Explore Switzerland: A Year-Round Destinaton
Switzerland is the epitome of winter fantasies.
However, the realm of Alpine lakes, glaciers, and hiking trails transforms into a stunning destination for travelers throughout every season. This article provides insights into the various activities available for your upcoming visit.
The Grand Tour of Switzerland
Switzerland Tourism has introduced the Grand Tour of Switzerland, a comprehensive 1,000-mile journey that encompasses the nation’s highlights in a single tour. It presents numerous sightseeing opportunities, allowing access to iconic locales for excursions along the route, while guiding you through the country’s most picturesque areas. Travelers can experience this journey via various modes of transport—whether by car, train, motorcycle, or bicycle—and enjoy a customizable experience. Regardless of how it is planned, it promises to be an unforgettable experience.
Hiking in Switzerland
Are you seeking an activity that is both cost-effective and environmentally responsible?
Experience Switzerland on foot along over 40,000 miles of hiking trails that navigate all regions of the country. These trails meander through the mountains, the hilly Jura region, and the flat Mittelland, providing a unique opportunity to relish the serenity of nature while preserving ecological balance. Consequently, a growing number of individuals, including a younger demographic, are gravitating towards this type of eco-tourism. The Federal Law pertaining to footpaths and hiking trails ensures the preservation of this extensive network. Moreover, public transportation readily connects travelers to virtually any destination across Switzerland, with the combination of rail travel and a cruise on one of the picturesque Swiss lakes being particularly enticing and commendable.
Hiking along the Grand Tour
The Grand Tour presents remarkable hiking opportunities. The hiking hotspots are situated directly along the Grand Tour route or are accessible with a short journey. Renowned sites like the Creux du Van are featured alongside lesser-known gems such as the Wildmannlisloch in Toggenburg.
Wildmannlisloch Trail in Toggenburg (Eastern Switzerland)
Commence this hike with a ride on the Holzkistenbahn cable car from Starkenbach to Strichboden. From there, embark on a two-hour trek along the Toggenburg alpine path that leads to Alp Selamatt, traversing a trail that remains beneath the winding peaks of Churfirsten. Along your route, you will encounter Wildenmannlisloch and its intriguing caves.
Val Piora in the Ticino
A swift ride on Europe’s steepest funicular followed by a brief walk from Leventina leads to the mountain lake paradise of the nature reserve Alp Piora, positioned at the highest elevation in Ticino.
Irrigation Channels in Nendaz (Vaud)
In the Canton of Valais, one will discover many kilometers of irrigation canals (referred to as bisses in French and Suonen in German). Traditional, centuries-old methods direct water through ditches and pipes. The Suonen serve as excellent hiking paths and enjoy significant popularity. Nendaz features a distinctive network of hiking trails spanning 70 miles along eight Suonen canals, unprecedented in Europe.
Lavaux Vineyards (Unesco World Heritage) in the Lake Geneva Region
Spanning 800 hectares, the terraced vineyards of Lavaux constitute Switzerland’s largest contiguous vineyard area, featuring tier upon tier that provides breathtaking vistas. The names St-Saphorin, Dézaley, and Epesses are well-known among the connoisseurs of fine wine. Furthermore, the panoramic views from the Lavaux vineyards, perched high above Lake Geneva, offer an exceptional backdrop for wine enthusiasts. The area’s remarkable natural, cultural, and culinary attractions are certainly deserving of a visit.
Creux du Van in the Lake Neuchatel Region
The Creux du Van area, located across Lake Neuchâtel, presents nature as its centerpiece. Explorers here may very well encounter ibex among other wildlife.
Via Sbrinz in Central Switzerland
The Sbrinz Route is named after the esteemed hard cheese originating from central Switzerland, which was historically transported and traded along this route in substantial quantities.
Palazzi Vivaci in the Canton Graubuenden
The Palazzi Vivaci (colorful palaces) route encompasses Switzerland’s most charming historic villas. This journey, commencing in Soglio and traversing through Canton Graubünden before reaching Val Müstair, passes over 100 mountain lakes, crosses four mountain passes, and showcases a myriad of majestic mountains.
