Article Switzerland in full bloom

When people think of Switzerland, skiing and hiking often come to mind. But beyond the slopes and trails, Switzerland offers some of its best experiences in the lesser-known seasons. From the colourful blooms of spring to the golden landscapes of autumn, Switzerland’s hidden treasures await those who venture beyond the usual tourist spots.

Spring: Blossoms, festivals and sweet surprises

As winter’s chill fades, Lucerne comes alive with celebration. The Lucerne Carnival – known locally as Fasnacht – is a tradition that marks the beginning of spring. The streets are filled with masked revelers, parades and spontaneous celebrations. It’s loud, it’s colourful, and it’s unlike anything you’ll see anywhere else in Europe. The joy is contagious and the festivities go on well into the night.

The charming town of Morges, on the shores of Lake Geneva, is a picturesque starting point for exploring the Swiss spring Here, the Tulip Festival transforms the lakeside parks into a vibrant tapestry of over 120,000 tulips set against the towering Alps in the distance. It’s an almost surreal sight!

As the warmer season arrives, strawberries begin to ripen. The lakeside town of Locarno hosts the Strawberry Festival in late spring, where locals celebrate the season’s juiciest harvest with tastings, food stalls, and strawberry-inspired creations.

Autumn: chestnuts, wine, and alpine glory

The Alpabzug, at the end of September, is a beloved tradition. Adorned with flowers and giant bells, cattle return from the Alps and the region comes alive with parades, music, and feasting. In places like Appenzell or Emmental, the sight of these majestic animals making their way through the streets, accompanied by a festive crowd, is truly unforgettable.

The Swiss countryside turns golden in autumn and local festivals bring the season to life. If you love the aroma of roasting chestnuts, Fully’s chestnut festival is a must. The  chestnut harvest is celebrated each October with market stalls, lively music, and chestnuts of all varieties.

Autumn is also for wine lovers, especially in Lavaux. The terraced vineyards along Lake Geneva’s shores are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and turn a brilliant golden yellow in autumn. Many local wineries hold harvest celebrations where you can sip the famous Chasselas wine while taking in panoramic views of the lake and the Alps.

For the ultimate autumn experience, head to the Engadine Valley, where the larches turn the forest golden. Hiking through the high alpine meadows here is like walking through a painting, and with fewer crowds than in summer, you’ll have the landscape almost to yourself.

Switzerland has long been known for its stunning mountain scenery and outdoor adventures, but the country’s seasonal festivals and hidden gems offer an entirely different experience. From tasting chestnuts in a small Swiss village to sipping wine in Lavaux, these lesser-known moments bring you closer to the heart of Switzerland. On your next trip, consider getting off the beaten track and discovering the seasons that most visitors miss. You’ll be glad you did.