Bern is a picturesque city on the banks of the Aare River. It is the capital of Switzerland and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its well-preserved medieval architecture and charming old town. The city is surrounded by rolling hills and the majestic Alps, providing stunning views from its historic center.

The old town of Bern is particularly beautiful, with its cobbled streets, fountains, and sandstone buildings that date back to the 15th century. The city's most famous attraction is the Zytglogge, a medieval clock tower with moving figures that chime every hour. Other notable landmarks include the 13th-century Gothic cathedral, the Bundeshaus (Swiss Parliament building), and the Bear Pit, where live bears have been kept since the 15th century.

Bern is also known for its excellent museums, which include the Zentrum Paul Klee, the Museum of Fine Arts, and the Natural History Museum. You can stroll through the Rose Garden, take a dip in the Aare River, or enjoy a panoramic view of the city from the Gurten mountain. With its charming atmosphere, beautiful surroundings, and rich cultural heritage, Bern is a delightful destination.

Bern

The Aare Gorge (Aareschlucht) is one of Switzerland's most impressive geological attractions. This narrow, winding gorge was carved over thousands of years by the powerful flow of the Aare River, which continues to run through it, creating a dramatic landscape of steep limestone walls that rise to 650 feet on either side.

You can walk along a series of well-maintained paths and boardwalks suspended along the cliffside, providing breathtaking views of the rushing turquoise waters below and the towering rock formations above.

The path is easily accessible and suitable for all ages, making it a popular destination for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Along the way, you'll encounter several observation points and information panels detailing the gorge's geological history and the forces that shaped its rugged landscape.

The Aare Gorge is open from April to November, with the best time to visit being in the warmer months when the gorge is lush and the river is flowing at its fullest.

Logistics tip: park at the West Entrance, walk up the gorge, and then take a train hidden inside one side of the gorge on your way back — it's already included in your ticket.

In addition to the dramatic scenery, the cool air within the gorge offers a refreshing escape from the summer heat. The gorge is also conveniently located near other attractions, such as the Reichenbach Falls—famous as the fictional site of Sherlock Holmes's final battle with Professor Moriarty—and the picturesque village of Meiringen, known for its charming alpine architecture and delicious meringues.

Official website

Aare Gorge

Blausee is a hidden gem with crystal-clear blue waters and enchanting natural setting, tucked away in the Alps. The lake is surrounded by dense forests, and the reflection of the surrounding trees creates an otherworldly blue-green hue that has to be seen to be believed.

Just take a leisurely walk around the lake, rent a boat to explore the waters, or simply relax on the shore and take in the stunning scenery. The surrounding forest also offers hiking trails that lead to panoramic viewpoints and secluded picnic areas.

Blausee

The Faulhorn Trail is an incredible hiking adventure that showcases the best of the Swiss Alps.

We recommend taking a cable car up to the First Summit, where you'll be treated to sweeping views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. From there, the trail winds its way through alpine meadows and pastures, leading to the crystal-clear waters of Bachalpsee, a stunning mountain lake that is known for its emerald-green hue.

Continuing on, the trail ascends to the summit of Faulhorn, offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountain ranges and alpine lakes. At an elevation of 8,800 feet, the summit of Faulhorn is the perfect spot to take in the breathtaking beauty of the Swiss Alps.

From the summit, the trail descends to the charming town of Bussalp, where you can relax and enjoy a well-deserved meal or drink at one of the local restaurants or cafes.

Overall, the Faulhorn Trail is a challenging yet rewarding adventure that offers a true immersion in the natural beauty of the Swiss Alps.

AllTrails

Faulhorn Trail

The First Adventure Park is a popular outdoor activity center at the top of the First Summit that offers a range of exciting activities for everyone.

The park features the famous First Cliff Walk, a thrilling suspension bridge, as well as zip-lining, rock climbing, and a range of hiking trails. You can also enjoy mountain biking and paragliding in the area.

With its stunning alpine scenery and range of thrilling activities, it offers an unforgettable experience.

Detailed Guide

First Glider

First Flyer

Mountain Cart

Website

First Adventure Park

The First Cliff Walk is a thrilling suspension bridge located in Grindelwald First. The bridge is suspended 7,100 feet above sea level, offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

The walkway is made of steel and features a glass floor, giving a unique perspective on the breathtaking alpine scenery. The bridge is accessed by cable car and is part of the larger First Adventure Park.

First Cliff Walk

Grindelwald is a charming alpine village, surrounded by stunning mountain ranges, including the iconic Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau peaks. It is a perfect base for most of the Swiss Alps have to offer.

