Overview Experience

Autumn in the Engadine

Hiking trails where forests glow and lakes reflect the sky

A long wooden bridge leads into a golden larch forest, backed by alpine peaks in the Engadine Valley during autumn.

As the Alpabzug – the traditional descent of cows from the alpine pastures – signals summer’s end, the Engadine gently transitions into its most enchanting season. Autumn arrives with a quiet glow: golden larches, a whisper of frost on the ground, and mountain light that casts every trail in a painter’s palette.

Two people hiking the Via Engiadina in the Engadine.

The crowds have gone, leaving a gentle hush over the valley. Mornings are cool and clear, the air scented with woodsmoke and pine, and the sound of cowbells echoing from distant pastures. Nature’s transformation isn’t just seen – it’s felt.

A walk around Lake Sils

The tranquil Lake Sils nestled between the mountains.

A walk around Lake Sils

Imagine a lake whose colour changes with the light, ranging from turquoise to emerald to a deep, mysterious blue. That’s Lake Sils in autumn. Hike to the tranquil Isola peninsula, then take Europe’s highest scheduled boat service back to Sils Maria. Before you leave, be sure to try a Silserkugel at Café Grond – a delicious blend of chocolate, meringue and local flavours.

Muottas Muragl magic

Take the historic red funicular railway up to Muottas Muragl, where you will find fresh air and stunning views. Follow the Senda d’Inspiraziun past contemporary sculptures, or walk along the Philosopher’s Path, which was once frequented by Nietzsche. These mountains. These lakes. This light,” he wrote, and you’ll soon discover why.

Glimpses of wildlife

Glimpses of wildlife

The dramatic deer rut begins in nearby Val Trupchun. This is Switzerland’s oldest national park, where the wilderness still reigns supreme. Remember to bring your binoculars – you might catch a glimpse of red deer locking antlers or spot an elusive ibex on the rocky slopes.

A taste of tradition

As the sun sets behind the mountain peaks, the villages of the Engadine glow with a quiet charm. Stroll along cobbled streets lined with houses adorned with sgraffito decorations, then settle into a cosy restaurant. The autumn flavours of hearty Engadiner soup, tender venison with polenta, crisp rösti and sweet chestnut vermicelles are a tribute to the season’s bounty.

For those seeking natural beauty, deep-rooted tradition and peaceful stillness, the Engadine in autumn is a revelation. This golden valley boasts glowing forests, mirror-like lakes and soul-stirring tranquillity. Every step here invites you to slow down, look closer and experience the Alps at their most poetic.

By: Annina Sommer

Overview Destination

Solothurn

A city where symmetry tells a story

While Switzerland is known for its dramatic Alps and shimmering lakes, Solothurn offers a quieter, more romantic charm. Nestled on the banks of the River Aare, this elegant baroque town weaves history and legend into every cobblestone. There’s something almost playful about its devotion to the number eleven – eleven fountains, eleven churches, eleven chapels – which adds a layer of mystery to its graceful streets. Wander around for a while and you’ll feel the past coming alive in the most enchanting way. Solothurn isn’t loud. It doesn’t have to be. Its beauty speaks in a whisper – and that’s what makes it unforgettable.

St Ursus Cathedral

Step inside St Ursus Cathedral and the baroque elegance of Solothurn comes into its own. This isn’t just the city’s most famous chapel – it’s a place where history, devotion and the quirky love of the number eleven come together. You’ll climb eleven steps, hear eleven bells and discover eleven altars, each adding to the cathedral’s quiet grandeur. Coincidence? Perhaps. But it’s these thoughtful details that make the experience so memorable.

People enjoying a sunny afternoon by the Aare River in Solothurn, relaxing at vibrant riverside cafés and strolling or cycling along the promenade.

Savour by the Aare

Here, life moves at a slower pace and the authentic charm of Switzerland takes centre stage. A leisurely stroll along the Aare promenade leads to cosy cafes where locals sip Öufi beer – the town’s favourite brew and another nod to Solothurn’s love of the number eleven.

