The 100 finest views. Unique moments and inspiring experiences. MySwitzerland.com
Explore Switzerland with UBS: ubs.ch/explore
Fabulous views. Hardly any country can rival Switzerland for views. In every region you’ll find spectacular vantage points that reveal the glorious variety of Swiss landscapes and which are easily accessible on foot or by cable car, cog railway or funicular.
Your adventure begins here. Key to symbols
Further information
Outdoor activities
Expert advice & fantastic offers
High thrills: hiking, mountain biking and climbing.
Call us free of charge on 0800 100 222 (8am–6pm Monday till Friday, 10am–4pm Saturday), or e-mail us at
[email protected].
Mountain rides
In this, the fifth brochure jointly produced by UBS and Switzerland Tourism, we’re setting our sights higher than ever. Here we present 100 ideas for excursions that all promise glorious views, from breathtaking panoramas of Alpine peaks to dizzy glimpses into deep gorges, and from tranquil lake vistas to bird’s-eye views of cities and whole regions. Enter our big panorama quiz for the chance to win some wonderful prizes – and don’t forget to check out the great discounts and offers at the back of the brochure. Start planning your adventures now, and discover your own personal Swiss highlights. Happy exploring!
Switzerland’s finest mountain railway and cableway trips.
Food and drink Double the pleasure: alpine cuisine with views.
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Accommodation
How to use the webcodes
The most scenic places to stay.
Wherever you see a webcode in this brochure, you can find out more online: simply go to MySwitzerland.com and enter the number in the search field.
UBS offers
Jürg Schmid CEO Switzerland Tourism
Lukas Gähwiler CEO UBS Switzerland
Great leisure discounts: details on page 99.
Editorial. Top 100 views.
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From the Riggisalp to the Schwarzsee by monster scooter. Enjoy a day in the Freiburgerland. Take the chairlift from Schwarzsee through the mountains to the mountain station Riggisalp. From there, you can enjoy a four-kilometer trip on a monster scooter.
DISCOVER SWITZERLAND WITH UBS.
Bern-Bernese Oberland Great views
Basel Region Great views
14–23
Accommodation
1–15
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D
1–23
Views you and your wallet can enjoy
24–27
16–17 16
Jura & Three-Lakes Great views
18–24
Fribourg Region Great views
25–31
28–33
Accommodation 34–39
17
Accommodation
Valais
Accommodation
90–94
24
87
F
40–47
25/70–75
60
19
18
20
43–57
Accommodation
76–89
21
39 22
58–64
Accommodation
62–69
45–48
23
24
1/2
13
25
14
93
34
31 28
6
75
41
40
82
76
48 56 49
46
76–81
90–94
Lucerne – Lake Lucerne Region
86–93
Accommodation
42–56
Great views
45
82–85
87–89
90–100
78
81 55
77
26–38
Accommodation
Great views
52
47
64–73
Zürich Region
53
83
84
Accommodation
34
66
86–89
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Exclusive discounted excursions There are lots of discounts and exclusive offers that68/69 you can 59 benefit from, including the en62/63 60 closed excursion vouchers. There are also over 350 hotels in Switzer62 land that accept KeyClub61points in payment if you book through 65/66 the 63 64 Travel Service Line. Find out more 67 about the partnership between UBS and Switzerland Tourism, as well as the latest offers, at:
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www.ubs.ch/explore
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UBS KeyClub bonus program If you use our basic banking services, you can participate in the UBS KeyClub bonus program and collect KeyClub points, which you can use like cash by redeeming them one-for-one with our many partners, including Switzerland Tourism. You can collect the points in electronic or in paper form.Motorway www.ubs.com/keyclub www.ubs.com/keyclubestore
Main Road Railway
E-bike park Jura (Creux du Van). In the land of the green fairy: Start from the historic railway station at Noiraigue in the Val de Travers and travel up to the Creux du Van for a breathtaking view over the enchanting amphitheater. Then round off the tour by tasting some absinthe or chocolate.
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32
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32
Great views
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How to make it pay for you: you can redeem the voucher at the base station on the Riggisalp chairlift. Each voucher is valid for a reduction for one child and one adult. In the interests of your own safety, the price includes a helmet and protective pads. The offer cannot be combined with other discounts. Valid: from early June to 31 October, 2014 (end of season) www.kaisereggbahnen-schwarzsee.ch, Tel. +41(0)26 412 10 23
JOURNEY BY CABLE CAR
2 for 1
Fairy tale cable car and SiSu family park. How to make it pay for you: you can redeem the voucher at the base station on the Hannigalp cable car. One voucher is valid for a 2-for-1 offer: one paying adult can take one adult or child (over the age of 6) with them free. Children under the age of 6 travel free. The offer cannot be combined with other discounts (except the half-fare railcard). Valid: 15 June to mid-October 2014 (end of season) www.graechen.ch, Tel. +41(0)27 955 60 60
VOUCHER WORTH CHF
10.–
Tamaro Park Adventure. How to make it pay for you: you can redeem the voucher at the departing station of Monte Tamaro. Valid only for Tamaro Park Adventure combined ticket. Maximum two persons per single voucher. The offer cannot be combined with other discounts. Valid: until 31 October, 2014 www.splashespa.ch, Tel. +41 (0)91 936 22 22 and www.montetamaro.ch, Tel. +41(0)91 946 23 03
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65
57
42
79
57–61
69 26
58
18
44
80–86
100
17
51
43
Eastern Switzerland / Liechtenstein
72
50
71
Accommodation
77 27 31
Monster scooter ride.
73
35–38
3
15/16
73/74 39
3–5
28/29 76
78
8
2 38
49
5
23
37
6/7
10.–
How you benefit: the voucher gives you CHF 10 off the combined ticket. No more than two persons per voucher. www.ubs.ch/explore
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75
20
70
65–79
99
8–14
7
74
81 79
9
19
30
29
Graubünden
57–58
91
11
21/22
27
25
82
71 10
4
35/36
53
90
1
33
80
96/97/98
43 26
Mountain and water fun all in one: Tamaro Park Adventure. Take the cable car up to Monte Tamaro. Get off at the middle station and you will find the Adventure Park, a high-wire park with three levels of difficulty. After that, relax in the new waterpark “Splash e Spa Tamaro” at the base station – lots of fun is waiting for you.
50–52/54–56
92
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24
72
Great views
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44
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How you benefit: the voucher offers two adults entry for the price of one. Children under the age of six travel for free. www.ubs.ch/explore
Discounted excursions – UBS’s partnership with Switzerland Tourism helps you travel far and wide.
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83
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58–63
Great views
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Great views
Ticino
32–42
Take the fairytale cable car to the family park on the Hannigalp in Grächen. The fairytale cable car transports guests big and small to the world of Grimm’s fairy tales. On the Hannigalp, they meet Grächen’s mascot SiSu, and can enjoy water sports, climbing, spiders’ webs and water tubing in summer.
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Vaud, Lake Geneva Region. Geneva Great views
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39–41
How you benefit: the voucher gets you a combined chairlift and monster scooter ticket for CHF 10 – a saving of up to 50 percent. www.ubs.ch/explore
COMBI-TICKET FOR ONLY CHF
Free Travel Service Line UBS has set up a free telephone information service for you, called Travel Service Line. It offers www.swisstravelcenter.ch you expert advice on travel and leisure offers in Switzerland. Especially practical: you can use it to book hotels and train journeys together. From Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. and also on Saturdays, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Free hotline 0800 100 222
Car transport by rail Airport
Tips for great views Accommodation tips see page 75
UBS – partner of Switzerland Tourism
How you benefit: the RailAway rail voucher gives you CHF 15 off the E-bike park Jura / Creux du Van combination offer. www.ubs.ch/explore
Titlis Glacier Park. A unique glacial adventure at an altitude of 3,020 metres. With its trendy sliding equipment, Titlis Glacier Park guarantees a fun excursion. The new suspension bridge promises unadulterated thrills at over 3,000 metres above sea level. How you benefit: the RailAway rail voucher gives you CHF 15 off the Titlis Glacier Park combination offer. www.ubs.ch/explore
Oberblegisee circular walk. A picturesque path leads from Grotzenbüel across meadows and through light forests up to the Bächialp mountain restaurant. On the mountain path you come to Oberblegisee. The cableway goes to Luchsingen, and from here you complete the journey back by train. How you benefit: the RailAway rail voucher gives you CHF 15 off the Oberblegisee circular walk combination offer. www.ubs.ch/explore
RAIL BON
E-bike park Jura (Creux du Van).
WORTH CHF
The Rail Bon may be used as payment at most stations in Switzerland when purchasing the offer. The Rail Bon cannot be combined with other offers (1 Rail Bon only per person). No cash payment or refund is possible and it may not be passed on for payment.
15.–
Pay series: 0213 0000 2710
Valid until 31 October 2014
RAIL BON
Titlis Glacier Park.
WORTH CHF
The Rail Bon may be used as payment at most stations in Switzerland when purchasing the offer. The Rail Bon cannot be combined with other offers (1 Rail Bon only per person). No cash payment or refund is possible and it may not be passed on for payment.
15.–
Pay series: 0213 0000 2702
Valid until 31 October 2014
RAIL BON
Round trip Oberblegisee.
WORTH CHF
The Rail Bon may be used as payment at most stations in Switzerland when purchasing the offer. The Rail Bon cannot be combined with other offers (1 Rail Bon only per person). No cash payment or refund is possible and it may not be passed on for payment.
15.–
Pay series: 0213 0000 2728
Valid until 26 October 2014
Switzerland’s top 27 panoramic attractions. Towering mountains, picturesque lakes, lush forests, narrow valleys, wide plateaus, glittering cityscapes: Switzerland’s diverse landscapes reveal their rich beauty best when seen from above. From the 100 panoramic attractions described in this brochure, Switzerland Tourism’s experts have picked 27 highlights that you shouldn’t miss.
Highlights.
Panoramic walks
The most scenic hiking trails 1 61
G antrisch – Stockhorn: Ridge hike full of highlights
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Monte Lema – Monte Tamaro: Classic panoramic walk
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P arpaner Rothorn – Arosa: 1,000 peaks in the morning sun
Switzerland’s panoramic trails bring hikers deep into the country’s most pristine landscapes, offering a uniquely intimate experience of nature along with ever-changing views of mountains, valleys and lakes. The options are endless: from dizzy ridge hikes to treks through wild glacier landscapes, and from strolls along lakeshores to mountaintop walks in the glow of the rising sun. You’ll usually come across mountain restaurants en route, offering a warm welcome along with local specialities: doubly delicious when you’ve built up a hiker’s appetite.
Gueggisgrat ridge, above Interlaken, Bernese Oberland
Highlights. Top 100 views.
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Scenic adventures
Observation platforms
High thrills to suit every taste
The most dramatic vantage points in the Alps
Explore twisting trails on a mountain bike, glide between the treetops on a zip wire, scale dizzy crags on a via ferrata (fixed-cable climb): Switzerland’s mountains offer adrenalin-seekers no end of thrilling adventures, with panoramas to match.
From filigree constructions of steel projecting over an abyss to dizzy towers that rise high above the treetops, Switzerland’s manmade observation decks use stylish design to offer bird’seye views of spectacular landscapes.
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Charmey adventure park: High thrills in a spectacular setting
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Crans-Montana: Bike tour with world-class views
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D iavolezza via ferrata: Landscape of legendary beauty
T our de Moron: Panorama with a twist
50
G emmi Pass: Floating between heaven and earth
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C ardada Cimetta: Locarno’s great little peak
50
Panoramic peaks
Top mountain huts
The finest 360° vistas
Cosy cabins with world-class views 4
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Top 100 views. Highlights.
Ride the funicular up the Niesen, hike up the Barrhorn or take the cable car to the summit of the Säntis for views that are guaranteed to take your breath away. Here, not only the Alps but the whole world seems to lie at your feet. 4
N iesen: Mighty pyramid crafted by nature
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B arrhorn: Hike to the pinnacle of superlatives
85
S äntis: Fabulous panoramic views over six countries
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A comfortable spot in the sun and glorious scenery before your eyes: Switzerland’s mountain huts enjoy some of the finest locations in the Alps – and offer an unrivalled setting in which to savour the region’s gastronomic specialities. 30
Jaun: Chalet du Soldat
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M orgins: Le Ferrage
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P iz Mundaun: Bündner Rigi
Highlights. Top 100 views.
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Pioneering cog railways
City summits
The most historic mountain rides
The most attractive urban escapes
Switzerland’s historic mountain railways evoke all the glamour of the pioneering days of Alpine tourism. As they scale the country’s iconic peaks, the trains reveal ever-changing views that have enchanted visitors for well over a century. 7
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Most of Switzerland’s cities have a nearby mountain where locals like to relax, surrounded by nature. For visitors, these summits offer a fresh view of the city and its surroundings – and provide the starting point for glorious walks.
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S chynige Platte railway: Cog train to a heavenly hike
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Brienz Rothorn steam railway: Steam journey to boundless views
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Pilatus cog railway: High thrills on the world’s steepest cog railway
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C haumont: View of three lakes from Neuchâtel’s peak
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S an Salvatore: Heavenly hike on Lugano’s mountain
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U etliberg: High above Zürich on a pioneering railway
Alpine attractions
The most unusual mountain adventures 38
Unusual cable cars
The most spectacular cableway trips The only cabriolet cable car in the world, the first-ever revolving cable car, the atmospheric miniature cableways of canton Uri… These and other original mountain rides bear witness to the inventiveness of Swiss engineers. 91
Titlis Rotair: 360° views from the revolving cabin
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S tanserhorn cable car: World’s first cabriolet cable car
99
U ri’s nostalgic cableways: Rides back in time
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Top 100 views. Highlights.
Discover the summer snows 3,000 metres above sea level, explore the world of marmots, follow in the footsteps of James Bond high in the Bernese Oberland: Switzerland’s summits offer a variety of adventures to suit every taste.
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S chilthorn: Top location for 007
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R ochers-de-Naye: Marmot playground above Montreux
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Glacier 3000: Snow fun in high summer
Highlights. Top 100 views.
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DISCOVER SWITZERLAND WITH UBS.
The great UBS Panorama Quiz: lots to discover and win!
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Visit UBS. To take part in the UBS Panorama Quiz, go to your UBS branch and pick up the pack of five stickers showing beautiful views of Switzerland. On the back of each sticker is a tricky question about the location shown. Answer it, and you’re in with a chance of winning the main prize: a weekend in the idyllic Romantik Hotel Muottas Muragl for you and 30 friends. There are also 10 Swarovski binoculars worth approximately 2,000 francs and 10 Switzerland Tourism vouchers worth 1,000 francs each to be won.
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1798 m
RIGI
SAN SALVATORE 912 m
ROCHEARYSE DE-N 2042 m
Panorama Quiz free of charge in your UBS branch. There are a total of 20 vantage points for you to recognize. The more times you take part in the competition, the greater your chances of winning. But you stand to gain in any case: you’ll learn about unique destinations for excursions, and also collect the attractive stickers with
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For unforgettable moments. If you fancy more fascinating possibilities you can obtain further participation sets for the
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Illustration: Paula Troxler
The UBS and Switzerland Tourism quiz is all about 20 vantage points. There are prizes with a total value of over 50,000 francs to be won. Take part and take off for new horizons!
Great views: Participation sets and stickers for the UBS Panorama Quiz are available in German, French and Italian in all UBS branches. Good luck!
great memories of spectacular views for your entertainment.
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Find out more about the Panorama Quiz in any UBS branch or at www.ubs.ch/explore Benefit from the UBS excursion vouchers on page 99.
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Travel and discover. The best way to answer the quiz questions is to take a trip to the vantage point. It’s worth it for two reasons: because of the magnificent panorama – and because you’re certain to find the answer to the quiz question in the view. Then enter the answer on the answer slip in the participation set. It’s easier, though, to play online at www.ubs.ch/explore. So leave your everyday life behind and travel far away. The final draw will take place in mid-October 2014.
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DISCOVER SWITZERLAND WITH UBS.
“The outlook for Switzerland is good”
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Lukas Gähwiler, CEO UBS Switzerland, looks optimistically to the future.
The main prize offers a breathtaking view: With a little luck, the Romantik Hotel Muottas Muragl – high above the clouds and with the best panorama imaginable – can be where you and your 30 best friends spend two nights with full board, drinks and a comprehensive program of entertainment. The package guarantees an unforgettable experience in a unique environment. The value of the prize is approximately 20,000 francs.
Seventh heaven
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Lukas Gähwiler is CEO of UBS Switzerland.
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www.muottasmuragl.ch
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1) The view from the terrace above the Oberengadin lakes invites you to gaze and dream. 2) For over three years, the Romantik Hotel Muottas Muragl, which is over 100 years old, has gleamed in renewed splendor. 3) Swiss pinewood lends charm to every room.
In your professional life you are also concerned with the economic outlook. What is your assessment of it? In the long term I am optimistic. We have high purchasing power in Switzerland, as our “prices and wages” survey shows. We are better off than our European neighbors. Our economy has been growing faster for several years. But economic life is like living in the mountains: sunshine and rain alternate surprisingly quickly. That’s why it’s important that companies and
at h la edr te al w med of B ith ie e r 11 ob val n: 0. ser ch 6 va ur m ti ch . on to w er ,
But not only the view is electrifying. The first Plus energy hotel in the Alps requires only sustainable energy such as geothermal and solar energy, producing no pollutants or CO2 emissions.
hy are UBS and Switzerland Tourism using the motto “Outlook” for the summer, Mr. Gähwiler? Switzerland has a unique landscape. From the mountain tops we have bewitching views over lakes, the Alps and agricultural landscapes. In no other country in Europe will you find so many mountains over four thousand meters high. We can thus genuinely claim
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The Romantik Hotel Muottas Muragl will make your heart beat faster. The architecture in the 16 bedrooms combines modern elements with traditional mountain materials. The unique establishment is located above Samedan, at 2,456 meters above sea level, and can be reached via the Muottas Muragl railway. The idyllic panorama over the Oberengadin lakes, with its various perspectives, is legendary.
an altitude record: in Visperterminen winegrowers cultivate vineyards over 1,000 meters up, on the Silsersee at 1,800 meters there is a ferry company and on the Jungfraujoch a post office at almost 3,500 meters. But even in the cities there are vantage points, such as the Prime Tower in Zurich. It is in our nature to seek open views.
St an ra serh ilw o r w ay: n C ith fi a r b up ope st c rio pe n, ab r d pa le ec no car k. ra m ic
Main prize: a hotel for you and your 30 best friends
workers prepare themselves for all weather conditions. On what is your confidence based? While many countries are in debt, our nation is one of the largest creditors in the world. Thanks to direct democracy and federalism, we also have a stable political system. Studies show that Switzerland is innovative and competitive. UBS is playing its part in this through its commitment to training and innovation. Clouds have formed over the financial sector, however … Changed economic and legal conditions and new technologies present us with challenges. We are taking account of these changes. The Swiss financial sector will continue to play an important role if we understand client requirements and offer innovative solutions. What would you like your outlook to be this year? My family would like to cash in a few excursion vouchers (page 99). So I will allow myself to be tempted, as I love discovering new places.
