Switzerland. Selection 2020

SWITZERLAND. SELECTION 2020

HIGHLIGHTS UNTAI MO N

Switzerland is situated in the Alps, the highest mountain range in Europe. 01–10

WATER

Water from the Alps flows into the Atlantic, the Black Sea and the Mediterranean. 11–20

HOUSE

Cover image

The Swiss are bridge-builders and 01 have world-class architects. Matterhorn 21–31 The iconic landmark of Switzerland PEOPLE Such a graceful shape! Such majestic elegance! It doesn’t matter how many times you’ve admired and marvelled at the 15,000 ft peak, you can never fail to be awe- struck by its magical attraction. Although we Swiss are known for our modesty, we cannot help but say: the Matterhorn really is the In Switzerland four different most beautiful mountain in the languages are spoken. world! And beauty usually goes hand in hand with popularity. That’s 32–42 why the “Horu”, as the mountain is known by Valais locals, graces consumer products such as Belgian SERVICE gin, Canadian beer, Italian men’s Roads swimming trunks, American shav- Cable & rail ing cream – and, of course, delicious Agenda Swiss chocolate. Maps

Cover image: © Nico Schaerer with VALSER, nuvu.ch A B C D F

Border Road SWITZERLAND Rail 1 Mountain Water House 11 29 40 Winterthur 2 Basel17 20 FRANCE 21 41

35Zurich 25

3 36 27 22Lucerne06 30 10 Bern 15

4 38 09 23 Lausanne 34 19 02 08 12 13 5 24 18 Geneva 42 37

6 05 01 28

Our partner regions F G H SWITZERLAND 01 Matterhorn C6 GERMANY 02 Jungfrau D5 03 National Park H4 04 Laax F4 05 Zermatt C6 06 Rigi D3 07 Engadina G5 08 Gstaad C5 09 Titlis D4 10 Creux du Van B4 31 39 St.Gallen 11 Rhine Falls D1 32 12 Lake Oeschinen C5 13 Aletsch D5 CHTENSTEI AUSTRIA 14 Lago Bianco H5 LIE N 15 Paddle steamers D4 16 Verzasca F6 17 River bathing C2 33 18 Jet d’Eau A5 19 Lauterbrunnen C5 20 Moated castle D2 04 26 Guarda 21 National Museum D2 22 Chapel Bridge D3 03 23 Plateforme 10 B5 24 Chillon Castle B5 25 Le Corbusier D2 26 Guarda H4 27 Swiss Museum of 07 Transport D3 14 28 Castles of Bellinzona F6 29 Fondation Beyeler C2 30 Bern C4 16 31 Abbey library G2

ITALY Lugano 32 Alpine descent G3 33 Heidi G3 28 34 Fondue B5 35 Chocolate D2 36 Watches and clocks B3 37 Alpine horn C6 38 Alpine wrestling D4 39 Silvesterkläuse F2 40 Carnival C2 41 Christmas market D2 42 Fête de l’Escalade A6 Grüezi. Come a little closer. I won’t bite, I promise. People say that I’m good-natured, friendly and resilient – just like my friends, the Swiss. And if you’re feeling down in the dumps, I’ve got something in my cask that has succeeded in cheering up a great many visitors.

This magazine will take you to some of Switzerland’s most beautiful sights. It is divided into four chapters that together characterise the country: “Mountain” and “Water”, as the defining elements of the Swiss landscape, “House” and “People” as the built heritage and cultural traditions of those who live here.

All highlights at a glance: Map on the last page. Find more inspiration at: MySwitzerland.com NTA MOU IN

The majestic mountains form the foundation of Switzerland. These dignified gentle giants shape the landscape and revitalise visitors and locals alike.