Bustling flower and produce market in Solothurn, with a vendor handing daisies to an older woman, surrounded by colourful plants

A taste of Solothurn

Soak up the atmosphere at Solothurn’s vibrant weekly market – a sensual feast of fresh local produce, hand-crafted cheeses and regional delicacies. Don’t miss the iconic Solothurner cake, a rich layer of marzipan and nuts as sweet and distinctive as the town itself.

Audience watching a film in a dark cinema hall with wooden beams, during the Solothurn Film Festival.

Film, frescoes & more

In January, the Solothurn Film Festival shines a spotlight on the best of Swiss cinema. Art lovers can explore the Kunstmuseum, home to an impressive collection of Swiss works of art, while the Jesuit Church captivates with its magnificent frescoes and lavish Baroque interiors.

Waldegg Castle

A short hop from the city lies Waldegg Castle, where baroque elegance meets vineyard views and a dash of Italian flair. Once the summer escape for Solothurn’s ambassadors, this stately home now invites visitors to stroll through its lavish salons and leafy gardens – a noble retreat, with just the right amount of drama.

Travel in Solothurn

The Öufi boat cruising along the River Aare towards Solothurn’s old town, with church spires and rooftops set against the Jura hills.

Solothurn may not share the limelight with Zurich or Geneva, but it’s a hidden gem for those seeking a more intimate and authentic Swiss experience. From baroque beauty and strange legends to the simple pleasures of sipping a local beer by the river, this city quietly enchants at every turn.

Wherever you want to go in Switzerland, we can make it happen. Just click on the link to find out all we have to offer in every region of this beautiful country.

Explore Switzerland

Overview Experience

Hit the high notes
with an alphorn

Switzerland

It’s unwieldy, it’s impractical, it’s challenging but once you hit your first note, you’ll fall in love with the alphorn. Yes, you too can learn to play one of the world’s longest musical instruments, and you can do it against a suitably scenic backdrop. And at Cosa, we like to road test our experiences so that we can tell you first-hand what they’re like. That’s why one day a special visitor turned up at our Zurich office with a big bag slung over his shoulder…

Two people on a lakeside rooftop in Zurich Switzerland playing the Alphorn

The best way to experience this unique instrument at its fullest is in the mountains. We only have time for a short intermezzo on our rooftop terrace and decide to grace the Zurich lakeside visitors with our first attempts.

The first note is the hardest

Two people in an alphorn workshop learning how to blow it

The first note is the hardest

As our instructor assembles his alphorn, we learn that he started to play 15 years ago but only recently took the leap to pursue his passion full-time. He patiently shows us what we to do, then hands the mouthpiece to the first volunteer. What follows is the sound of silence (that was me!) then something like an elephant trumpeting. Some of us are naturals at coaxing a tune from the didgeridoo of the Alps. He assures us that with more time, every one of us would manage at least a recognisable tone.

A group of people playing alphorn by a lake on the mountain

A way to communicate

In the olden days alphorns were used to round up cows and calm them during milking. I highly doubt that any cows would have come to us had we been practising in the mountains. Since communication used to be the main function of the alphorn, it is more likely that a herdsman on a neighbouring alp would have tried to silence us from afar. By the way, the sound of an alphorn can carry up to six miles.

A living tradition

Two men in traditional swiss costumes playing the alphorn on mount Pilatus Switzerland

A living tradition

Over the years cheese production was moved down to the villages and the importance of the alphorn dwindled. Luckily, there were some people who helped keep this musical instrument alive and in the meantime it has become a symbol of Switzerland. Alphorn blowers are thriving in their homeland but also around the world.

A group of people in the mountains, listening to theoretical instructions in an alphorn workshop.

Play it in the Alps

This iconic Swiss instrument should be enjoyed in its natural habitat, not least because that’s where the echo resounds the most. Location really is key and our alphorn expert has his unique spots in the mountains that are perfect for alphorn playing. I definitely need to try it out again and will someday venture to the alps to blow the alphorn surrounded by an amazing view. And if it doesn’t sound great, I will at least have some fantastic photos to share.

If your appetite has been whetted by this little taste of what to expect from an alphorn outing, then get in touch with us.

