Wandering in Switzerland

Without the throng of Jungfraujoch, the Aletsch Arena offers some of the most breathtaking mountain views in Switzerland. In the winter this becomes a winter skiing paradise. In the summer you can stroll through fields full of wildflowers.

Cable cars whisk people up to viewing platforms.

Appenzell’s picture-perfect panorama of undulating hills interspersed with ancient farmhouses is beyond description. The area is like entering a picture postcard where time seems to be standing still. Local farmers continue to follow centuries-old customs while intricately painted wooden homes display folk art.

Hiking routes connect quaint communities where residents serve homemade cheese. Visit in the late spring, when cowbells produce a soft mountain symphony and wildflowers grow in the meadows.

Fish swimming below appear to be floating in midair due to the lake’s consistent temperature and pristine cleanliness in Bernese Oberland. There are wooden walks to stroll on with views of the surrounding forest. (pictured above)

Without the pretentious attitude, Engadin Valley offers an equally breathtaking landscape. In areas where residents speak that fourth official language in Switzerland, ancient Romansh culture flourishes. This is the place to be sure to get over 300 sunny days per year and outdoor activities like trekking. Traditional sgraffito-decorated houses showcase unique regional architecture.

The serene splendor of the Jura Mountains calms the spirit. These rounded, densely forested peaks offer climbing adventures. The area is known for its watchmaking customs and tiny towns where skilled artisans make clocks by hand. The area also produces delicious cheese from local farms that uphold traditional rural ways. Winter provides cross-country skiing and summer hiking in the forests and by lakes.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Lake Oeschinen reflects tall peaks in its pristine water, making it gleam like a mirror. As the sun moves across the nearby cliffs and glaciers, the lake changes color. Visitors can explore the beach in wooden rowboats, taking in the mountain vistas. In the winter this becomes a natural ice skating rink, while in the summer it offers great hiking and wildflower meadows.

The Lauterbrunnen Valley contains other waterfalls that most tourists are unaware of, but the most well-known is Staubbach Falls.

Hidden among forest groves and rock outcrops are secret pathways that lead to thunderous cascades. These water displays are made possible by the U-shaped valley formed by old glaciers. Paths lead to lesser-known falls. The most striking displays are produced by spring snowmelt causing transient waterfalls to spill over cliffs. This is a place to have a picnic and search for waterfalls.

The strongest waterfall in Europe thunders so loudly that you can feel the tremors in your chest even before you see it. Visit and see the natural drama of Rhine Falls for yourself, situated near Schaffhausen. Boat tours take visitors directly to the base where the noise roars and the spray soaks everything.

For the adventurous, climbing activities are available on the rocky island in the center.

The Mediterranean environment of Ticino’s palm tree paradise creates a tropical haven that is distinct from the rest of the nation. Snow-capped mountains provide a surreal backdrop; there are Italian-speaking residents living by the lake amid bougainvillea and olive trees. The area provides boat cruises on clear lakes, hiking through chestnut forests, and traditional Italian food.

You’ll wonder whether food coloring was added to the river when you first witness the incredibly clean waters of the Verzasca Valley. Natural swimming holes resemble hidden gems created by the emerald ponds etched into granite boulders. This enchanted valley in Ticino offers hiking routes winding through chestnut forests, and the terrain is dotted with ancient stone villages.

Enjoy the Roman bridge.