After a short flight to Zurich our trip commenced in earnest with a train journey to Lucerne. Unfortunately some inclement weather had meant that our arrival was significantly off schedule, but this proved no challenge for the slick operation of the Swiss rail network. With the remarkably user friendly SBB app, you are able to quickly check train departures across the entire network with a visual interface, making it straightforward to link destinations.

A few quick clicks (alongside some pretzel sandwiches) and we were back on our way. We settled into the comfortable recline of our first class cabin seats and watched the city gradually dissolve in to a wide open vista of lakes and mountains. Any arrival stresses were soon soothed.

Arriving in to Lucerne doesn’t just feel like emerging in another location, as it does another time. As you exit the station to see the ferry docked against Lake Lucerne, the striking image of the Chapel Bridge (or Kapellbrücke) appears, connecting the quaint bars and restaurants that line the river banks.

Transferring to the ferry is the perfect way to truly commence a Swiss itinerary, taking to the water as the Alps dot the horizon. The journey is an experience in itself and the ideal introduction to the kind of scenery this country is famous for.

The journey to our destination continued with one of the more unique train rides I have been on as we boarded the cogwheel train up to our destination on “the Queen of Mountains”, Mt. Rigi. The historic carriages hark back to a bygone era as the locomotive chugs up the picturesque slopes, giving a whole new meaning to trains running like clockwork. Both the ferry and the cogwheel are included in the Swiss Travel Pass, only serving to further underscore the value of this for any trip.

There are many activities to draw a visitor to Hotel Rigi Kaltbad. There are abundant hiking trails, horse-drawn carriage rides and cable-car journeys allowing visitors to traverse the mountain terrain; however, once you have experienced the mineral baths and spa you would be hard pressed to leave the premises! When you transition from the main pool to the outdoor bathing area it’s difficult to tell whether the sudden drop in air temperature or the scenery is responsible for taking your breath away. Floating in the warm, mineral enriched waters in a pool boasting an Alpine outlook that would make your average chocolate box blush is a truly singular experience.

The next stop on our Swiss journey was the resort town of Interlaken. Literally translating as ‘between lakes’, this charming region is sandwiched in a mountain valley between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz. Hugely popular with visitors year round, it is a hive of activity with something to entertain all generations.

Being that this was a trip to Switzerland it was only right that chocolate played a part, so a visit to a chocolate making workshop was warmly received. Learning how to temper your own chocolate and form it into bars was both educational and delicious (and yes, you get plenty of samples along the way!).

The evening took us to the enchanting winter wonderland of Interlaken’s Ice Magic. A technicolour extravaganza that isn’t so much an ice rink as an ice complex, skaters of all skill levels can enjoy traditional skating, ice hockey or even try their hand at Bavarian Curling! To top it all off they even have their own alpine style restaurant serving three (yes three!) different varieties of fondue.

Alongside these resort regions, Switzerland also offers fascinating cultural experiences in the towns and cities. For history buffs, a tour of Thune and its medieval castle is a must. Built in the 1200's on a hill overlooking the town, this imposing and impressive structure offers a fascinating insight into the history of the region, as well as stunning views over the horizon.

On the other hand, art lovers can’t miss a trip to Basel. As a city already renowned for hosting the prestigious Art Basel fair every summer, you can also find remarkable works in the streets themselves. We took part in an Urban Art Tour which unearthed many of the hidden artistic gems that the city has to offer. From multi story murals, to spray painted Bentleys and even one of the world’s largest pieces by renowned street artist Invader, this tour shows a whole different side of the city and offers another glimpse of the variety of experiences a visitor can have in Switzerland.

Overall this short break in Switzerland was a wonderful eye opening experience into what this eclectic country has to offer. Whether an active escape, a city break, some R&R or a mix of all, Switzerland won’t disappoint. What’s more, the Swiss Travel Pass means you can travel freely in comfort throughout.

For more inspiration, visit our Switzerland Holidays pages.