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Switzerland distinguishes itself by its airy heights – and by well-developed vantage points.
UBS – partner of Switzerland Tourism
BernBernese Oberland.
Top 100 Aussichten. Xxxxxxxx.
Bern with Xxxxxxxx. the Bernese TopAlps 100(background), Aussichten. Bern Region
An enchanted world.
BE! Tourismus AG CH-3005 Bern Phone +41 (0)31 300 33 00 www.madeinbern.com
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Schönried / Rellerli: Tops for mountain bikers.
Beyond the gates of Bern’s picturesque Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, lie a variety of landscapes of bewitching beauty, each typically Swiss in its own way. The lush, rolling scenery of the Emmental and the Gürbetal valleys; the sparkling lakes at the gateway to the high Alps; the snow-capped pinnacles of the Schilthorn and the Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau: this remarkably diverse region offers an unforgettable setting for holiday adventures that have long enchanted visitors from all over the world.
Gantrisch – Stockhorn: Ridge hike full of highlights.
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Don’t miss “Stockhorn Eyes” – new pano ramic viewing platform ■■ Mountain lakes on the Stockhorn ■■ Bungee jumping from a cable car ■■ Simmental farmhouse trail ■■ White-water rafting on the Simme ■■
Address
parenmoos panoramic trail S ■■ Kick-scooter rides from top station ■■ Rellerli summer toboggan run ■■ Rafting on the River Saane from Gstaad to Château-d’Oex
Bergbahnen Destination Gstaad AG Promenade 41 CH-3780 Gstaad Phone +41 (0)33 748 87 37 www.gstaad.ch
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Address Stockhornbahn AG Kleindorf CH-3762 Erlenbach i. S. Phone +41 (0)33 681 21 81 www.stockhorn.ch
The Stockhorn is one of the emblematic peaks of the Bernese Oberland, accessible from the south by cable car. A more challenging but highly satisfying alternative is to walk there via a string of peaks high above the Simmental valley – a demanding hike of about six hours. Start at Gurnigel, served by postal bus, and climb to the Leiteren Pass below the Gantrisch. A well-marked alpine trail leads up to the Hohmad, revealing gorgeous views of the Bernese Alps and into the lush Simmental. A final, steep climb accesses the summit of the Stockhorn and a panoramic platform, opened in 2013, that projects from a window in the peak’s sheer north face. The bird’s-eye views are breathtaking, and extend from Lake Thun to the rolling hills of the Jura.
MySwitzerland.com, Webcode MySwitzerland.com, Webcode
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Top 100 views. Bern-Bernese Oberland.
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MySwitzerland.com, Webcode
Zweisimmen – Lenk: Challenging trail to Leiterli.
As you glide gently in the gondola from Zweisimmen up the Rinderberg, the views of the lush alpine pastures, steep wild-hay meadows and towering cliffs of the Bernese Oberland mountains become more spectacular with each passing moment. This beautiful landscape, full of contrasts, forms a magnificent backdrop for the six-hour panoramic hike to Leiterli, above Lenk, at an altitude of 2,001 metres. The trail leads via the Gandlouenen ridge and the Parwenge saddle to the long flank of the Heuberg, high above the Turbach valley, before following another sequence of ridges to the top of the Leiterli gondola. Despite the relatively small vertical difference encountered along the route – just 300 metres – this is a long and challenging hike, offering glorious views by way of reward.
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If you have never tried mountain biking in alpine terrain, you couldn’t pick a better place to have a go than Rellerli – the mountain with the long ridge and big choice of leisure activities. If you don’t feel like pedalling all the way up, glide to the summit with your bike in the gondola from Schönried. Up on high, you’ll enjoy glorious views extending from the chic resort of Gstaad to the jagged pinnacles of the Dent de Ruth and the Dent de Savigny – as well as the chance to sample the delicious fare at the Rellerli mountain restaurant, famous far and wide. Once you’ve had your fill, head back down the mountain on the winding single-track trail – a thrilling but low-risk ride. Et voilà: great fun for little effort.
Don’t miss ■■
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Don’t miss
Address
Simmen Falls–Iffigenalp hike ■■ Sieben Brunnen (“Seven Springs”) ■■ Betelberg “Alpine adventure”, “Alpine Culture” playground ■■ Mountain bike trail over the Hahnenmoos Pass to Adelboden
Lenk-Simmental Tourismus AG Rawilstrasse 3 CH-3775 Lenk i. S. Phone +41 (0)33 736 35 35 www.lenk-simmental.ch
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Bern-Bernese Oberland. Top 100 views.
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Niesen: Mighty pyramid crafted by nature.
Don’t miss
Address
pectacular sunrises and sunsets S ■■ Niesen–Springenboden hike ■■ Diemtigtal Nature Park ■■ New Lake Thun circular hike ■■ Postal bus trips into Kiental valley
Niesenbahn AG Talstation CH-3711 Mülenen Phone +41 (0)33 676 77 11 www.niesen.ch
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Address
Restaurant Allmenalp ■■ Blausee lake with trout farm ■■ Rowing boats on Lake Oeschinen ■■ BLS railway theme trail ■■ Ricola herb garden, Kandersteg
Kandersteg Tourismus Äussere Dorfstrasse 26 CH-3718 Kandersteg Phone +41 (0)33 675 80 80 www.kandersteg.ch
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Top 100 views. Bern-Bernese Oberland.
Schilthorn: Top location for 007.
The Niesen is easy to recognise: its summit forms a perfect pyramid. The peak attracts visitors from all over the world, and also acts as a weather forecaster. One saying holds that when the Niesen wears a “hat” of cloud, the weather will be fine – to the delight of local people, who are always happy to trust the predictions of “their” mountain. For more than 100 years, a funicular has scaled the peak from Mülenen; the flight of steps along the track, used for maintenance, is the longest in the world. From the top station, it’s a short walk to the summit and dazzling views over a sea of pinnacles that make you want to take to the skies like a bird. Why not? The local paragliding club offers tandem flights.
MySwitzerland.com, Webcode
42578
Don’t miss
Address
chilthorn 007 revolving restaurant S ■■ Car-free resort of Mürren ■■ Mürren–Gimmelwald via ferrata ■■ North Face Trail ■■ Trümmelbach Falls
Schilthornbahn AG Höheweg 2 CH-3800 Interlaken Phone +41 (0)33 826 00 07 www.schilthorn.ch
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You’ll need a sure foot and a good head for heights to tackle Kandersteg’s famous via ferrata. Previous experience is essential: this challenging fixed-cable climb leads up sheer cliffs, guaranteeing high thrills all the way. The 550-metre route climbs on either side of the Allmibach cascades, incorporating rope ladders, 25-metre suspension bridges and a spectacular zip wire on the way to the tranquil Allmenalp pastures. For an easier ascent, ride up on the cable car; you’ll enjoy the same glorious views as the climbers of the dramatic Kander valley and the snow-capped pinnacles of the Blüemlisalp massif. Walk beyond the restaurant up to Obere Allme, and you’ll also see across to the piercing blue waters of Lake Oeschinen. MySwitzerland.com, Webcode
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Like the royal box at a theatre, the Piz Gloria offers the ultimate view of the famous Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau. In 1969, the sight proved an inspiration to Peter R. Hunt, director of the James Bond film “On Her Majesty’s Secret Service”: he chose the peak with its famous revolving restaurant as a key location. Ever since, enthusiasts have flocked from around the world to see the soaring cliffs and snowcapped peaks of the Bernese Alps with their own eyes, and to marvel at the distant views, which on clear days reach the Vosges mountains in France and the Black Forest in Germany. Last summer, two new attractions opened: the James Bond World exhibition and the Piz Gloria View observation platform.
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MySwitzerland.com, Webcode
Kandersteg / Allmenalp: High thrills up a cliff.
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Schynige Platte – First: Heavenly hike.
The ride up to Schynige Platte in a cog railway more than 100 years old offers a rare chance to admire the tremendous variety of alpine flora – at the botanical garden by the summit station, 2,000 metres above sea level. This is the starting point for a demanding six-hour hike that leads way above the treeline to reveal breathtaking views of the iconic peaks of the Bernese Alps including the Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau. At the highest point of the panoramic path, before you descend to the sparkling, much-photographed Bachalpsee, you pass a piece of Swiss history: the Faulhorn mountain hotel, the highest in the Alps when it opened in 1832, and to this day a popular stop for hungry hikers.
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Address
hrilling First Flyer zip-wire rides T ■■ Bort–Grindelwald kick-scooter run ■■ Indoor Rope Park, Grindelwald ■■ JungfrauPark, Interlaken ■■ Harder viewpoint, Interlaken
Jungfraubahnen Harderstrasse 14 CH-3800 Interlaken Phone +41 (0)33 828 71 11 www.jungfrau.ch
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MySwitzerland.com, Webcode
57111
Bern-Bernese Oberland. Top 100 views.
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Jungfraujoch: To the “Top of Europe”.
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Address
Snow Fun Park on the glacier Snow hike to Mönchsjoch hut ■■ Alpine Sensation gallery ■■ Ice palace in the Aletsch Glacier ■■ Sphinx viewing platform (3,571 m)
Jungfraubahnen Harderstrasse 14 CH-3800 Interlaken Phone +41 (0)33 828 71 11 www.jungfrau.ch
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Alpen tower: Pinnacles of pleasure.
Bracing mountain air, glorious views and a beautiful restaurant: the three ingredients of a perfect alpine excursion come together at Planplatten above Meiringen, at an altitude of 2,245 metres. The ride up is quick and comfortable on the modern Eagle Express gondola from Mägisalp. At the summit, take a seat in the Alpen tower restaurant – as futuristic as its name suggests – and order a local speciality: meringues with double cream. These sweet delicacies made of egg white were invented in Meiringen, and their little white pinnacles perfectly match the snow-capped peaks on the horizon. Information panels reveal the names of all the surrounding mountains – a bewitching backdrop for a variety of exhilarating panoramic hikes. MySwitzerland.com, Webcode
42640
Don’t miss
Address
Horizon Trail to Engstlenalp Muggestutz children’s theme trail ■■ Sherlock Holmes Museum, Meiringen ■■ Reichenbach Falls and Rosenlaui ■■ Tälli mountain hut and via ferrata
Bergbahnen Meiringen-Hasliberg AG Twing CH-6084 Hasliberg Wasserwendi Phone +41 (0)33 550 50 50 www.meiringen-hasliberg.ch
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Top 100 views. Bern-Bernese Oberland.
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When you board the train at Kleine Scheidegg, the breeze caressing your cheeks feels mild enough. That soon changes on the ride up to Europe’s highest railway station, 3,454 metres above sea level. The journey takes you through a long tunnel with two stops offering views through windows in the rock. The first looks out from the north face of the Eiger over a yawning abyss; the second reveals a vast sea of ice, the famous “Eismeer”. After a total climb of 1,400 vertical metres, you reach the Jungfraujoch, “Top of Europe”. Here there’s definitely a wintry chill in the air as the perennial snows sparkle in the dazzling sunlight. The Sphinx observation platform offers unforgettable views of this high wilderness, including the largest river of ice in the Alps, the world-famous Aletsch Glacier. MySwitzerland.com, Webcode
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Brienzer Rothorn – Brünigpass: Boundless views.
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1,678 vertical metres separate Brienz from the summit of the Rothorn. The most atmospheric way up is in a panoramic carriage of one of the steam trains that has carried visitors from all over the world to the summit since 1891. You can also glide up the mountain from the other side – in a cable car from Sörenberg. The summit observation platform, looks out over a sea of Alpine peaks and lush pastures. A five-hour walk leads along the ridge to the Brünigpass, with spectacular views the whole way. On the right, you look down to the turquoise waters of Lake Brienz and across to the Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau; straight ahead of you lies the historic valley of the Haslital; while to your left, the vista extends from the craggy Schrattenfluh in the Entlebuch to the distant Swiss Plateau. Don’t miss
Address
ood-carving in Brienz W ■■ Open-air museum, Ballenberg ■■ Lake Brienz cruises ■■ Aare cycle route, Lake Brienz ■■ Giessbach falls and grand hotel
Brienz Rothorn Bahn Hauptstrasse 149 CH-3855 Brienz Phone +41 (0)33 952 22 22 www.brienz-rothorn-bahn.ch
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MySwitzerland.com, Webcode
36273
Niederhorn – Habkern: Mountain realm of the ibex.
From the Beatenbucht boat stop on Lake Thun, a sparkling silver funicular and then a cable car carry you smoothly to the summit of the Niederhorn (1,949 m), the starting point for a glorious four-hour panoramic hike. But first, make a little detour: stroll past the summit hotel to the ridge overlooking the lake you have just sailed across, now lying at your feet in its shimmering blue glory. The trail proper leads you across flower-filled meadows and past sculpted limestone cliffs towards Habkern; go gently, and you may spot ibex or chamois. From the Burgfeldstand, the highest point along the hike, pause to admire the famous mountain trio of the Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau; later, from the top of the dramatic Gemmenalphorn, enjoy superb views of the Sieben Hengste and the Hohgant. MySwitzerland.com, Webcode
57564
Don’t miss
Address
W ildlife-watching trips ■■ Alpine orienteering trails, Niederhorn ■■ Lombachalp and Habkern Sörenberg moorland ■■ St. Beatus caves with museum
Thunersee-BeatenbergNiederhorn-Bahnen CH-3803 Beatenberg Phone +41 (0)33 841 08 41 www.niederhorn.ch
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Naturpark Gantrisch: Gürbetal high trail.
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Napf: Roof of the Emmental.
The five-hour hike along the heights overlooking the Gürbe valley, from Kehrsatz to Mühlethurnen, leaves no questions unanswered – thanks to modern technology. On this walk, you follow an information-packed app rather than the classic yellow footpath signs. Along the route it directs you to the finest vantage points, recounts intriguing local legends, explains cultural features and tells you what you see – such as the names of the snow-capped mountains that line the horizon like a delicate lace border, in picturesque contrast with the deep-blue sky and the lush green expanse of the valley. The app also indicates good places to stop for a bite, and gives details of farmers where you can buy delicious local produce for a picnic. MySwitzerland.com, Webcode
53449
Don’t miss
Address
teps up the Guggershörnli S pinnacle, panoramic views ■■ Swimming in the Schwarzsee lake and the River Sense ■■ Rüeggisberg monastery ruins ■■ Gantrisch adventure rope park ■■ Gantrisch panoramic trail
Naturpark Gantrisch Schlossgasse 13 CH-3150 Schwarzenburg Phone +41 (0)31 808 00 20 www.gantrisch.ch
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apf summit hotel, view of Alps N ■■ Beautiful Emmental farmhouses ■■ Kambly Experience, Trubschachen ■■ Grenzpfad Napfbergland 6-day hike ■■ Show dairy, Affoltern i. E.
Tourismus Emmental Bahnhofstrasse 44 CH-3400 Burgdorf Phone +41 (0)34 402 42 52 www.emmental.ch
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Bern: A rosy outlook.
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Restaurant Rosengarten ■■ Old Town: World Heritage Site ■■ Panorama from cathedral tower ■■ Alpine view from Kornhaus bridge ■■ River Aare lido, Marzili
Bern Tourismus Bahnhofplatz 10a CH-3011 Bern Phone +41 (0)31 328 12 12 www.bern.com
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Top 100 views. Bern-Bernese Oberland.
MySwitzerland.com, Webcode
140023
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Address
useum home of the writer M Jeremias Gotthelf, Lützelflüh ■■ Burgdorf castle ■■ Emmental Murder and Ghost Story Trail ■■ Chüechlihus museum, Langnau i. E.
Tourismus Emmental Bahnhofstrasse 44 CH-3400 Burgdorf Phone +41 (0)34 402 42 52 www.emmental.ch
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MySwitzerland.com, Webcode
57101
Lueg: Scenic electric bike tour through cheese country.
When members of the Swiss government wish to show foreign visitors the Swiss capital at its most beautiful, they head to the Rose Garden. Up here, the whole of Bern seems to lie at your feet. The magnificent views extend the length of the medieval Old Town to the mighty cupola of the Parliament Building; perhaps the prettiest aspect of all is the sight of the River Aare, enclosing the entire historic city centre in one elegant loop. As well as extravagant displays of flowers – 220 varieties of roses, 200 of iris and 28 of rhododendron – the park boasts an attractive network of ponds and spacious lawns, promising pure relaxation.
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The gentle hills of the Emmental culminate in the solitary peak of the Napf at an altitude of 1,408 metres. The summit is easy to reach on foot – for example, on the four-hour ridge hike that starts up at Ahornalp and leads past the Ämmital “Friends of Nature” hostel, Höchänzi and Nideränzi all the way to the “roof of the Emmental”. At the summit you’ll find the atmospheric Napf mountain lodge with its panoramic terrace. On clear days, you can see as far as the Bernese Alps and across the Swiss Plateau to the Jura mountains. The view is particularly romantic towards the evening, as the sun slowly sets behind the peaks on the horizon and a thousand stars appear oneby-one in the heavens.
Lueg means “Look!” in the local dialect, a thoroughly appropriate name for this scenic vantage point at an altitude of 860 metres. The picturesque hill lies on the Emmental Cheese Route, an attractive electric-bike trail in two variants: a one-day circuit and a longer, two-day itinerary. Both options take in Lueg because the summit offers magnificent views across the colourful patchwork landscape of the Emmental, the valley that gives the world-famous cheese its name and which accounts for a large share of production. On clear days, you can see as far as the snow-capped peaks of the Bernese Alps on the horizon. A monument at the site commemorates the 54 Bernese cavalrymen who fell victim to the 1918 influenza epidemic. MySwitzerland.com, Webcode
173519
Bern-Bernese Oberland. Top 100 views.
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Basel Region.
Ankenballen above Langenbruck, Basel Region
Window on the world.
Basel Tourismus CH-4010 Basel Phone +41 (0)61 268 68 68 www.basel.com
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Basel’s Messeturm: City views of three countries.
The Basel Region is famous for its diversity and international outlook. You realise why on a walk up to the highest point in the canton of Baselland, the Chellenchöpfli, whose views extend northwards to the Vosges in France and the Black Forest in Germany; to the south, the majestic Alps frame the horizon. Within Basel, the 105-metrehigh Trade Fair Tower also offers a superb vantage point: at night, too, when the city turns into a sea of twinkling lights.
