Page 9 - (DK Eyewitness) Travel Guide - Switzerland

Once a group of independent cantons, the Away from its buzzing cities, Switzerland is
Swiss Confederation has come along way since a land of the great outdoors, and the country’s REASONS TO LOVE
its foundation in 1291. Today’s federal state network of hiking, biking and skiing trails is as
is an intriguing blend of different customs, well organized as its public transport system.
languages and dialects, lending the country In a single day, you can encounter breathtaking SWITZERLAND
a rich heritage. The year’s myriad traditional glaciers, high altitude lakes and iconic mountains,
festivals, where alphorn players and Swiss and be back in time for fondue and schnapps.
wrestlers take centre stage, are woven into With so many different things to experience,
the country’s cultural tapestry. And there are Switzerland can seem overwhelming. We’ve Small in size but big on experiences, Switzerland is awash with fascinating
stunning historic land marks to explore across broken the country down into easily navigable sights, exhilarating activities and intriguing traditions, presented in one
the land, from the castles of Bellinzona in the chapters, with detailed itineraries, expert local
south to St Gallen’s abbey quarter in the north. knowledge and colourful, comprehensive maps remarkably beautiful package. Here, we pick some of our favourites.
As much as it is rooted in the past, Switzerland to help you plan the perfect visit. Whether you’re
looks to the future, with cutting-edge nightlife staying for a weekend, a week or longer, this
in Zürich, world-class art galleries in Basel and Eyewitness guide will ensure that you see the 1 BERN’S OLD TOWN
superb fine dining across the country from very best Switzerland has to offer. Enjoy the DISCOVER Reasons to Love Switzerland A UNESCO World Heritage Site,
Geneva to St Moritz. book, and enjoy Switzerland the Swiss capital’s medieval Old
Town is a real beauty. Its charming
lauben (covered walkways) shelter
independent boutiques, little cafés
and buzzing bars hidden beneath
cellar doors (p62).

JOURNEYS2
SCENIC RAIL
Part of the fun of travelling
around Switzerland is the
journey itself. The country’s rail
routes are truly extraordinary,
both as feats of engineering
and for the incredible scenery
they pass through (p40).

3 RURAL TRADITIONS

From Schwingen (wrestling) to
Hornussen (a combination of
golf and baseball), via cowbell
ringing and alphorn playing, the
past is still very much a part of
modern Swiss life (p32).

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