Advertisement
Home LIFESTYLE Travel

Exploring Switzerland’s diverse beauty

This tiny country is full of things to do

While the thought of Switzerland may automatically conjure up images of soft, rolling hills and snow-capped mountains (ok, and cheese and chocolate), the truth is, this tiny country in the middle of central Europe is a multi-faceted diamond. With thousands of years of history, four official languages, glitzy cities and spectacular nature, Switzerland may be small, but it’s packed with endless things to explore. Travelling around this picture-perfect country is easy, thanks to the clean, comfortable and particularly punctual train network so make sure you move cross-country to enjoy all that Switzerland has to offer. Here are some destinations you really shouldn’t miss.

Advertisement

Zurich

It is rare to find a city in which medieval meets contemporary, decadent meets hip, and a roaring financial hub meets the serene beauty of nature, but these are only some of the reasons as to why Zurich is regularly rated as one of the most liveable cities in the world. The city is home to countless art galleries, opulent shopping, a stunning medieval old town, and a thriving culinary scene, all nestled by a pristine lake that bustles with activity in the warmer months. Surprising international, Zurich has earned itself the nickname of the ‘little big city’ and is the perfect place to start your Swiss adventures!

Swiss Alps
(Credit: Getty Images)

St Moritz

Advertisement

Ah, St Moritz! The glamorous muse to many an international ski village, and sparkling playground to well-heeled winter lifestyle and sports enthusiasts. This charming village in the Swiss Alps has seduced visitors since the nineteenth century. And it’s no real wonder. Elevated at 1800m above sea level, blanketed in snow and bathed in sunshine, St Moritz glistens and twinkles, leaving its visitors in awe of its natural beauty. While people-watching tends to be the sport of choice for many, the skiing, snowboarding, sledding and hiking opportunities are magnificent. Bring world-class hotels, buzzing restaurants & bars, and spectacular events into the mix, St Moritz is proof that the Golden Age of travel is still thriving.

Montreux

Situated on the Lake of Geneva on the French side of Switzerland, this picture-perfect Riviera town has long attracted artists, writers and holiday-makers to its shores. Montreux is a town of contrasts – with its particularly mild climate it oozes a Mediterranean charm complete with vineyards, promenades and outdoor restaurants all while offering breathtaking views of the snow-capped French Alps. It’s a hub for music lovers with its annual jazz festival, and is home to some of the best hotel schools and private clinics in the world. As Charlie Chaplin, Freddie Mercury and Igor Stravinsky all realised, Montreux is the perfect place for simply relaxing and allowing yourself to be inspired by is beauty.

Switzerland Collette tours
(Credit: Getty Images)
Advertisement

Lugano

Heading south will reveal yet another side to this beautifully diverse country, where the sights, sounds, flavours, and ambience are decisively Italian (the border is a mere 20 minutes away). Lugano is a delightful blend of Swiss perfection and Italian charm where lively piazzas, belle époque architecture and spirited casinos meet the town’s stunning glacial lake and lush gardens. Lugano prides itself on its own distinctive food and wine scene and plays host to many gastronomic and music festivals throughout the year. Stroll the promenades, cruise the lake and soak up la dolce vita Swiss-style.

Zermatt

For a quintessential Swiss experience, nothing quite compares to gorgeous chalet-filled, car-free village of Zermatt. Set at the foot of the infamous Matterhorn, looming 4,478 meters high, nature enthusiasts will find themselves as close to heaven as it gets. Abundant in hiking trails, incredible vistas, and skiing pistes, Zermatt has retained its original charm while introducing an air of sophistication through its world-class hotels and boutique shopping. For a remarkable experience, travel to Zermatt from St Moritz on the Glacier Express train or visit Collette for guided tours of the alpine regions. 

Advertisement

Related stories


Advertisement