All highlights at a glance: Map on the last page. Find more inspiration at: MySwitzerland.com/mountain 02 Jungfrau An unreal panorama The mountains Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau: the striking triumvirate in the Bernese Oberland is usually mentioned in the same breath. None- theless, the “first among equals” is definitely the Jungfrau. The reason for this is probably the observation platform on the Jungfraujoch, which offers visitors a fascinating panorama that hovers somewhere between cheesy and surreal. MOUNTAIN 03 04 National Laax Park A paradise for snowboarders A realm of Alpine wilderness The Laax Halfpipe, constructed each year on the ridge of Mt. Crap A wildlife-spotting excursion to Sogn Gion at an altitude of this realm of Alpine wilderness can 7,200 feet, is an imposing work of be as exciting as any thriller – you art made of ice and snow: it meas- never know which creature is going ures 650 feet by 70 feet by 23 feet to cross your path next, what is high . Even the best snowboarders making that rustling sound and in the world experience a feeling of whether that howling is from the awe as they plummet down the wind or a wolf. Founded in 1914, steep sides of the tube to be cata- making it Central Europe’s oldest pulted high into the air on the other national park, it is home to numer- side. If the superpipe sounds a bit ous different species. The king of too daring, you’ll find plenty of the beasts here is not the lion, but pristine slopes in Laax with soft the ibex – in fact half of Switzer- powder to play in. land’s 12,000-strong ibex popula- tion lives in Graubünden.

05 06 Zermatt Rigi Ski slopes for every taste The queen of temptation The ski resort in Zermatt is like Because the early humanists the breakfast buffet of a great interpreted the name Rigi as a five-star hotel – the 225 miles of derivation of Regina montium – slopes have something to suit all Queen of the Mountains – for tastes. Beginners find gentle flat purely romantic reasons, famous slopes, while adventurous types artists such as William Turner can try skiing or snowboarding or writers such as Goethe and down one of the ungroomed snow Mark Twain were later enticed slopes marked in yellow, and more into taking a trip to the massif in meditative souls can join a ski tour Central Switzerland. They then group ascending to the summit took up their paintbrushes and of one of the 38 peaks. The name pens to capture their impressions Matterhorn Ski Paradise simply of the stupendous views and says it all. lovely landscape, helping to make the Rigi one of Switzerland’s most popular summer hiking destinations.

07 Engadin A winter marathon Where’s the most impressive queue in the Engadin? That’s easy – it has to be the long line of 13,000 or so cross-country skiers waiting to take part in the ski marathon on the second Sunday of March. The 26-mile route winds its way from Maloja, passing St. Moritz across frozen lakes and through snowy forests to S-chanf. 08 Gstaad The cosmopolitan village On the one hand, Gstaad is a village full of charming chalets. On the other hand, it is a cosmo politan luxury resort and home to many famous and iconic five-star hotels, which have always attracted international jetsetters. Incredible, but true.

09 Titlis Thrills and spills at 9,900 feet Freedom really seems limitless from above the clouds. Want to experience this for yourself? Take the Titlis Cliff Walk, Europe’s highest suspension bridge. This thrilling experience at 9,900 feet will certainly broaden your horizons.

10 Creux du Van The other Grand Canyon As you hike along meadows past the vertically sloping rock walls formed by glaciers and streams, you will be reminded of the Grand Canyon. The rock arena offers spectacular 360-degree panoramic views as far as France. WATER

Life emerges from the Alps in the form of a fresh bubbling stream that splashes down the rocks towards the sea, passing through lakes and wide rivers filled with fish.

All highlights at a glance: Map on the last page. Find more inspiration at: MySwitzerland.com/water 11 Rhine Falls A natural spectacle up close Can you see it? Below the castle, directly above the water, is the viewing platform. It reaches into the mighty spray of Europe’s largest waterfall, which rages and thunders incessantly like a huge, deafening round of applause – an unforget‑ table natural spectacle. WATER

13 Aletsch A transient monument Measuring almost 14 miles in length and over 30 square miles in area and weighing 11 billion tonnes, the Aletsch Glacier in Valais is a colossus of ice with no equal in the Alps. But even giants like this may not last forever. That’s why you should grab the chance to visit this largest river of ice and experience it with all your senses, before it disappears completely into the Mediterranean. 14 Lago Bianco An idyllic natural ice rink Travelling by UNESCO World Heritage railway to the mirror-smooth surface of a frozen lake? It’s easy in Graubünden: climb aboard the Rhaetian Railway Berni- na Express in Chur, get off at Os- pizio Bernina – and soon you’ll find yourself on the shores of this huge natural ice rink. As soon as the ice cover allows skating, you’ll notice that it looks like the fish are swimming through the clouds.

