Grand Tour Zwitserland: de complete ronde

Bern is situated in a sharp bend of the Aare River and exudes a relaxed atmosphere despite its status as capital city. The medieval streets of the old town are a UNESCO World Heritage site and invite visitors to stroll beneath the characteristic arcades. At the Zytglogge, spectators gather every hour to admire the mechanical spectacle of the astronomical clock. Not far from there, the Bern Minster rises majestically with a tower offering panoramic views over the rooftops. On the edge of the city center lies the Bärengraben (Bear Park), where brown bears reside in a park along the riverbank. The quays along the Aare are a popular spot in summer for a refreshing dip in the clear waters. With numerous museums and charming squares, the city forms a culturally rich haven between the Alps and the lakes. The combination of historical architecture and its natural setting makes a visit to this city a multifaceted experience.

The immense volumes of water of this powerful waterfall plunge down with a thundering roar between the forested banks. From the viewing platforms at Schloss Laufen, you stand virtually above the churning water and feel the fine mist on your face. For an even more intense experience, small boats approach right up to the central rock that splits the current in two. Walking paths along the banks connect the different sides and continually offer new perspectives on the natural phenomenon. In the immediate vicinity, ample parking facilities are available, making a visit with a larger vehicle easy. The medieval Schlössli Wörth across the river forms a picturesque contrast with the natural power of the river. A walk over the nearby railway bridge offers a panoramic view across the entire width of the Rhine. Especially in the early morning, when the sun reflects on the water mist, the atmosphere here is calm and impressive.

Zurich is situated on the northern shore of the expansive Lake Zurich, offering a sophisticated blend of urban culture and natural beauty. The iconic twin towers of the Grossmünster dominate the skyline above the Limmat River. Across the water, Marc Chagall's famous stained-glass windows adorn the Fraumünster. A stroll along the lakeside promenade offers expansive views of the distant Alps. The Altstadt's cobbled streets are home to countless boutiques and historic guildhalls. The city effortlessly combines a business-like atmosphere with relaxing parks and public swimming areas along the waterfront. It is a vibrant place where history and modern architecture converge at the water's edge.

The region around Appenzell and Ebenalp is characterized by rolling green hills that abruptly transition into the steep limestone cliffs of the Alpstein Massif. The car-free village of Appenzell is famous for its richly painted wooden houses on the main street. From Wasserauen, the cable car takes you to Ebenalp, the starting point for hikes to spectacular locations. Here you’ll find the Wildkirchli Caves, where prehistoric discoveries have been made and a small chapel is built into the rocks. Immediately adjacent is Berggasthaus Äscher, a wooden inn that clings to a sheer rock face. A steep descent leads to Seealpsee, a deep blue mountain lake surrounded by high peaks and alpine meadows. Here, hikers will find an extensive network of trails ranging from easy routes to challenging mountain treks. Local culture is still evident throughout the region in the traditional costumes and artisanal cheese production on the alpine pastures.

The deep blue water of Lake Walen is nestled between the sheer cliffs of the Churfirsten and the rolling meadows on the south shore. This lake is known for its fjord-like character and offers impressive views from its shores. On the north side, the Seerenbach waterfall cascades down in three tiers, forming a spectacular natural spectacle. The car-free village of Quinten is only accessible by boat or on foot and enjoys an almost Mediterranean climate. Hikers will find challenging trails that wind high above the water along the rock faces. Water sports enthusiasts can head to the small harbors of Weesen or Walenstadt for a refreshing swim. The tranquil atmosphere makes it a pleasant place for a relaxing stay by the water. The combination of vertical rock faces and crystal-clear water creates a unique setting in this part of Switzerland.

Nestled deep in the Rhine Valley, Chur welcomes visitors as Switzerland's oldest city. The pedestrianized streets in the old town lead to the impressive St. Mary's Cathedral, towering high above the rooftops. Directly from the city center, a cable car takes travelers to the alpine meadows of Brambrüesch, offering panoramic views of the Alps. The city serves as a vital hub where the famous red trains of the Bernina Express begin their journey south. Along the banks of the Plessur River, the tranquility of the mountains blends with vibrant urban life. In the local wine bars, one can sample specialties from the nearby Bündner Herrschaft region. The surrounding mountain peaks provide a dramatic backdrop for a stroll through the centuries-old alleys.

