Switzerland is above all synonymous with wild nature and famous peaks. Waterfalls, forests, lakes, massifs and glaciers are a true haven of peace for travelers, lovers of unspoiled scenery. From West to East, discover 6 stopover towns in the Swiss Alps to visit, which will take you to the heights of this immense mountain range.
The Swiss Alps in a nutshell ...
The Alpine massifs cover 60% of this beautiful country. Fauna and flora are therefore in the spotlight of these panoramic hikes. Besides, maybe you will discover a chamois or a golden eagle on your way? The Swiss Alps stretch from Lake Geneva to the Austrian border. Many glaciers and 48 peaks exceeding 4000 meters in altitude, occupy this territory. Note that the highest peak is Pointe Dufour, culminating at 4634 meters. Most of the forests and a multitude of lakes nestle in the mountains.
The Swiss Alps in summer
Thanks to these 6 unmissable cities, you will discover the most beautiful Swiss panoramas!
Martigny, at the crossroads
This is a dynamic and well-established municipality in the Valais Alps. Martigny la romaine invites you to discover its archaeological remains. Walk through this pretty city, to the rhythm of its many cultural activities. From there, several directions are available to you to discover the Swiss Alps. Pass through Sion and discover this historic city : its towers, its castles and its cathedral. This region rich in vineyards offers a choice of wines to be tasted on the terrace, as is usual in Valais. Zion is the gateway to Four valleys domain, the largest ski area in Switzerland which offers an extraordinary view from Mont-Fort.
Martigny
In summer, hundreds of kilometers of hiking and mountain biking are possible. Back in Martigny, explore Lake Emosson at an altitude of 1930 meters. An original way to access it? Use the VerticAlp Emosson, dizzying sensation guaranteed. Further explore the famous Col du Grand-Saint-Bernard, culminating at 2473 meters. In the distant past, this pass is considered so dangerous that monks settled in this place to come to the aid of lost people. The Saint-Bernard, rescue dogs, began their reputation here by finding visitors lost in snowstorms.
Zermatt, a posh resort at the foot of the Matterhorn
This village in the Valais Alps, with many superlatives, is one of the wonders of Switzerland. Stroll through this exceptional place, between authenticity and luxury boutiques. Admire its traditional Valais architecture. Treat yourself a panoramic view of the Matterhorn, emblematic peak of the region, culminating at 4478 meters above sea level. To enjoy it, take the Gornergrat cogwheel train which takes you to 30 meters in 3000 minutes.
Zermatt
You can also go to Matterhorn Glacier Paradise thanks to the highest cable car in Europe. Admire this glacial world and this grandiose panorama of the Swiss Alps. Later, meet in Randa for cross the Charles Kuonen bridge. This is the longest suspended footbridge in the world : measuring 494 meters, its crossing over a chasm is free and suitable for families.
Interlaken, a multitude of sporting activities
This is a quaint resort town in the Bernese Oberland. The region, rich in its lakes, is very popular with fans of extreme and outdoor sports. Hiking, mountain biking, rafting, paragliding, parachuting, climbing and many others have pride of place. Many trains and cable cars are ideally located for exploring the region. Do not miss the Schynige plateau, renowned balcony of the Bernese Alps, a true natural paradise.
Interlaken
Board a train and discover the valley of 72 waterfalls, which enchants with its extraordinary setting and its vertiginous cliffs. Discover that of Staubbach, 300 meters high and which stands in the center of a preserved setting. Do not hesitate to do a detour to Grindelwald, famous for its start of the ascent of the Eiger, this giant of 3970 meters, colossal and sumptuous.
Lucerne, a Swiss gem
Located in Central Switzerland, Lucerne is a medieval city with incredible charms. In the heart of the mountains and on the shores of Lake Lucerne, stands this beautiful German-speaking town. Stroll and admire its many covered wooden bridges and its astonishing architecture. Stroll along the ramparts of the Musegg to enjoy a panoramic view.
Lucerne
Many monuments, buildings and museums invite you to extend your stay. Bohemian and soothing, the lake shared by 4 Swiss cantons reflects majestic peaks. Embark on the world's steepest railway that takes you to Mount Pilatus at 2132 meters above sea level. This natural site guarantees you a splendid view of Lucerne and its region.
Lugano, a little bit of Italy
On the Italian border, Lugano is the most important city in the canton of Ticino. There are like a Mediterranean atmosphere, in this cosmopolitan city. Take a walk along Lake Lugano, nestled between forest and mountain. Wander the bustling streets of upscale boutiques. Discover the many parks and buildings that stand in this town. Then, ride the San Salvatore funicular. It takes you to the top to admire a breathtaking 360 ° panorama. A restaurant is on site for lunch facing the mountains.
Lake Lugano
Hiking trails and via ferrata also give you an appointment for a sporting stage. Close to Lugano, visit the city of Lucarno, on the shores of Lake Maggiore and the Alpessuisses. Discover its history and its many Roman antiquities. Carry on your alpine journey in the Verzasca valley. Swimming and picturesque villages are on the program for this beautiful detour. The translucent water flowing among the rocks is an image etched forever.
Saint Moritz, Olympic station
Located in the canton of Graubünden, this ski resort is famous to be at the heart of one of Switzerland's most beautiful wilderness: the Engadine Valley. The grandiose setting of Saint Moritz is breathtaking. Surrounded by a lake with deep colors and immense peaks and forests, this site is essential. The flora and fauna thrive with every step you take on the hiking trails.
St. Moritz
With little difficulty you can climb the Piz Nair, summit culminating at an altitude of 3037 meters. Its mountain panorama to the Austrian Alps will enchant you! The more athletic can borrow the via ferrata of the Piz Trovat to be able to contemplate the splendid Pers glacier. Meet in Chur to embark on the Bernina Express, the most spectacular crossing of the Swiss Alps. Thanks to these panoramic wagons, this rail route takes you on an exotic journey.
Bernina express
The wild nature lover and lovers of picturesque towns will be delighted. The Swiss Alps welcome you for many hikes and outdoor activities. Are you ready to discover other landscapes of Switzerland during your summer getaway?