We recommend exploring the quaint village center with its traditional Swiss chalets and charming shops during the downtime between the stunning nearby activities you'll find separately in our app.

Grindelwald

Jungfraujoch, also known as the Top of Europe, is a summit with the highest railway station in Europe, situated at an altitude of 11,332 feet above sea level. While most of the train ride is in the tunnel, it also offers some breathtaking views of the mountains.

At the top of Jungfraujoch, you can visit the Sphinx Observatory, which offers panoramic views of the Alps, the Ice Palace, which features ice sculptures and an underground tunnel, and the Alpine Sensation, which is an exhibition that showcases the history and development of the railway. There are also several restaurants, cafes, and souvenir shops.

We recommend taking an early train from Grindelwald station (Jungfrau Railway). The ride is approximately 1 hour each way.

Overall, the journey to Jungfraujoch is an unforgettable experience that offers stunning views of the Swiss Alps and a chance to explore one of the most famous mountain passes in the world.

Jungfraujoch

Lauterbrunnen is a picturesque village with stunning natural beauty and tranquil atmosphere, nestled in the heart of the Bernese Alps. The village is surrounded by towering mountain peaks, verdant forests, and dozens of cascading waterfalls, including the famous Staubbach Waterfall.

The village is home to charming chalets and traditional Swiss architecture, along with a variety of shops, restaurants, and cafes. We recommend to just stroll through the village turning into random alleys and admire the stunning views and unique architecture.

Lauterbrunnen

Oeschinensee is a pristine alpine lake located in the heart of the Swiss Alps. Surrounded by towering mountains and verdant forests, the lake is renowned for its crystal-clear waters and breathtaking scenery.

You can reach Oeschinensee via a gondola ride from Kandersteg, followed by a short hike to the lake. Once there, you can rent a boat to explore the lake, go for a refreshing swim, or simply relax on the shore and take in the stunning views.

There's one more thing if you're into thrilling experiences – their summer toboggan run with a length of over 2,500 feet and a height difference of approx. 500 feet, resulting in breakneck speeds. Alone or in pairs - it is simply great fun to whizz down the slope and let your hair flutter in the wind.

Oeschinensee

Staubbach Waterfall is an iconic waterfall and a natural wonder located in the Lauterbrunnen Valley. Plunging over 900 feet from a sheer cliff face, the waterfall is one of the highest in Europe and is a spectacular sight to behold.

You can reach the base of the waterfall via a short walk from the parking lot below the fall, but we recommend parking in the village and walking down the steets with the constant view of this majestic waterfall.

Staubbach Waterfall

The Château de Chillon is a breathtaking castle that sits on the shores of Lake Geneva. It's one of Switzerland's most visited attractions and is steeped in history dating back to the 12th century.

As you approach the castle, you'll be struck by its imposing beauty and the picturesque surroundings. Once inside, you'll be transported back in time to an era of knights, battles, and royalty. The castle features several impressive rooms, including the great hall, the chapel, and the dungeons, each with its own unique story to tell.

One of the most captivating features of the Château de Chillon is the stunning views of Lake Geneva and the surrounding mountains. The castle also features a beautiful garden where you can relax and take in the scenery.

Whether you're interested in history, architecture, or just looking to explore one of Switzerland's most iconic landmarks, the Château de Chillon is a must-see attraction that's sure to leave a lasting impression.

Château de Chillon

Cully is a picturesque village located on the shores of Lake Geneva in the heart of the Swiss wine country. We accidentally stopped here searching for food, and fell in love with its charming narrow streets, beautiful vineyards, and stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains.

You can explore the village's rich history, which dates back to Roman times, by visiting the old church and historic town center. Cully is also a great destination for wine lovers, with numerous vineyards and wineries that offer tastings and tours.

In the summertime, Cully comes alive with a variety of festivals and events, including the famous Cully Jazz Festival, which attracts music lovers from around the world. And for those looking for outdoor activities, the area offers hiking and biking trails that wind through the vineyards and along the lake.

Cully

Domaine De La Crausaz is a charming vineyard nestled in the heart of the Lavaux wine region overlooking Lake Geneva. It's a must-visit destination for wine enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

The vineyard offers a range of guided tours and wine tastings that provide a fascinating insight into the history and production of the local wines. You'll get to sample some of the finest wines produced on the estate and learn about the unique characteristics of the Lavaux region.

In addition to the wine tastings, the Domaine De La Crausaz is also an ideal spot for taking in the stunning natural scenery of the region. You can take a leisurely walk through the vineyards and take in the panoramic views of the lake and the Alps.