Scuol is located deep in the Lower Engadine and is surrounded by the rugged mountain peaks of the Silvretta Group and the Engadine Dolomites. The region is known for its Romansh culture, which is immediately visible in the charming village centers with richly painted houses. Relaxation can be found in the thermal baths of Bogn Engiadina Scuol, where mineral-rich water flows from local springs. Just outside the village, the imposing Tarasp Castle towers over the landscape on a striking rocky outcrop. For those who want to explore nature, Val S-charl forms an unspoiled gateway to the edge of the Swiss National Park. The area offers numerous hiking trails along the Inn River and through dense larch forests. It is a quieter alternative to the sophisticated Upper Engadine, offering a very authentic alpine atmosphere. The combination of wellness, history, and wilderness makes this corner of Graubünden a versatile destination.

The Swiss National Park in the far east of Graubünden is a strictly protected nature reserve where wilderness is left entirely to itself. In this rugged high-mountain region, you hike through extensive larch forests and across alpine meadows where human intervention is prohibited. From the gateway village of Zernez, you can explore an extensive network of marked trails that lead deep into the pristine valleys. In the early morning hours, in Val Trupchun, there's a great chance to observe red deer, chamois, and ibex in their natural habitat. The ascent of Munt La Schera offers sweeping views of the surrounding peaks and the deep blue Livigno reservoir. The landscape here feels noticeably wilder and quieter than in the rest of the Alps. Respect for the strict park rules ensures that the tranquility and fragile flora and fauna are preserved for all visitors.

The location of St. Moritz in the Upper Engadin valley is characterized by a chain of deep blue lakes surrounded by three-thousander peaks. The crystal-clear light in this high-altitude region attracts visitors who explore the vast mountain landscapes on foot or by cable car. From the shore of Lake St. Moritz, various paths lead to panoramic views of the Bernina Massif. Piz Nair offers a sweeping view of the surrounding glaciers and granite peaks. In nearby villages such as Silvaplana and Sils Maria, the traditional Engadin architecture with sgraffito decorations has been well preserved. The combination of alpine sports opportunities and the tranquil lakeside ensures a varied stay in this part of Graubünden. The area is known for the constant Maloja wind, which is favorable for water sports enthusiasts on the lakes.

Val Bregaglia forms a spectacular transition from the high-alpine Engadin region to the Mediterranean atmosphere towards the Italian border. The terraced village of Soglio offers a panoramic view over the rugged granite peaks of the Sciora Group. Hikers explore vast chestnut forests here that grace the valley slopes. In the heart of the car-free village stands the historic Palazzo Salis with its characteristic gardens. The imposing north face of Piz Badile dominates the horizon and attracts mountaineers from all over the world. Narrow streets and stone houses give the settlements in this valley a timeless character. The contrast between the snow-capped mountain peaks and the lush flora makes a stay here a sensory experience.

Lugano, situated on the sun-drenched shores of its namesake lake, exudes a Mediterranean atmosphere. The city is surrounded by distinctive mountains like Monte Brè and Monte San Salvatore. Walkers enjoy the views from the mountaintops, while the promenade invites leisurely strolls along the water. In the lush Parco Ciani, subtropical plants and flowers adorn the walking paths. The historic city center boasts beautiful churches and squares with Italian flair. The clear waters of Lago di Lugano offer ample opportunities for boat trips to surrounding fishing villages. Thanks to its mild climate, a stay here feels like a vacation in Southern Europe.