For 11 years, the shimmering blue form of Basel’s Messeturm, or Trade Fair Tower, has dominated the city’s skyline. With a height of 105 metres, this is Switzerland’s second-tallest skyscraper, home to conference and business facilities, a hotel and a restaurant as well as the famous Bar Rouge on the 31st floor. Comfortable leather sofas, floor-to-ceiling windows, soft lighting – the setting is perfect for enjoying the seemingly endless views that extend past the sea of houses and apartments to the lush green countryside of Switzerland, France and Germany beyond. The city panorama is especially captivating at night, when Basel transforms into an ocean of sparkling lights.
Don’t miss
Address
iew over the Old Town from the V towers of Basel’s cathedral ■■ Rhine views from Pfalz square ■■ “3 Countries Corner” and Rhine port ■■ Rhine swimming, traditional ferries
Bar Rouge Messeplatz 10 CH-4058 Basel Phone +41 (0)61 361 30 31 www.barrouge.ch
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MySwitzerland.com, Webcode
43881
Wasserfallen: Glide up gently and zoom back down.
The Chellenchöpfli is the highest summit in the canton of Baselland, 1,156 metres above sea level. The ground falls dramatically from the rocky outcrop at the top; on clear days, the spectacular views extend from the Swiss Alps to the French Vosges and the Black Forest in Germany. The climb up offers a scenic climax to a mountain outing packed with variety, beginning with a ride from Reigoldswil up to Wasserfallen in one of the yellow panoramic gondolas. After the round walk up to the Chellenchöpfli and Hintere Egg, which takes about an hour and a half, you glide all the way back down to the valley on a kick-scooter. Wind in your hair, glorious scenery all around and a big smile on your face – what more could you ask for?
Don’t miss
Address
asserfallen forest rope park W ■■ Thal Nature Park ■■ Hikes in the Jura ■■ Cosy restaurants high in the Jura ■■ Solarbob toboggans, Langen bruck
Baselland Tourismus Altmarktstrasse 96 CH-4410 Liestal Phone +41 (0)61 927 65 44 www.baselland-tourismus.ch
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MySwitzerland.com, Webcode
42666
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Top 100 views. Basel Region.
Basel Region. Top 100 views.
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Jura & Three-Lakes.
Creux du Van in the Val-de-Travers, Jura and Three-Lakes
Wild but welcoming.
Jura & Trois-Lacs CH-2502 Biel/Bienne Phone +41 (0)32 328 40 10 www.j3l.ch
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Les Sommêtres: Spectacular view down to the Doubs.
Whether you scale the Arête des Sommêtres high above the River Doubs in the Jura or climb the Chasseral or Chaumont overlooking Lake Biel, Lake Murten and Lake Neuchâtel, you’ll marvel at a region famous for its open vistas and pristine beauty. From the lush meadows where the Franches-Montagnes horses graze to the historic watchmaking towns and cities, and from the vast rock amphitheatre of the Creux du Van to the vineyards of Mont-Vully, this is a world to delight all the senses.
Weissenstein: Balcony over Switzerland.
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Address
ranches-Montagnes horse riding F ■■ Doubs Nature Park ■■ Saut du Doubs waterfall and Lac des Brenets cruise ■■ Etang de la Gruère moor lake
Jura Tourisme Rue de la Gruère 6 CH-2350 Saignelégier Phone +41 (0)32 420 47 70 www.juratourisme.ch
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Don’t miss ■■ Gondola up the Weissenstein opens autumn 2014 ■■ Solothurn’s Old Town ■■ Verena gorge and hermitage ■■ Aare river cruise to Biel ■■ Balmberg adventure rope park ■■ Thal Nature Park
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Address Region Solothurn Tourismus Hauptgasse 69 CH-4500 Solothurn Phone +41 (0)32 626 46 46 www.solothurn-city.ch
The Weissenstein may be “only” 1,284 metres high, but up on Solothurn’s local mountain you feel as if the world lies at your feet. Spread below you is the vast yellowand-green patchwork of the whole Swiss Plateau. Lining the horizon are the sparkling white pinnacles of the Alps – a seemingly endless chain that on clear days extends from the Säntis to Mont Blanc. A good place to enjoy the views is from the panoramic restaurant terrace of the art nouveau Kurhaus. For a beautiful walk, follow the ridge for about an hour to Röti and then down to Balmberg, where there’s a postal bus stop. This hike forms part of the legendary Jura High Trail along the crest of the whole Jura chain, one of Switzerland’s oldest and most scenic long-distance footpaths. MySwitzerland.com, Webcode
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Top 100 views. Jura & Three-Lakes.
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The climb from the village of Le Noirmont in the Jura to the 1,097-metre outcrop of the Arête des Sommêtres requires a good level of fitness and, at the end, dexterity and a head for heights. The final stretch of the route to the summit with its limestone pinnacles is so narrow and exposed in places that you have to climb along on all fours. This section is only for experienced mountain hikers, but for anyone else, that’s no great loss: the view from the observation point by the refuge is still breathtaking. The undulating green expanse of the Franches-Montagnes, with their pale pastures and dark forests, stretches into the distance; far below, the River Doubs winds through a deep, forested valley on its way to join the Rhône and ultimately the Mediterranean. MySwitzerland.com, Webcode
53548
Tour de Moron: Panorama with a twist.
The Tour de Moron is a 30 metre tower which looks like an oversize screw that a giant has fastened onto the top of the mountain of the same name above Malleray. The spiral staircase that winds up the concrete structure leads to an observation platform revealing breathtaking views across Switzerland. On a clear day you can see from the remotest hills of the Jura to the Alps, from the Säntis in the east to Mont Blanc in the west, and from the Vosges mountains in France to the Black Forest in Germany. Equally charming is the story of the structure, designed by the celebrated Ticino architect Mario Botta as part of an educational project: about 700 apprentice builders from all over French-speaking Switzerland and their teachers spent a total of four years building the tower, which opened in 2004. MySwitzerland.com, Webcode
110942
Don’t miss
Address
J ura arts museum and lathe museum, Moutier ■■ “Tête de Moine AOP” cheese, horses and abbey church, Bellelay ■■ Champoz smokehouse
Jura bernois Tourisme Avenue de la Gare 9 CH-2740 Moutier Phone +41 (0)32 494 53 43 www.jurabernois.ch
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Chasseral: Challenging climb or gourmet round walk.
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Address
hasseral Nature Park C Wind and solar power plants at Mont Soleil and Mont Crosin ■■ Bridleways, mountain bike trails ■■ Bison Ranch, Les Prés-d’Orvin
Jura bernois Tourisme Place de la Gare 2 CH-2610 St. Imier Phone +41 (0)32 942 39 42 www.jurabernois.ch
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Address
Tessenberg funicular, Ligerz– Prêles ■■ Vineyard trail from Twann to Ligerz ■■ Twannbach gorge walk ■■ Boat crossing to St. Peter’s Island ■■ Omega Museum, Biel
Tourismus Biel Seeland Bahnhofplatz CH-2501 Biel/Bienne Phone +41 (0)32 329 84 84 www.biel-seeland.ch
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A hike full of variety leads from Villeret near St. Imier through a dramatic gorge, the Combe Crède, up to the Chasseral, one of the highest summits (1,607 m) of the Bernese Jura. The final stretch follows the panoramic ridge to the telecoms tower, revealing views down to the sunny vineyards on the shores of Lake Biel way below. An alternative to the demanding climb through the gorge is a more leisurely but nonetheless wonderfully scenic round walk high on the Chasseral, lasting about four and a half hours. This takes in several of the region’s characteristic “métairies” – remote farm restaurants that serve delicious cuisine using local cheese and other produce, especially tasty when tackled with a hiker’s appetite. MySwitzerland.com, Webcode
Top 100 views. Jura & Three-Lakes.
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The church of Ligerz stands above the village, its elegant spire appearing to float heavenwards out of a sea of vines. The most important ecclesiastical building of the region was once a popular place of pilgrimage; today it is in great demand as a wedding venue, thanks to its exceptionally romantic setting. The most attractive way to reach it is by following the gentle path up from the lakeshore, through terraced vineyards and past typical dry-stone walls. The church’s terrace, in turn, promises one of the best views of the whole lake region. Beyond the sun-blessed vines in the foreground lies sparkling Lake Biel, with St. Peter’s Island; in the distance, the glittering snow-capped peaks of the Alps rise to the horizon.
Chaumont: View of three lakes from Neuchâtel’s mountain.
Don’t miss
Address
Chaumont adventure park ■■ Topeka horse ranch ■■ La Coudre–Chaumont funicular free with GA travelcard ■■ Neuchâtel botanical garden
Tourisme neuchâtelois Hôtel des Postes CH-2001 Neuchâtel Phone +41 (0)32 889 68 90 www.neuchateltourisme.ch
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MySwitzerland.com, Webcode
Creux du Van: On the edge of the abyss.
The Creux du Van is the Grand Canyon of the Val-de-Travers: a limestone amphitheatre with cliffs 160 metres high, carved from rocks laid down at the bottom of a prehistoric seabed 200 million years ago. The spectacular horseshoe of cliffs measures four kilometres end to end. Walk along its edge, and you can’t help but gaze into the abyss; keep your eyes peeled, because ibex, chamois and even lynx live here in the largest nature reserve in canton NeuchâPhone Pause now and again to look above the rim of rock for a very different view: of open pastures and drystone walls, forests of pine, the rolling hills of the Jura and in the distance, the glinting pinnacles of the Alps.
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Don’t miss
Address
reuse springs and gorge A ■■ Asphalt mines visit, Travers ■■ Mauler sparkling wines, Môtiers ■■ Route de l’Absinthe, visits ■■ Buttes–La Robella summer toboggan run
Goût & Région Place de la Gare CH-2103 Noiraigue Phone +41 (0)32 889 68 96 www.neuchateltourisme.ch
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MySwitzerland.com, Webcode MySwitzerland.com, Webcode
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The funicular takes just 13 minutes to climb the 1,078 metre peak on Neuchâtel’s doorstep, the Chaumont. If you prefer a gentler transition from city centre to pristine nature, you can walk up – and appreciate the way the views gradually unfold along the trail. In the foreground, the three large lakes – of Neuchâtel, Biel and Murten – glitter like blue panes of glass in the regular green patchwork of the fields. Beyond, on a clear day, you’ll see “our” Alps rising into the pastel-blue sky, including the majestic Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau. The view is more spectacular still if you keep climbing once you have reached the summit of the Chaumont: up the panoramic tower, another 60 metres off the ground.
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Ligerz: Heaven on earth.
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Jura & Three-Lakes. Top 100 views.
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Fribourg Region.
Dent de Lys, Fribourg Region
Naturally diverse.
Fribourg Region CH-1701 Fribourg Phone +41 (0)26 407 70 20 www.fribourgregion.ch
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Fribourg: Heavenly vista from the Loreto Chapel.
One region, two languages, three worlds: the landscapes around the historic city of Fribourg are exceptionally rich in scenic, cultural and gastronomic variety. La Gruyère is a land of pristine hills, forests and meadows, culminating in the panoramic peak of the Moléson. By contrast, the atmosphere on the shores of Lake Murten and Lake Neuchâtel is almost Mediterranean. Presiding over all this is the canton’s capital, bilingual Fribourg, home to one of Switzerland’s most beautiful Old Towns.
Mont-Vully: Small label, great views.
Don’t miss
Address
Funicular, Old Town and St. Nicholas cathedral ■■ Espace Jean Tinguely–Niki de Saint Phalle ■■ “City golf” in the Old Town
Fribourg Tourisme et Région Place Jean-Tinguely 1 CH-1701 Fribourg Phone +41 (0)26 350 11 11 www.fribourgtourisme.ch
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Don’t miss andstone caves and wine trail S at Mont-Vully ■■ Bike golf around Lake Murten ■■ Bike rides along Murten’s vegetable trail ■■ Old Town of Murten ■■ From Erlach to St. Peter’s Island ■■
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Murten Tourismus Französische Kirchgasse 6 CH-3280 Murten Phone +41 (0)26 670 51 12 www.murtentourismus.ch
MySwitzerland.com, Webcode
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Top 100 views. Fribourg Region.
Don’t miss
Address
Swimming beach at Schwarzsee ■■ Schwarzsee summer toboggan run ■■ Witch Path adventure trail ■■ Mountain bike park and trail, Plaffeien
Schwarzsee Tourismus Schwarzseestrasse 212 CH-1716 Schwarzsee Phone +41 (0)26 412 13 13 www.schwarzsee.ch
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MySwitzerland.com, Webcode
191262
Kaiseregg: High above the Schwarzsee.
Address
The scenery of the Three-Lakes Region is unusually open and expansive for Switzerland. Even the Mont-Vully (653 metres) at its heart resembles the broad back of a whale rather than a mountain. Three lakes – beautiful Lake Biel, wild Lake Neuchâtel and delightful Lake Murten – almost surround the summit. Framing the horizon to the north are the rolling green Jura mountains, and to the south, the snow-white pinnacles of the Alps. The footpaths leading through the sun-blessed vineyards are delightful, as is the journey here by boat across the lake from Murten to Praz or Môtier. For a special treat, book a night at Mont-Vully – before boarding a boat the next morning in Sugiez for the charming cruise to Neuchâtel and Biel, via three lakes and two canals.
There are Loreto chapels in many places throughout Europe, all inspired by the great Italian pilgrimage site of the Santa Casa church in Loreto. Fribourg’s version, a pretty, early-Baroque structure, stands on a high promontory overlooking the magnificent Old Town. The church terrace offers the best vantage point for admiring the bilingual city’s spectacular setting, high above the river – known as the Sarine in French and the Saane in German – flowing gently along sandstone cliffs on its journey to join the Aare. From this height, the scattered villages beyond the city look as if they are built of dolls’ houses lifted from a book of fairy tales; beyond them, lush meadows and rolling hills extend all the way to the Fribourg Alps.
From Schwarzsee, the “black lake” of legend, it’s a climb of 1,100 vertical metres to the top of the local mountain, the Kaiseregg. The first 400 metres are child’s play if you ride up on the Riggisalp chairlift; the rest will take about three hours to walk from the summit station. From pretty Riggisalp lake, the route climbs steeply to Alp Salzmatt before scaling a ridge and traversing wild, rocky terrain to reach the summit. The climb is demanding, but the view from the stony summit ridge, extending from the countless rolling hills of the Swiss Plateau to the famous peaks of the Vaud and Bernese Alps, is a spectacular reward. Look back down to the valley, and you’ll see the dark-green waters of the Schwarzsee glistening among the meadows and forests, promising a refreshing dip after the hike home. MySwitzerland.com, Webcode
181374
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Fribourg Region. Top 100 views.
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Gruyères: Views with a shudder.
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Jaun: Gastlosen hike with a break at the soldiers’ chalet.
Walk along the main alleyway of the historic little town of Gruyères with its lively shops and restaurants, and you feel you have stepped into an updated version of a scene from the Middle Ages. High above the bustle rises the fairy-tale Château de Gruyères, with its balconies, battlements and pinnacles. It’s well worth a visit: not just for the grisly severed hand on display, but also the fine views. From the big first-floor balcony you look out over one of the prettiest scenes in the region of La Gruyère: the castle’s French-style garden with its colourful and geometrical flower beds, framed by the soft hills gently receding into the distance.
MySwitzerland.com, Webcode
Don’t miss
Address
R Giger (“Alien” creator) H museum & bar ■■ La Maison Cailler, Broc ■■ La Maison du Gruyère show dairy ■■ Bulle–Montbovon “fondue train”
Château de Gruyères Rue du Château 8 CH-1663 Gruyères Phone +41 (0)26 921 21 02 www.chateau-gruyeres.ch
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Address
Waterfall of Jaun ■■ Jaun’s churches and Cantorama ■■ Gastlosen geological trail ■■ Rock climbing on the Gastlosen ■■ Charmey’s museum
Chalet du Soldat CH-1656 Jaun Phone +41 (0)26 929 82 35 www.chaletdusoldat.ch
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Le Moléson – Les Paccots: Walk for gourmets.
No wonder the people of the Fribourg Region have a special affection for the Moléson. The journey up from Moléson-Village is an adventure in itself, starting with a swift funicular ride followed by a scenic glide in a cable car up to 2,002 metres. The roof of the top station reveals wonderful views extending from Lake Geneva over the Three-Lakes Region to the Bernese, Vaud and Valais Alps. This summit is the starting point for a magnificent hike, which begins with the panoramic ridge path and a short scramble to the summit of the Teysachaux. From here, the trail leads down to Les Paccots via the high Salette pastures, where a charming restaurant serves a “divine” fondue (according to experts), as well as the delicious Soupe du Chalet and the classic Meringues à la Crème Double de la Gruyère. MySwitzerland.com, Webcode
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Top 100 views. Fribourg Region.
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Charmey: High thrills in a spectacular setting.
High adventure and breathtaking views come together on the Vounetse, the mountain on Charmey’s doorstep. At the middle station of the gondola you’ll find an adventure park packed with thrills. Obstacle courses through the treetops offer giddy challenges of all levels of difficulty; the Powerfan jump promises the addictive sensation of free falling, but in complete safety; and eleven different zip wires up to 300 metres long guarantee a high-octane blast of adrenalin. And the best way to come back down to earth? Simply take a seat on one of the benches and enjoy the enchanting views of the Fribourg and Vaud Alps framing the dramatic jagged pinnacles of the Dents Vertes. MySwitzerland.com, Webcode
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ia ferratas on the Moléson V Summer tobogganing, grass go-karting at Moléson-Village ■■ Visitor dairy and cheese trail ■■ Alpine cheese walk, Les Paccots
Office du Tourisme Moléson Place de l’Aigle 6 CH-1663 Moléson-sur-Gruyères Phone +41 (0)26 921 85 00 www.moleson.ch
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The pinnacles of the Gastlosen massif are so spiky they could be a fossilised pine forest. At its feet stands the Chalet du Soldat, offering food, drink and a bed for the night to hikers. The idea of building a refuge in such a picturesque setting came from one Major Wolf in 1943, who wanted to make his regiment fit for the mountains. Today the chalet is a convenient stop for many hikers on the Gastlosen round walk, which takes some four and a half hours. From Jaun, they glide on the Gastlosen Express chairlift up to an altitude of 1,570 metres, for the first stage of the hike as far as the cabin. Those who opt to stay the night here enjoy a special treat: the sight of the pale limestone pinnacles of the Gastlosen turning golden at sunset, framed by the lush greenery of a pine forest bursting with life.