12 Lake Oeschinen A huge liquid mirror Many consider this high-altitude lake to be the most beautiful in the Swiss mountains. In fact, it genu- inely seems like paradise here because of how the glacier-covered peaks of the Blüemlisalp are reflect- ed in the crystal clear water sur- rounded by enchanting mountain forests. The temptation is to take a flying jump into the liquid mirror, something you can actually do in several beautiful bathing spots. Having enjoyed the fun of the clear water, you can dry off in the sun before returning by cable car to nearby Kandersteg. 15 18 Paddle Jet d’Eau steamers A towering column of water A boat ride to the past Bridges, castles, houses, churches, squares – as a rule, city sights are With its legendary jagged shoreline, usually associated with historical Lake Lucerne has the largest fleet or modern architecture. Not so of historic and modern ships of all in Geneva: literally the biggest local the Swiss lakes. These carry guests tourist attraction is a 450 foot high in style to the proud mountains water fountain that towers over the around it, the birthplace of Switzer- skyline of Geneva. Visible for miles land and sites from the national around, often with a windswept epic “William Tell”. look, the fountain is known as the Jet d’Eau. It is fed by a powerful pump that sprays 130 gallons of water per second skyward at a speed 16 of 125 miles per hour per hour. Verzasca A river to suit everyone For many years, the Verzasca was 19 one of the best-kept secrets among the Swiss. Discovered by travellers Lauter- and compared to the emerald-green waters and pale crags to the Mal- brunnen The foaming forces of destiny dives, the sleepy valley has awoken from its slumber. Swimmers now The water in the approximately enjoy the fresh water under the 300-metre-high Staubbach Falls medieval footbridge Ponte dei salti near Lauterbrunnen is often swirled while experienced canoeists navi- about by the wind so much that gate spectacular canyons, and it resembles a dust cloud. The poet daring adventurers further down- Goethe was so fascinated by this stream can feel like James Bond huge waterfall that he immortalised with the 720 foot bungee jump from it in his profound “Song of the the opening scene of “Golden Eye”. Spirits over the Waters”. 17 20 Swimming Moated in a river castle Take a plunge in the city A royal union Switzerland’s rivers supply half Switzerland is known as the of Europe with fresh mountain “moated castle” of Europe since spring water from source to estuary. it is the source of the great rivers Because the cleanliness of the water Rhine, Rhone, Inn and Ticino, is a top priority for the Swiss, who which irrigate the fertile fields of get the majority of their drinking its neighbours. But the Swiss them- water directly from rivers and lakes, selves are familiar with their own you can swim anywhere without “moated castle”. There’s no point worries and simply let yourself looking for turrets or pleasure drift. Even in cities like Bern, Basel gardens, however. Instead, turn your or Zurich. attention to the impressive majesty of the rivers Aare, Limmat and Reuss, as they flow into one another in the floodplains.

HOUSE

The Swiss build things to last and have largely been spared from natural disasters and the ravages of war. That is why many town centers are in an excellent state of preservation, inviting visitors on architectural forays through the styles of the past 1,000 years.

All highlights at a glance: Map on the last page. Find more inspiration at: MySwitzerland.com/house 21 Swiss Natio- nal Museum A creative “clash” of cultures The keepers of the flame of Swiss history depict life in all its colorful contrasts: on the one hand, the fairy tale castle of 1898 with its impressive permanent exhibition on the country’s history, and on the other hand the minimalist new building constructed in 2016 to house contemporary exhibitions about Zurich and all sorts of spe- cialist subjects. Efforts to contextu- alize Swiss history at this museum also include modern elements such as concerts, events and parties in the courtyard. The creative “clash” of cultures is symbolic of the zeitgeist of Zurich, the Little Big City on the River Limmat, which oscillates between navel-gazing and a global perspective. HOUSE