Locarno and Ascona are located on the northern shores of Lake Maggiore, where a Mediterranean climate merges with the Swiss Alps. Piazza Grande in Locarno is the region's central square, surrounded by characteristic arcades. A short distance away, the Lungolago di Ascona offers a promenade with colourful facades directly bordering the water. Visitors can explore the narrow alleys of the historic centres or take a boat trip to the botanical gardens on the Brissago Islands. For expansive views of the surroundings, a cable car ascends to the pilgrimage church of Madonna del Sasso. Falconeria Locarno offers daily demonstrations with various birds of prey. This sunny corner of Switzerland combines Italian influences with Alpine scenery. The nearby mountains are accessible via various hiking trails that depart directly from the shores.

The Gotthard Pass has for centuries been the main link between Northern and Southern Europe, cutting right through the granite heart of the Alps. The absolute highlight is the Tremola, a spectacularly paved road that climbs the southern slope with dozens of hairpin bends. At the top of the pass plateau, you'll find a rugged landscape with deep blue mountain lakes and historic stone buildings. In the San Gottardo Museum, you'll learn more about the arduous history of this notorious trade route. Hikers can revel here on the trails that lead past the surrounding mountain peaks and glacial lakes. The thin mountain air and the silence that descends upon the pass after sunset make a stay at this altitude an impressive experience. The contrast between the modern tunnel deep underground and the winding road over the top is palpable here. You find yourself at the crossroads of cultures, where Swiss solidity transitions into the Mediterranean atmosphere of Ticino.

The car-free village of Gruyères is nestled on a green hilltop, offering panoramic views of the surrounding foothills of the Alps. The village's cobbled streets and medieval architecture naturally lead to the imposing Château de Gruyères. Inside the castle, visitors can wander through ancient halls and beautifully landscaped gardens that reflect the region's rich history. Gastronomy enthusiasts can visit La Maison du Gruyère to see how the famous local cheese is produced using traditional methods. For a contrast to the historical atmosphere, the HR Giger Museum offers a surreal collection of artworks in a unique setting. Walks in the immediate vicinity lead past rolling meadows where the only sound is the bells of grazing cattle. The combination of culinary traditions and a well-preserved historical setting makes a visit a truly sensory experience. In the evening, when the day-trippers depart, a serene tranquility returns to the narrow alleys of the fortified village.

Basel is located at the tri-border point of Switzerland, France, and Germany on the banks of the Rhine. In the historic city center, the red sandstone walls of the Basler Münster immediately stand out. The Mittlere Brücke connects the two parts of the city and offers a panoramic view over the flowing water. Art lovers will find an impressive collection of internationally renowned works in the Kunstmuseum Basel. The narrow alleys around the market square invite visitors to a leisurely stroll past colorful facades. Along the Rhine quays, a lively atmosphere prevails where locals gather by the characteristic wooden ferries. The city effortlessly combines modern architecture with ancient monuments and tranquil parks. Thanks to its location on the edge of the Jura, it is a logical place to enter or leave the country.

The Furka Pass forms an impressive connection between the cantons of Valais and Uri through rugged high mountains. From the hairpin bends, a sweeping panorama unfolds over the surrounding three-thousanders and deep valleys. Directly along the pass road lies the Rhône Glacier, where the origin of the river of the same name is visible in the ice. Visitors walk here through a blue-lit ice cave that is re-carved annually into the glacier tongue. The striking Belvedere Hotel stands as a silent icon in one of the sharpest bends of the route. Fans of technology regularly see the steam trains of the Furka-Dampfbahn pass along the slopes. The thin mountain air and the proximity of the eternal ice make a stay at this altitude a sensory experience. Parking areas along the route offer the opportunity to enjoy the dramatic mountain world in peace and quiet.

The iconic, pyramid-shaped peak of the Matterhorn dominates the horizon above this car-free mountain village in the canton of Valais. Visitors leave their vehicles in nearby Täsch to complete the final stretch to the valley by train. From the mountain station of the Gornergrat cogwheel railway, you have an unobstructed view of the surrounding 4,000-meter peaks and the vast Gorner Glacier. Hikers will find an extensive network of trails here that lead past crystal-clear mountain lakes like the Stellisee. The village itself exudes an authentic atmosphere with wooden chalets and narrow alleys, reflecting the region's rich climbing history. For a spectacular perspective on the world of glaciers, the cable car to Klein Matterhorn offers access to Europe's highest mountain station. The area is ideal for a multi-day stay where relaxation and mountain activities in the fresh alpine air take center stage.

