Experiences along the Grand Tour - Photo Spot

The Viamala gorge lies near the historical viaSpluga transit route, one of the many roads that led to Rome in ancient times. With its rugged cliffs, the kaleidoscopic play of colours on the water, and the potholes that have been cut into the rock over thousands of years, this gorge offers an unforgettable nature experience. Philosopher Friedrich Nietzsche was one of many who were fascinated by the gorge: “I shall not write about the tremendous grandeur of the Viamala. I feel as if I had not known Switzerland at all!”

Fribourg – founded in 1157 by Berthold IV, Duke of Zähringen – is a city of bridges in every respect. The city was built on both sides of the river La Sarine/Saane and there are bridges in all styles and from all eras. Being a bilingual city, it also bridges the cultures of the German- and French-speaking parts of Switzerland. Fribourg is home to many contemporary witnesses and architectural jewels, such as the Cathedral of Saint Nicholas, built in the 13th century, which dominates the centre of the historic Old City.

Is Snow White waiting behind the seven mountains? The seven Churfirsten peaks are as magical as a fairytale, and the children of the Toggenburg know what each of them is called. From east to west: Chäserrugg (2,262 m), Hinterrugg (2,306 m), Schibenstoll (2,234 m), Zuestoll (2,235 m), Brisi (2,279 m), Frümsel (2,263 m), Selun (2,205 m). Trails lead to each of them. A particularly popular destination for day trippers is the Chäserrugg, which is easy to reach via two aerial cableways from Unterwasser.

Built between 1861 and 1863 by Baron Albert Emil Otto von Parpart (1813-1869), a former officer in the Prussian royal service. The Baron married Adelheid Sophie Margaritha von Bonstetten (1814-1883) in 1846. Architect Heino Schmieden (1835-1913). Museum of interior furnishings in the Art Nouveau style. The interior has remained unchanged since 1900 – as if time has stood still and the owners might return at any moment. The expansive grounds with native and non-native tree species add an extra charm to the overall experience.

With a surface area of 540 square metres (80,000 football pitches), a length of 63 kilometres, a depth of 254 metres and holding 50 billion cubic metres of water, is it any wonder that our neighbours on the other side of the lake like to call it the Swabian Sea? This third-largest lake in Central Europe falls within the borders of three countries: Switzerland, Germany and Austria. Fancy a unique prospect? The panoramic views along the jetty (270 m) are breathtaking.

Nestled in the heart of lush nature on the banks of the river Doubs, the small medieval town of Saint-Ursanne preserves its treasures. The Saint-Jean Népomucène bridge, renovated in 2016, and three city gates are the only accesses to the old town. Lovingly called the ‘Pearl of the Jura’, it has a remarkable historical heritage, including the collegiate church and cloister dating from the 12th and 13th centuries. The town’s surrounding areas are ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, canoeing, fishing or paragliding.

The Lucerne hotel icon, modelled after Neuschwanstein Castle, was built by Emil Vogt in 1888 in one of Switzerland’s finest hotel locations. Martyn Lawrence Bullard, a world-renown interior designer, has revived the historic charm of Château Gütsch, putting great emphasis on small details – from the stuccoed ceiling to the hand-painted wood panelling. Just as in years past, the view from the rooftops of the old town over Lake Lucerne and the mountains is still spectacular.

100 kilometres of Alpine peaks, 10 lakes: the view from CabriO, the world’s first convertible-style cable car with a roofless upper deck, is as fascinating as unique. It is, however, not the first innovation on Stanserhorn – the funicular already featured a novelty in 1893, as that was the first time clasp brakes were used. A ranger welcomes the visitors at the Stanserhorn summit to show them where the most beautiful flowers bloom and the marmots live. The revolving restaurant Rondorama is a further acme.

This is a symbolic place in the city of Sion, located below the Bisse du Montorge and above the Gravelone district. Built in 1885, the Bisse de Montorge collects water from the Lac de Montorge and supplies the southern flank of the slope, including the famous Mont d'Or area. The photo spot is located in an environment with a gentle blend of iconic panorama, quiet residential area and vineyard terraces.