Written by: Annina Sommer

Overview Experience

Flying high with
the Matterhorn

Zermatt

Enjoying the thrill of paragliding over mountain range

Now you’ve heard of the Matterhorn, right? It may not be Switzerland’s tallest mountain (that honour goes to nearby Dufourspitze) but it still stands out so you’ve probably seen this iconic mountain on the page or on the screen. Or maybe you’ve already been lucky enough to have viewed it in person from Zermatt, possibly even without any clouds. But nothing quite matches seeing it from the air. It’s only once you’re level with the peak, or flying over it, that you get the full picture of how imposing it truly is. This is the real rock-star of the Alps.

A breathtaking aerial shot of majestic mountains seen from the inside of a helicopter.

There are two amazing ways to get up close and personal with this triangular mountain: the hard way or the easy way. Both are a guaranteed adrenaline rush and both will give you views and memories you’ll cherish forever. The hard way involved lots of fresh air, strong nerves and a taste for adventure; the easy way is a bucket-list experience that sets your heart racing.

Hanging around over the Alps

Adventurous duo paragliding over a majestic mountain landscape.

Hanging around over the Alps

Hardest one first: paragliding, and I’ll admit I was a bit nervous. Well, maybe a lot nervous but the instructor’s professionalism gave me confidence. So, there I was, standing on the edge of a cliff in Zermatt with shaky knees and a pounding heart. But my Sky Captain had my back, literally, and he continuously checked in on me to ensure I was all right during the flight.

zermatt-flying-paragliding-with-city-skyline-in-backdrop

My trembling knees turned into flying legs and the Matterhorn stood there, looking majestic and I almost could hear it whispering ‘Yes, I know I’m stunning’. Whoosh after whoosh we gained altitude, the view becoming more spectacular with each second. Up in the air nobody could hear my nervous laughter and exhilarated screams (or so I like to think). And there’s nothing quite like the feeling of floating above the world. It’s a mix of freedom, adrenaline and pure joy.

Getting a real buzz

Aerial view of a lake and mountains as seen from inside a helicopter.

Getting a real buzz

If you’re not quite ready to spread your wings, don’t worry because Zermatt has another adventure up its sleeve – helicopter rides. This was the first time in a helicopter and what better first time than flying over the Swiss Alps. We were up and away quite quickly, and the impressive scenery started immediately: the vast Grande Dixence dam, huge ice fields and massive rock formations. Brilliant white, ice blue and dark grey, the tapestry of colours beneath our feet.

A pilot seated in the helicopter cockpit, checking instruments before flight.

Flying through the crisp mountain air, I felt like a celebrity on their way to brunch, waving to the unsuspecting blacknose sheep (cute German name: Walliser Schwarznasenschaf) below. I didn’t stop on a glacier for a glass of champagne – but you could! – but I did get some amazing pics of the Matterhorn from unique angles. And that was the grand finale: a flight around the four sides of the famous pyramid peak. That alone makes this a must-do when planning your next Switzerland trip.

Two ways to see the Matterhorn from the air, and each as exciting as the other. Paragliding isn’t nearly as intimidating as it looks, and if I can do it, anyone can. So, next time you’re in Zermatt and feeling a little adventurous, take the leap – quite literally – because, sometimes, the best views in life are the ones you have to jump for. But if you prefer your adventures with a side of luxury and a dash of adrenaline, take your Zermatt experience to new heights in a helicopter and fly in style. Either way, you can enjoy the views without having to worry about breaking a sweat climbing to the top. No hiking boots are required.

Written by: Karolina Juras

Overview Experience

Taking to the water
in Ticino

Lake Lugano

We stopped in the middle of the lake before reaching the border with Italy, so we could enjoy the mountains around us and the lovely sound of silence. It was already a perfect moment but it got even better when a picnic appeared as if by magic. Glasses, plates and napkins, all ready for us. Plus fresh homemade focaccia and, of course, a bottle of prosecco so we made a toast and stayed for a while listening to the story of how this experience began.

Calm waters reflecting the sky, with boats and a picturesque landscape in view.

Lake Lugano isn’t perhaps the best-known lake in Switzerland. It’s not as big as Lake Geneva or as popular as Lake Lucerne. In fact, you might be tempted to dismiss it as simply another Swiss lake – and even that’s only half true as the Italian border criss-crosses the shore. But with the right boat and the right captain, this watery tour in Ticino becomes a magical experience.