High above the Rhône Valley, the Aletsch Glacier stretches for a considerable distance through the Bernese Alps. From the viewpoints on the Eggishorn and Bettmerhorn, the curve in the ice mass and the deep glacier crevasses are clearly visible. The surrounding mountain peaks, rising above four thousand metres, form a constant backdrop for hikes along the valley flanks. Narrow paths wind through forests of arolla pines and over rocky ridges, offering views of the moraines. In the nearby car-free mountain villages, visitors stay in a peaceful, high-alpine environment. A trip to Lake Märjelen at the edge of the glacier reveals the physical scale of this UNESCO World Heritage site. The combination of the ice and the sun-drenched south-facing slopes creates a landscape rich in contrast. This area is ideal for a multi-day stay to explore the various hiking trails.

In the heart of the Bernese Oberland lies the deep U-shaped valley of Lauterbrunnen, flanked by sheer rock faces. From its steep walls, dozens of waterfalls plunge downwards, with the Staubbachfall, directly behind the village, being the most iconic. The Trümmelbach Falls offer a unique spectacle where glacial water forces its way with immense power through the interior of the mountain. Hikers will find an extensive network of trails here leading to car-free villages like Mürren and Wengen on the higher plateaus. By cable car, you can reach the summit of the Schilthorn for panoramic views of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau. The valley offers a tranquil retreat in the mountains, where the sound of rushing water and cowbells predominates. In the evening, the setting sun casts a golden glow on the surrounding snow-capped peaks. This valley is an essential stop for anyone wishing to experience the rugged beauty of the Swiss Alps up close.

Interlaken is nestled between two deep blue lakes in the heart of the Bernese Oberland. The town serves as a central hub for exploring the surrounding mountain peaks and valleys. From the Harder Kulm, you have a panoramic view of the town and the peaks of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau. The shores of Lake Brienz and Lake Thun offer ample opportunities for waterside relaxation. In the immediate vicinity, you'll find numerous cable cars and trains providing access to alpine hiking trails. The Höheweg is the central promenade with views of the paragliders landing on the Höhematte. Thanks to its flat location in the valley, the area is perfect for exploring by bike.

Andermatt is strategically located at a crossroads in the heart of the Swiss Alps, surrounded by eight impressive mountain passes. Its location in the Urseren Valley makes it an ideal base for travellers wishing to explore the surrounding high-alpine routes. In the nearby Schöllenen Gorge, you can admire the spectacular Devil's Bridge (Teufelsbrücke), which spans the wild Reuss River. For panoramic views of hundreds of mountain peaks, the Gemsstock cable car offers the perfect solution. The village itself combines an authentic atmosphere with modern amenities amidst a rugged mountain landscape. Hikers and cyclists will find countless trails here, leading deep into the surrounding valleys. The fresh mountain air and the constant sound of babbling water enhance the sense of tranquility in this high-altitude valley. It's an obvious spot to pause and take stock before the journey continues over the steep switchbacks.

On the eastern shore of Lake Geneva lies the resort town of Montreux, surrounded by towering Alpine peaks. The city is known for its flower-filled promenade that winds for miles along the deep blue water. Nearby stands the Château de Chillon, a medieval lakeside castle built directly on a rock in the lake. To the west of the city, the Lavaux vineyard terraces stretch across the hills, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Narrow roads crisscross the vineyards and connect small wine villages where local traditions are still very much alive. From the higher terraces, you have a panoramic view of the shimmering water and the snow-capped French Alps on the opposite shore. The contrast between the Mediterranean vegetation along the shore and the glaciers in the distance makes this region visually stunning. Walks through the vineyards offer the opportunity to experience the local culture and the tranquility of Swiss rural life.