Summer Mountain Tips in Switzerland

Alpine Bike: is the name of the thrilling new trail from Scuol to Aigle. National Mountain-Bike Route No. 1 is a big challenge, even for athletic and technically skilled riders. In 16 stages and over 666 demanding kilometres, it traverses the mighty Swiss Alps. In the first few hours, riders soon get a taste of the drama to come: the route snakes through the Swiss National Park into the picturesque Val Mora. A gentle, leisurely path—pictured left—soon gives way to a demanding single-track trail threading through the timeless landscape. The Septimer pass is another highlight, but many more follow. Surselva, the Susten pass, Kleine and Grosse Scheidegg at the foot of the celebrated North Face of the Eiger, the Saanenland, the Col des Mosses: the trail passes through the finest mountain scenery in Switzerland. But even if you're in great shape, you can always take a break, by hopping on a train or bus to the end of the day's stage—all can be reached by public transport.

Glacier Express: 291 bridges, 91 tunnels, 7 valleys, 1 experience. The Glacier Express winds its way through the picturesque Swiss Alps, from the Piz Bernina to the Matterhorn. Starting in St.Moritz, travel along the world's most beautiful stretch of railway line to Chur, before passing between the sheer cliffs of the Rhine gorge, Switzerland's very own Grand Canyon. After crossing the 2,033 m high Oberalp pass, the warm sun of Canton Valais awaits you at the end of the Furka tunnel. Whether admiring the views while enjoying the wonderful cuisine in the historic restaurant car, or simply gazing out of the huge windows of the panorama car, the real icing on the cake is the first glimpse of the famous Matterhorn, as the world's slowest express pulls into Zermatt.

Ponte dei Salti: The magical jade green waters of the Verzasca river flow peacefully over smooth polished rocks, passing under the picturesque double arches of the Ponte dei Salti in Lavertezzo. Follow the river down the valley and you will find wonderful worn rock shapes and natural jacuzzis, and the trail to Brione is home to 34 works of art. Don't resist it - jump in! You will be hard pressed to find a more romantically beautiful place to do so. Are you looking for the ultimate adrenalin rush? Then look no further! The Verzasca dam on the Lago di Vogorno at the entrance to the valley is where James Bond once jumped 220m attached to no more than a rubber rope. For once, copying can be recommended! The "007 Bungee Jump"- lasts exactly 71/2 seconds - take longer to enjoy your well-earned dip in Lake Maggiore.

Lucerne’s Lake: When the steamer "Gallia"- arrives on Lake Lucerne's Lake Uri at Brunnen, on its way from Lucerne to Flüelen, even the passengers travelling first class lay down their silver cutlery and succumb to the pull of history. Just around the corner, the Schiller Stone pays tribute to the creator of "William Tell"-, a national epic, and in the distance lies the Tellsplatte, steeped in legend. A short distance further on and the steamer arrives at Rütli, the birthplace of the original confederation and the start of the "Swiss Path"-. Follow this trail to historical locations and picturesque beaches, passing spots perfect for windsurfing and sheer rock faces along 35 km of wonderful views.