Overall, a visit to Domaine De La Crausaz is a great way to experience the beauty of the Lavaux wine region, sample some delicious wines, and enjoy the natural surroundings.

Domaine De La Crausaz

Geneva is a vibrant city that is rich in culture, history, and natural beauty. Located on the shores of Lake Geneva, it is often referred to as the "capital of peace" due to its long-standing commitment to international cooperation and diplomacy.

There is no shortage of things to see and do in Geneva. You can take a stroll along the beautiful lakefront promenade, explore the charming Old Town with its winding streets and historic buildings, and visit iconic landmarks such as the Jet d'Eau fountain and the Palace of Nations.

Geneva is also a great destination for foodies, with a wide range of restaurants and cafes serving up delicious Swiss and international cuisine. And for those looking for a bit of retail therapy, the city is home to some of the world's top luxury brands as well as local boutiques and markets.

Geneva

Chalrütirank is a scenic overlook located right outside the village of Lungern. You can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of Lake Lungern and the surrounding mountains. It's a must-visit quick stop for anyone traveling to through the area.

Chälrütirank Viewpoint

Lucerne is a beautiful city on the banks of Lake Lucerne and surrounded by the stunning Swiss Alps. With its well-preserved medieval architecture, charming cobbled streets, and breathtaking scenery, Lucerne is a popular destination for a reason.

One of the highlights of the city is the Chapel Bridge, a covered wooden bridge that dates back to the 14th century and is considered to be one of the oldest covered bridges in Europe. The bridge offers stunning views of the lake and the mountains, and is adorned with beautiful paintings and carvings.

Other popular attractions in Lucerne include the Lion Monument, a sculpture carved into a rock face to commemorate the Swiss soldiers who died during the French Revolution, and the Swiss Transport Museum, which showcases the history of transportation in Switzerland through interactive exhibits and displays.

Lucerne

Lungern is a charming village nestled in the heart of the Swiss Alps that offers a chance to experience the beauty and tranquility of the Swiss countryside.

With its stunning mountain scenery, crystal-clear lakes, and rolling hills, Lungern is the perfect destination for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle even in peak travel season.

Take a stroll through the village and admire the traditional Swiss architecture, or simply drive around on the town roads to take in the countryside. If you've got extra time – the Lungern-Schönbüel cable car will take you to the top of the nearby mountain, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. You can also rent a boat and paddle around the serene Lake Lungern.

Lungern is one of our favorite villages to experiece a true Swiss natural beauty and tranquility.

Lungern

Mount Pilatus is a majestic mountain massif that overlooks the city of Lucerne with the views from the summit that are simply breathtaking.

You can get there by cogwheel railway or a cable car, but we strongly recommend taking the cable car. As you ascend, you'll be transported through forests and pastures with panoramic views of the Swiss Alps and the surrounding lakes and valleys, and eventually through fluffy clouds to the summit. The ride alone is an experience you'll never forget.

Once you reach the summit, you can explore the rugged terrain on hiking trails, leading to hidden lakes and spectacular views. And if you're looking for a thrill, the Mount Pilatus area offers a toboggan run and a rope park.

Mount Pilatus

Seealpsee is a stunning mountain lake in the Alpstein range of the Swiss Alps. Surrounded by towering peaks and lush green forests, the crystal-clear waters of Seealpsee are a sight to behold.

The lake can be reached by hiking along a picturesque trail that winds through the forests and meadows of the Alpstein region. The hike is relatively easy and suitable for hikers of all levels, and the stunning views along the way make it well worth the effort.

At the lake, you can take a refreshing swim, rent a boat or paddleboard to explore the calm waters, or simply relax on the shore and take in the breathtaking scenery. The area is also popular for hiking, with numerous trails that lead up to the surrounding peaks and offer stunning panoramic views of the Swiss Alps.

Seealpsee is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a peaceful retreat in the heart of the Swiss Alps.

Seealpsee

The Trift Bridge is a suspension bridge that spans the Triftsee lake and offers a thrilling experience with stunning views of the surrounding mountains and glaciers. This bridge was built in 2004 (a.k.a. the New Trift Bridge) to replace an older one that was destroyed by a rockfall, and is 560 feet long and 330 feet high above the water. It

You can reach the bridge by taking a cable car and then hiking for about 1.5 hours. The hike can be challenging, but it is worth it for the spectacular scenery and the unique experience of crossing the bridge.

Please be advised that that the bridge is not suitable for people who suffer from vertigo or have a fear of heights, as the bridge sways slightly in the wind and can be quite narrow in places.