Wildly romantic, sunny and sheltered: Pontresina is nestled amongst mountains – a place for leisure as well as recreation. Arguably the best vantage point is the world-famous Montebello hairpin bend, at the point where the Bernina section of the Rhaetian Railway crosses the road. You can see the tallest peaks of the Eastern Alps behind the Morteratsch Glacier, including Piz Bernina (4,049 m), Piz Palü (3,901 m), Piz Roseg (3,937 m) and Bellavista. Fancy cooling down a little? The glacier trail from Morteratsch station takes you to where the ice is eternal.

The 140-meter-high Jet d'Eau in the harbor basin of Lake Geneva is the symbol of the city, which is considered the cradle of haute horlogerie. The old town overlooks the left bank and is dominated by the Saint-Pierre Cathedral.

Piazza Ticino, on Monte Ceneri Pass, boasts the region’s new landmark – Totem Ticino, which is built of stone from the canton. The symbolism of this work is unmistakable: the piazza represents the union of the three regions of Locarno, Bellinzona and Lugano, whose history was shaped by deep divisions, starting in 1803 – the year in which Ticino became a canton. The totem, on the other hand, represents the completion of the entire AlpTransit project, with the Ceneri Base Tunnel marking the concluding phase. The Totem is clad in stones from Ticino that were removed during the boring of the AlpTransit tunnel. The new Piazza Ticino is one of the main stops on the La Via del Ceneri cultural trail. The oval-shaped space features five benches and four new trees, which offer a shady respite for visitors.

Feel history come alive – you are, after all, standing on historic ground. Here on the flanks of Monte Generoso stood the castle of the patrician Torriani family. It was razed to the ground in 1242. Out of respect, the church tower of San Sisinio was spared: this is La Torre, the landmark of Mendrisio. This vantage point offers views of the old town quarter and of Monte San Giorgio, a UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site.

The mountains rise up majestically over the glittering Lake Thun. Set against the breathtaking panoramic backdrop of the Bernese Alps, the famous three peaks, the Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau, are unmistakeable. This is the magnificent spectacle that awaits visitors on the Niederhorn. Thanks to its unique location, it offers fantastic 360-degree views of the Swiss Plateau and the Bernese Alps, stretching as far as the cities of Thun and Bern.

Höhematte Interlaken, a protected area of historical interest since 1864, affords views from the promenade with Interlaken’s top hotels to the imposing panorama of the Jungfrau. Interlaken is the centre of the tourism and holiday region of the same name and the perfect starting point for excursions to the mountains or on Lakes Thun and Brienz. Interlaken is also the “Adventure Capital of Europe”. Here’s one highlight to prove it: paragliding. Enjoy a flight over Interlaken and land here on the Höhematte.

Hospental, the last village before heading south over the Gotthard Pass, enjoyed great prominence during the days of the muleteers. The tower once occupied by the lords of Hospental dominates the whole of Hospental. Because of its elevated position, the tower is clearly visible from many directions and thus shapes the landscape of the Ursern Valley. The tower is open to the public. Based on the dating of timbers used in the walls, it is assumed the tower was constructed in the 13th century.

Montebello Castle is situated on a hill of the same name, 90 metres above the city and looking down on Castelgrande. Accessible from the Piazza Collegiata or Nocca district on foot or via a road branching off from the Viale Stazione, it offers wonderful views of the region.

The only 'mobile photo spot' on the Grand Tour of Switzerland. In 1928, Alois Waser-Bucher, an entrepreneur from Nidwald, took interest in the Beckenried–Gersau car ferry project and, subsequently, had a ferry constructed in Uerikon on Lake Zurich in 1929. On Whit Sunday 1930, the ferry service was opened with the motor vessel ‘Tellsprung’ (‘Tell’s Leap’) carrying 20 cars. In 1959, a local hotelier bought the ferry and had it extensively rebuilt by Bodan Wharf on Lake Constance. The new ferry, which can carry up to 45 cars, started its service on Whit Saturday 1964, and has been owned by the F&R Group Beckenried since 2016.

