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TRAVEL
Switzerland's Beauty and Culture is Best Experienced in the Fall
by Portfolio Magazine
08 Oct 2024
08 Oct 2024
SPECIAL FEATURE
There’s no better season to discover the sights and cultural heritage of Switzerland than in the fall. During this picturesque period of transition, witness how the landlocked country sheds its summer skin and discover how it draws inspiration from the countries surrounding it. Plus: We highlight the best luxury hotels in each region that will guarantee memorable stays.
- GRAUBUNDEN: LUXURIOUS ALPINE CHARM
- LUGANO: A SLICE OF THE MEDITERRANEAN IN THE SWISS ALPS
- LAUSANNE: CULTURE ON THE SHORES OF LAKE GENEVA
- ZURICH: COSMOPOLITAN SWITZERLAND AT ITS BEST
Head to Celerina and St. Moritz where you can experience the great outdoors, as well as the glamour of a small, yet vibrant city.
Nestled in the heart of the Swiss Alps, Celerina and its more famous neighbor, St. Moritz, are often celebrated as winter wonderlands brimming with natural beauty. However, visiting in the fall reveals a different side of these towns. The soft-hued meadows, comfortable weather, crystal-clear lakes, and crisp mountain air makes the area a haven for city folk looking to enjoy a slice of the outdoors.
Celerina is a quiet village that offers a more authentic and serene Alpine experience. Tucked away in the Upper Engadine Valley, it’s the perfect place for those who want to enjoy outdoor adventures with fewer crowds.
As the autumn season makes way for winter, Celerina becomes a gateway to world-class skiing. The Corviglia ski area, easily accessible from both Celerina and St. Moritz, offers miles of perfectly groomed slopes, attracting skiers and snowboarders from all over the world. However, it's not just for adrenaline junkies – there are numerous scenic hiking trails and snowshoeing paths through the snow-covered landscapes. One of the most outstanding spots for this is Muottas Muragl, which is at an altitude of 2,454m, providing a breathtaking vantage point high above the lakes of Upper Engadine.
St. Moritz, on the other hand, is known for its glamour, high-end shopping, and luxury hotels. It has made a name for itself as a playground for the rich and famous, but its appeal goes beyond luxury. Hosting the Winter Olympics twice and myriad international events, the town offers something for every traveler – whether you seek a day of adventure or a leisurely afternoon taking in art at the nearby Segantini Museum.
From St. Moritz, make sure to book a seat on the legendary Bernina Express. The iconic red train, with its picture windows, is the best and most scenic way to get to the next destination on this list, Lugano.
(Related: Sensational Switzerland)
Where to stay: Cresta Palace Hotel
Cresta Palace Hotel, located in the heart of Celerina, is a refined alpine property that brings together tradition and modernity. The hotel also offers an ideal base for outdoor activities, with direct access to nature throughout the seasons, as well as recently refurbished ski facilities.
Here, guests can enjoy comfortable, elegant, and modern accommodations, a rejuvenating spa experience at Vita Pura, and diverse dining options featuring Swiss, Italian, and even Thai cuisine. The hotel also embraces art and culture, offering unique experiences like yoga retreats and local exhibitions, as well as a small but well-stocked boutique that carries local wine, seasonal delicacies, and hotel merchandise.
- GRAUBUNDEN: LUXURIOUS ALPINE CHARM
- LUGANO: A SLICE OF THE MEDITERRANEAN IN THE SWISS ALPS
- LAUSANNE: CULTURE ON THE SHORES OF LAKE GENEVA
- ZURICH: COSMOPOLITAN SWITZERLAND AT ITS BEST
LUGANO: A SLICE OF THE MEDITERRANEAN IN THE SWISS ALPS
Heading south toward the Italian border, you'll find Lugano, a city that seamlessly blends Swiss precision with Italian flair. Located in the Ticino region, Lugano has a distinctly Mediterranean vibe – from the warmer climate to the architecture and cuisine.
Take in the stunning Italian influences all around Lugano - from lakeside walkways to historical architecture.
Lugano is set on the shores of Lake Lugano and surrounded by verdant mountains, allowing the city to boast the perfect balance between nature and culture. The lake, particularly in the fall, is a focal point for visitors, offering opportunities for swimming, sailing, or simply strolling along the promenade lined with trees thanks to the region’s mild weather.
As you explore Lugano’s streets, you’re sure to notice the Italian influence everywhere: From the narrow cobblestone streets to the vibrant piazzas where locals gather for coffee or gelato. Lugano is also home to impressive cultural institutions, such as the Museo d’Arte della Svizzera Italiana (MASI) and Parco Ciani, a beautiful lakeside park filled with sculptures, fountains, and walking paths.
Where to stay: Villa Castagnola
Villa Castagnola in Lugano is a luxurious 5-star resort set within a subtropical park on the shores of Lake Lugano. Originally a mansion belonging to the Von Ritters, a noble Russian family, it was transformed into a guest house and later into a hotel in 1885.
Offering stunning lake and park views, as well as a convenient location that’s steps away from the city center, the hotel features fine dining with award-winning restaurants, a wellness center, and unique artworks displayed throughout. With its serene surroundings and rich history, Villa Castagnola blends elegance, relaxation, and culture into one beautiful package.