Fishing boat

This wasn’t just any boat, it’s an old fisherman’s vessel with a unique story and has been lovingly restored. And we weren’t with just any captain. The huge smile that greeted us in Lugano marina revealed how happy she was to show us her way of life on and along this lake. And she was definitely the one in charge: before entering the boat, we had to take off our shoes, both to preserve the cherished boat and to make us feel like we’re at home.

The mirror-like surface of a lake capturing the sky’s hues, surrounded by mountains

Sitting on the back of a boat enjoying the serene waters.

Scenic view of Italian lake with charming buildings in the background

Southern charm

As soon as we glided away from Lugano, we already felt the Mediterranean flair of this enchanting region. From the water, we could see the beautiful Villa Favorita, which was once the art gallery of Baron Heinrich Thyssen-Bornemisza, and the Sentiero dell’olivo, a gentle trail where people can learn more about olive trees. Before long, we were in front of Gandria, a picturesque village at the foot of Mont Brè that’s inaccessible by car. With its cute houses and interesting history, this village felt worlds away from Ticino’s biggest city, even if we were not actually that far.

A boat docked at a serene lake's dock, surrounded by nature's beauty

Family history

And then we were taken even further away, back to our captain’s childhood memories, to the summers with her father and older brothers on daily fishing trips. Or listening to her mother and grandmother prepare the food, saying they should open a traditional restaurant. Then one day, years later, she was driving from her job in an office and looked at the lake. That’s when it came to her: why not bring her father’s boat up from Italy and pursue her dream of making a life on the water.

Swiss flag flying on boat and mountain view.

So she brought the boat to Lugano and restored it to how she remembered from her childhood, but adding extras like soft cushions to make it more comfortable for guests. And towels, for those wanting to take a dip in the clear water. We were there on a sunny April day and none of us was brave enough to dive in, but in high summer you’ll probably be tempted.

Lakeside exploration

A picturesque town nestled beside a mountain, offering a serene view of nature's beauty.

Lakeside exploration

Back to the present day and our leisurely cruise along the lake. We headed south towards Morcote, one of Switzerland’s prettiest villages, and it’s even more attractive from the water. Out on the lake is also one of the best viewpoints for admiring Monte San Salvatore, the conical mountain that towers over Lugano (and, by the way, has a great funicular ride up to the top).

And then it was all over. Time flies when you’re having fun, and it certainly flew by on this relaxing trip. More than a tour with facts, this was an experience with a local who deeply loves her job. We look forward to welcoming you on board this special boat in Lugano – and once you’re there, you’ll find out our captain’s name. Until then, we’ll keep her secret.

View of the Lake surrounded by mountains in the summer

Written by: Ana Marques

Overview Experience

When the cows
come home

Alpabzug

People walking on a road with a herd of sheep in a rural setting

Cows are as much part of Switzerland’s rural landscape as the mountains themselves. It’s hard to imagine a more Swiss scene than cows in green pastures, bells tinkling as they munch on the grass. That is until you witness one of the most Swiss spectacles there is: the annual descent from high pastures. Picture this: families in festive traditional attire guiding their highly-decorated cows back down to the valley for winter, and the whole village coming out to celebrate.

A man leading a group of cows down a road guiding them with ease

The vibrant tradition of the Alpabzug (la désalpe in French) occurs in rural communities all across the country every autumn, from the hills of Suisse Romande to the villages of eastern Switzerland. I was lucky enough to witness this unique event unfold in one such village, Urnäsch, in Appenzellerland. In an atmosphere full of happiness and excitement, this.was an experience that truly touched my heart.

Alphorn and Swiss flag attracting a crowd of people in the background.

Local life

Each village has their own way of celebrating the cows coming home, but it’s always a festival and usually with a farmers’ market. Stands line the streets, offering glimpses into the rural way of life with local producers showcasing their finest goods. This hive of activity was a true feast for the senses with tons of delicacies to sample and handcrafted gifts to take home with you.

