Stretching just 135 miles from north to south and 220 miles from east to west, Switzerland’s canvas may be small but it packs a stunningly beautiful landscape. A sweeping arc on the Franco-Swiss border, the densely-forested Jura Mountains hide myriad lakes, caves and chasms. To the south, the soaring, snow-capped peaks of the glacier-carved Alps tower over deep alpine lakes, charming mountain villages and beautiful green pastures. Cutting a swathe through the heart of the country, Mittelland is decorated with glittering blue lakes lined with picturesque towns and lakeside hamlets. Nowhere is more picture-postcard perfect than the Swiss capital Bern.
Switzerland can claim the honour of being the source of two of Europe’s major rivers. Rising in the Alps, the River Rhône is a mountain river until it reaches Lake Geneva where it leaves Switzerland on its journey south to the Mediterranean Sea. Originating in a small, idyllic mountain lake called the Tomasee, the River Rhine starts its life as a very modest mountain stream. It grows in force until reaching Lake Constance from where it continues to the beautiful city of Basel. This Swiss gem has a unique mix or architectural styles courtesy of its close proximity to French and German neighbours. The city is a highlight of a river cruise on the Rhine, which flows through a further five countries on its way to the North Sea.
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This lovely retreat combines Janet Clare's quilting workshops with excursions exploring the Swiss sights, textile history and chocolate!
Tom Abbott leads our tour to Basel, once home to Erasmus of Rotterdam and Hans Holbein the Younger, merging tradition with cutting-edge design.
From glorious lakes winding through lush green hills and seemingly endless meadows, to snow-capped mountains providing the perfect backdrop to Alpine towns, Switzerland is home to some of the most pristine scenery in Europe. No matter the season, the country’s outstanding natural beauty always leaves you wanting more, as do the impressive cities with their abundance of art, culture and history.
Switzerland boasts remarkable diversity when it comes to landscapes and terrain, so it’s no surprise that some of the world’s most spectacular rail journeys can be enjoyed here. A memorable experience is guaranteed aboard the world-renowned Glacier Express, whilst the views offered from the CabriO cable car as you climb Mount Stanserhorn are certain to take your breath away. If you’re looking for a hands-on holiday, join us for quilting workshops at the Bernina Creative Centre and an insight into the fascinating history of the Swiss textile history. With other must-visit destinations including Lake Lucerne, Zurich and Bern, Switzerland truly is the gift that keeps on giving.
Browse our inspiring range of river cruises, bridge holidays, rail experiences and crafting tours and start planning your Swiss adventure.
Browse key sights and the popular tours you can see them on.
Ride on the worlds slowest express train, the Glacier Express through the Swiss Alps
View TourWith Switzerland having such a variety of terrain, the country can be difficult to navigate by road. So, it probably comes as no surprise that some of the worlds most spectacular rail journeys can be undertaken in Switzerland. From the Glacier Express to the GoldenPass Line, rail travel ensures that all areas of Switzerland can be accessed easily, while allowing passengers to behold the country’s glaciers, woodlands and seemingly endless meadows.
Switzerland is not all just gorgeous scenery; its major cities of Bern and Geneva are two global economic heavyweights. Despite Switzerland being politically neutral, Geneva harbours many agencies of the United Nations and has often been used as a location for the signing of peace treaties. Switzerland is an inherently harmonious, peaceful country.
The traditional dish of Switzerland is fondue, which is excellent news for cheese and/or chocolate lovers. The Swiss themselves are the world’s largest consumers of chocolate and are credited for the invention of milk chocolate in 1875.
Despite the love of cheese and chocolate, the Swiss have a history of talented athletes, including Roger Federer – the most successful men’s tennis player of all time. Many of its activities are centred around snow and ice, with ski lodges a popular attraction for both natives and tourists. In the hotter parts of Switzerland, there are several mountain bike trails that are regarded as some of the best in the world.