Trift Bridge Hike

The Matterhorn is a towering mountain peak that is widely regarded as one of the most iconic and recognizable mountains in the world. With its distinctive shape and stunning alpine scenery, it is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Switzerland.

There are many ways exploring Matterhorn from Zermatt village, with the Gornergrat Bahn cogwheel train and Matterhorn Glacier Paradise being our favorites.

Gornergrat Bahn is a scenic (and expensive) cogwheel train that travels up to the Gornergrat observation platform. From here, you'll be able to enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the Matterhorn and the surrounding alpine landscape.

A cable car from Zermatt to the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise is more affordable and offers stunning views of the surrounding glaciers and peaks. At the top, there is a variety of hiking options and a restaurant with panoramic views.

Make sure to to dress appropriately for the weather and altitude, and bring plenty of water and snacks to keep you fueled throughout the day.

Matterhorn

Experiencing the sunrise at Riffelsee is an unforgettable experience that should be on every traveler's bucket list. Riffelsee is a stunning alpine lake surrounded by towering peaks that offer incredible still reflection of the Matterhorn while the sunrise touches its iconic peak.

The real challenge is to be at Riffelsee at sunrise since the earliest train reaches the lake well past the sunrise. So you either get out the night before and camp near the lake, or you go the easy way and spend the night at Kulmhotel Gornergrat, a luxurious hotel located at an elevation of 10,170 feet, but more imortantly – a short hike from Riffelsee.

From our personal experience, spending a night at Kulmhotel Gornergrat was a majical experience itself, so we feel like it was well worth the price given the unique opportunity to see the sunrise at Riffelsee. And the best part awaits you back at the hotel – a die-for breakfast with the same breathtaking views!

It is worth mentioning that there's also a weather factor and there's a chance you won't see The Matterhorn at all, but there's a zero chance if you don't go. So the entire Fyno team wishes you good luck!

Sunrise at Riffelsee

The train ride to Gornergrat is one of the most spectacular and unforgettable experiences you can have in the Swiss Alps. Starting from the village of Zermatt, the train slowly winds its way up the mountain, passing through charming Alpine villages and breathtaking scenery along the way.

As the train ascends, you'll be treated to stunning views of the surrounding mountains, including the iconic Matterhorn. The train stops at several stations along the way, allowing you to hop off and explore the area before continuing your journey to Gornergrat. The full ride takes 33 minutes each way.

Once you arrive at Gornergrat, you'll be rewarded with panoramic views of over 29 peaks above 13,000 feet, including the Matterhorn, Monte Rosa, and the Gorner Glacier. There are also several hiking trails and viewpoints where you can take in the stunning scenery and snap some memorable photos.

Whether you're a nature lover, an adventure seeker, or just looking to soak up some of Switzerland's most stunning scenery, a trip to Gornergrat is a must.

Train to Gornergrat

Zermatt is a charming village with rich history and culture, but most importantly – the views of the Matterhorn, one of the most iconic peaks in the world, are visible from almost every corner of the village.

Zermatt is a car-free town so you can leisurely stroll through the cobblestone streets and admire the traditional Swiss chalets and historic buildings. There are also plenty of shops, restaurants, and cafes where you can relax and take in the scenery.

Zermatt Village

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We love Switzerland because it's the most heavenly-looking place on Earth. From its tranquil towns to the dramatic but covered in fluffy clouds Swiss Alps – you will quickly fall in love. Switzerland is best if you are looking for unique stunning nature but also want to slow down and reflect a little.

Hotel des Balances is a beautiful boutique hotel located in the heart of Lucerne's Old Town, right on the banks of the Reuss River. The rooms are elegant and stylish, each one uniquely decorated with attention to detail and offering modern amenities.

The hotel also features a gourmet restaurant, serving delicious Swiss and international cuisine, and a cozy bar with a wide selection of wines and cocktails.

Hotel des Balances also features a stunning terrace, overlooking the river and the historic Chapel Bridge. It's the perfect spot to enjoy a meal or a drink while taking in the picturesque views of the city.

Hotel des Balances

The best of mountain regions with the sunrise at Riffelsee, for true nature lovers.

Mountain Paradise

Explore stunning nature and quaint towns of Swiss Alps on this balanced road trip.

Swiss Adventure

Picture a storybook landscape where you're walking across a wooden bridge framed by mountains and a serene lake; that's the charm of Lucerne. A boat ride on the lake or gazing at the Pilatus range is pure magic.

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Hotel des Balances

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Hotel des Balances

Word from curator

Nearby things to do

Switzerland itineraries with this stay

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