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Address
Thermal leisure pools, Charmey ■■ Jaunbach gorge hike ■■ “Poya” paintings on farmhouses ■■ Gruyère Pays-d’Enhaut Nature Park ■■ Musée gruérien, Bulle
Charmey Aventures Les Charrières 1 CH-1637 Charmey Phone +41 (0)79 693 44 77 www.charmeyaventures.ch
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Vaud, Lake Geneva Region. Geneva. Lavaux, UNESCO World Heritage Site, Vaud, Lake Geneva Region
Cosmopolitan style, country charm. Genève Tourisme Phone +41 (0)22 909 70 00 www.geneve-tourisme.ch
Office du Tourisme du Canton de Vaud Phone +41 (0)21 613 26 26 www.lake-geneva-region.ch
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La Dôle: Where even Goethe was lost for words.
Myriad different worlds meet in the region around Lake Geneva: the charming, buzzing city of Lausanne; cosmopolitan Geneva with its international institutions; the golden vineyards of Lavaux; the jagged pinnacles of the Dents du Midi; the mysterious landscape around the Rochers-de-Naye… Cable cars, funiculars and cog railways, footpaths and bike trails, mountain lakes and panoramic peaks make the whole region one glorious holiday playground.
Le Salève: Boundless vista.
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Address
Narrow-gauge railway, Nyon– Col de la Givrine (via St-Cergue) ■■ Jura Vaudois Nature Park hikes ■■ Rock climbing near St-Cergue ■■ Nyon’s Old Town and castles
Office du tourisme Place Sy-Vieuxville CH-1264 St-Cergue Phone +41 (0)22 360 13 14 www.st-cergue-tourisme.ch
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Don’t miss t. Peter’s cathedral, Geneva S Les Mouettes shuttle boats on River Rhône / Lake Geneva ■■ Lake Geneva cruises ■■ Palais des Nations (United Nations) ■■ Carouge market ■■ ■■
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Address Genève Tourisme Rue du Mont-Blanc 18 CH-1211 Genève 1 Phone +41 (0)22 909 70 00 www.geneve-tourisme.ch
Geneva’s local mountain is a paradise for ramblers. Easily accessible by cable car, the Salève is a natural environment where you can relax and enjoy various sports. Just a few minutes after leaving the city centre, you find yourself at the top of the mountain. The view over the Lake Geneva region is breathtaking. And the mountain allows you to relax and discover nature. There are many pathways for ramblers and activities for children, and it’s an ideal playground for sporty people practising rock-climbing, mountain biking and paragliding in summer, or snowshoeing and cross-country skiing in winter.
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Top 100 views. Vaud, Lake Geneva Region. Geneva.
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MySwitzerland.com, Webcode
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Jura High Trail: A thrilling experience of nature.
The Jura Vaudois Nature Park boasts tremendous scenic variety in its 50 square kilometres, with its rolling meadows, dramatic rock formations and picturesque lakes. A good way to experience this wild and hauntingly beautiful landscape is on the five-hour walk from Col du Mollendruz along the ridge of the Mont Tendre (1,679 m), the highest peak in the Swiss Jura. Two of the hike’s highlights are the enchanting views from the summit over the fairy-tale Vallée de Joux and beyond to the French Vosges mountains on the horizon; and the delicious home cooking served at the welcoming Chalet du Mont Tendre, the perfect fortification before embarking on the second half of the hike to the Col du Marchairuz. MySwitzerland.com, Webcode
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Address
ature trail and botanical path, N Combe des Amburnex ■■ Dry-stone walls on high pastures ■■ Le Chasseron panoramic peak ■■ National Arboretum, Aubonne
Morges Région Tourisme Rue du Château 2 CH-1110 Morges 1 Phone +41 (0)21 801 32 33 www.morges-tourisme.ch
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On 26 October 1779, the great German poet Johann Wolfgang von Goethe scaled La Dôle, a long rocky massif suggesting a grey whale stranded in a sea of greenery. As he looked out over the landscape at his feet, he found himself not only short of breath but speechless. “There are no words for the grandeur and beauty of this sight,” he wrote. The view from the secondtallest peak in the Swiss Jura mountains – the highest point of a four-hour walk from the Col de la Givrine to the village of St. Cergue – is certainly impressive: Lake Geneva and the Alps of Savoie, Vaud and Valais present themselves in picture-postcard perfection. The mountain itself, incidentally, shares its name with a local variety of grapes – and a much-loved red wine.
Vaud, Lake Geneva Region. Geneva. Top 100 views.
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Lavaux: Mouth-watering walk.
The “Terrasses de Lavaux” is a charming trail through the sunny vineyards overlooking Lake Geneva between Lutry and St-Saphorin. Along with glorious views of the lake and the Alps of Vaud and Savoie, the path offers plenty of chances to savour the superb local wines – at venues along the way such as the “Caveau des Vignerons de Lutry”. In 2007, UNESCO added the terraced vineyards to its list of World Heritage Sites, honouring a tradition of winemaking in the region that goes back centuries. The Romans were among the first to grow grapes in the fertile soils of what is now canton Vaud, producing wines that would have tasted sharp by modern standards. Don’t miss
Address
xploring Lavaux by train: “Train E des Vignes”, “Lavaux Express” and “Lavaux Panoramic” ■■ Lavaux Vinorama wine centre, Rivaz ■■ Visits to Château de Chillon
Lausanne Tourisme Av. de Rhodanie 2 CH-1000 Lausanne 6 Phone +41 (0)21 613 73 73 www.lausanne-tourisme.ch
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ont Pèlerin funicular (free with M GA travelcard) ■■ Chardonne castle and church ■■ “Le Lac” villa by Le Corbusier, Corseaux ■■ Swiss Camera Museum, Vevey
Montreux-Vevey Tourisme Grande-Place 29 CH-1800 Vevey Phone +41 (0)84 886 84 84 www.montreuxriviera.com
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Top 100 views. Vaud, Lake Geneva Region. Geneva.
GoldenPass Line: Ride across Swiss worlds.
MySwitzerland.com, Webcode
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ot-air balloons in Château-d’Oex H ■■ Balthus’ Grand Chalet, Rossinière ■■ Simmental farmhouses ■■ Cruises on Lake Thun with views of the Eiger, Mönch, Jungfrau
Rail Center GoldenPass CH-1820 Montreux Phone +41 (0)840 245 245 www.goldenpass.ch
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Pretty houses and lush vineyards welcome visitors up on the 1,080-metre Mont Pèlerin. Many people claim this is a place of special energy – and whether or not you agree, you’ll find the views from the summit inspiring and magical. The panorama extends from the golden vineyards of Lavaux across the wide expanse of Lake Geneva to the mighty peaks of the Savoie Alps beyond, which soar from the water’s edge like the buttresses, parapets and pinnacles of a cathedral. You would imagine such views would be hard to top – but think again. An hour’s scenic walk leads you to a 123-metre telecoms tower operated by Swisscom called Plein Ciel; take the red panoramic lift up the outside to the observation platform, and you’ll see way down the Rhône valley.
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Rochers-de-Naye: Balcony over Lake Geneva.
The dramatic peaks of the Rochers de Naye high above Montreux are surprisingly easy to reach: a panoramic cog train climbs up from the city centre in under an hour. From the summit, 2,045 metres above sea level, the views of Montreux and the wide blue expanse of Lake Geneva, framed by the summits on either shore, are breathtaking. A tunnel through the rock leads to the far side of the mountain, and the panoramic Plein Roc restaurant perched on the cliffs high above the lake. Walks through the high-altitude pastures reveal the rich local wildlife – and the secrets of 14 different species of marmot. At the end of the day, if you can’t tear yourself away, spend the night in one of the Mongolian yurts – and enjoy sunrise on top of the world. MySwitzerland.com, Webcode
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We Swiss particularly enjoy travelling on the GoldenPass Line from Montreux to Lucerne in the company of visitors from abroad. When they marvel at the terraced vineyards of Lavaux, rhapsodize about the picturesque Bernese Oberland with its majestic mountains and wooden chalets decked with flowers, and point excitedly at each pretty lake shimmering in the sunlight, we fill with pride. We suddenly turn into expert travel guides, naming the various scenic highlights – the soft hills of the Simmental valley, Lake Thun, the Brünig Pass – and, as we cross the language boundary, tell our foreign guests enthusiastically about the different cultures that coexist peacefully in this small land.
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Mont Pèlerin: A step closer to heaven.
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Alpine garden, marmot park, yurt accommodation ■■ Blonay–Chamby museum railway ■■ Montreux–Chillon lake promenade ■■ Swimming in Lake Geneva
Montreux-Vevey Tourisme Place de l’Eurovision CH-1820 Montreux Phone +41 (0)848 86 84 84 www.montreuxriviera.com
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Leysin: 360° views at the Kuklos restaurant.
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Rougemont: Climbing and chilling at La Videmanette.
Savour the finest gourmet specialities of the Vaud Alps as the best views in the region glide past the windows at Le Kuklos, a gastronomic restaurant that rotates on its axis every 90 minutes. The ride up is equally relaxed: by gondola from Leysin to the Berneuse at an altitude of 2,045 metres. Once at your table in Le Kuklos (Greek for “circle”), the panoramic parade begins: north face of the Eiger, Mont Blanc, the Dents du Midi, Lake Geneva all come into view, without you ever having to leave your seat. The shape of the building, perched on a rocky outcrop, echoes the outline of two neighbouring, dramatic peaks, the Tour d’Aï and the Tour de Mayen. Clad entirely in glass, the structure both reflects the surrounding scenery and complements it perfectly.
After the heavenly views over the Pays-d’Enhaut during the gondola ride from Rougemont up to La Videmanette, all you want to do is carry on gazing at the glorious scenery. The terrace of the mountain restaurant, at an altitude of nearly 2,200 metres, is the perfect place: order a drink, stretch out on a sunlounger, and contemplate the surrounding peaks in comfort. You’ll enjoy grandstand views of the Vaud and Bernese Alps, the pointed Gummfluh and the sweeping silhouette of the Wildhorn, and closer by, the stony “Dolomites of Gstaad”. One of these, the neighbouring peak of Le Rubli, offers a special thrill: three via ferratas (fixed-cable climbs) up to the summit, of different levels of ability from beginner upwards. MySwitzerland.com, Webcode
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Celtic theme trail Downhill mountain bike run ■■ Large sports centre in Leysin ■■ Forest adventure park, Aigle ■■ Wine museum in Aigle castle
Leysin Tourisme CH-1854 Leysin Phone +41 (0)24 493 33 00 www.leysin.ch
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Idyllic village of Rougemont ■■ La Pierreuse nature reserve at the foot of the Gummfluh ■■ Ant Path nature trail, La Braye ■■ Alpine huts with wood-tile roofs
Pays-d’Enhaut Tourisme – Rougemont Route de la Croisette 16 CH-1659 Rougemont Phone +41 (0)26 925 11 66 www.chateau-doex.ch
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Le Chamossaire: Between heaven and earth.
A gondola carries you from Villars-sur-Ollon up to the 1,976-metre Roc d’Orsay in the heart of a pristine mountain landscape. A charming twohour round walk from here begins with a climb up a peak whose twin humps – Le Chamossaire and its little brother, Le Petit Chamossaire – evoke the back of a dromedary. As you walk across the soft green turf between the two, you enjoy gorgeous mountain views – notably of the seven spiky summits of the Dents du Midi across the Rhône valley. The path continues down to the Lac des Chavonnes and its lakeside restaurant, complete with beautiful sunny terrace; the mushroom dishes here are famous far and wide. Suitably refreshed, you amble back along a flattish path past the magical Lac Noir, the “black lake”, to Bretaye, for the ride on the red cog train back down. MySwitzerland.com, Webcode
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Address
og railway from Bex to Col-deC Bretaye (free with GA travelcard) ■■ Bus connection to Les Diablerets ■■ Treasure hunt for children ■■ History of the Earth theme trail
Villars Tourisme Rue Centrale CH-1884 Villars-sur-Ollon Phone +41 (0)24 495 32 32 www.villars.ch
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Top 100 views. Vaud, Lake Geneva Region. Geneva.
Les Diablerets / Glacier 3000: Snow fun in high summer.
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A ride in the big modern cable car from Col du Pillon almost feels like a flight to another planet. You land at the futuristic mountain restaurant designed by Mario Botta. Here you’re in the midst of a sensational winter adventure park – even in high summer. Glacier 3000 offers visitors everything from dog-sled rides and cross-country ski trails to snow bus trips to the dramatic Quille du Diable – as well as the highest toboggan run in the world, the Alpine Coaster with its thrilling curves, corkscrews and jumps. For a panoramic view of the mountain scenery, climb to the observation point next to the summit station; identification panels point out 24 peaks topping 4,000 metres including celebrity summits such as the Eiger and Matterhorn.
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Address
ike via the Quille du Diable and H Prarochet hut to the Sanetsch Pass ■■ “Tête aux Chamois” via ferrata ■■ Lac Retaud, Col du Pillon ■■ Col du Pillon–Isenau high trail
Diablerets Tourisme Maison du Tourisme CH-1865 Les Diablerets Phone +41 (0)24 492 00 10 www.diablerets.ch
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Vaud, Lake Geneva Region. Geneva. Top 100 views.
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Valais.
Stellisee lake with Matterhorn, Zermatt, Valais
High peaks, lush valleys.
Valais / Wallis Promotion CH-1950 Sion Phone +41 (0)27 327 35 90 www.valais.ch
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Champéry: Mountain bike paradise.
The canton of Valais extends from the Rhône Glacier to the shores of Lake Geneva, and is home to some of Switzerland’s most prominent mountains, from the Breithorn and the Dufourspitze to the Matterhorn. The region is a delight to explore by train, on foot or by mountain bike. As you discover the picturesque villages, remote valleys, tranquil lakes and welcoming hotels and lodges, you’ll also encounter one of the Valais’ other great attractions: its cuisine, with superb wines, delicious cheese and the famous rye bread.
Morgins / Pointe de Bellevue: Peak of beautiful views.
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Address
Aigle–Monthey–Champéry railway ■■ Val d’Illiez thermal spa ■■ Tour des Dents-du-Midi ■■ Galérie Défago cliff walk, Champéry ■■ Adventure park, Champoussin
Champéry Tourisme SA Route de la Fin 44 CH-1874 Champéry Phone +41 (0)24 479 05 50 www.champery.ch
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Don’t miss lpine-hut restaurants with A panoramic views ■■ Trip to the Vallon de They ■■ Les Portes du Soleil ■■ Mountain bike heaven ■■
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Morgins Tourisme Route de Bas-Vièze 4 CH-1875 Morgins Phone +41 (0)24 477 23 61 www.morgins.ch
La Pointe de Bellevue: a name and a promise! The “peak of beautiful views” is also the goal of an invigorating walk starting in the charming village of Morgins. Leading at first across lush meadows, the path then climbs more steeply to the Portes de Culet (accessible also by car) and on up to the summit. You’ll see that this really does deserve its name: the sweeping vista taking in the Rhône valley, sparkling Lake Geneva and the magnificent Vaud Alps is simply breathtaking. The way back down to Morgins leads via the Pâturage de Chanso to the alpine pastures of Le Ferrage, with their charming mountain restaurant. Here, you should definitely stop: from the sunny restaurant terrace, the unmistakable serrated pinnacles of the Dents du Midi seem close enough to touch. MySwitzerland.com, Webcode
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Top 100 views. Valais.
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MySwitzerland.com, Webcode
Great St Bernard: Window to the lakes.
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Address
St Bernard dogs at the hospice, museum in Martigny ■■ La Fouly adventure rope park ■■ Cabane de l’A Neuve (Swiss Alpine Club hut) ■■ Tour du Mont Blanc
Pays du St-Bernard Rte de la Gare 34 CH-1937 Orsières Phone +41 (0)27 775 23 81 www.saint-bernard.ch
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At the end of the narrow Val d’Illiez, the landscape opens up to reveal a sensational natural playground: welcome to the Portes du Soleil! This beautiful area straddling the border between France and Switzerland groups 12 holiday resorts that have teamed up to create an unrivalled outdoor-adventure destination. In summer, the region is known for its superb mountain biking, with 580 kilometres of marked routes including 10 thrilling downhill pistes, four bike parks, various mountain bike trial zones and 24 bike lifts. Enthusiasts can also look forward to tackling Europe’s biggest circular tour, complete with breathtaking views down to Lake Geneva and across to the 4,000-metre peaks of the Valais.
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The contrasts are as dramatic as the colours. High up, the pinnacles of the Tour Noir and the Mont Dolent – where three countries meet – pierce the intensely blue sky, their flanks draped in dazzling snow; way below, the lush green meadows on the slopes of La Peule and the Monts Telliers frame the wild beauty of the Val Ferret. The best view of this enchanting scene is from the shores of the dark-blue Lacs de Fenêtre. You pass these pretty lakes on the four-hour hike from the Great St. Bernard hospice – home of the famous dogs with their no less famous barrels – to the Fenêtre de Ferret and down into the valley. The walk finishes at Ferret itself, a pretty hamlet served by postal buses that cheerfully carry tired but inspired hikers back to civilisation. MySwitzerland.com, Webcode
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Valais. Top 100 views.
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Mont-Fort: Magical morning ride.
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Crans-Montana: Bike tour with world-class views.
Every Thursday in summer, the cable cars from Verbier and Siviez run a dawn service to carry visitors up the 3,330-metre Mont Fort to watch the rising sun bathe the surrounding peaks in a golden glow. The spectacle is accompanied by the sound of alphorns, and followed by a hearty breakfast at the Restaurant des Col des Gentianes. One option afterwards is to ride the cable car down to La Chaux for the walk up to the Cabane du Mont-Fort, a mountain hut perched on a rocky outcrop offering sensational views of the glaciated massif of the Grand Combin. From here, a delightful path leads along the bubbling “Bisse des Verbierains”, one of the region’s many historic irrigation channels, to the gondola station of Les Ruinettes. MySwitzerland.com, Webcode
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Addresses
“4 Vallées” mountain bike tour ■■ “Barefoot trail”, Nendaz ■■ Dramatic hike from Savoleyres up the Pierre Avoi, Verbier ■■ Cross-country trails and bike park with five downhill pistes ■■ Local Bagnes cheese, Verbier
Nendaz Tourisme Phone +41 (0)27 289 55 89 www.nendaz.ch
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Bike park (downhill & freeride runs) ■■ Walks along the “bisse” waterways ■■ Waterfall adventure ■■ Plaine Morte viewpoint ■■ Crans-Montana – golfer’s paradise
Crans-Montana Tourisme Avenue de la Gare CH-3963 Crans-Montana Phone +41 (0)27 485 04 04 www.crans-montana.ch
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Towering pinnacles, bare rock and year-round snows up on high, flower-filled meadows with grazing cows way below: welcome to the Val d’Hérens, known above all for its Herens breed of cattle – stocky, black and famously feisty. A charming way of discovering more about this beautiful valley is to hike the five-hour trail from the village of St-Martin to Eison. First stop is the alpine pasture of Loveignoz with its welcoming café, where you can taste the cheese made here along with typical rye bread of the region. You also enjoy sweeping views of the valley’s peaks – such as the Dent de Perroc and, behind it, the distinctive Mont Collon. Before the final descent to Eison, where you can catch a postal bus home, it’s well worth lingering in the romantic alpine hamlet of L’A Vieille. Address
Les Haudères, typical Valais village ■■ Tandem paragliding flights ■■ Rock pyramids of Euseigne ■■ Grande Dixence dam ■■ Nax (Mont-Noble region)
Val d’Hérens Rue Principale 13 CH-1982 Euseigne Phone +41 (0)27 281 28 15 www.valdherens.ch
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Top 100 views. Valais.
