Switzerland Holidays

The best time to visit Switzerland largely depends on your preferences and activities. If you want to explore the winter landscapes on cross-country skis, December to March is ideal. Spring and Autumn (April to May and September to October) offer pleasant weather for walking and there are also fewer crowds during these months. Summer (June to August) is also perfect for hiking and exploring the Swiss Alps and the alpine meadows are strewn in colourful wildflowers.

Switzerland offers a wealth of stunning destinations that cater to nature, history and culture lovers. The Swiss Alps, with their majestic peaks, are perfect for snowshoeing and hiking and cycling, with the Tour du Mont providing wonderful trails framed by rugged peaks. Geneva and Lucerne showcase the vibrant Swiss culture, while pretty alpine villages give you a taste of the country’s traditions and heritage. Kandersteg lies at the heart of Bernese Oberland and is surrounded by endless country trails, which provide the perfect base for walking, cycling and cross-country skiing trips.

The duration of your trip entirely depends on the places you wish to visit and the activities you want to engage in. Ideally, a week would be sufficient to explore the major attractions. However, if you want to delve deeper into the Swiss culture and experience more off-the-beaten-track locations, a two-week itinerary would be recommended. If you are considering hiking the Tour du Mont Blanc, you’ll need 15 days to allow for completing this classic circuit at a moderate pace.

If you’re travelling from the UK, EU or US, you shouldn’t require a visa when visiting Switzerland. However, it’s not uncommon for visa requirements to change, so we advise that you check with your country’s embassy or consulate before travelling. You will also need to check the visa requirements for any other countries that you might be travelling through during your holiday. We’ve provided a list of some government websites below that will give you any further information.

• Australia: www.smartraveller.gov.au/destinations/europe/switzerland
• Canada: www.travel.gc.ca/destinations/switzerland
• United Kingdom: www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/switzerland/entry-requirements
• USA:  www.travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/International-Travel-Country-Information-Pages/Switzerland.html

One of the best places for cycling in Switzerland is the Bernese Oberland. Miles upon mile of scenic routes stretches steer you along breathtaking high trails of open plateaux. Based in Kandersteg, you’ll explore idyllic Swiss villages and pine forests. Another excellent area for cycling is Lake Constance, spanning around 270km, it takes you on a scenic journey through flower-filled meadows, wheat fields, vineyards and along vibrant marinas. With its diverse landscapes and well-marked routes, Switzerland provides an ideal environment for cyclists to explore and enjoy the beauty of this magnificent country.

The Tour du Mont Blanc is renowned as one of the most beautiful hiking trails in the world, encompassing stunning landscapes and passing through three countries – France, Italy, and Switzerland. However, when it comes to the difficulty level, it can vary based on individual fitness and experience. Generally, the tour can be physically demanding, involving steep ascents, long distances, and varied terrain. Adequate preparation, including physical fitness and proper hiking gear, is crucial as the days are long and often include ascents of up to 4,000ft. That being said, with adequate fitness, the Tour du Mont Blanc is achievable for most hikers.

Nestled at the foot of the Swiss Alps in Bernese Oberland, Kandersteg is a beautiful village and makes the ideal base for cross-country skiing in Switzerland. You’ll find an extensive network of well-maintained trails that wind among snow-covered peaks and lush forests where you can glide through snowy terrain, surrounded by tranquil scenery. In the evenings, you’ll also have the opportunity to immerse yourself in the Swiss culture. After an exhilarating day on the trails, cosy up in the traditional mountain lodges with a hot chocolate and traditional Swiss cuisine.