With glorious views of the Matterhorn, a trip to Sunnegga-Rothorn is sure to be an unforgettable experience for young and old alike. It’s part of the Matterhorn ski paradise in winter, turning into a hiking paradise and land of adventure in summer: Whizz down on mountain carts and kick bikes or embark on the five-lake trail and discover the idyllic Lake Stelli, famous for its impressive reflection of the Matterhorn.

The church in Obermutten is one of the most unusual sacred buildings in Switzerland. It is the only place of worship built entirely of wood. The surrounding larch forests provided the material for this unique building. A wooden plaque above the entrance states that the church was built in 1718. Only the belfry on ridge, which houses two bells, dates from 1930. As well as the church, the picturesque Valais village of Obermutten can be seen in a breathtaking landscape. The sun-kissed wooden houses provide the perfect contrast.

As you travel to the top of Monte Generoso, at 1,704m above sea level, you will enjoy a unique panorama. In the foreground, you will see the architectural work of Mario Botta consecrated in 2017, the historic chapel “Madonna della Provvidenza” built in 1943, while in the distance you might see the Po Valley in northern Italy, the profile of the Monte San Giorgio (UNESCO), Lake Lugano and the Alps with Monte Rosa, the Matterhorn, the Jungfrau and the Gotthard massif.

Rolle, a port city At the beginning of the 19th century, most transport took place on the lake. To protect their boats from the wind, merchants decided to build a dyke (1835). In 1837, the dike became an island. On the death of Frédéric-César de La Harpe (1754-1838), born in Rolle and founding father of modern Switzerland, the people of Rolle named the island after him. In his memory, a 13m-high obelisk was erected on the island and the monument was inaugurated on 26 September 1844.

The San Bernardino mountain pass, built between 1817 and 1823, was the first road for wheeled vehicles over a Grisons pass. It connected Bellinzona with Chur or – on a larger scope – the port of Genoa with southern Germany. Some decades ago, the route was carefully restored. Set in the magnificent mountain scenery between Hinterrhein and San Bernardino, examples of impressive road building skills from the 19th century can still be admired today.

As St. Moritz's first mountain railroad, the Chantarella funicular has played its part in the success story of Switzerland's oldest winter sports resort. In operation since 1913 and originally intended as a feeder to a high-altitude health resort, it has opened the door to the Engadin mountains for many guests over the last 100 years. Until 1938, there were still three intermediate stops on the short journey of approx. 3 minutes. This was followed in 1928 by the construction of the 2nd section from Chantarella directly to the Corviglia ski area.

Romanshorn is located in the heart of the Lake Constance region, where four countries come together. The gentle sea breeze and the harbour with its many pleasant places to stop for refreshments create a lively ambience with plenty of maritime flair. In good weather, both the lake and the Säntis offer a magnificent backdrop. Romanshorn is an ideal base for hiking, cycling, skating and all kinds of aquatic sports. With the wide range of leisure and cultural activities on offer, a longer stay in this beautiful port is certainly worth considering.

The abbey of Saint Meinrad in Einsiedeln has attracted pilgrims for over 1,000 years. It was rebuilt over the centuries and, today, the 18th century baroque-style monastery forms the impressive centre of Einsiedeln. Besides the ‘Chapel of Mercy’ with its famous ‘Black Madonna’, the complex includes a high school, winery and stables for horse breeding. Attracted by the beautiful scenery and a variety of concerts, many nature and culture lovers enjoy visiting Einsiedeln.

Being in the Saanen region, with its five beautiful side valleys, is as being in paradise – probably also due to the legend of the Hand of God. It is said that when He was resting here during the creation, He formed the Saanen region with the imprint of His hand – the region’s hand-like shape can be seen quite well from here. Altitudes ranging from 1,000 to 3,000 m (3,300–9,800 ft) make for heavenly views. Along with the backdrop of mountains, forests and lakes, this region strengthens your well-being and provides positive energy!