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St-Luc – Zinal: Panoramic trail overlooking the Valais.
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This walk from Tignousa high above St-Luc to the resort of Zinal strings together a glorious sequence of scenic highlights. The ride to the starting point in a modern funicular from sunny St-Luc is an experience in itself, as glorious views unfold of the wild and pristine Val d’Anniviers. A good hour after setting off, you reach the historic Hotel Weisshorn, located on a promontory high above the treeline – the perfect place to stop for refreshments and admire the raw beauty of the surrounding mountain peaks. Another 30 minutes further on, the Zinalrothorn with its striking, snowy ridge comes into view; even now you have another four hours of heavenly hiking to look forward to before you reach pretty Zinal with its traditional wooden chalets.
Val d’Hérens: Heavenly high valley.
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The name of this demanding route says it all: “Championnat du Monde de VTT”. The 17-kilometre circuit was created in 1988 for one of the first international mountain bike contests; ever since, its tough climbs and undulating terrain have offered a thrilling challenge to riders from far and wide. Start and finish point is the hamlet of Aminona near Crans-Montana. The route, signposted in one direction only, leads via the Cave du Scex steeply up to Tièche, where the trail levels off to reveal dramatic views of the 4,000-metre Valais peaks. Before long, you embark on a long descent, traversing below the Petit Mont Bonvin to reach the cosy Plumachit mountain restaurant – so close to the finish that you can happily reward yourself with a cold beer.
Verbier St. Bernhard Phone +41 (0)27 775 38 88 www.verbier.ch
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Address
Bella Tola: panoramic mountain ■■ Planet trail (6 km), St-Luc ■■ View of Illgraben ravine, Chandolin ■■ Vallon de Réchy, nature reserve, Vercorin
Office du tourisme CH-3961 St-Luc Phone +41 (0)27 476 17 10 www.saint-luc.ch
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Gemmipass: Floating between heaven and earth.
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Leukerbad Therme spa Thermal canyon walk ■■ Disc golf up at Torrent ■■ The Albinen ladders ■■ Winemaking village of Varen
Gemmi-Bahnen CH-3954 Leukerbad Phone +41 (0)27 470 18 39 www.gemmi.ch
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The Gemmipass is the oldest known link between the Valais and the Bernese Alps. Today an ultramodern cable car carries outdoor enthusiasts from Leukerbad up to an altitude of 2,348 metres and the pass, located on the scenic ridge linking the Daubenhorn and the pinnacles of the Plattenhörner. Before setting off on the 2½-hour hike to the Sunnbüel cable car station above Kandersteg – which follows part of the historic ViaCook trail – it’s well worth braving a walk onto the filigree observation platform that extends a giddy 10 metres from the cliff edge. As you step out onto the metal grill, you feel you are floating over an abyss: way below lies Leukerbad, while vertically beneath you, adventurers crawl across the cliffs as they follow the thrilling Gemmiwand via ferrata. MySwitzerland.com, Webcode
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Address
Lötschental masks ■■ Audio adventures ■■ Giant scooter rides, Lauchernalp ■■ Legend Trail to Fafleralp ■■ Dani’s Lamm, farm shop
Lötschental Tourismus CH-3918 Wiler Phone +41 (0)27 938 88 88 www.loetschental.ch
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Top 100 views. Valais.
This hike is one of Switzerland’s “classics”. As in music or literature, the concept relates to special qualities that make something so undeniably good and beautiful that it is sure to stand the test of time. On the panoramic trail between Fafleralp and Lauchernalp, these are the unbelievable scenic contrasts: scented forests and blossoming meadows; wild mountain streams of bubbling glacier water and the mirror-like waters of the Schwarzsee; lush green meadows with grazing cows and the white glaciated ridge of the Petersgrat… Overlooking all this is the 3,934-metre Bietschhorn, towering and solitary, as if bound to keep watch over these natural treasures day and night.
Barrhorn: Pinnacle of superlatives. The Barrhorn is the highest peak that hikers can access along conventional Swiss mountain paths with their characteristic redand-white markings. A two-day ascent starts with a walk up to the Turtmann hut (Swiss Alpine Club), which offers fine views of the Turtmann Glacier. The next morning, the climb of nearly four hours up to the 3,610-metre summit will set your pulse racing – as will the panorama. Facing you are the dazzling white glaciated flanks of the Weisshorn; beyond, you can make out the dramatic outline of the Monte Rosa massif. Across the Matter valley, the pinnacles of the Mischabel massif soar into the bright Valais sky. The tour is demanding (with 1,700 vertical metres of descent), and requires experience of mountain hiking.
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Address
urtmann–Oberems cable car T ■■ Bus service as far as Gruben ■■ Meiden Pass into the Val d’Anniviers ■■ Pfyn-Finges Nature Park ■■ Bake your own rye bread, Erschmatt
Turtmannhütte SAC Magdalena and Fredy Tscherrig Phone +41 (0)27 932 14 55 www.turtmannhuette.ch
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Lötschental valley high trail: Captivating contrasts.
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Grächen: Family fun at 1,620 metres above sea level.
Parents who want to inspire their children with the beauty of the Swiss mountains go to Grächen. Towering peaks frame the delightful village on its sunny plateau, high above the Matter valley. Visitors of all ages – children, parents and grandparents alike – love the wide range of attractions here, from Robi’s leisure park to the different theme trails leading through the breathtaking alpine scenery. One of the greatest pleasures is simply relaxing on a sunny terrace, enjoying the tranquillity of the partly traffic-free village, and soaking up the views of the countless pinnacles all around, from the snow-capped Bishorn and Weisshorn to the Bietschhorn way across the Rhône valley.
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Address
Irrigation waterways at different altitudes ■■ Fairy-tale gondola / family adventures ■■ Hannigalp: view of Matterhorn ■■ Valais rye bread
Touristische Unternehmung Grächen AG Dorfplatz CH-3925 Grächen Phone +41 (0)27 955 60 60 www.graechen.ch
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MySwitzerland.com, Webcode
28415
Valais. Top 100 views.
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Gornergrat: Framed by 4,000-metre peaks.
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Simplonpass – Visperterminen: Dramatic hike through history.
Switzerland’s oldest electrified cog railway, the historic Gornergrat Bahn, accesses some of the finest high-mountain scenery in the Alps. It leads from chic Zermatt up to Rotenboden, where you enjoy a particularly enchanting view of the majestic Matterhorn – reflected in the crystal-clear waters of the Riffelsee. From here, a one-hour walk brings you to the 3,135 metre Gornergrat, home to Switzerland’s highest summit hotel. The breathtaking view of 29 mountains above 4,000 metres is surpassed only, if at all, by the glorious sunset. Afterwards, ride the train back down to Riffelalp (2,222 m), and look forward to the luxurious welcome offered at Switzerland’s highest five-star resort.
Don’t miss
Address
atterhorn glacier paradise M ■■ Gorner gorge / glacier garden ■■ “Wolli and the climate detectives” ■■ Scenic “5 lakes walk” ■■ Zermatt–Grächen “Europa trail”
Gornergrat Bahn CH-3920 Zermatt Phone +41 (0)84 864 24 42 www.gornergrat.ch
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Allalinhorn: A 4,000-metre peak for all.
MySwitzerland.com, Webcode
Top 100 views. Valais.
42657
191239
MySwitzerland.com, Webcode
Don’t miss
Address
iaStockalper historical trail, V Simplon Pass ■■ Village of Simplon ■■ Gondo gorge ■■ Gold-panning, Zwischbergen valley ■■ Heida village of Visperterminen
Simplon Tourismus Dorfplatz CH-3907 Simplon-Dorf Phone +41 (0)27 979 10 10 www.simplon.ch
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To start, you can happily leave your sunglasses in your rucksack: you’ll be riding the world’s highest-altitude underground railway, the Metro Alpin, all the way from the Felskinn station above SaasFee through a 1,450 metre tunnel direct to the Mittelallalin. In the dazzling sunlight at 3,500 metres, however, you’ll need your eye protection right away: both in summer and winter, the whole landscape lies under a blanket of sparkling white snow below a piercing blue sky. Anyone who has ever dreamed of tackling a 4,000-metre peak can join a guided ascent from here of the 4,027-metre Allalinhorn, and enjoy heavenly views of the Mischabel massif and the Matterhorn. Celebrate afterwards at the Allalin circular restaurant, which revolves once on its axis every hour, revealing the panoramic views in all their glory.
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MySwitzerland.com, Webcode
The six-hour hike from the Simplon Pass to Giw above Visperterminen is a journey back in time as much as through spectacular scenery. The Simplon route linking Brig and Domodossola to the south has been used since the Middle Ages by monks, smugglers – and Napoleon, who had the hospice built at the top of the pass in the early 19th century. The hike starts here, once you have paused to admire the mighty Bietschhorn and the glaciated northern flank of the Fletschhorn. After leading via two further passes, the trail reaches Giw and the chairlift down to Visperterminen – home to the highest vineyards in the Alps, with grapes of the Heida variety. Here you enjoy a double reward: a glass of local wine, and views of both flowering cacti and snow-capped peaks.
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Aletsch Arena: Glacier adventure.
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With a length of 23 kilometres, the Great Aletsch Glacier dominates the UNESCO World Heritage Site of “Swiss Alps Jungfrau-Aletsch”. Weighing 27 billion tons and measuring up to 1,000 metres across, the colossal river of ice enchants visitors as it scours its slow passage through the landscape. The Aletsch region is the most extensive glaciated area in the Alps, and also the most accessible – thanks to a well-paved panoramic trail. Starting at the top of the Moosfluh or the Bettmerhorn gondola, walk down to the glacier by the sparkling Märjelensee and the quaint Gletscherstube mountain hut. The illuminated Tälligrat tunnel leads you back towards Fiescheralp. Don’t miss
Address
Ice grotto at 3,500 m, Mittelallalin ■■ Mittaghorn via ferrata ■■ “Gorge Alpine” adventure and Feeblitz summer toboggan run ■■ View of Mischabel massif from Kreuzboden, Saas-Grund
Saas-Fee / Saastal Tourismus Obere Dorfstrasse 2 CH-3906 Saas-Fee Phone +41 (0)27 958 18 58 www.saas-fee.ch
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Don’t miss
Address
Alp Museum, Riederalp ■■ Aletsch forest, Villa Cassel nature conservation centre ■■ Bettmerhorn “ice world” ■■ Via ferrata on the Eggishorn
Aletsch Arena AG Postfach 4 CH-3992 Bettmeralp Phone +41 (0)27 928 41 31 www.aletscharena.ch
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MySwitzerland.com, Webcode
53256
Valais. Top 100 views.
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Ticino.
San Grato botanical garden, Carona, Ticino
Switzerland’s suntrap.
Ticino Turismo CH-6501 Bellinzona Phone +41 (0)91 825 70 56 www.ticino.ch
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Cardada Cimetta: Locarno’s great little peak.
Italian-speaking Ticino in the far south of Switzerland features an exceptional variety of scenery, making this an unmatched holiday playground. Boat cruises along palm-lined lakeshores, hikes among glaciers, funicular rides to panoramic peaks, bike trips through pristine valleys, walks to remote mountain villages: you’d need several summer holidays to explore every corner of the region. The cuisine is irresistible, too: from polenta and risotto to salami and Merlot wine, fruit of the lush vineyards that adorn the landscape.
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In Switzerland, just about every town and city claims a local mountain as its own. Locarno has a double summit: Cardada, and a little higher up, Cimetta, which means “little peak”. But don’t let the diminutive fool you: the mountain towers 1,671 vertical metres above Lake Maggiore, making for glorious panoramic views. The ride up from Orselina is an adventure in itself, in a futuristic cable car designed by Mario Botta. Just as impressive is the vista from the circular observation platform. Way below lies the sparkling lake, with the botanical gardens of the Brissago islands, the pretty resort of Ascona and the Maggia delta, the lowest point in Switzerland; along the horizon rise some of the country’s most dramatic peaks, including its highest, the Dufourspitze.
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MySwitzerland.com, Webcode
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Leventina valley / Lake Ritom: A string of superlatives.
Don’t miss
Don’t miss
Address
Tandem paragliding ■■ Locarno Lido saltwater baths & spa ■■ Locarnese national park project ■■ Lago Maggiore Express boat/train tour, taking in Borromeo Islands
Cardada Impianti Turistici SA Via Santuario CH-6644 Orselina Phone +41 (0)91 735 30 30 www.cardada.ch
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ake Ritom nature trail L ■■ Visitor dairy, Piora cheese ■■ Rodi–Lake Tremorgio cable car ■■ Piottino gorge and Dazio Grande (former customs house) ■■ Alpine biology centre ■■
Address Funicolare Ritom SA CH-6775 Ambrì Phone +41 (0)91 868 31 51 www.ritom.ch
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This scenic mountain hike around Lake Ritom begins with a thrilling ride in the red funicular from Piotta to Piora: gradients of up to 87.8 per cent make this one of Switzerland’s steepest cable railways. From the top station, a two-hour walk leads along the dark-green waters of Lake Ritom, Ticino’s largest mountain lake, and up to the Cadagno mountain hut – famous far and wide for its delicious Polenta con Brasato (polenta with braised meat), best enjoyed with a glass of Ticino Merlot. The trail continues up to the Passo Forca, which reveals dramatic views down into the Valle Leventina and across to the Pizzo Campo Tencia, the highest mountain entirely within Ticino. A gentle walk leads back down to the Piora funicular station. MySwitzerland.com, Webcode
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Top 100 views. Ticino.
45838
Centovalli / Pizzo Leone: On top of the world.
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From the village of Verdasio with its traditional houses of stone, a small cable car glides high over the giddy Melezza gorge up to carfree Rasa. Here, a path climbs to the hamlet of Monti and on up through forests of sweet chestnut to the summit of the Pizzo Leone. Look down one side of the ridge and you gaze deep into the wooded Centovalli; turn round, and you’re treated to sweeping views of Lake Maggiore and the seemingly endless expanse of the Magadino plain. The journey down begins with a long, leisurely walk along the panoramic ridge via Alpe di Naccio to the Corona di Pinz. From here, a steeper path leads down to Porto Ronco on the lakeshore – and the choice of a ride by postal bus or boat back to Ascona.
Don’t miss
Address
Typical Ticino villages of Rasa, Palagnedra and Bordei ■■ Cable car to Monte di Comino ■■ Borei “grotto” restaurant, Brissago ■■ Brissago islands
Ente turistico Lago Maggiore CH-6600 Locarno Phone +41 (0)848 091 091 www.ascona-locarno.com
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MySwitzerland.com, Webcode
191244
Ticino. Top 100 views.
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Monte Lema – Monte Tamaro: Classic ridge trail.
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San Salvatore: Heavenly walk on Lugano’s mountain.
The panoramic trail from Monte Lema to Monte Tamaro is one of Switzerland’s best-loved ridge hikes. With a couple of substantial climbs en route, the full walk takes some five to six hours. Along the way, the breathtaking views extend down to Lake Lugano on one side and Lake Maggiore on the other, to the peaks of the Valais and Graubünden Alps on the horizon, and over the wild forests of chestnut and beech typical of the sunny south of Switzerland. From Monte Tamaro, the path leads down to Alpe Foppa and the church of Santa Maria degli Angeli by the celebrated Ticino architect Mario Botta: a modern, hauntingly beautiful structure reminiscent of a mountain fortress. Close by, the gondola down to Rivera offers a relaxing conclusion to a demanding but wonderfully rewarding hike. Don’t miss
Address
onte Tamaro rope & bike park M ■■ Boat cruises on Lake Lugano ■■ Arosio chestnut tree trail ■■ Smugglers’ village of Indemini ■■ Splash & Spa pool complex, Rivera
Monte Tamaro SA CH-6802 Rivera Phone +41 (0)91 946 23 03 www.montetamaro.ch
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MySwitzerland.com, Webcode
Top 100 views. Ticino.
160777
57146 Don’t miss
Address
San Grato botanical garden ■■ Scherrer Park and church of Santa Maria del Sasso, Morcote ■■ Hermann Hesse Museum, Casa Camuzzi, Montagnola
Funicolare Monte San Salvatore SA Via delle Scuole 12 CH-6900 Paradiso Phone +41 (0)91 985 28 28 www.montesansalvatore.ch
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Val Colla: A hike with a bite.
Lugano is best known for its palms, its lake and its Italian charm. But Ticino’s largest city also offers a wide choice of delightful excursions – such as to the small village of Cimadera, starting point for a five-hour ridge hike to Monte Brè, the lush peak on Lugano’s doorstep. The narrow path leads past the “Denti della Vecchia” (“teeth of the old woman”), a limestone rock formation that emerges from the treetops like a row of gigantic tooth stumps. The views along the trail are spectacular, extending from Lugano over the Val Colla as far as the Monte Rosa massif in the west. Make the most of the walk by spending a night en route at the attractive Pairolo mountain hut – and taking the one-hour detour to the summit of the Monte Boglia, with its 360° panoramic views.
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MySwitzerland.com, Webcode
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The most pleasurable way up San Salvatore, Ticino’s Sugarloaf Mountain, is in the red funicular from the Lugano suburb of Paradiso. The view from the observation terrace at the summit is bewitching: over the city’s sea of rooftops and Lake Lugano, to the Alps and far into neighbouring Lombardy. You feel you could float up here forever – were it not for the draw of the lake way below with its shimmering hues, in turn deep blue, emerald and silver. An idyllic three-hour walk follows the ridge down to the lakeshore. The path passes through the artists’ village of Carona, a favourite of Hermann Hesse; crosses Alpe Vicania, with its charming traditional “grotto” restaurant; and leads through chestnut forests down to the sleepy village of Morcote, for the boat trip back to Lugano. MySwitzerland.com, Webcode
57142
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Don’t miss
Address
airolo mountain hut P ■■ Climbing on the Denti della Vecchia ■■ Mountain biking around Monte Bar ■■ Sonvico history / nature trail ■■ Castagnola – Gandria olive tree trail
Ente Turistico del Luganese Palazzo Civico CH-6901 Lugano Phone +41 (0)58 866 66 00 www.luganoturismo.ch
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Leontica – Biasca: High above the Blenio valley.