A cow wearing a vibrant decorative ornate

But the true highlight was the dairy parade. Entire farming families made their way through the village with their cattle and sheep, many of the animals sporting elaborate headdresses that really caught the eye. However, the sounds were as memorable as the sights – traditional Swiss music that went hand-in-hand with the bells jingling around the necks of the flowered-up guests of honour. It was the ideal soundtrack to a magical day.

Cows with flowers on their heads walking down a mountain road.

The parade of decorated animals accompanied by traditional costumes, impressive bells with hand-stitched straps, yodelling, local games and alphorns created a festive atmosphere that resonated throughout the village and beyond. These are sights and sounds that echo across Switzerland all autumn.

Alpine heritage

The alpine descent wasn’t just about cows coming down from the mountains though. This celebration of history, culture and the deep connection between humans and nature showcases the strong sense of community in this gentle corner of the world. It’s a reminder of the rich heritage and traditions in Swiss rural areas like Appenzellerland. The significance and history behind this annual event are quite profound.

A young boy leading a group of goats through a grassy field

Herd of cows with floral headpieces moving through a town.

This is not just a local party; it’s a cherished tradition that holds deep cultural importance all across Switzerland. It dates back to ancient times when it’s said the festival was also to hope for safe summers without accidents or losses. The cows, sheep, and goats are adorned with twigs and flowers to symbolise their importance and to shower them with care and respect. The colourful floral crowns worn by the cattle show the significance these animals have to the Swiss people and their agriculture.

Swiss tradition

Witnessing an alpine cow parade like the one in Urnäsch is an opportunity to appreciate both the beauty of these magnificent animals and immerse oneself in authentic Swiss culture. A way to bring locals and visitors together in a shared celebration of tradition, community spirit, and agricultural heritage.

A festive goat parade with goats being led down the street adorned in traditional decorations.

For me, the Alpabzug encapsulated the essence of Swiss culture and community spirit more than anything else I’ve experienced since living here. I loved being able to witness such a unique and heartwarming local celebration, with the simple joy that comes from connecting with nature and each other. More than just a spectacle, this living tradition glorifies the deep connection between humans and nature while celebrating Swiss agricultural heritage in a colourful soulful display.

Written by: Dennis Conatser

Overview Experience

The cultural heart
of Lucerne

Lucerne

Interior of a bustling building with people standing around

Have you always wanted to feel like an opera star? Or dreamed of being on stage? Haven’t you always been curious to see where artists get ready for their performances? With Cosa, you can go on a unique tour of the impressive Culture and Convention Centre in Lucerne (or KKL Luzern for short), one the the premier venues in Switzerland. It’s the ideal chance to experience the amazing vision of star architect Jean Nouvel first hand.

City of Lucerne with its stunning architecture and serene lake views.

Lucerne might be justly famous for its covered wooden bridges and muralled medieval houses but there’s more to the city than historic structures. I know because I lived in the city for years and almost every day walked past one strikingly modern building in a prime location on the waterfront. Its most prominent feature is the huge roof that covers the entire complex.

A beautiful building with a fountain where a duo is enjoying the soothing sound of flowing water.

Floating roof

This massive roof is undeniably impressive, and not only because of its size – it measures 12,000 square metres and weighs over 2,500 tonnes. Simply incredible! Jean Nouvel said that he saw it as if a wing was hovering over both the building and Lake Lucerne, and I believe he was right. As you walk into the building, look above your head: the glistening rippling water of the lake is reflected in the 2000-plus tiles that line the underside of the vast aluminium roof.

Room with a view

The wow factor of the roof extends into the foyer, where it’s amplified by the water channels in the floor. Jean Nouvel originally planned a new concert hall that would project into the lake in the shape of a ship. However, this wasn’t feasible for ecological reasons as the building would have encroached on the lake bed. Nouvel revised his project. This led to the idea of letting the water flow into the building instead of building into the water. And that was probably the better choice as it always makes visitors’ jaws drop.

Modern construction with a unique architectural design

A curved wall interior adding elegance and architectural beauty.

A large auditorium showcasing a multitude of seats.