24 Chillon Castle A splendid example It’s true that we don’t have as many fortresses and castles here as in Scotland. However, Chillon Castle near Montreux is such a wonderful example of a castle built on water that the Scots are green with envy. 25 Le Corbusier Zurich’s colorful villa The most significant modernist architect, Swiss native Le Corbusier, regarded this 1967 building as a synthesis of the arts. Because of the colors and unique spaces, 22 many visitors see it as Zurich’s most Chapel colorful villa. Bridge A city favorite For many residents of Lucerne, the night of 17 to 18 August 1993 was the worst of their lives: the 26 Chapel Bridge, the historic symbol of the city of light, went up in Guarda flames. However, thanks to commit- A picture-book backdrop ted efforts at the time, the most Some people say that the door of important parts of the bridge were house no. 51 in Guarda is the saved, so that the oldest wooden most famous in Switzerland: The bridge in Europe can now be seen painter Alois Carigiet chose this in all its glory once again. The 110 larch wood doorway for the cover 16th-century paintings under the illustration of “A Bell for Ursli”, roof that sing praise to a good a popular children’s story written lifestyle are a particular delight. by Selina Chönz. 23 Plateforme 10 27 Art for art’s sake Swiss Museum There aren’t many cities in the of Transport world that take art so seriously that A boundless adventure they dedicate a whole district to it. Where do the past, present and future Lausanne did exactly that with meet? The impossible becomes possi- Plateforme 10 – a visionary project ble at the Swiss Museum of Transport that brings together the Vaud in Lucerne. The extensive grounds Museum of Fine Arts (MCBA), the showcase the earliest cars and rail- Elysée Museum of Photography, ways, a world of virtual reality, a the Museum of Contemporary planetarium and visions of future Design and Applied Arts, and two mobility – plus 1,001 other activities. renowned art foundations. 28 Castles of Bellinzona Witnesses to times past The three proud castles of Bellin zona, as well as the wall securing the valley as far as to the opposite side of the mountain, are protected by UNESCO: “An outstanding example of late-medieval fortifications at the entrance to key Alpine passes.”

29 Fondation Beyeler A unique art museum At the Fondation Beyeler, the grandiose exhibits merge with the landscape on the museum’s door- step, as if they want to step outside. And who could blame them? This is one of the most beautiful museums in Switzerland with a permanent cast of stars. 30 Bern A crazy little world Measuring just 0.3 square miles, Bern’s old town is small but multi- faceted. It is home to the federal parliament building with its towering dome, for example, where the political destiny of modern Switzer- land is decided. It is also the site of the 13th-century Zytgloggeturm, 31 which was once a prison for women found guilty of dangerous liaisons Abbey with priests. In 1983, this jumbled collection of old buildings in the library middle of the capital was declared Straight out of Harry Potter a UNESCO World Heritage site. This building is so beautiful that it’s easy to miss the roughly 2,700-year- old Egyptian mummy, known as Schepenese, that rests here. After all, the main attraction is the ba- roque hall dating back to 1767 with the third-oldest library in Europe and its 170,000 works, including the “Codex Abrogans”, the oldest book written in German. There’s no doubt that Harry Potter would love this place.

PEOPLE

Between the peaks and the lakes, the country is inhabited by people who have chosen to bring their different languages and cultures together as a common nation.

All highlights at a glance: Map on the last page. Find more inspiration at: MySwitzerland.com/people 32 Alpine descent A living tradition In late summer, the cowherds and girls in traditional dress return with their goats and cattle from the Alp to the valley below. This results in a colourful piece of street theatre in the Appenzellerland: the yellow trousers of the herdsmen compete for attention with the floral gar- lands worn by the animals. PEOPLE 33 Heidi The world-famous orphan The fact is that Heidi is simply a children’s book character who has great adventures with her grand father, young Peter the goatherd and her friend Klara. However, because of her down-to-earth and tenacious character, the girl has long since become a world-famous icon. Heidi’s mountain world comes to life in Maienfeld. 34 Fondue A special national dish What do fish and chips, pizza, gou- lash, Wiener schnitzel and fondue all have in common? They’re all national dishes. But the Fribourg “moitié-moitié” fondue made from spicy Gruyère and mild Vacherin cheeses is even more special: remem- ber – anyone who drops his bread in the cheese has to pay a “forfeit”. 35 Chocolate Sweet temptation If Switzerland’s appeal were to be reduced to just a few words, “chocolate” would certainly be one of them. The delicate and sweet confection can be found throughout the country, whether in the small production facilities of the chocolatiers or at Switzerland’s large, world-famous chocolate manufacturers. 36 Watches and clocks Timeless quality Which came first, the watch or the ever-punctual Swiss? One thing is certain: the beating heart of Swiss watchmaking is in La Chaux-de- Fonds. The town is a bastion of this timeless quality, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and home to the international watch museum. 37 Alpine horn The rustic brass instrument The sounds of the alpine horn echoing from mountain to mountain will make the hair rise on the back of your neck and your heart leap. For a long time, the alpine horn was a tool used by shepherds for various purposes. It was blown to call the cows from the pasture back to the cowshed and to calm them during milking. Played in the evening before the hut, the wind carried the sound of the alpine horn across the pastures as an evening prayer. The main function of the alpine horn, however, was commu- nication with the herdsmen on neighbouring Alps and with people down in the valley.