Don’t miss
Address
Church of San Carlo di Negrentino ■■ Attractive hut accommodation ■■ Historic stone bridges, Blenio valley ■■ Blenio valley museum in Lottigna ■■ Pro Natura centre, Acquacalda
Blenio Turismo CH-6718 Olivone Phone +41 (0)91 872 14 87 www.blenio.com
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Wondering how to escape the midsummer heat? Aim high! For a refreshing combination of pure mountain air and inspiring views, head to the village of Leontica in the secluded Blenio valley, and ride the two chairlifts (weekend operation only) up to the Pian Nara plateau. From here, a glorious hike brings you in a good six hours to Biasca and its beautiful Romanesque church. The path leads through high pastures, past typical stone houses and traditional agricultural settlements; along the way you’ll enjoy enchanting views down into the Blenio valley and across to the Adula massif, crowned by the majestic Rheinwaldhorn. For most of its length, the trail follows the valley’s high contours, descending only gently – so you get to make the most of that deliciously cool mountain air. MySwitzerland.com, Webcode
191252
Ticino. Top 100 views.
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Graubünden.
Top 100 Aussichten. Xxxxxxxx.
Mountain hut in the Val Bregaglia Xxxxxxxx. with view Topof100 Sciora Aussichten. massif, Graubünden
Mountain heaven.
Graubünden Ferien CH-7001 Chur Phone +41 (0)81 254 24 24 www.graubuenden.ch
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Diavolezza: Landscape of legendary beauty.
A thousand mountain peaks, 150 valleys and 615 lakes await you in the legendary land of the ibex. Whether you prefer to relax in one of the unspoilt mountain villages, experience the glamour of world-famous resorts such as St. Moritz and Davos or explore the glorious scenery along the countless footpaths and mountain bike trails, the fascinating Graubünden region promises an unforgettable holiday in a spectacularly beautiful natural setting.
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The Diavolezza (“she-devil”) overlooking the road up to the Bernina Pass owes her name to a legend: long ago, hunters would disappear on her slopes, never to return home, supposedly bewitched by a beautiful mountain fairy. Today, the peak attracts adventure-seekers, and they, too, find themselves enchanted – by the breathtaking views. Climb the 500 steps of the exhilarating Piz Trovat via ferrata and all the way you have the mighty Morteratsch Glacier before your eyes. You can reach an even higher vantage point by following the rocky trail from the top station of the Diavolezza cable car up the Munt Pers, to an altitude of 3,207 metres. From here the sight of the Bernina massif, Graubünden’s only 4,000-metre summit, is more spectacular than ever. MySwitzerland.com, Webcode
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Upper Engadine panoramic trail: Touching the sky.
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Don’t miss
Don’t miss
Address
J acuzzi at 3,000 m with view of Bernina massif and Piz Palü ■■ Guided mountain and glacier treks ■■ Glacier fondues at the Morteratsch alpine show dairy ■■ Mountain bike ride from the Bernina Pass to Pontresina
Pontresina Tourist Information CH-7504 Pontresina Phone +41 (0)81 838 83 00 www.engadin.stmoritz.ch/ pontresina
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Bellavita Pool and Spa, Pontresina ■■ Climbing for children in Pontresina ■■ Marmot- and ibex-watching trips to the Val Languard ■■ Horse-drawn carriage rides into the Val Roseg ■■
Address Pontresina Tourist Information CH-7504 Pontresina Phone +41 (0)81 838 83 00 www.engadin.stmoritz.ch/ pontresina
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The spectacular panoramic trail from Muottas Muragl to Alp Languard starts at the top station of the funicular with an unforgettable view of the high plateau of the Upper Engadine with its sparkling lakes framed by dramatic peaks. The route follows a narrow mountain path down into the bare landscape of the Val Muragl before emerging again to reveal the sparkling, snow-capped Bernina massif: a sight of breathtaking beauty. The trail continues via Unterer Schafberg and its little mountain restaurant to Alp Languard, where a chairlift offers a scenic and leisurely ride down to Pontresina. A more challenging alternative to this hike is the informative and fascinating Climate Trail from Muottas Muragl to Alp Languard via the Segantini hut. MySwitzerland.com, Webcode
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Top 100 views. Graubünden.
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Bernina Express: From glaciers to palms.
The Bernina Express, which links Chur with Tirano in Italy, takes a couple of hours to travel from the wild, high-alpine landscape of the Bernina massif down to the Valtellina with its Mediterranean-style climate. The route boasts countless scenic highlights. Soon after Pontresina, the little red train glides around the famous Montebello curve, revealing spectacular glacier views; up at the Bernina Pass, the glacial waters of the Lago Bianco shimmer milky-white among the giant erratic boulders. Far below, at Alp Grüm, you see the tip of another of the glaciers that have sculpted this impressive mountain landscape. As the larch trees slowly give way to palms, you know it won’t be long before you’re breathing the warm, scented air of the sunny south.
Don’t miss
Address
Church of San Gian, Celerina ■■ Theme trail to Morteratsch Glacier ■■ Alp Grüm and glacier mills of Cavaglia ■■ Poschiavo with lake and palazzi
Rhätische Bahn AG Bahnhofstrasse 25 CH-7002 Chur Phone +41 (0)81 288 65 65 www.rhb.ch
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MySwitzerland.com, Webcode
42522
Graubünden. Top 100 views.
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Val Bregaglia / Albigna hut: Cream cake with views.
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Senda Val Müstair: Refreshing walk deep in nature.
Starting at the Pranzaira postal bus stop, you can either hike up to the Albigna dam – a steep climb of nearly three hours – or glide up in the cable car, enjoying a dramatic unfolding vista down the long and unspoilt Val Bregaglia. From the reservoir, an hour’s walk leads you to the Albigna hut, where the cream cake, said to be the best in the mountains, is sure to make up for any calories lost on the climb. As well as irresistible sweet temptation, the beautifully sited refuge offers spectacular views of the surrounding summits, from the jagged peaks of the Sciora massif to the Spazzacaldeira, with its famous 15-metre-high flame-shaped rock, La Fiamma.
Don’t miss
Address
17th-century Palazzo Salis in Soglio ■■ Spine-tingling Robbers’ and Smugglers’ Trail, Maloja ■■ Val Bregaglia panoramic trail from Casaccia to Castasegna
Bregaglia Engadin Turismo Strada principale 101 CH-7605 Stampa Phone +41 (0)81 822 15 55 www.bregaglia.ch
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MySwitzerland.com, Webcode
191256
Top 100 views. Graubünden.
191537 Address
Alpine Astrovillage (observatory), Lü ■■ Convent of St. John, Müstair (UNESCO World Heritage Site) ■■ Val Müstair Biosphere Reserve ■■ Postal bus trip to Stelvio Pass
Gäste-Info Val Müstair Chasa Cumünala CH-7532 Tschierv Phone +41 (0)81 861 88 40 www.val-muestair.ch
MySwitzerland.com, Webcode
57509
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Address
Visitor centre, Zernez ■■ Park’s Schmelzra museum in S-charl, exhibitions on mining and bears ■■ Champlönch children’s trail with audio guide ■■ Guided walks with park rangers
Schweizerischer Nationalpark Via d’Urtatsch 2 CH-7530 Zernez Phone +41 (0)81 851 41 41 www.nationalpark.ch
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Swiss National Park: Overnight wilderness hike.
Exactly one hundred years have passed since a pioneering group of conservationists established the first national park in the Alps. Their goal was to protect a stretch of natural landscape around the Ofen Pass from human interference and to study its development over the long term. The same guiding concept applies to this day: the region belongs to deer, chamois and other wildlife, and humans are merely passive spectators, who must all leave the park by nightfall. An exception to this rule comes in the form of the Chamanna Cluozza, a traditional wooden chalet offering simple dormitory accommodation in the heart of a dense larch forest, about midway along the beautiful hiking trail from Vallun Chafuol to Zernez via the panoramic Murter saddle.
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MySwitzerland.com, Webcode
Admittedly, you’ll have to do a fair bit of legwork to get to the most beautiful rest stops along this high trail from the Ofen Pass to the village of Lü. But when you pause to relax on the simple wooden bench above the little lake of Lai da Juata, you’ll agree that the effort was well worthwhile: the views of the dramatic peaks of the Val Müstair and of the mighty Ortler massif towering over the neighbouring Vinschgau valley are simply breathtaking. A short walk leads to another wonderful stop: the mountain restaurant La Posa at Alp Champatsch. Before you embark on the final stretch of the hike down to Lü, fortify yourself with the generous “bear platter” – after all, wild bears are among the visitors in this beautiful valley, too.
Glacier Express: World’s slowest express train.
Don’t miss
Address
Piz Nair – directly above St. Moritz ■■ Corvatsch–Fuorcla Surlej–Val Roseg hike ■■ Gornergrat cog railway and Klein Matterhorn cable car, Zermatt ■■ Paragliding by the Matterhorn
Rhätische Bahn AG Bahnhofstrasse 25 CH-7002 Chur Phone +41 (0)81 288 65 65 www.glacierexpress.ch
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291 kilometres, 291 bridges, 91 tunnels, 7½ hours of travel time: these remarkable figures sum up the world’s slowest express train succinctly. But a journey on the Glacier Express from St. Moritz to Zermatt offers much more: settle into one of the comfortable seats in the spacious panoramic carriages and gaze through the giant windows, and you’ll be amazed at the diversity of the scenery between the two famous resorts. The towering cliffs on the descent towards Chur, the views deep into the Rhine gorge with its dramatic rock formations, the pristine natural landscapes of the Oberalp Pass, the delightful Goms valley, the countless traditional mountain villages en route: there’s no more enjoyable way to appreciate the variety and majesty of the Swiss Alps. MySwitzerland.com, Webcode
41766
Graubünden. Top 100 views.
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Landwasser viaduct near Filisur: Engineering masterpiece.
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Prättigau valley: Dramatic Prättigau panoramic trail.
The 142-metre-long, elegantly curved Landwasser viaduct, which leads trains high across a wild gorge only to plunge them into a tunnel in the cliff on the far side, has been thrilling passengers for more than a century. The best vantage point from which to admire this world-famous construction of limestone is above the village of Filisur – where you’ll probably encounter railway enthusiasts from far and wide patiently waiting for the next train. If the experience gives you an appetite for more, hike up the valley for a couple of hours to reach the Wiesen viaduct, which you can even walk across. Enjoy the spine-tingling view down to the Landwasser river sparkling at the bottom of its deep gorge before boarding the train for the short ride back to Filisur.
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MySwitzerland.com, Webcode
Don’t miss
Address
reda–Bergün–Filisur railway path P ■■ Albula railway museum, Bergün ■■ Alvaneu Bad: Europe’s second richest sulphur springs ■■ Latsch village with view of Piz Ela ■■ “Heidi’s path”, Stuls–Filisur
Bergün Filisur Tourismus Plazi 2A CH-7482 Bergün/Bravuogn Phone +41 (0)81 407 11 52 www.berguen-filisur.ch
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Address
Madrisa-Land in Klosters: “legend park”, climbing wall, scooters ■■ Horse-drawn carriage ride from Klosters to the Novai cheese dairy ■■ Sulzfluh via ferrata, St. Antönien
Prättigau Tourismus Sand 151 CH-7214 Grüsch Phone +41 (0)81 325 11 11 www.praettigau.info
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Davos Klosters: Mountain bike ride to the hidden valley.
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The municipality of Davos extends for 250 square kilometres, making it larger than the whole canton of Zug. The best way to explore it is by mountain bike, and one of the finest tours leads from Davos into the remote Sertig valley. The circuit begins with a climb along romantic country lanes to the top of the Rinerhorn gondola, followed by a thrilling descent along a gently sloping single-track trail to the hamlet of Sertig. From here, a marked mountain bike route leads along the slope opposite back to Davos via Clavadel; but before setting off, it’s worth stopping for a rest in this tranquil valley with its famous waterfall. The terrace of the Walserhuus restaurant offers the ideal venue, with fine views of the mighty Mittagshorn, Plattenfluh and Hoch Ducan.
Don’t miss
Address
alser village of Sertig-Dörfli with W historic church ■■ Swimming in Lake Davos ■■ Summer toboggan run and botanical garden, Schatzalp
Destination Davos Klosters Talstrasse 41 CH-7270 Davos Platz Phone +41 (0)81 415 21 21 www.davos.ch
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Top 100 views. Graubünden.
MySwitzerland.com, Webcode
191299
Start off with a helping hand from technology: the Madrisa gondola carries you quickly and smoothly from Klosters up to Saaser Alp at an altitude of 1,887 metres. Here you join the Prättigau panoramic trail, which leads along sunny slopes above the treeline to reveal glorious views down into the sweeping Prättigau valley. The panorama becomes more spectacular still as soon as the long ridge of the Rätikon appears, with its fantastical sculpted limestone rock formations. From the Jägglischhorn, the trail continues to Aschariner Alp and down towards the valley through lush, flower-filled meadows with grazing cows. Their milk produces a particularly tasty cheese, which you can savour at the end of the five-hour walk – in the Walser village of St. Antönien. MySwitzerland.com, Webcode
174846
Dreibündenstein: Invigorating hike with super views.
From the city of Chur, a cable car glides up to Brambrüesch, a high, sunny plateau at 1,595 metres and the starting point for the panoramic fourhour hike to Feldis. The route starts with a steady climb southwards to the historic Dreibündenstein monument, before leading down the western flanks of the mountain. Along the entire walk, the views are magnificent. To the north, your gaze sweeps from the mighty Calanda down the Rhine valley to the villages of the Bündner Herrschaft. To the south-west lie the lush green pastures of the Domleschg valley, while far to the south, the snow-capped Tödi sparkles in the sunshine. From the village of Feldis, a cable car carries you across the Hinterrhein tributary of the Rhine down to Rhäzüns, served by trains of the Rhaetian Railway. MySwitzerland.com, Webcode
161308
Don’t miss
Address
Feldis-Rhäzüns cable car free with GA travelcard ■■ Old Town and cathedral, Chur ■■ “Alien” bar by HR Giger, Chur ■■ Bike park and tours, Brambrüesch
Chur Tourismus Bahnhofplatz 3 CH-7001 Chur Phone +41 (0)81 252 18 18 www.churtourismus.ch
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Parpaner Rothorn – Arosa: 1,000 peaks in the morning sun.
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The sight of the rising sun lighting up the 1,000 pinnacles around the Parpaner Rothorn will enchant even the most experienced mountain traveller. To enjoy this natural spectacle in all its glory, rise early to catch the first cable car to the top station at 2,865 metres. The finest views are actually from the eastern summit, an easy, 20-minute walk away. Before setting off on the three-hour hike to the resort of Arosa, via the sparkling waters of the Älplisee and the Schwellisee, head back to the cable car station and treat yourself to a generous breakfast at the panoramic summit restaurant – and congratulate yourself on your early start! Don’t miss
Address
Lenzerheide Bike Park “Globi” theme trail, Lenzerheide ■■ Squirrel trail, Arosa ■■ Walser hamlet of Medergen with mountain restaurant, Arosa
Ferienregion Lenzerheide Voa principala 37 CH-7078 Lenzerheide Phone +41 (0)81 385 57 00 www.lenzerheide.com
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People in the know agree that the six-hour hike along the ridge of the Heinzenberg from Obertschappina to Präz is the loveliest way of discovering this unknown corner of Switzerland. Start off following the historic Walser trail up to the Glas Pass before climbing steep alpine pastures to the Glas ridge; it’s from here that the views of the lush sloping meadows and scattered villages of the Safien and Domleschg valleys are the most impressive. The hike continues via the Lüsch ridge to the Bischol Pass, where the eponymous lake offers a bracing dip in sight of the pointy Piz Beverin. Refreshed, you’ll have a spring in your step as you glide onwards along the panoramic ridge before dropping down the flank of the Heinzenberg to the village of Präz.
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Don’t miss
Address
everin Nature Park B ■■ Castles of the Domleschg valley ■■ Canyoning in the Viamala gorge ■■ Historic church of St. Martin, Zillis ■■ viaSpluga long-distance hiking trail
Gästeinformation Viamala CH-7430 Thusis Phone +41 (0)81 650 90 30 www.viamala.ch
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Top 100 views. Graubünden.
Mountains, mountains, everywhere… Before embarking on the half-hour walk from the top station of the Piz Mundaun chairlift down to the Bündner Rigi restaurant, you should definitely download the PeakFinder app on your smartphone so you can identify the countless summits all around. Hausstock, Walserhorn, Piz Segnas, Ringelspitz, Piz Tomül: the parade of peaks on the horizon is dazzling. Enjoy the view at leisure from the terrace of the mountain restaurant, the oldest in the Surselva valley, and make sure you have a good appetite for savouring the hearty, traditional cuisine served here: the Bündner Rigi boasts the coveted “Best of Swiss Gastro 2013” prize, awarded by public vote.
Don’t miss
Address
ike around the Piz Mundaun H ■■ Walser trail in Obersaxen ■■ Trips to the Vals and Lumnezia valleys ■■ Hikes to the pristine Greina plateau
Surselva Tourismus Postfach 50 CH-7134 Obersaxen-Meierhof Phone +41 (0)81 920 11 00 www.surselva.info/obersaxen
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Heinzenberg ridge hike: Top tip.
MySwitzerland.com, Webcode
Piz Mundaun: Oldest mountain restaurant in the Surselva.
MySwitzerland.com, Webcode
42581
79
MySwitzerland.com, Webcode
191534
Fil de Cassons: On the edge of the Sardona Tectonic Arena.
“Fil de Cassons” may sound like a French name, but this mountain is located in a region of Graubünden where Romansh is widely spoken. In Switzerland’s fourth national language, “fil” means “ridge”, and the Fil de Cassons offers a fine vantage point from which to admire the dramatic geology that has made this region famous. Around the two Segnes plateaux, three different geological landscapes meet to produce a realm of otherworldly beauty – protected by UNESCO as part of the Sardona Tectonic Arena World Heritage Site. A four-hour walk leads below the pinnacles of the Tschingelhörner with views of the famous Martinsloch rock hole; at the end of the hike, the Restaurant Stalla serves refreshments from Wednesday to Sunday. A shuttle bus brings walkers back to Laax. MySwitzerland.com, Webcode
191253
Don’t miss
Address
“Il Spir” observation platform above the Rhine gorge ■■ “Trutg dil Flem” water trail, Flims ■■ Cauma and Cresta swimming lakes ■■ Senda Sursilvana panoramic trail ■■ Through the Rhine gorge: on foot, by train, in a white-water raft
Gästeinformation Flims Laax Falera Via Nova 62 CH-7017 Flims Phone +41 (0)81 920 92 00 www.laax.com
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Graubünden. Top 100 views.