We met our guide in the panorama foyer, a space marked by its sleek lines and minimalist aesthetic, with vaulted wood panelling reminiscent of a cello case. Across from this elegant backdrop, a series of windows offer picturesque views, rather like scenes found on a postcard. During our tour, we learned about the building’s history, the vision of the architect and the outstanding acoustics but the highlight was definitely the concert hall.

Silent star

Opening to an auditorium with seats lined up

Silent star

The echo chamber is a large interconnected cavity that surrounds the concert hall in the upper tiers and is opened using electronically-controlled concrete doors. One of the most striking features for me was the absolute silence – both the ventilation and the hall’s lighting installations are inaudible during concerts. We were privileged to explore every corner of the hall, even going up on stage. As a grand finale, we visited the changing rooms and backstage arena, a rare glimpse of what it’s like getting ready for a performance in front of a big audience.

This private behind-the-scenes tour is the perfect prelude to enjoying a concert or show in this special cultural venue. Once you know the building’s secrets, it makes everything you see and hear even more special.

People fills a spacious building seated on the balcony creating a lively atmosphere.

Written by: Simon Kessler

Overview Experience

In the hands
of a watchmaker

Zurich

A table displaying a collection of tools and miscellaneous items

All eyes are riveted on one pair of hands, trembling slightly in the stiff sleeves of a white coat. Inexperienced but willing fingers carefully assemble the components, pieces so tiny that they seem too fragile to touch. Foreheads wrinkle as everyone focuses their gaze on the minute mechanical movements, and then the crucial moment: using the famous watchmaker’s magnifying glass along with a screwdriver and precision tweezers. Yes, this is how watches are made.

Duo working together at a watch making table

Building a watch from scratch is something almost anyone can do but isn’t something anyone should do on their own. And with Cosa, you don’t have to. How do I know? Because I’ve been there and done that. As a child, I watched my grandfather take out his pocket watch, open it and tell the time. So you can imagine my excitement when I got to be part of a watchmaking workshop in Zurich.

Watch heaven

A table with different watches and other items used for making watches.

Watch heaven

From the moment I pushed open the workshop door, I was in horological heaven, surrounded by anything and everything to do with making time: watches in all manner of models and colours, leather plates, sketches, boxes with compartments full of microscopic parts, mechanisms of all kinds. It was an Aladdin’s cave of timepieces and the pieces needed to create them. And then our host invited us to sit around a table.

Timepiece experience

This friendly, calm man welcomed us into his world, telling us the story of the family brand, its key moments and a few anecdotes. He’s rightly proud of the success of this business and we were about to gain personal insight into the key to that success. It was time to get down to the heart of the matter: the Art of Watchmaking. This one was going to be a team effort in the fine art of creating an object as delicate, aesthetic and meticulous as a watch.

A skilled watch artisan meticulously working on a watch

A room with a desk, clocks, and assorted items

During the first part of the workshop, silence reigned. We carefully observed our watchmaker’s every move, eager eyes following his nimble fingers as they went about their work. Not forgetting learning all the new technical words that we’d need to remember later, when we did this ourselves. It was full-on concentration, and it was wonderful.

Team work

Group gathered around a table observing a woman diligently working on a watch

Team work

Next, we were each invited to put on a white watchmaker’s smock: you can’t make a watch if you don’t look the part. As a team, we had to assemble a watch, taking it in turns to be responsible for one phase of the process. Nervous laughter rippled round the room because we all knew how delicate each operation was. Nerves of steel and steady hands were essential.

Blue plastic container on book holding watch parts

Palpable tension reached its height as we proceeded methodically through the various stages. Each of us felt a certain pride in our personal prowess, and by the end, it seemed that nobody wanted to leave. We had done what we set out to do: we had made a watch, and one that worked. A team effort carried out with joy and good humour, but also with immense gratitude for the invaluable technical lessons shared with us.

I’ll never look at a watch in the same way again. On the surface, it’s such a simple thing – a way to tell the time. But behind that are the intricate mechanisms needed to achieve that simple thing, mechanisms that need expertise and, yes, time to put them together.

By the way, we also offer watchmaking workshops in other Swiss cities so please contact us for more information.