The Lindt Home of Chocolate is a unique visitor attraction on the site of the historic Lindt & Sprüngli chocolate factory. Chocolate, an important cultural asset for Switzerland, has been produced here since 1899 and can be experienced up close at the Lindt Home of Chocolate. The building itself is also a source of fascination, with its spectacular architecture. It was designed by the famous Swiss architects Christ & Gantenbein.

As high as it gets: with its 2,429 m a.s.l. (7,969 ft), Furka Pass connects the cantons of Uri and Valais, making it the highest alpine pass on the ‘Grand Tour of Switzerland’. The European watershed between the Mediterranean and North Sea also runs along here. In summer, a ride in the lovingly restored cars of the Furka Cogwheel Steam Railway or a walk to the famous Rhone glacier make for a special visit. As the name implies, the river Rhone – also known as ‘Rotten’ in Wallis – originates from here.

In the distance you can see the Rütli meadow, the historic place where the forming of Switzerland is said to have occurred in 1291. With its 2,928 m (9,606 ft), the pyramidal peak of Urirotstock can be made out even farther in the back. The village of Seelisberg lies on a sunny terrace at 850 m.a.s.l. (2.788 ft), beneath the two mountains Niederbauen and Oberbauen. Lake Lucerne, in German literally ‘Four Forested Settlements Lake’, got its name because it is embedded in the four forest cantons of Uri, Schwyz, Obwalden and Nidwalden, and Lucerne.

Rapperswil-Jona is called ‘Town of Roses on Lake Zurich’ for a reason. More than 20,000 plants can be found blooming in four rose gardens as well as in public spaces. The picturesque old town with its medieval castle, as well as the marvellous lake promenade, lend the town an almost southern flair. Several historic buildings, numerous festivals and cultural events as well as the Knies Kinderzoo of the National Circus Knie shape the city’s atmosphere at Lake Zurich.

Spiez – the pearl on Lake Thun. A winegrowing municipality made up of five villages. The natural landscape panorama in Spiez and the combination of the lake, vines, the castle and mountains is one of a kind. The municipality is made up of the five villages of Spiez, Spiezwiler, Hondrich, Faulensee and Einigen. Optimal public transport connections and the motorway make Spiez quick and easy to reach. A wide variety of activities, including nature experiences, sports and culture, appeals to families, foodies and active types alike. Spiez, a power spot by the water, stands for energy and inspiration.

The ship station Vitznau, built in 1912, is one of the most important architectural buildings around the Rigi massif. Every day, guests arrive by boat in order to visit the Rigi by taking Europe’s oldest mountain cogwheel railway, which was constructed in 1871. The turntable connects the two track directions, with the mountain track and the depot track meeting at an obtuse angle. It is the central point of any prospective trip to the Queen of the Mountains.

Six countries at a panoramic glance – from the Säntis peak one can see Switzerland, Germany, Austria, Liechtenstein, France and Italy, all at the same time. 2,502 metres high, the mountain is the symbol of the Lake Constance region. Since 1935, Säntis has been accessible by aerial tramway; the valley station at Schwägalp is situated in the beautiful nature adventure park Schwägalp-Säntis, including a lovely Appenzell pasture where local traditions are still lived today.

Chesa Merleda, which is studded with battlements, is the landmark of proud La Punt. The impressive ensemble of splendid patrician and guest houses dating back to the 16th and 17th centuries is a historic witness to a flourishing trade and tourism history at the Albula Pass. With the construction of a bridge over the Inn river in the 16th century, the lords of the Albertini family, also known as the ‘Lords of the Bridge’, laid the foundations for development and prosperity in La Punt.

This is where Switzerland’s tangiest cheese is made! In the Appenzeller show-dairy in Stein in the canton of Aargau, time-honoured alpine practices are combined with state-of-the-art cheese production to create a successful blend of the traditional and contemporary. A few steps separate you from a unique journey of discovery. This leads from the art of cheese-making to the grandeur and beauty of the Appenzellerland – you are on the trail of the tangy secret.