I visited Switzerland in May 2022 and can safely say there are no places like it. My first impression was that it’s really big. Lots of big, open spaces. Mountains as far as you can see them (there are SO MANY mountains). There were rivers and lakes everywhere. The water looked so clear.
As an outdoor enthusiast, this is a dream come true. There are no shortage of hikes and you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views at each of them. Here are my top hits (in no particular order):
Lauterbrunnen
Lauterbrunnen Valley is a beautiful village that’s known for the 72 waterfalls surrounding it. The most famous one being Staubbach Falls, which is the highest free falling waterfall in Europe, crashing down from 300m above ground.
While you’re there, take the cable cars up to little mountain villages like Mürren and Gimmelwald and immerse yourself in the quaintness of it all. If you stop by Wengen, try to catch the iconic yellow train. Makes for a great photo op too!
At the very top is the Jungfraujoch region where you’ll find the Top of Europe: the highest train station in Europe at 3,454m! Try hiking to the hut on the other side, it’s only 2km but with this high altitude, it’s literally took my breath away.
Zermatt
Zermatt stole my heart. Well, the Valais sheep that live there did most of the work. Zermatt is known as a resort town great for skiing, hiking and climbing. It is also a car-free city!
The Valais sheep come out late May until mid September and they reside predominantly in Switzerland. They’re known for their black faces and wooly fleece. You can find them at Gornergrat dining on the plentiful grasslands. Be prepared, they’re actually quite loud!
Other than the Valais sheep is of course, the iconic Matterhorn mountain. You might recognize this from the Toblerone package! The mountain rises 4,478 metres above sea level and gains its fame from its almost perfect pyramid shape. Ride up to Riffelsee from Zermatt to get an unobstructed view of this fantastic beast.
Schäfler
If you search Schäfler online, the first thing that pops up is the Schäfler Ridge Walk and Mountain Hut. While I was indeed headed in that direction, I turned back when the paths got too snowy to pass. It’s still one of my biggest regrets of the trip but that just means I have to go back (maybe not during shoulder season). For those interested in this hike, head up to Wasserauen, which is easily accessible by train or cable car. The hike is 5km and the ride walk is considered dangerous.
On the other side is a short hike to the Ascher Cliff Restaurant. Built literally on the side of the mountain, it was definitely a redeeming sight that day.
Fronalpstock
This mountain is located on top of a car free city called Stoos. To get there, you have to take the world’s steepest funicular railway from Schwyz, and then two chairlifts up to Fronalpstock. Or if you’re like me, you wake up at the crack of dawn and hike up the mountain to beat the crowds.
Keep going on to walk along the short panorama trail loops where you’ll be surrounded by 360 degree views of mountains and valleys.
Limmernsee
Located in the Canton of Glarus, Limmernsee has an epic hike that takes you high up in the mountains and oversees a beautiful glacial lake. Unfortunately, the cable cars weren’t running at the time so I was not able to do the hike. However, I spent the rest of the day exploring the area, starting with these lovely cows who kept me company at base level.
Along the way, I met a local who was taking his friends out to explore. He suggested driving through the Uri Mountain Pass and it did not disappoint. It was the most scenic 15 minute drive I’ve ever done, forests, mountains, valleys; going up and down weaving roads. It was also quiet when I visited, allowing for frequent stops along the side of the road for pictures.
That wraps up the 5 places to visit in Switzerland. Still have questions? Shoot me a comment below. I hope this post was helpful in your trip planning and happy travels!
xx
Vivian
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