The incredible variety of landscapes and cultures in this small country is astounding. While there are several native languages, German-speaking areas are the largest and encompass the capital of Bern, financial center Zurich, and many of famed ski resort areas like Zermatt and Grindelwald.
Traveling across Switzerland, you’ll cross the “Roesti Graben” (literally – “hash-brown ditch”). It’s the imaginary, but very distinct, border between the German- and French-speaking areas. The French-speaking region is home to Geneva and Lausanne, with stunning landscapes along Lake Geneva. Lugano anchors the small Italian-speaking portion of Switzerland, known as the Swiss Riviera with its palm trees and mountain vistas alike.
Switzerland is fiercely protective of its heritage and culture, so you’re sure to recognize the very genuine and strong culture. Across all of the varied landscapes and languages, there remains a distinctly Swiss flavor that sets it apart from its same-language neighbors.
The national pastime of Switzerland is “wandern” (literally “wandering,” but more like leisurely hiking in the countryside). Because strolling the mountains is so popular, an extensive network of trails exists solely for pedestrians and cyclists. These paths are well maintained (as is everything in Switzerland) and were designed to pass through the most scenic vistas and overlooks in the country.
Language: German, French, Italian, Romansh
Currency: Swiss franc
Population: 7,452,075
Size: 15,940 square miles (41,285 square kilometers)
Border countries: Germany, France, Italy, Austria, and Liechtenstein
National tourist office: www.myswitzerland.com