars. As for accommodation, Switzerland is the birthplace of hospitality, originating in the palace hotels at the turn of the 20th century. This is one of the many reasons why some of the best hotels and hospitality schools in the world are right on the doorstep. And for an extra unique twist, discover the Million Stars Hotel – luxurious hotel rooms designed for 2 people, dotted across Switzerland. Experience nature in its purest form, with an unobstructed view of the starry night sky.
Even after all of the wining and dining, culture and exploring, at the end of the day nothing quite beats relaxing on a sandy beach, dipping your toes in the water and relaxing in the sunshine. Fortunately, Switzerland has that as well! Switzerland Tourism has compiled a full list of beautiful beaches, including Europe’s longest natural sandy beach on a freshwater lake. So whatever you’re looking for this summer, Switzerland may just be the answer after all!
(credit: Der Internaut)
