Winter in Switzerland means skiing at dizzying heights in Zermatt, skating on Lac de Joux and warming up afterwards with a traditional cheese fondue. And all this activity with the snowy tops of the Alps in the background – what more could you ask for?
The largest city in Switzerland, Zurich has an abundance of culinary hotspots. Reason enough to try such classics as raclette, kirschtorte and rösti. A truly unique experience is the fondue tram, a mobile restaurant that lets you dip your bread in steamy cheese fondue while seeing the highlights of Zurich in winter pass by.
Take a deep breath and be carried away by the breathtaking panoramic views: nothing but snow, ice and the impressive mountaintops of the Jungfrau, Monch and Eiger. There is no shortage of spectacular views here. Apart from the vast Aletsch Glacier, the Jungfraujoch is also located here, boasting the highest railway station in Europe. Those who dare can take the steep rack railway to the top, at a dizzying altitude of 3454 metres.
Under a fresh layer of snow, the medieval timber homes in the centre of St. Gallen are even more enchanting than at other times of year. Winter is also perfect for strolling around this ancient university city on Lake Constance. A must-see is the Baroque abbey library, where you can gaze at manuscripts more than a thousand years old amidst towering bookcases.
Swiss chocolate in itself is reason enough to visit Switzerland but, for the ultimate chocolate experience, you really must visit Maestrani’s Chocolarium. In this Willy Wonka-like chocolate factory near St. Gallen, you can follow the cocoa bean from harvest to chocolate bar. You can also sample it in the cosy café – such as with a delightful mug of hot chocolate.
About an hour by car from Geneva is Lac de Joux, a vast lake at an elevation of 1,000 metres that is entirely surrounded by the Jura Mountains. In the summer, there is plenty of opportunity to swim, sail and hike and, in the winter, the entire lake become one big skating paradise. Skaters enjoy the thick natural ice, while cross country skiers and hikers explore the rest of the valley.
With its 13th-century castle that towers above medieval streets and squares and the pointed mountaintops of Dent du Chamois in the background, Gruyères is Switzerland at its finest. Apart from the fantastic location, this alpine village also offers visitors lots of chocolate and cheese. At La Maison du Gruyère, you can see how the famous Gruyère cheese is made. And sample it, too!