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Rooms with a view. Switzerland’s most scenic places to stay. Located everywhere from mountaintops to lakeshores, in cities and in the country, these accommodation options promise some of Switzerland’s finest vistas. Whatever the view on offer – whether it’s the world-famous Matterhorn above Zermatt or the snow-blanketed Corvatsch in the Engadine, Lake Maggiore in Ticino, the vineyards above Lake Geneva or Zürich’s sea of rooftops – it’ll be a highlight of your trip. We’ve reviewed Switzerland’s tremendous variety of hotels and mountain huts and picked 94 that guarantee truly spectacular views. When night falls over the beautiful landscape to reveal a sea of twinkling stars, romantic restaurants and stylish rooms ensure you’ll feel in seventh heaven. See our suggestions – you’ll find plenty of holiday inspiration!
MySwitzerland.com, Webcode
74
Top 100 views.
65727
Medel hut (Swiss Alpine Club), Curaglia, Graubünden
Eastern Switzerland / Liechtenstein. Churfirsten chain, Toggenburg, Eastern Switzerland / Liechtenstein
Irresistible charm.
Ostschweiz Tourismus CH-9000 St.Gallen Phone 00800 100 200 30 www.ostschweiz.ch
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The east is famous for its music and traditions, pretty villages and scenic contrasts. The jagged pinnacles of the Churfirsten and Alpstein, the rolling hills of the Toggenburg, Heidiland and Appenzell regions, the wide-open expanses around Lake Constance, sunblessed vineyards and sparkling mountain lakes, lush meadows and colourful orchards, the historic city of St.Gallen: this region inspires, charms and delights all who holiday here.
Pizol hut: Quick mountain escape.
The Martinsloch is a natural hole in the soaring rock wall of the Tschingelhörner, 22 metres high and 19 metres across. Every year, on a couple of days each in March and September, the sun’s rays shine through the hole directly onto Elm’s church for two minutes – a heavenly spectacle reminiscent of the medieval paintings in many Catholic churches. This geological marvel is also well worth seeing on the other 361 days of the year. Many footpaths on both sides of the serrated Tschingelhörner – both in canton Glarus and canton Graubünden – lead to spots offering fine views of the rock window. For a close-up visit with expert introduction to the region’s fascinating geology, join one of the guided tours. Don’t miss
Address
Sardona Geopark ■■ View of the Martinsloch rock hole from the Ämpachli viewpoint ■■ Slate mine, Engi ■■ Lochsiten geology, Schwanden
Elm Ferienregion Säge 5 CH-8767 Elm Phone +41 (0)55 642 52 52 www.elm.ch
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Don’t miss eidi Trail with children’s hydroH therapy pool, Pizol ■■ 5 Lakes Hike from the Pizol hut to Gaffia ■■ Pfäfers historic thermal baths and Tamina gorge ■■ Walser village of St. Martin, Calfeisen valley ■■ Älpli cable car, Malans ■■ Wineries and cellars in the Bündner Herrschaft ■■
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Address Heidiland Tourismus AG CH-7310 Bad Ragaz Phone +41 (0)81 300 40 20 www.spavillage.ch
Do you dream of escaping up into the high mountains, even if only for a couple of hours? The Pizol region is ideal. You board a gondola down in Bad Ragaz, change at Pardiel onto the chairlift to Laufböden, and during the ride enjoy your first views of the impressive group of peaks around the Pizol. At the top, you set off on the gentle, one-hour walk to the modern Pizol hut, along the way admiring the sweeping views of the Rhine Valley and Lake Constance sparkling in the distance. When you arrive, take a seat on the hut’s terrace, order a chilled fruit juice, let the beauty of the surrounding scenery work its magic on you, and enjoy the feeling of floating far above everyday reality. MySwitzerland.com, Webcode
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Elm: The legendary Martinsloch rock hole.
Top 100 views. Eastern Switzerland / Liechtenstein.
MySwitzerland.com, Webcode
Braunwald: Scenic hike to Urnerboden.
The hike from Braunwald down to Urnerboden makes a perfect Sunday afternoon walk – especially after a relaxed lunch at this tranquil, trafficfree resort with views of the snow-capped Tödi and Clariden. Save room for a dessert later on: about an hour after setting off, you’ll reach the pretty country restaurant at Nussbüel, famous for its home-baked Gugelhopf cake. The path eventually emerges from the high forests to reveal a view into a mountain valley with an exceptionally long, wide floor: this is Urnerboden, Switzerland’s longest stretch of alpine pasture. In the middle of the valley stand a cluster of houses and a little church; from here you can catch a postal bus back to Linthal, or over the Klausen Pass to Altdorf. MySwitzerland.com, Webcode
57023
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28432
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Don’t miss
Address
Linthal–Braunwald funicular free with GA travelcard ■■ Alpine rose garden, llama trekking, fairy-tale trail, via ferratas, Braunwald ■■ Panoramic trail to Lake Oberblegi ■■ Urnerboden–Fisetengrat cable car
Braunwald-Klausenpass Tourismus AG Dorfstrasse 2 CH-8784 Braunwald Phone +41 (0)55 653 65 65 www.braunwald.ch
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Eastern Switzerland / Liechtenstein. Top 100 views.
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Hoher Kasten: Revolving restaurant and dramatic ridge trail.
Don’t miss
Address
Alpine garden on the Hohen Kasten Goat’s cheese at Fählenalp ■■ Fählen and Sämtis swimming lakes ■■ Kick-scooter rides from Ruhesitz restaurant down to Brülisau
Hoher Kasten Drehrestaurant und Seilbahn AG CH-9058 Brülisau Phone +41 (0)71 799 13 22 www.hoherkasten.ch
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Address
pecial sunrise rides S ■■ Toggenburg “Sound World” with Sound Trail ■■ Toggenburg High Trail long distance path ■■ Refreshing dips: Schwendi, Gräppelen and Schönenboden lakes
Toggenburg Bergbahnen Postfach 42 CH-9657 Unterwasser Phone +41 (0)71 998 68 10 www.bergbahnentoggenburg.ch
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Säntis / Lisengrat: Dizzy ridge hike.
The long Stauberen ridge that projects northeast from the Alpstein massif culminates in a dramatic pinnacle, the Hoher Kasten, reached by cable car from Brülisau. Perched at the summit, like an eagle’s eyrie, is a rotating restaurant. It’s well worth lingering here before setting off on the challenging and often exposed ridge walk to Bollenwees and into the heart of the Alpstein. Take a seat, order a refreshing local Quöllfrisch beer, and enjoy the spectacular 360° panoramic view as it glides past your window. To the west you’ll see the Säntis, highest point of the massif; to the north, Lake Constance; to the east, the mountains of Bavaria and Tyrol. To the south, were it not for the sparkling Swiss summits blocking the view, you’d see all the way to the Mediterranean. MySwitzerland.com, Webcode
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You should only tackle this walk if you have a sure foot and a good head for heights. Even then, you’ll feel a tingle run down your spine as a yawning abyss opens up at your feet on the hike along the Lisengrat ridge. The route, linking the summits of the Säntis and the Altmann, was created by the local section of the Swiss Alpine Club in 1905, and remains the highlight of any hike on the Säntis massif. As you edge along the path, you look down on one side to the lush green Toggenburg valley, and on the other to the jagged rock formations of the Alpstein. The thrilling traverse takes about 50 minutes – by which time you have reached the Rotstein Pass, where you can settle your nerves over a refreshing drink at the welcoming mountain hut. MySwitzerland.com, Webcode
57073
57565
Don’t miss
Address
ppenzell Alpine Path from A Schwägalp to the Kronberg ■■ Schwägalp visitor cheese dairy ■■ Lillyweg family trail, Urnäsch ■■ Museum of local customs, Urnäsch
Säntis-Schwebebahn AG Hotel, Gastronomie, Events CH-9107 Schwägalp Phone +41 (0)71 365 65 65 www.saentisbahn.ch
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Chäserrugg: Pinnacle of perfection for walkers.
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Top 100 views. Eastern Switzerland / Liechtenstein.
The Chäserrugg is not the highest or even the spikiest of the seven peaks of the Churfirsten that soar up from the southern side of the Upper Toggenburg valley like the teeth of a giant saw blade. By contrast it’s easily accessible, by funicular and cable car from Unterwasser, and the wide summit forms a glorious natural viewing platform: the Rosenboden plateau, some 2,200 metres above sea level. It takes about an hour to walk around the lush green meadows scattered with colourful alpine flowers, longer if you linger over the spectacular panoramic views. To the west stretch the jagged peaks of the Churfirsten; way below your clifftop vantage point lie the sparkling waters of the Walensee; and in the distance you can see the Glarus and Graubünden Alps, even as far as the mighty Bernina massif.
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The highest point in the canton of Schaffhausen is a filigree tower of steel with a striking top that looks like a giant scoop of vanilla ice cream. The Hagenturm stands on the wooded Randen hills near Merishausen; climb the 220 steps and you reach an altitude of 912 metres above sea level, with spectacular views as a reward. The viewing platform floats high above the treetops, which spread out below your feet like a vast, soft green carpet. Beyond its fringes, a chequered landscape merges in the distance into the Black Forest. Look the opposite direction, and on the horizon you can make out the unmistakable peaks of the Alps with their icing-sugar dusting of snow.
Don’t miss
Address
hine Falls at Neuhausen: R Europe’s biggest waterfall ■■ Munot fortress in Schaffhausen ■■ Hallen für neue Kunst, Schaffhausen ■■ Klettgau panoramic trail
Schaffhauserland Tourismus Herrenacker 15 CH-8201 Schaffhausen Phone +41 (0)52 632 40 20 www.schaffhauserland.ch
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MySwitzerland.com, Webcode
64981
Merishausen / Hagenturm: 220 steps to a great view.
MySwitzerland.com, Webcode
191261
Eastern Switzerland / Liechtenstein. Top 100 views.
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Zürich Region. Zürich, Zürich Region
Unique mix.
Zürich Tourismus CH-8001 Zürich Phone +41 (0)44 215 40 00 www.zuerich.com
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From Brugg to Baden: Views over “Switzerland’s reservoir”.
At the summit of the Uetliberg, the full charm of the Zürich Region and its neighbouring cantons becomes apparent. The views extend from Switzerland’s largest city, with its sparkling lake and rivers, to the soft, rolling hills beyond, dotted with historic towns, and as far as the snow-capped Alps on the horizon. So much variety in a compact area is a delight to see – and guarantees a thrilling mixture of nature, culture and adventure, wherever you choose to explore.
Zürich / Uetliberg: High above the city on a pioneering railway.
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Don’t miss
Address
egionaries’ path, Aarau L ■■ Roman museum ■■ Königsfelden abbey church ■■ Protected wetlands ■■ Old Towns of Brugg and Baden
Info Baden Bahnhofplatz 1 CH-5400 Baden Phone +41 (0)56 200 87 87 www.baden.ch
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Don’t miss Hike to Felsenegg Zürich–Uetliberg train and Felsenegg–Adliswil cable car free with GA travelcard ■■ Rigiblick funicular ■■ Zürich Zoo ■■ Boat trips on the River Limmat and Lake Zürich ■■ ■■
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Address Uetliberg CH-8143 Uetliberg / Zürich Phone +41 (0)44 457 66 66 www.uetliberg.ch
The difference in altitude between Zürich (411 m) and the Uetliberg (871 m) is not enormous, but the Uetliberg railway whose trains shuttle between the city and its local mountain is a minor miracle. This is Europe’s steepest adhesion line – although as you relax in the comfortable seats, you are not aware of the technical wizardry that allows the trains to climb the steep rails by friction alone, without the benefit of cog traction. Today, the historic railway is very much a modern means of transport, carrying hundreds of visitors a day from Zürich’s main railway station straight up the mountain. Many of them are happy with a gentle stroll to the summit and its viewing tower; others tackle the delightful ridge walk to the Felsenegg cable car. Either way, the views are spectacular. MySwitzerland.com, Webcode
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Top 100 views. Zürich Region.
110682
Along the four-hour walk between the Roman town of Brugg and the thermal spa town of Baden, water is a constant companion. Near Turgi, in the canton of Aargau, three great rivers meet: first the Reuss and then the Limmat flow into Switzerland’s longest river, the Aare, before their combined waters surge northwards to the Rhine. Together, these rivers account for about 40 per cent of Switzerland’s entire flow of fresh water, and their confluence is known as “Switzerland’s reservoir”. Among the area’s finest vantage points are the 12-metre-high Baldegg water tower, rising above the surrounding buildings like a farmhouse on stilts, and the summit of the Gebenstorfer Horn, which reveals superb views over the three rivers and their lush water meadows. MySwitzerland.com, Webcode
57202
Zugerberg: Panoramic trail to the Wildspitz.
From the summit station of the Zugerberg funicular, a trail follows the elegant long ridge of the Zugerberg to Alpli, where a cosy mountain restaurant serves delicious coffee. Here the terrain rises steeply, and the hike up to the Wildspitz, the highest point in canton Zug – a climb of 423 vertical metres – leaves even experienced ramblers panting. The reward, at an altitude of 1,580 metres, is a breathtaking panorama. To one side rise the dramatic peaks of the Mythen, towering over Schwyz and Lake Lauerz; to the north lies the whole of canton Zug, with Lake Zug and Lake Ägeri; while on the horizon, the peaks of the central Swiss Alps soar into the sky. From the Wildspitz, a gentle path leads down to Sattel. MySwitzerland.com, Webcode
191257
Don’t miss
Address
Zugerberg funicular free with GA travelcard ■■ Cruises on Lake Zug ■■ Wildspitz panoramic restaurant ■■ Sattel–Hochstuckli revolving gondola
Zug Tourismus Bahnhofplatz CH-6304 Zug Phone +41 (0)41 723 68 00 www.zug-tourismus.ch
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Zürich Region. Top 100 views.
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Lucerne – Lake Lucerne Region.
View from the Pilatus over Lake Lucerne, Lucerne and Lake Lucerne Region
Mountain classics.
Luzern Tourismus CH-6002 Luzern Phone +41 (0)41 227 17 17 www.luzern.com
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Engelberg / Titlis: “Cliff Walk” with breathtaking views.
Rigi, Pilatus, Titlis: the famous mountains in the enchanting region around Lake Lucerne promise thrilling rides up as well as spectacular summit views. The Rigi has Europe’s oldest mountain railway, the Pilatus boasts the world’s steepest cog railway, and the Titlis is home to the world’s first revolving cable car. Exhilarating panoramic hikes offer a thrilling experience of a breathtaking Alpine paradise with an exceptionally beautiful city at its heart: historic Lucerne, an essential stop on any tour.
Even the ride up is an adventure: at Stand station you board the world’s first revolving cable car, the Titlis Rotair, and as you glide to the summit, the full 360-degree panorama glides gently past your window. A short walk from the top station, at an altitude of 3,020 metres, is Europe’s highest-altitude suspension bridge, the Titlis Cliff Walk: venture across for giddy views into the icy abyss. The sun terrace, meanwhile, offers rather more soothing views: along the Grassengrat ridge, over to the Sustenhorn and to a sea of Alpine pinnacles all around. You can top even this vista, if you have both energy and good lungs: a one-hour trail leads to the summit, 200 vertical metres higher, across a beautiful high-mountain landscape. MySwitzerland.com, Webcode
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41580
Sörenberg / Schrattenfluh: Mountain of mystery.
Don’t miss
Don’t miss
Address
Four Lakes Trail from Trübsee to Melchsee-Frutt ■■ Härzlisee lake and via ferratas, Brunni ■■ Monastery with show dairy – ancient craft, modern technology
Titlis Bergbahnen, Hotels & Gastronomie Gerschnistrasse 12 CH-6390 Engelberg Phone +41 (0)41 639 50 50 www.titlis.ch
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Flühli hydrotherapy (Kneipp) trail ■■ Entlebuch moorland (UNESCO Biosphere Reserve) ■■ E-bike tours through the Entlebuch ■■ Chessiloch suspension footbridge ■■
Address Sörenberg Flühli Tourismus Rothornstrasse 21 CH-6174 Sörenberg Phone +41 (0)41 488 11 85 www.soerenberg.ch
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Rising like a mighty barrier out of the moorland of the Entlebuch, the Schrattenfluh is a limestone mountain dominated by deep fissures caused by weathering; it’s the largest such feature in Switzerland. The near-vertical cliffs and bare rock slopes are full of countless grooves, crevices and mysterious sculpted shapes – best admired from the challenging panoramic trail that runs from the Hengst (2,092 m), the highest point on the massif, to Schibengütsch. The scenery is particularly dramatic at the end of the hike, by the cross at the summit: you’ll enjoy spectacular views of the Brienzer Rothorn, the 4,000-metre peaks of the Bernese Oberland, of Sörenberg way below and across the whole of the Entlebuch. MySwitzerland.com, Webcode
88
Top 100 views. Lucerne – Lake Lucerne Region.
191259
Stanserhorn: World’s first cabriolet cable car.
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When the new cable car glided for the first time from the Kälti middle station up to the 1,900-metre Stanserhorn on 29 June 2012, the event gained widespread coverage in the Swiss and international media. This was no ordinary cabin but the world’s first and so far only open-top cable car. The impetus for this innovation came from the desire to give passengers a “Wow!” experience of the Stanserhorn’s spectacular views even as they ride up. And it works: just try for yourself, and float up the mountain on the roof of the cabin, the wind in your hair and the sun on your face as your gaze wanders from the surrounding mountain peaks to the sparkling waters of Lake Lucerne, way below.
Don’t miss
Address
intage wooden funicular V ■■ Candlelit dinners, evening rides ■■ Rangers pick out the sights ■■ Marmot-watching ■■ Scenic hike to Wirzweli
Stanserhorn-Bahn Stansstaderstrasse 19 CH-6370 Stans Phone +41 (0)41 618 80 40 www.stanserhorn.ch
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MySwitzerland.com, Webcode
41581
Lucerne – Lake Lucerne Region. Top 100 views.
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Pilatus: High thrills on the world’s steepest cog railway.
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Rigi: Introduction to the “Queen of the Mountains”.
