Portfolio - Special Edition Switzerland

DO AS THE LOCALS DO Explore Switzerland’s secret spots with the help of local guides Of course, no one knows Switzerland better than its residents –so tap their expertise on an immersive guided tour. Here are some of the numerous itineraries available: FOR THRILL-SEEKERS Soar above the Bernese Oberland’s lakes and mountains on a tandem paragliding flight with an experienced pilot. Alternatively, go hiking in the company of a local farmer and his llamas in the lush valley of Safien- Platz. FOR FOODIES Forage for wild herbs and plants with an expert chef in the Blenio Valley, before learning how to turn them into sumptuous dishes. Or embark on a food tour with a dessert aficionado in Zurich, where you’ll get to sample some of the finest chocolates in the city. FOR CULTURE VULTURES Switzerland is famed for its timepieces, so try your hand at watchmaking under the guidance of a master watchmaker in Geneva. Otherwise, practise the art of yodelling with a music teacher’s help at the foot of the Aletsch Glacier. myswitzerland.com/guided-tours THE GRAND TOUR Take in Switzerland’s top sights on this epic journey BY CAR For a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience, embark on the Grand Tour of Switzerland. This spectacular 1,600km journey will take you through verdant meadows, dramatic mountain passes, pretty villages, and bustling cities. You’ll get to enjoy the best of what the country has to offer – all within nine days. Rent a car to explore the sights at your own pace, staying overnight at some of the country’s best hotels along the way. Highlights include the historic Chillon Castle on Lake Geneva banks, the terraced vineyards of Lavaux, the iconic Matterhorn in Zermatt, and more. If you’re more eco-minded, consider renting an electric vehicle and undertaking the E-Grand Tour instead. There are approximately 300 charging stations along the route, which will sufficiently power you for the entire journey. grandtour.myswitzerland.com BY TRAIN, BUS, AND BOAT Prefer travelling by public transport? On the 1,280km Grand Train Tour, which typically takes a minimum of eight days, you’ll explore Switzerland’s best attractions by rail instead. Sit back and enjoy some of the country’s most scenic train rides, such as the Glacier Express, which offers passengers magnificent views of the Swiss Alps. And as you only need a single ticket – the Swiss Travel Pass – you can hop on and off whenever you please. myswitzerland.com/grandtraintour     