Written by: Laura Gonzalez

Overview Experience

Where the water
rushes and roars

Rhine Falls

Its vital statistics are impressive: 150 metres wide, 23 metres high and over 600,000 litres of water rushing over the edge every second in the early summer peak. Welcome to Europe’s largest waterfall! I love getting a little closer to hear the roar of the water and feel the spray on my face, and there are a couple of ways to do that. Read on and I’ll tell you my secrets of the Rhine Falls.

Aerial view of Stein-Am-Rhein medieval city near Shaffhausen, Switzerland

How do I know so much about one of the biggest natural attractions in the country? For more than ten years, I’ve been living in Schaffhausen, the northernmost canton of Switzerland, on the border with Germany and home to the Rhine Falls. And as someone who loves being on or by the water, these waterfalls draw me all the time – and, reader, I even got married here several years ago.

Landscape view of the Rhine Falls waterfallon a winter evening with snow falling

Changing seasons

It isn’t only the scale of these falls that impresses me (we all know that size isn’t everything) but the way they change with the seasons. In spring, the swirling waters seem to compete with each other, in a dry summer you can almost go for a walk in the shallow waters above the falls. In autumn, orange and yellow trees frame the broad basin in warm colours, and in winter everything is peaceful as few tourists come to enjoy the views.

Time to get wet

Now, it’s time to get personal – with the falls, I mean. You want to feel the force? Maybe get a little relief from the summer heat? Then get in one of the colourful open boats that sidle up to the base of the falls. Some captains are skillful enough to manoeuvre the vessels up to the water so that at least half of the boat’s passengers feel a spray of cooling water on their faces. Or you can hop off onto the tiny island in the middle of the crashing water.

A tourist boat approaching the Rhine waterfalls at Schaffhausen on Switzerland

Tourist platform directly over the wild water of the Rhine Falls

If you prefer to stay on dry ground, there are two spots for the best views. The Rhine Falls actually straddle the border between the cantons of Schaffhausen and Zurich, and the northern shore (on the Schaffhausen side) gives the best panorama of the waterfalls. Or if you want to get closer, head for the Zurich side where concrete platforms jut out from the cliff right beside the water’s edge. Just don’t step too far back for that selfie…

Days and nights

I love sitting and watching the water. Or walking from one side to the other, following a footpath that leads across the railway bridge, so don’t be surprised when a train passes close by while you’re crossing. You can also walk all the way to Schaffhausen itself, by following the Rhine upstream for around 45 minutes. It’s a gentle stroll along the riverbank, with plenty of spots to stop and watch the water flow past. Best of all, come back at night and see the falls lit up in different colours.

Aerial view of rocks in rhine fall water cascade near Schaffhausen with swiss flag in Switzerland

Wealthy waters

The Rhine Falls are the main reason the city of Schaffhausen became so wealthy during the time when salt was shipped from the Alps and cereal from southern Germany. Goods had to be unloaded just before the falls so it could be transported by horse and cart to overcome this obstacle. Don’t forget, the Rhine has its source in the Swiss mountains but flows through six countries before reaching the North Sea.

My last tip: if you take the train from Zurich, sit on the right-hand side facing the direction of travel. Shortly before you arrive in Schaffhausen, you’ll pass through a short tunnel and as soon as you emerge into daylight again, the Rhine Falls will appear in all their glory. I never get tired of seeing them from this angle on my way to work and back again in the evening.

Written by: Annina Sommer

Overview Destination

Geneva
The city with a dramatic past and a scientific future

The cityscape of Geneva unfolds beneath, as seen from the summit of Saint-Pierre Cathedral in Switzerland.

Switzerland’s second city is a perfect combination of old town charm and high-end chic, all with a lakeside setting and views of the Alps. One minute you’re walking in the footsteps of Jean Calvin to the impressive yet puritanically plain cathedral, and the next you’re sitting in a stylish café watching the trademark fountain, the Jet d’Eau, shoot water 140 metres up to the sky. And in between you could perhaps make your own watch, dive into the future at CERN or simply relax on a boat as you glide out over the waters of Lake Geneva.

Watchmaker is repairing the mechanical watches in his workshop in Switzerland

A watch of your own

Maybe you’ll be tempted to buy a Swiss watch in Geneva – it’s where the watchmaking industry started in Switzerland, after all. But what about making your own watch? How cool would that be! We can organise a horological workshop specially for you.