Between Alpnachstad and the summit of Lucerne’s local mountain lie 4.6 kilometres of railway track, 1,635 vertical metres and an extraordinary train journey. It would be remarkable enough just for the breathtaking views it offers of the mountains and lakes of central Switzerland. Even more impressive, perhaps, is the way it demonstrates that in this country, mountains are not perceived as a barrier: instead, they represent a challenge to engineers to pioneer ever more innovative technology. A great example is the Pilatus cog railway, the steepest in the world. Passengers are usually lost for words as the little red train blithely masters gradients of up to 48 per cent on the steepest section – the nerve-tingling Eselswand cliffs. MySwitzerland.com, Webcode
41605
Don’t miss
Address
ew observation terrace N ■■ Dramatic Tomlishorn ridge hike ■■ Ibex safaris ■■ Fräkmüntegg summer toboggan run, adventure rope park ■■ Hergiswil glass works
Pilatus-Bahnen, Hotels Bellevue & Pilatus-Kulm Schlossweg 1 CH-6010 Kriens / Luzern Phone +41 (0)41 329 12 12 www.pilatus.ch
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Don’t miss
Address
team-train rides in summer S ■■ Spectacular sunrises and sunsets ■■ Accommodation at the summit ■■ GA travelcards/1-day passes valid ■■ Rigi Kaltbad Mineral Baths & Spa
Tourist Information Rigi Casa Margherita CH-6356 Rigi Kaltbad Phone +41 (0)41 227 18 20 www.rigi.com
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Wilhelm Tell Express: From steamer to train.
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If you wanted to cross the Alps, why would you board a paddle steamer? In fact the Wilhelm Tell Express is not a boat, it’s a journey in two parts. You embark the historic vessel in the city of Lucerne to sail for nearly three hours through spectacular mountain scenery, past the meadow where Switzerland was founded and locations that feature in the legend of William Tell. In Flüelen you change on to a train, and settle into the comfortable seat of a panoramic first-class carriage for the onward journey to Locarno. The trip along the famous Gotthard line is full of highlights, from the spiral tunnels and giddy viaducts to the double loop at Wassen that lets you admire the pretty church three times as the train zigzags up the mountain to gain height.
Don’t miss
Address
iew from two Musegg towers V over Lucerne’s Old Town ■■ Swiss Museum of Transport, Lucerne, with planetarium ■■ Cardada panoramic peak, Locarno
Schifffahrtsgesellschaft des Vierwaldstättersees Werftestrasse 5, CH-6002 Luzern Phone +41 (0)41 367 67 67 www.lakelucerne.ch
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Top 100 views. Lucerne – Lake Lucerne Region.
MySwitzerland.com, Webcode
41767
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You can experience the unbelievably beautiful views from the Rigi, “Queen of the mountains”, in a bewildering variety of ways. So, to make planning a visit easier, here’s a specific suggestion. From Vitznau on the shores of Lake Lucerne, ride Europe’s oldest cog railway to the summit at 1,789 metres. Here, take a seat on the terrace of the Rigi Kulm Hotel and enjoy the majestic views over glittering Lake Lucerne and the mountain peaks of central Switzerland, in the happy knowledge that Mark Twain, Goethe and Tolstoy all sat here before you. After a refreshing bite to eat, set off on the three-hour panoramic walk via Kaltbad to Scheidegg. Here, ride the cable car and then the cog railway all the way down to Goldau. MySwitzerland.com, Webcode
57851
Emmetten / Niederbauen: Bird’s-eye view of Lake Lucerne.
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Don’t miss
Address
Hunds-Chopf viewpoint ■■ Wildlife observation trail ■■ Tandem paraglider flights ■■ Niederbauen mountain hotel ■■ Bikeboard run, Emmetten
Tourismus Emmetten Dorfstrasse 28 CH-6376 Emmetten Phone +41 (0)41 620 15 64 www.tourismus-emmetten.ch
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Way below you lies glittering Lake Lucerne, while all around, an endless sea of mountain peaks stretches to the horizon: the views from the Niederbauen Chulm are in a class of their own. The journey up is just as delightful. A dainty cable car carries you from Emmetten up to Niederbauenalp; a 20-minute walk then brings you to the authentic Alp Tritt mountain café, where you should definitely stop to taste some of Hermann’s delicious cheese. From here, it’s a climb of another 300 vertical metres to the summit. You can either hike straight up, or walk across to the Hunds-Chopf (“Dog’s head”) for giddy views down to Lake Lucerne – which accompany you as you follow the crest to the top of the mountain. MySwitzerland.com, Webcode
57562
Lucerne – Lake Lucerne Region. Top 100 views.
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Seelisberg: The view from Bern.
Don’t miss
Address
Rütli meadow Historic assembly rooms, Treib ■■ Seelisberg funicular free with GA travelcard ■■ Swimming in Seeli lake, Seelisberg
Uri Tourismus AG Schützengasse 11 CH-6460 Altdorf Phone +41 (0)41 874 80 00 www.uri.info
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Morschach–Stoos cable car and Schlattli–Stoos funicular free with GA travelcard ■■ Info centre for new Stoos funicular ■■ Cheese specialities served at Laui ■■ Moorland trail at Teufböni
Morschach-Stoos Tourismus Stooshorn 1 CH-6433 Stoos Phone +41 (0)41 818 08 80 www.morschach-stoos.ch
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When Swiss politicians in the National Council chamber in Bern’s Parliament Building feel overwhelmed by the debates, they lift their gaze to a monumental landscape painting, “The Cradle of the Confederation”, by the Geneva artist Charles Giron. Calmed by the depiction of scenic Lake Lucerne, the historic meadow of Rütli, the Seelisberg cliffs and the twin pyramid peaks of the Mythen, they cheerfully return to the fray. The image is familiar from countless news reports, but you can visit the original scene easily enough. From Brunnen, cross the lake by boat and take the funicular up to Seelisberg; from here, follow the short, gently climbing path via the “Schiller balcony” to Marienhöhe, and see for yourself: just like in the Parliament Building, only much more beautiful!
Top 100 views. Lucerne – Lake Lucerne Region.
41430
MySwitzerland.com, Webcode
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If you have a sure foot and a good head for heights, and prefer walking at altitude to long climbs, the trail from the Klingenstock to the Fronalpstock is ideal. The hike takes a good two hours, following a leisurely chairlift ride to the starting point. From here, you simply follow the narrow but well-maintained path along the ridge, where necessary holding on to chains fitted along the trickier sections. The views are spectacular: to the right, the peaks of the Grosser and Kleiner Mythen, and to the left, the sparkling waters of Lake Lucerne, way below. As you approach the Fronalpstock mountain restaurant, you enjoy an especially dramatic view of Rütli, the meadow where modern Switzerland was founded, across the lake. From the summit, a second chairlift brings you gently back down the mountain to Stoos.
Schächental valley: Rides back in time. A hike along the Schächental panoramic trail offers a chance to ride two of canton Uri’s famous miniature cableways. To get to the start of the walk, take a postal bus up the Klausen Pass road as far as the Chipfen-Tristel stop at Spiringen. From here, the brightgreen, open cabin of the Chipfen-Tristel cableway carries you up the slopes of the Schächental to the summit station at 1,560 metres. Follow the trail westwards through pristine nature, enjoying views along the way of the jagged Windgällen and other dramatic peaks framing the valley, perhaps stopping for a bite en route at the quaint and traditional Selez mountain restaurant. The hike ends at the top station of the Eggberge cable car, which offers impressive views of sparkling Lake Lucerne way below as it glides down to Flüelen.
Don’t miss
Address
To Lake Arni from Amsteg & Intschi ■■ William Tell Museum, Bürglen ■■ Tell monument and tower, Altdorf ■■ Lorelei islands, Lake Lucerne ■■ Paddle steamers to Lucerne
Uri Tourismus AG Schützengasse 11 CH-6460 Altdorf Phone +41 (0)41 874 80 00 www.uri.info
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Stoos: Ridge hike high above Lake Lucerne.
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Andermatt / Pazolastock: To the source of the River Rhine.
The Tomasee is officially recognised as the source of the Rhine. This pretty lake high in the heart of the Swiss Alps is easy to reach on a hike from the Oberalp Pass. First climb across the atmospheric Puozas – mountain moorland – and alpine pastures before reaching the summit ridge of the Pazolastock. Pause to enjoy the views of the surrounding peaks and down the Surselva, the valley of the young Rhine, before following the ridge southwards to descend the Fil da Tuma. On the way down, you’ll pass the cosy Badus hut nestling into the flank of the mountain – a good place to stop for refreshments. And finally, just before the lake, you’ll see it: a sign marking the source of the Rhine. Shed a tear into the water, should you wish, knowing that a couple of weeks later it’ll flow into the North Sea at Rotterdam. MySwitzerland.com, Webcode
MySwitzerland.com, Webcode
MySwitzerland.com, Webcode
191258
Don’t miss
Address
Furka steam railway and Oberalp Openair Express ■■ Schöllenen gorge: Devil’s Bridge and Suvorov monument ■■ Maighels and Badus huts (Swiss Alpine Club)
Andermatt-Urserntal Tourismus Gotthardstrasse 2 CH-6490 Andermatt Phone +41 (0)41 888 71 00 www.andermatt.ch
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Lucerne – Lake Lucerne Region. Top 100 views.
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Information, Advice and Booking. Call us free on 0800 100 222. Personal tips for you Our Swiss experts can tell you where to find the best views, and where to experience unforgettable summer holidays in Switzerland.
All the information you need for your holidays in Switzerland: Mon–Fri 8–18, Sat 10–16, 0800 100 222 (free) info @ myswitzerland.com, MySwitzerland.com
Summer. Just a click away. MySwitzerland.com/summer. Experience the magic of the Swiss summer!
Book your hotel here.
Snow-capped peaks, crystal-clear lakes, charming villages and pristine landscapes – the perfect backdrop to an unforgettable holiday in Switzerland. More at: MySwitzerland.com /summer
Full range of accommodation Do you appreciate the fashionable Design & Lifestyle Hotels, the charm of historic inns, do you like bathing in luxury or do you prefer sleeping on straw? You can book the very best accommodation at a glance, online or by telephone.
MySwitzerland.com / newsletter
Free apps.
Mon–Fri 8–18, Sat 10–16, 0800 100 222 (free) MySwitzerland.com / hotels
Served up on the tablet 25385
Mobile Apps
The most beautiful images of Switzerland Plan your next holidays, indulge yourself in winter, dream of summer and enquire about hotels at your leisure – either on paper or on the Internet: order the free theme-coordinated holiday magazine and exciting brochures. Fast and direct using the following webcode. Adventure, hotel and partner brochures
The 100 finest views. Information, Advice and Booking.
MySwitzerland.com, Webcode
With the Swiss Mag app and its e-brochures, exploring your Swiss holiday options is an adventure in itself. Download Swiss Mag app for iPad: MySwitzerland.com / ipad
Order our latest holiday magazine and brochures.
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Our free Mobile apps give you useful info, valuable tips and welcome inspirations – always at your fingertips: MySwitzerland.com / mobile
Best Swiss Hotels
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Information, Advice and Booking. The 100 finest views.
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Reach any destination conveniently with public transport. Switzerland is a paradise of discovery. There is no other country where you can travel so quickly from the busy urban centres to tranquil places in the mountains, or by lakes and rivers. Public transport offers suitable tickets and other interesting offers for all those who enjoy travelling.
Information for holidays, meetings and conferences in Switzerland
Switzerland Tourism P.O. Box, CH-8027 Zürich
News and info about Switzerland Interested in what is happening day to day? The news and information website on politics, the economy, society, culture and science, in ten languages.
Credits Devised Switzerland Tourism, Zürich Designed and published by Festland AG, St.Gallen / Zürich Switzerland Tourism, Zürich Cover photograph Cardada-Cimetta, Ticino, Stephan Schacher
Travel to Switzerland Tips and information on how to get to Switzerland. Whether you are travelling by plane, train or car, Switzerland offers excellent international connections.
Address
MySwitzerland.com, Webcode
25321
Photographs, illustration Switzerland Tourism, holiday regions and destinations Printed by Swissprinters AG, Zofingen Print run 350,000 copies
Travel within Switzerland Convenient, comfortable and carefree: a dense public transport network and optimal connections guarantee flexible travel and enjoyable explorations throughout Switzerland.
MySwitzerland.com, Webcode
25349
Equipment tips On the move with a regular timetable. The regular-interval timetable that is unique in the world connects the major centres every half hour and cities and regions every hour. Thanks to the huge public transport network and perfectly coordinated departure and arrival times, it is possible to reach almost any location in Switzerland without waiting times. Full enjoyment at half price. With the Half-Fare travelcard, you can travel on all SBB routes, with many private and mountain railways, shipping lines and postbuses at half price. On short routes, with reduced tickets or for combined offers, the discount may be less than 50%. You can purchase
the Half-Fare travelcard for 1st and 2nd class for one, two or three years. sbb.ch/halbtax Unlimited travel for a day. Climb aboard and off you go: holders of a Half-Fare travelcard wishing to travel throughout Switzerland will find a 1-day travelpass the most convenient option. Those who wish to sleep in longer will find it best to travel using a 9 o’clock travelpass. Both tickets are of course also available for 1st and 2nd class. sbb.ch/tageskarte For the price-conscious. Save cash by making savings. For with supersaver tickets you can travel to numerous places in Switzerland at attractive prices. Supersaver tickets
are only available online and their number is limited. Simply enter the route you require in the online timetable and they are displayed automatically. sbb.ch/sparbillette Experience more and pay less. Those who like being busy in their leisure time without stretching their budget are sure to find something on the SBB leisure page. Whether it is exciting day trips, several-day short-breaks or events, it is all here at attractive package prices, and rail travel, admission and other interesting additional services are all reduced. sbb.ch/leisure
High-quality, reliable equipment is essential for active summer holidays, and Swiss quality brands provide the very best. An overview of our Swiss outdoor partners.
MySwitzerland.com, Webcode
Published April 2014
An emphasis on sustainability Switzerland is known as a country of unspoilt nature that is committed to environmentally sensitive policies regarding natural resources, to careful stewardship of the landscape, and to its eco-friendly public transport system. This commitment to the environment and to sustainable development guarantees a high-quality tourism for our guests.
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Shopping A small gift for those back home? A personal souvenir from the holidays? A host of ideas, from the celebrated Swiss Army Knife to precision watches and Swiss chocolate.
MySwitzerland.com, Webcode
9884
Hotel ratings by guests, for guests Find out quickly and simply about a hotel by means of personal assessments. You too can rate your hotel – and so help ensure the quality of Swiss hospitality.
MySwitzerland.com, Webcode
Seals of quality Through the “Swiss Tourism Quality Seal” programme, the leading tourism organisations and a total of 2,400 tourist establishments are committed to a clearly defined quality of service for their guests.
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Order number UBS: SAP 84056D
Information for holidays, meetings and conferences in Switzerland. Top 100 views.
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DISCOVER SWITZERLAND WITH UBS.
By Monster Scooter to the Schwarzsee. CHF 10 for chairlift/scooter combination ticket.
Views you and your wallet can enjoy
Fairy tale cable car and SiSu family park. 2-for-1 offer.
Discounted excursions – UBS’s partnership with Switzerland Tourism helps you travel far and wide. Adventure Park Monte Tamaro with “Splash e Spa Tamaro”. CHF 10 discount on combined tickets.
E-bike park Jura – Creux du Van. CHF 15 discount on the RailAway offer. Exclusive discounted excursions There are lots of discounts and exclusive offers that you can benefit from, including the enclosed excursion vouchers. There are also over 350 hotels in Switzerland that accept KeyClub points in payment if you book through the Travel Service Line. Find out more about the partnership between UBS and Switzerland Tourism, as well as the latest offers, at:
UBS KeyClub bonus program If you use our basic banking services, you can participate in the UBS KeyClub bonus program and collect KeyClub points, which you can use like cash by redeeming them one-for-one with our many partners, including Switzerland Tourism. You can collect the points in electronic or in paper form.
Free Travel Service Line UBS has set up a free telephone information service for you, called Travel Service Line. It offers you expert advice on travel and leisure offers in Switzerland. Especially practical: you can use it to book hotels and train journeys together. From Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. and also on Saturdays, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Titlis Glacier Park with Suspension Bridge. CHF 15 discount on the RailAway offer. www.ubs.com/keyclub www.ubs.com/keyclubestore
Free hotline 0800 100 222
www.ubs.ch/explore
Hiking around the Oberblegisee. CHF 15 discount on the RailAway offer. UBS – partner of Switzerland Tourism
From the Riggisalp to the Schwarzsee by monster scooter. Enjoy a day in the Freiburgerland. Take the chairlift from Schwarzsee through the mountains to the mountain station Riggisalp. From there, you can enjoy a four-kilometer trip on a monster scooter.
The bank that’s always with you. UBS e-banking. How you benefit: the voucher gets you a combined chairlift and monster scooter ticket for CHF 10 – a saving of up to 50 percent. www.ubs.ch/explore
Take the fairytale cable car to the family park on the Hannigalp in Grächen. The fairytale cable car transports guests big and small to the world of Grimm’s fairy tales. On the Hannigalp, they meet Grächen’s mascot SiSu, and can enjoy water sports, climbing, spiders’ webs and water tubing in summer. How you benefit: the voucher offers two adults entry for the price of one. Children under the age of six travel for free. www.ubs.ch/explore
Mountain and water fun all in one: Tamaro Park Adventure. Take the cable car up to Monte Tamaro. Get off at the middle station and you will find the Adventure Park, a high-wire park with three levels of difficulty. After that, relax in the new waterpark “Splash e Spa Tamaro” at the base station – lots of fun is waiting for you. How you benefit: the voucher gives you CHF 10 off the combined ticket. No more than two persons per voucher. www.ubs.ch/explore
E-bike park Jura (Creux du Van). In the land of the green fairy: Start from the historic railway station at Noiraigue in the Val de Travers and travel up to the Creux du Van for a breathtaking view over the enchanting amphitheater. Then round off the tour by tasting some absinthe or chocolate. How you benefit: the RailAway rail voucher gives you CHF 15 off the E-bike park *: Jura / Creux du Van combination offer. www.ubs.ch/explore harge e of c w fre ing k ter no Regis s.com/eban b www.u
Titlis Glacier Park. A unique glacial adventure at an altitude of 3,020 metres. With its trendy sliding As a UBSaclient, you always The have new your suspension bank with you. equipment, Titlis Glacier Park guarantees fun excursion. bridge You can now customize thelevel. new UBS e-banking promises unadulterated thrills at over 3,000 metres above sea to suit your needs, making banking even quicker and more intuitive. Take advantage of your Personal How you benefit: the RailAway rail voucher gives Assistant, you CHFthe 15comprehensive off the Titlis range Glacier Financial Park combination offer. www.ubs.ch/explore of available notifications and 24-hour access to financial markets – wherever you are.
Oberblegisee circular walk. A picturesque path leads from Grotzenbüel across meadows and through light forests up to the Bächialp mountain restaurant. On the mountain path you come to Oberblegisee. rest the journey back by train. The cableway goes to Luchsingen, and fromWe herewill younot complete How you benefit: the RailAway rail voucher gives you CHF 15 off the Oberblegisee offer. www.ubs.ch/explore
circular walk * When you first subscribe to a Pay and Save basic offering. © UBS 2014.combination All rights reserved.