38 Alpine wrestling The national sport of giants Most competitors are as big as neo- lithic standing stones, displaying ferocity and strength. But the wres- tlers, who crown their “king” every three years, also show great respect for their sporting opponents, dusting them down at the end of a bout.

40 Fasnacht A magical spectacle Fasnacht in Basel was awarded UNESCO World Heritage status in 2017. The start of Fasnacht is a magical spectacle: at exactly 4 a.m., all of the city’s lights are switched off, the command “Morgestraich, vorwärts, marsch!” is given, the sounds of piccolos and drums are heard everywhere, and hundreds of colored lanterns start to move. 41 Christmas markets Year after year Christmas markets are held up and down the country from the end of November. But nowhere rivals Zurich, which has as many as six. The most romantic is found in the old town. The trendiest is held in front of the Opera House on Belle- vue. And the largest of them all with the glittering Christmas tree is found at the main train station. 42 Fête de l’Escalade Symbols of peace With the European seat of the UN, the international headquarters of the Red Cross and the Broken Chair sculpture, Geneva is often described as the “capital of peace”. 39 This was made possible thanks to a defensive battle in 1602 against a Silvester- mercenary army from Savoy. The battle is commemorated in Decem- kläuse ber with the Fête de l’Escalade. Ghosts and demons The year ends twice in the Appen- zellerland: according to the modern calendar, it ends on 31 December, while according to the Julian calendar, it ends on 13 January. That’s why the Silvesterkläuse figures with their huge masks go from house to house twice a year to drive away the evil spirits with wild bells and a gentle yodel.

For centuries, the high mountains and deep valleys have inspired the Swiss to carry out Grand Tour complex construction work. Thus they became masters in the construction of bridges, of Switzerland roads and tunnels, connecting the country’s highlights via a network of spectacular routes: All at once This round trip connects Switzer- land’s most important highlights Altdorf Airolo such a wild landscape. But that’s lovely moorland lake Étang de la via some great roads and is well exactly what makes this high road Gruère, for example, or in the signposted: so appealing, above the rugged main town of Saignelégier, where Gotthard » 1,000 miles cliffs and thunderous mass of water, you can admire the age-old craft Across the Alps » 22 lakes and so narrow in certain places that of watchmaking and the proud » 5 Alpine passes What is now one of the most im there is just enough room for one stallions of the Swiss Franches- » 12 UNESCO World Heritage site portant transport links through car to pass. Montagnes breed of horses. » So many things to see the Alps was impassable for many years: the narrow Schöllenen Gorge MySwitzerland.com/grandtour Interlaken Andermatt Weggis Stans was closed off to people and animals alike. Only in the 13th century did the people of Uri succeed in Grimsel Pass Ferry trip breaking through the dangerous Past ice, rock and lakes A boat ride into the mountains gorge and connecting the Gotthard On October 4, 2001, the Grimsel Why drive when you can let to the Swiss Plateau to the north. Pass was the scene of Switzerland’s someone else take the wheel (or Legend has it that the devil helped largest ever planned “blast”: even the tiller)? This is a particu- them with the delicate construction When the “Chapf” outcrop, in a larly good question when you work, the price for his services precarious position 3,000 feet find yourself by Lake Lucerne in being the first soul that crossed his above the pass route, was blown up, Central Switzerland, where a ferry bridge. However, the locals out- over five million cubic feet of rock has been in operation between the smarted him by sending a billy goat were set in motion, equivalent villages of Beckenried (canton of across, much to Lucifer’s displeas- to over 9,000 forty-tonne trucks. Nidwalden) and Gersau (canton of ure. Today, the drive along the On the scenic mountain route that Schwyz) since 1930. The crossing historic route, especially the wind- connects the Bernese Oberland on the “Tellsprung II”, named after ing section through the Val Tremola with the Upper Valais, lorries, national hero William Tell, takes between the pass and Airolo, is a however, are rarely encountered. 20 minutes. This means you can heavenly experience. Instead, three man-made lakes save yourself a 30-mile trip along dominate the landscape: the bright- some very narrow roads – and St. Moritz Chur green Räterichsbodensee, the grey instead arrive at the foot of the Grimselsee and the blue-black famous Mount Rigi feeling totally Julier Pass Totesee. relaxed. The most beautiful high altitude valley of the Alps La Chaux-de-Fonds Genève Yverdon- Delémont les-Bains The Julier Pass was an indispens‑ able Alpine route for the Romans. Fragments of the columns from a Franches- Vallée former sanctuary on the pass illus- trate its importance. Still today, the Montagnes de Joux Quiet roads pass, which forms the European A sea of rolling hills watershed between the Black Sea Suddenly you find yourself far A long time ago, Franches-Mon- and the Atlantic, is a central con- away from civilisation, some- tagnes in the canton of Jura was nection to the Engadin. It remains where in the no man’s land of a a pretty violent place: during the an impressive sight: the winding road movie: deserted roads lead Thirty Years’ War, which lasted road through the majestic moun- through broad, hilly landscapes from 1618 to 1648, the Swedes tains is popular among fans and spooky forests; here and pillaged the local villages, and in of classic cars and fast sports cars there, the view opens up to reveal the 18th century, families of Ana- from spring to late summer. a proud panorama of the Alps, baptists hid from their persecutors with Mont Blanc at the center; in this sparsely populated area. now and then, you pass a farm- Chur Disentis It is hard to imagine any of this house, a village, a settlement – today as you admire the idyllic until suddenly it is right in front plateau. With its gentle hills and Ruinaulta of you – Lac du Joux, a lake as romantic valleys, it invites you to A trip through the unique gorge long and quiet as a slumbering enjoy a relaxed “cruise” along the giant in a fairytale. The spectacular Ruinaulta Gorge quiet country roads that taper on the Upper Rhine is 8 miles off seemingly without end towards long and 1,300 feet deep in places, the horizon. If you want to stop stretching between Ilanz and to stretch your legs, the Franches- Reichenau. It goes without saying Montagnes have some wonderful that it is not always easy to reach rest stops. On the shores of the Roads