- GRAUBUNDEN: LUXURIOUS ALPINE CHARM
- LUGANO: A SLICE OF THE MEDITERRANEAN IN THE SWISS ALPS
- LAUSANNE: CULTURE ON THE SHORES OF LAKE GENEVA
- ZURICH: COSMOPOLITAN SWITZERLAND AT ITS BEST
LAUSANNE: CULTURE ON THE SHORES OF LAKE GENEVA
Situated along the northern shore of Lake Geneva (Lac Léman), Lausanne is a cultural and historical hub with a relaxed French atmosphere. Known for being the headquarters of the International Olympic Committee, the city embraces its role in global sports, but is also a place that’s rich in history, art, and natural beauty.
One of the first things you'll notice about Lausanne is its hilly terrain. The city is built on three hills, and wandering through its streets can feel like a mini workout – but the views make it worth the effort. The medieval Old Town is a great place to start your exploration, with its cobbled streets and the striking Gothic Lausanne Cathedral that offers panoramic views from the tower.
Lausanne is also known for its vibrant arts scene. The Collection de l’Art Brut, a museum dedicated to outsider art, is one of the most unique in Europe. You can also explore the Olympic Museum, set on a hillside with stunning views of Lake Geneva. It offers a fascinating glimpse into the history of the Olympic Games, with interactive exhibits and memorabilia from athletes over the years.
Lausanne is also great base for those who want to linger longer in Switzerland's French side. For wine lovers, Lausanne is the gateway to the nearby Lavaux vineyards, a UNESCO World Heritage site. These terraced vineyards overlook the lake, producing some of Switzerland’s finest wines. Then there's the town of Montreux, which is characterized by Belle Époque-era buildings, charming tree-lined promenades, and is in close proximity to the medieval Chillon Castle — a historic building that draws plenty of tourists thanks to its history and unbeatable lakeside views. For those who want to explore a possible career in culinary arts, consider a visit to the Bouveret campus of the Culinary Arts Academy Switzerland, which is regarded as the country's best culinary school that's run by a world-class faculty.
(Related: A Lucerne love affair)
Where to stay: Lausanne Palace
The Lausanne Palace is the grand dame of Lausanne, offering a blend of elegance and history. Known for its connection to the Olympic spirit, the hotel has hosted IOC presidents since 1980.
In addition to a world-class spa, fine dining options, and panoramic views of Lake Geneva and the Alps, the property is also known for its coveted Coco Chanel-themed suite because of the French fashion designer’s long-standing relationship with the hotel as a client. Lausanne Palace is also a commercial hub, frequently hosting exhibitions and business events. Its refined amenities and central location make it a prime destination for travelers seeking both relaxation and cultural enrichment.
- GRAUBUNDEN: LUXURIOUS ALPINE CHARM
- LUGANO: A SLICE OF THE MEDITERRANEAN IN THE SWISS ALPS
- LAUSANNE: CULTURE ON THE SHORES OF LAKE GENEVA
- ZURICH: COSMOPOLITAN SWITZERLAND AT ITS BEST
ZURICH: COSMOPOLITAN SWITZERLAND AT ITS BEST
Zurich is worth more than just a stopover. Linger longer and the city opens up to reveal its charm.
There’s no better place to end the cultural immersion than in Zurich, Switzerland’s largest city and financial hub. The city is often the starting point for travelers, thanks to its well-connected international airport, but Zurich is definitely more than just a stopover. In the fall, the Old Town is a charming maze of narrow streets lined with medieval buildings, chic boutiques, and cozy cafes that are beautifully lit by the gentle autumn sun. The Limmat River runs through the heart of the city, leading to Lake Zurich, where locals and tourists alike relax in the parks, swim in the lake, or take boat tours.
(Related: 48 Hours in Andermatt)
Art and culture are also integral to Zurich’s identity. The Kunsthaus Zurich, one of the country's most important art museums, features works by Swiss and international artists, from Alberto Giacometti to Pablo Picasso. Meanwhile, a walk on either side of Zurich HB (the main train station) will open your eyes to the city’s progressive side – one that is fuelled by projects and businesses built on innovation, creativity, and sustainability. And what's a visit to Switzerland without feasting on some chocolate? For this indulgence, make a beeline for the Lindt Home of Chocolate, where you can witness the sweet treat's production from bean to bar and learn more about the beloved brand's history.
Zurich is also known for its nightlife, with everything from traditional Swiss taverns to trendy nightclubs. One experience you can't miss, especially during this season, is the pop-up Pink Rabbit Dinner Show. Extremely entertaining and slightly risqué, you're sure to be mesmerized by the music, dancing, and jaw-dropping performances.
Where to stay: Baur au Lac
Baur au Lac in Zurich is a historic luxury hotel that has been family-run since 1844. Set amidst a private park with stunning views of Lake Zurich and the Swiss Alps, the hotel blends timeless elegance with modern amenities.
Guests can enjoy spacious and luxurious rooms, world-class dining at its signature restaurants, and even sample a wide variety of coveted Swiss wines from the dedicated Baur au Lac Vins retail outlet. Meanwhile, the hotel’s proximity to Zurich’s cultural hotspots and the Bahnhofstrasse shopping district makes it ideal for both leisure and business travelers, while its personalized service and opulent atmosphere offer a memorable stay.
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