Switzerland
Switzerland for the Independent Traveller
Swiss Lake View
Switzerland, in the heart of Western Europe, is a landlocked
country bordered by France to the west and Germany, Austria and
Italy to the east. The forested hills of the Jura lie in the
northern portion of the country and the Alps, legendary among
winter sports enthusiasts, lie to the south. The central areas
comprise a plateau region encompassing lovely temperate forests,
farmland, cobble-stoned villages and pristine lakes.
The influences of bordering countries are clear in the variety
of languages you hear as you move from one region to the next.
German is the most common language, but don't be surprised to hear
French, Italian or "Romansh", a Romance language still spoken in
parts of Graubunden. Neighbouring countries also inspire the
wonderful cuisine found in lakeside cafes, mountain inns and
contemporary eateries.
Capital: Bern (Berne)
Language: German, French, Italian
Time: GMT +2 hrs
Currency: Swiss franc (CHF)
The glorious shores of Lake Geneva allow visitors to relax in
the shadow of snow-capped mountains while swans drift through the
reflection of medieval Chillon Castle. Explore the vineyards of
Lavaux, mountain bike through the flower-lined trails of Chateau
D'Oex or enjoy authentic fondue in the capital city of Berne. Many
an adventure-seeker has made his way to the spectacular Swiss Alps
for skiing, hiking and white water rafting excursions.
Transportation ranges from scenic train rides through mountains
and countryside through to visiting wine villages on horseback or
letting a gondola lift you over sleepy villages and red-roofed
chalets.
The natural beauty, welcoming citizens and wondrous historical
sights of Switzerland will overwhelm your senses and entice your
imagination.
Travel links for Switzerland
Swiss regions (Cantons)
Aargau | Appenzell | Ausser-Rhoden | Appenzell Inner-Rhoden |
Basel-Landschaft | Basel-Stadt | Bern | Fribourg | Geneve | Glarus
| Graubunden | Jura | Luzern | Neuchatel | Nidwalden | Obwalden |
Sankt Gallen | Schaffhausen | Schwyz | Solothurn | Thurgau | Ticino
| Uri | Valais | Vaud | Zug | Zurich
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