The people who opened up Switzerland with rail transport of all kinds were true visionaries Grand Train Tour and pioneers. Rail travel is an experience in itself and brings passengers to the most beautiful of Switzerland landscapes in Switzerland. Sit back and enjoy Train enthusiasts travel by rail Zermatt St. Moritz table landscapes such as the pro- the summit, you can take a seat in through Switzerland, enjoying tected high moorlands of Rothen- the revolving restaurant and let the most famous railway lines in turm, crossing the Way of the mountain panorama pass by – Glacier the country: St James, which passes over the it really does feel like you’re in Express longest wooden bridge in Switzer- a blockbuster movie. » 800 miles land at Rapperswil (2,700 feet), » 11 large lakes Through the heart of the Alps and crosses the St. Gallen Sitter » 4 national languages Unterwasser Perhaps the most beautiful and viaduct, Switzerland’s highest » 5 UNESCO World Heritage sites Chäserrugg luxurious train journey in the world, railway bridge. the Glacier Express connects the MySwitzerland.com/ world-famous winter sports resorts Brienz Rothorn Chäserrugg grandtraintour of St. Moritz and Zermatt. True The most stylish railway aficionados can treat themselves to Brienzer in the world a ticket for the brand-new Excel- The impressive work of Basel- lence Class: this offers all passen- Rothorn based architects Herzog & gers comfortable armchairs by the Steaming up the slopes de Meuron, it captivates with window, personal travel guides, In June 1892, when the Brienz- its superior aesthetics, sophisti- delicious five-course menus and the Rothorn railway went into opera- cated functionality and great best view of the UNESCO World tion, it managed something in- variety. For the Toggenburg cable Heritage route on the Albula Pass credible: a total ascent of 5,500 feet cars, they have designed numer- with its unique Landwasser Viaduct over eight kilometres solely by ous buildings that look more (see photo left) and other wonders steam power. The railway was restrained than the “Bird’s Nest” of nature. After eight hours in the never electrified and still runs daily in Beijing, the Tate Modern in “slowest express train in the world”, from June to October, traversing London or the Elbphilharmonie in you will feel as if you have been on the fantastic mountain route to Hamburg, while still ingeniously a week’s vacation in the mountains. the summit of the Rothorn. emphasizing the beauty of the mountain. They have enclosed the Lausanne Vevey Alpnach Pilatus machinery in cutting-edge outer structures inspired by the region’s Lavaux Pilatus animal shelters, while the interiors A trip through the vineyards will bring joy to the heart of The world’s steepest cog anyone who appreciates beautiful The world-famous wine region railway architecture. The highlight is of Lavaux, which stretches over With a maximum gradient of the summit restaurant with its 18 miles from Lausanne to Vevey, 48 per cent, the Pilatusbahn is awe-inspiring view of the Alps. has already been honored twice: regarded as the world’s steepest n 2007, it was added to the list of cog railway. When it was opened UNESCO World Heritage and, in Felskinn Mittelallalin in 1889, it was steam-operated, 2010, Prince expressed his feelings and it was electrified in 1937. about this place, which he visited It negotiates the uphill altitude Metro Alpin on his way to the Montreux Jazz difference of 5,300 feet to the The world’s highest under- Festival, in the song “Lavaux”. If you summit of Pilatus at up to 7.5 miles ground train would like to cross the terraces per hour, while for safety reasons created by monks in the Middle The underground, the classic the downhill speed is only 5.5 miles Ages, enjoy the regional Train des means of transport in the great per hour. Vignes train ride from Vevey to cities of the world, will whisk you Puidoux-Chexbres and then take to the opera, the football stadium Stans Stanserhorn the Lavaux Panoramic road train and the airport – but also to straight to the nearest winery. the foot of 13,000 feet high peaks. Open- Or that’s the case in Saas-Fee at least, where the Metro Alpin St. Gallen Lucerne top thrills carries climbers and winter sports The open-top cable car enthusiasts from the Felskinn Voralpen If you’ve ever wanted to know how cable car station at 3,000 feet to James Bond might have felt in and altitude of 3,500 feet. Up Express “Moonraker” in the tough duel with there, where the air is fresh and Travel along the Alps villain Jaws on the cable car roof thin, those in the know will go for On the one side, this unique jour- high above Rio de Janeiro, you a walk on the ice and rock, before ney offers views of the towering should not miss this open-top ride. letting the Valais mountains work Alps, while on the other, the coun- This unique cable car to the Stanser- their magic over coffee and cake try flattens out and takes another horn can accommodate 90 people: in the world’s highest revolving 430 miles to descend to sea level. 60 in the glazed lower deck and restaurant.

