Switzerland holidays

Between Lake Brienz and Lake Thun and surrounded by three mountain peaks – Eiger, Monch and Jungfrau, Interlaken is quintessentially Swiss. An ideal base for exploring the Bernese Alps, hike numerous trails, ride the rails or take a cable car to a summit viewpoint. Opt for a gentle lake cruise on Thun, or perhaps kayak on Lake Brienz. Visit Europe’s highest railway station, Jungfraujoch, sitting at a 3,454m above sea level along the Jungfrau Railway.

Central Europe’s largest lake has long held an allure for travellers looking for an invigorating retreat. Sailing boats, traditional paddle steamers and ferries ply the waters offering cruise opportunities aplenty. Sharing borders with France and Italy, Geneva city sits on the western edge of the lake and is the most cosmopolitan of the country’s cities. WHO, the Red Cross and the United Nations have their headquarters here. It is also the home of CERN.

Step back in time into Lucerne’s old town with its preserved medieval architecture and cobblestone streets. Set beside Lake Lucerne against a backdrop of mountains, this is considered one of the most beautiful towns in the world. Sample rich gruyere fondue and visit the extraordinary Glacier Gardens and dying lion monument carved in // the rock face. Venturing beyond town, head out on excursions to explore nearby Mt Pilatus, Mt Titlis or Mt Rigi.

Big city amenities with a small-town feel. In a picturesque lakeside setting on the Italian border, Lugano has a typical Mediterranean climate. Funicular rail journeys are a must here such as the 600 metre ascent to the summit of Monte San Salvatore for outstanding alpine views over Lake Lugano. In the city, culture vultures will love the frescoes and Baroque decorations of San Lorenzo Cathedral and the artworks of Museo d’arte della Svizzera italiana.

This sumptuous resort town sits on the eastern side of Lake Geneva. With an ambient microclimate, its comfortable Mediterranean feel has inspired artists and musicians from Charlie Chaplin to Freddie Mercury to take up residence. This is a place for trekking along wooded paths and narcissus-lined alpine trails, watersports and wine tasting in the Lavaux Vineyards, a UNESCO World heritage Site.

Perhaps the most famous alpine resort in the world, St Moritz epitomises a luxury retreat in the Upper Engadine valley. Its slopes have played host to the Winter Olympics twice. Exceptional skiing in winter and hiking in summer, blend with stunning scenery, gourmet cuisine, topflight hotels and plenty of sunshine. Activities range from mountain biking to horse riding, tennis to golf or slow the pace at a relaxing spa.

Sitting at the foot of the legendary Matterhorn, Zermatt is a car-free zone a couple of hours train ride from Montreux. A famed ski area in winter, 400 kms of hiking trails make it a walking mecca in summer. Go to extremes along the Haute Route – a multi-day mountaineering trail from Mont Blanc, or stick to the lower altitude alpine paths. The cog railway takes passengers from town directly to the summit of the Gornergrat along 9.4 km of dramatic scenery.

From shopping to river cruises to gastronomy, Zurich is Switzerland’s most vibrant city. Take a leisurely stroll through the old town with its compelling architecture and landmark Grossmunster. Take in views of the city on a cruise along River Limmat and delve into the past at the Swiss National Museum. Amble down Bahnhofstrasse, one of the world’s most famous shopping streets where you might pick up a gem or two, then chill out at a waterfront bar.