Switzerland's main attractions
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When you think of Switzerland, you immediately think of alpine meadows, the famous cuckoo clock and chocolate melting in your mouth. This is basically the quintessence of this small, mountainous and wealthy country, nestled comfortably in the heart of Europe. Add to that the trendy ski resort of Zermatt, or celebrity-focused St. Moritz, or politically minded Davos, plus the enchanting old town of Bern, banking-class Zurich with its art galleries, and cosmopolitan Geneva, and it's easy to see what makes Switzerland such a draw!
Chillon Castle
Set in a fantastic location on the eastern side of Lake Geneva, framed by rocky mountains, Chillon Castle is one of Switzerland's top attractions. As if growing straight out of the water, this medieval fortress and famous prison is one of the best-preserved examples of medieval architecture in Europe. Let yourself wander slowly through the Great Hall, the Hall of Justice, the Arsenal, St. George's Chapel and other halls of the castle, revealing the history of this fortress. You'll have the chance to experience the authentic atmosphere of Bonivar prison and to admire the magnificent scenery of the shores of Lake Geneva, on foot or on one of the cruise ships.
Jungfrau-Aletsch protected area
Virtually untouched aside from trails and a few picturesque mountain huts, the Jungfrau-Aletsch region in the Swiss Alps is the largest glaciated area in Western Europe. Located between the cantons of Bern and Valais, the area is a group of perpetual mountain glaciers. It is also home to the longest glacier in the Alps, the Aletsch Glacier, which stretches for 23 km. A trip here is a real journey into the world of ice and rock, steep peaks and Alpine flora and fauna. No wonder this region has long been one of the most popular holiday destinations, with stunning skiing and hiking, breathtaking panoramic views and local specialities.
Bern's old town
Set on a hill and surrounded on three sides by the river Aare, medieval Bern retains much of its medieval charm, with its sandstone squares, clock tower and numerous arcades lining the streets. Cobbled streets, gurgling fountains, a fairy-tale clock and ornate arcades reflect the city-building concept of the 11th and 12th centuries. If you find yourself in Bern, don't miss the clock tower. With its moving figures and prison in the backdrop of history, it is the city's main attraction. Other sights in Bern include Albert Einstein's flat, the cathedral (Muenster) and the Bear Pit, now transformed into an entire park on the side of the river.
Kapellbrücke (Chapel Bridge)
Built in 1333 and badly damaged by fire in 1993, the Clock Bridge in Lucerne (Kapellbrücke) was almost immediately restored to retain its status as the oldest wooden bridge in Europe. The 204 metre long bridge connects the two banks of the river Röyss, curving around the 43 metre high stone tower, which was once a prison and treasury. Note the medieval paintings under the triangular roof of the bridge. Don't mistake the Kapellbrücke for the Spreuerbrücke, not as famous, but no less impressive and authentic (only slightly younger and less lushly decorated with geraniums, but no less noteworthy).
The castles and fortifications of Bellinzona
In the cradle of the Ticino valley framed by the Alps nestles the majestic town of Bellinzona, whose history is reflected on the walls of the medieval architectural ensemble protected by UNESCO. The three castles of Bellinzona - Castelgrande, Montebello and Sasso Corbaro - and the city walls were erected by the dukes of Milan and were intended to serve as protection against the armies of the Swiss Confederation during their aggressive campaign to capture the southern territories of the St Gottard pass. The attempt to defend the territory failed, and Bellinzona was subjugated to Switzerland for three centuries, until 1803, when the canton of Ticino became independent. The city's fortifications have now become the main attraction of Bellinzona, also serving as an arena for numerous cultural events, among them Rabadan (Carnival in February) and Piazza Blues (an open-air blues festival with big-name performers).
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