Summer In Switzerland

It may be most people’s idea of a winter destination with snow-covered mountains and perfect ski slopes, but you can’t fault a summer holiday in Switzerland. Not only are the mountains more accessible (breath taking views, anyone?), but the warm weather opens up the alpine regions, lakes, villages, towns and cultural gems. Here’s what we’ll be getting up to in Switzerland this summer.

There are many locations in Switzerland that are picture-perfect in summer. The Upper Engadin area on the side of the Swiss Alps is an illusion of blue sky meets pine forest meets crystal lakes, while the gentle rolling hills of Appenzellerland in the northeast are like something out of The Sound Of Music, bursting with colourful flora. For an escape that’s more Latin American than Swiss, Ascona is one of the most southern towns, offering cafes and pedestrian-only access onto the lake promenade. Despite its dramatic landscape, Switzerland only has one national park, the aptly named Swiss National Park, located in the Engadine.

Not only are areas of Switzerland more welcoming in summer, the sunny days expand your leisure opportunities with hiking, sailing, mountain biking, tennis, golfing and simply relaxing in the parks and gardens of old towns under the sun with some gelato. Outdoor pools are also erected for refreshment from the warmer weather, and even small lakes can be pleasant temperatures for a dip. Basel, on the northern border between Switzerland, France and Germany, boasts a Mediterranean atmosphere and climate in the summer, and there’s even tradition for swimming in The Rhine.

Switzerland may be naturally beautiful all year round, but the extra splashes of colour, outside activities and warm temperatures make it a definite travel destination this summer.

Images by Matthias Zepper and Wala