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Take a selfie with the Matterhorn 01 Take an art break 23

Enjoy a cup of Ovaltine on the Jungfraujoch 02 Rule your own moated castle 24

Go wildlife spotting in the National Park 03 Draw the Le Corbusier Pavilion 25

Do a 360 on a snowboard 04 Find the most famous doorway in Switzerland 26

Ski down the longest slope in Switzerland 05 Drive through the Gotthard Tunnel in the train simulator 27 Go hiking on the “Queen of the Mountains” 06 Inspect mediaeval fortifications 28 Do a marathon on cross-country skis 07 Admire the works of great masters 29 Find the chalets owned by celebrities 08 Run through all the arcades of the old town 30 Take a walk above the clouds 09 Pore over ancient books 31 Savour a stunning view above the gorge 10 Follow cattle and goats down into the valley 32 Splash water from the Rhine in your face 11 Pay a visit to Heidi, the beloved heroine of Swim in a mountain lake 12 children’s books 33 Let your gaze wander over the glacier 13 Pull the longest cheese string you can 34 Walk on a frozen lake 14 Make your own chocolate 35 Take a steamboat trip back in time 15 Dismantle a mechanical watch 36 Paddle between the crags by kayak 16 Coax a sound from an Alphorn 37 Swim in the river in the heart of the city 17 Challenge an Alpine wrestler to a match 38 Get sprayed by the water fountain 18 Hum along to the songs of the Silvesterkläuse 39 Capture the spray from the Staubbach Falls 19 Listen to the sounds of the fife and drum 40 See several rivers conjoin 20 Drink mulled wine at a Christmas market 41 Combine the ancient with the modern 21 Celebrate a major victory 42 Find the dragon in the pictures 22 Find more inspiration at: MySwitzerland.com KEY INFO

Our 4 languages Switzerland 41 ,285 km2 Area. There are four official national languages. by numbers “Hello” in: HIGHLIGHTS42 are a response to the question Swiss German (63.5 %) “What makes Switzerland tick?” Grüezi French (22.5 %) Bern Salut A longing for home Italian (8.1 %) This phenomenon of being homesick was first noticed Ciao in the Thirty Years’ War Romansh (0.5 %) and was rampant among 4 linguistic regions Swiss mercenaries in Allegra Capital: Bern Pantone D F foreign fields. Because of 485 Cantons: 26 b this “Morbus helveticus”, I R Inhabitants: 8,500,000 a French soldiers were a:b = 6:7 forbidden from singing 1 August Swiss songs; the Swiss 12 September mercenaries responded by deserting and The1291 cantons of Uri, Schwyz and Confoederatio helvetica, returning home. 1848Foundation of the modern Unterwalden formed an alliance the Latin name for the “Swiss confederation. that would eventually become the Confederation”. Swiss Confederation.