Charming scene in Geneva, Switzerland, with an old building and a restaurant nestled in Geneva Old Town, capturing the historic ambiance of the city.

Centuries of history

The best way to get to grips with Geneva’s turbulent past and peaceful present is on a private walking tour of the hilly old town. From a medieval city-state to the world of watches, Geneva has so many layers of history you’ll be captivated.

Inside the International Red Cross Museum in Geneva, Switzerland, offering a glimpse into the organization's history and humanitarian efforts.

Make peace not war

A city within a city, International Geneva is the world’s peace capital. Whether at the grandiose Palais des Nations, the European HQ of the UN, or the engrossing Red Cross Museum, you can see that in a world full of hate, Geneva proves that there is hope.

In Geneva, Switzerland, the Globe of Science & Innovation at CERN, featuring the Large Hadron Collider (LHC), designed by Canadian artist Gayle Hermick.

Look into the future

Just beyond the historic city centre is a futuristic centre for scientific research, home to the large hadron collider and birthplace of the world wide web. Yes, it’s CERN, one of the most fascinating places you’ll visit in Switzerland.

Where locals come to life

For a bohemian community vibe combined with Mediterranean architecture and Italian charm, there’s nowhere better than Carouge. You could spend hours watching the world go by in the atmospheric bars or lively Saturday market.

Travel in Geneva

Switzerland's paddle steamer La Suisse gracefully navigating Lake Geneva, Lac Léman.

The largest French-speaking city in Switzerland is surrounded on three sides by France while its airport sits on the border. This unique position gives Geneva great access to nearby French towns such as Chamonix and Annecy as well as all of western Switzerland (known as Suisse Romande). Whether it’s a boat trip to Lausanne, a train ride to see Mont Blanc or a private chauffeur for picnics by the lake, everything around Lake Geneva is within easy reach so let us organise your perfect trip.

Wherever you want to go in Switzerland, we can make it happen. Just click on the link to find out all we have to offer in every region of this beautiful country.

Explore Switzerland

Autumn in the Engadine

Hiking trails where forests glow and lakes reflect the sky

A walk around Lake Sils

A walk around Lake Sils

Muottas Muragl magic

Glimpses of wildlife

Glimpses of wildlife

A taste of tradition

By: Annina Sommer

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Graubünden Alps

Ticino

When the cows come home

Best Swiss train rides

Solothurn

St Ursus Cathedral

Savour by the Aare

A taste of Solothurn

Film, frescoes & more

Waldegg Castle

Travel in Solothurn

More Switzerland for you

The cultural heart of Lucerne

Hit the high notes with an alphorn

Bern & the Oberland

Zurich & the north

Hit the high notes with an alphorn

Switzerland

The first note is the hardest

The first note is the hardest

A way to communicate

A living tradition

A living tradition

Play it in the Alps

Written by: Annina Sommer

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Bern & the Oberland

Switzerland

The cultural heart of Lucerne

Best Swiss train rides

Flying high with the Matterhorn

Zermatt

Hanging around over the Alps

Hanging around over the Alps

Getting a real buzz

Getting a real buzz

Written by: Karolina Juras

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Valais Alps

Switzerland

When the cows come home

Best Swiss train rides

Taking to the water in Ticino

Lake Lugano

Fishing boat

Southern charm

Family history

Lakeside exploration

Lakeside exploration

Written by: Ana Marques

Want more Swissness? Here it is:

Best Swiss train rides

Ticino

Switzerland

Graubünden Alps

When the cows come home

Alpabzug

Local life

Alpine heritage

Swiss tradition

Written by: Dennis Conatser

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Eastern Switzerland

Local festivals for every season

Herbs, hiking and a hearty welcome

Suisse Romande

The cultural heart of Lucerne

Lucerne

Floating roof

Room with a view

Hit the high notes
with an alphorn

Flying high with
the Matterhorn

Taking to the water
in Ticino

When the cows
come home

The cultural heart
of Lucerne

In the hands
of a watchmaker

Where the water
rushes and roars

Geneva
The city with a dramatic past and a scientific future