4. Lucerne: A Fairy in the Land of Lakes and Mountains
Lucerne, also known as Luzern, carries a name as enchanting as its presence. This small yet picturesque city lies nestled between mountains and lakes, once praised by Alexandre Dumas as “the pearl of the world’s most beautiful shell.” It is also one of Switzerland’s premier summer retreats.
Lucerne holds a special place in the heart of Audrey Hepburn, who adored the town throughout her life. She married here in 1954 and spent her later years in this peaceful haven, where she could truly be herself, free from disturbance.
Beethoven’s Moonlight Sonata is said to have been inspired by poet Ludwig Rellstab’s description of the first movement: “like a boat drifting on the shimmering moonlit waters of Lake Lucerne.”
A must-see is the Chapel Bridge (Kapellbrücke), a 200-meter-long wooden bridge and one of Europe’s oldest. It spans the Reuss River, and during early summer, its sides bloom with vibrant geraniums, giving it the nickname “Water Tower Flower Bridge.” Beneath the bridge, graceful swans glide across the rippling water, adding to the fairytale charm.
Another iconic landmark is the Lion Monument, a deeply moving sculpture of a dying lion carved into a rock face. Mark Twain famously called it “the saddest and most moving piece of stone in the world.”
5. Lungern: A Fairytale Paradise
Traveling on the GoldenPass Line from Lucerne to Interlaken, you’ll pass through Lungern, a place so breathtaking that passengers in the train often gasp with awe.
Lungern’s emerald-green lake seems like a celestial pool, as though a fairy might emerge from its depths at any moment. Scattered along the shores are small houses on lush green meadows, resembling loyal sentinels guarding this untouched sanctuary.
On calm days, the lake’s surface becomes a mirror, reflecting the rolling hills and shifting clouds with mesmerizing tranquility. When the wind picks up, gentle ripples disturb the water, lending it an air of melancholy, like the furrowed brow of a thoughtful fairy.
6. Spiez: A Harbor of Serenity
Situated on a peaceful bay along Lake Thun’s southern shore, Spiez is surrounded by snow-capped peaks and turquoise waters. Many sailboats and small yachts rest quietly on the lake, creating a postcard-perfect scene.
If time permits, simply sit by the lakeside, letting your mind wander. Watch the reflections of the distant snow-covered mountains, observe the sailboats come and go, and revel in a sense of timeless beauty. No wonder painter Paul Klee was so moved by the sight of Spiez and the pyramid-shaped Niesen Mountain behind it that he created his famous work, Ad Parnassum.
Spiez’s most iconic landmark is the Spiez Castle, which dates back to 1200. The exterior showcases medieval Bernese architecture, while the interior features Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque styles, making it one of Switzerland’s rare historical treasures.
Opposite the castle is a charming Bernese-style rural church that frequently hosts weddings, where couples vow to stay together for a lifetime. Spiez is also a hub for yachting enthusiasts, making it a must-visit destination for boat lovers.
7. From Paradise to the Plate: Swiss Cuisine
A trip to Switzerland is about more than just admiring its heavenly landscapes; it’s also an opportunity to indulge in its unique culinary delights.
Swiss Chocolate
Switzerland is the world’s largest chocolate producer, and nearly every chocolate-making technique was invented here. The country has a long-standing tradition of crafting chocolate, so its flavor is nothing short of extraordinary. Whether you’re hiking, skiing, or simply feeling weary, a piece of rich Swiss chocolate is all it takes to rejuvenate your spirit. The perfect balance of bitter cocoa and sweet milk creates a silky, decadent treat that melts in your mouth.
Cheese Fondue
Cheese fondue is a quintessential Swiss dish. Typically, diners use long forks to dip small pieces of bread into bubbling, melted cheese. Pair it with a glass of white wine or hot tea, and you have a comforting and communal meal to enjoy with friends or family.
Rösti (Swiss Potato Pancake)
This humble dish is a Swiss staple, available in every corner of the country. Regional variations abound—for instance, the German-speaking and French-speaking areas have distinct ways of preparing it.
Grilled Sausages
Swiss grilled sausages are often paired with mustard, ketchup, or fries, offering a mouthwatering blend of smoky, spicy, and sweet flavors.
Having marveled at Switzerland’s landscapes and savored its cuisine, you’ll come to understand why the locals always seem to have a smile on their faces. Their unique sense of happiness might just be Switzerland’s greatest treasure of all.