Swiss army knife Red Cross This multipurpose tool The International s has long been an iconic Committee of the Red product and can be Cross was founded in Reading found in every Swiss Geneva in 1863. World literature with its roots pocket. in Switzerland:

FRANKENSTEIN Mary Shelley SHERLOCK HOLMES Movie set Arthur Conan Doyle GoldenEye The Golden Compass Jass WILLIAM TELL Goldfinger Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge The card game Jass is very Friedrich Schiller The Spy Who Loved Me Trois couleurs: rouge popular, and the playing Star Wars The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo cards are freely available in SIDDHARTA The Wolf of Wallstreet Heidi many pubs. Hermann Hesse Public Advice & SEASONS4 transport to enjoy MySwitzerland.com/SwissTravelSystem booking A U We’ll be happy to help you j plan your best possible SPRING K B holiday in Switzerland. March – May Public transport is highly Flowers bloom and birds sing. Call us free on: reliable and will take passengers An ideal time for city breaks. 00800 100 200 30 to even the most remote valley –

k quickly, in comfort and right on F time. The Swiss Travel Pass gives SUMMER y you free travel using the Swiss

June – August P public transport network practi- The country’s lakes and cally around the clock. Please note: Visa mountain regions timetables are strictly Switzerland is part of the offer a place to cool off. adhered to! J Schengen area. This is a l grouping of 26 countries that do not operate border controls. AUTUMN September – November O Regardless of any visa Take a walk through the requirements, travel riotous colours of the trees and documents should not be enjoy the summer’s harvest. older than 10 years and must be valid for at m Payments are made Accommo- least 3 months beyond WINTER in Swiss Francs the departure date. December – February (CHF). The main dation Fun in the snow and time to tourist hotspots will Lifestyle hotel, wellness palace, eda.admin.ch relax by an open fireplace. also accept Euros. or perhaps you’d prefer to Cashless payment sleep in an igloo? The choice is also widely used, of accommodation in Switzer- æ with the Swiss often land is vast. Booking is quick ô CHF using Maestro cards and easy. in addition to the Climate MySwitzerland.com/ Safety Mild, with moderate heat, V usual credit cards. Switzerland is one of the hotels cold and humidity. world’s safest countries. July – August 65 to 82 °F

Max 197 °F, Grono GR At the heartS January – February of Europe Average: 36 to 45 °F Health Flight time to Zurich: (in minutes, unless specified) Min. -41 °F, La Brévine, JU The standard of 10 medical care is generally 1 Amsterdam 85’ very high. You can drink 2 Frankfurt 60’ Tipping is optional. the water from most 3 Vienna 85’ The Swiss tip around 10% if fountains. 4 Rome 95’ they find the service good. 5 Barcelona 110’ 6 Paris 80’ 7 1 London 100’ 7 8 2 Opening 8 Osaka 13 h 6 3 Electricity 9 São Paulo 12 h 250 V hours 10 Washington 9 h Shop opening times are regulated at cantonal level and can vary widely. As a 5 4 rule of thumb, shops are

usually open from Monday 9 to Friday between 9 a.m. Swiss plug sockets have and 6:30 p.m. They close a Swiss International Air Lines (SWISS) is Switzerland’s national their own specific shape. little earlier on Saturdays, airline. It serves more than 100 destinations in 44 countries from Don’t forget an adaptor. and most shops remain Zurich and Geneva . With its fleet of around 90 aircraft, SWISS Wi-Fi is widely available. closed on Sundays. carries almost 18 million passengers each year. swiss.com Traveling can be so simple.

Criss-cross the entire train, bus and boat network in Switzerland to your heart’s content – including free admission to numerous museums and discounts on mountain railways.

For booking the Swiss Travel pass, seat reservations, and more go to MySwitzerland.com/rail