Unique ways to unwind and revive
This holiday season, Switzerland invites you to break free from the Christmas rush and experience winter in a refreshingly unconventional way. Embrace a slower pace with activities that highlight the serene beauty and cultural heritage of this enchanting country, offering you an alternative holiday retreat unlike any other.
Swap the slopes for a different kind of thrill with Switzerland’s lesser-known winter sports. Beyond skiing, the landscape offers adventures like sledding down the Gornergrat with a breathtaking view of the Matterhorn or testing your balance on a velogemel — a unique wooden hybrid of a bike and a sled native to the Jungfrau Region. For a true night-time wonder, try the illuminated sledding path at Melchsee-Frutt, where solar-powered LED lights add a touch of magic to your descent.
For those looking to indulge in the warmth of Swiss hospitality, a sauna with a view awaits on the Rhine in Basel, combining relaxation with spectacular river vistas. After soaking in the cozy ambiance, head to the coffee yurt or unwind in the relaxation yurt nearby. Alternatively, explore historic Bellinzona sustainably in one its charming electric “bubble cars”, which guide you to its UNESCO-listed castles and cultural treasures.
Romantics and nature lovers will be drawn to the Lantern Path at Schwägalp in the Lake Constance region. Over fifty glowing oil lamps illuminate snowy forests, creating an atmosphere of peace and enchantment. Afterward, warm up with a hot punch and, if desired, round out the experience with a traditional fondue or raclette dinner — a perfect end to an unforgettable evening.
If you’re a fan of artistic expression, Switzerland’s cities and towns offer a winter filled with cultural discoveries. In Engadin, the “Splendur e Sumbriva” exhibition explores light and shadow through art, language, and architecture across fourteen cultural sites. Lausanne’s MUDAC, in its newly designed space at Plateforme 10, delves into thought-provoking themes with “We Will Survive,” exploring survivalist culture, design, and humanity’s response to modern uncertainties. For a taste of old-world charm, Zurich’s floating theater, Herzbaracke, enchants visitors with a mix of orchestral performances, vaudeville, and a touch of cabaret — a delightful escape from conventional holiday entertainment.
If you crave the excitement of festival lights, head to the Murten Light Festival in January, where Swiss and international artists create mesmerizing displays in this picturesque town. Or, indulge in Jura’s La Saint-Martin festival to experience regional culinary delights, from traditional pork roasts to the unique Damassine sorbet, a local treat made from red plums.
This winter, let Switzerland surprise you with its blend of tranquility, culture, and adventure, offering the perfect antidote to the holiday hustle. Here, you can celebrate the season at your own pace, with experiences that leave you refreshed, inspired, and ready to embrace the new year.
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Feel the rush of excitement as you zoom down the snowy slopes of Zermatt, where tobogganing offers the perfect blend of adventure and alpine beauty
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Dive into the thrill of the longest illuminated night toboggan run in the Lake Lucerne region
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Float above the stunning landscapes of Bellinzona in a cable car "bubble" and soak in panoramic views of Ticino's lush valleys, historic castles, and sunlit peaks
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Plateforme 10 in Lausanne is a vibrant cultural hub where art, architecture, and creativity converge
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Herzbaracke is a unique and cozy venue nestled along the shores of Lake Zurich, offering a relaxed atmosphere with stunning views
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Immerse yourself in the enchanting glow of Murten's Light Festival, where the medieval town comes alive with stunning light installations and vibrant displays
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