If our favorite destinations for summer vacations were numerous, Switzerland also evokes everything we love! Chocolate, sparkling mountains, lakes where they are reflected, thermal baths with their wellness areas, dark wooden chalets adorned with geraniums, cows in the meadows... and so many other "specialities"! The "real" fondue and the "real" Gruyère cheese to be enjoyed at the source. And don't forget the souvenirs: cuckoo clocks, knives and lace, watches and little cows carved in wood, local wines and Grisons meat. But Switzerland, apart from its big cities like Geneva (with its many must-sees), Basel and Zurich, also boasts a host of charming little villages. Having already visited the most beautiful villages in the Pyrenees, the mountain villages of the Alps and the most beautiful villages in France, here we zoom in on these little Swiss spots, often asleep and where time seems to have stood still. For our greatest pleasure!
1. Gimmelwald
Gimmelwald is a small Swiss village that is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful in the country for several reasons: its picturesque setting, its tranquility and the vibrant atmosphere of its colorful houses. Accessible only on foot or by cable car, this village, nestled at the bottom of the Lauterbrunnen valley, is car-free. An added bonus that adds to the unique charm of Gimmelwald, which could very well have been one of Europe's most beautiful villages. And amidst the flower-filled chalets overlooking the Jungfrau mountain range, the only thing that might disturb you is the sound of cowbells. We just love it!
2. Lauterbrunnen, one of Switzerland's most beautiful villages
Lauterbrunnen is a sublime Swiss village in the heart of one of the most spectacular Alpine valleys, surrounded by vast rock faces and imposing peaks. The valley, with its flower-filled alpine meadows and secluded mountain hotels, offers a charming summer setting and is home to one of Switzerland's largest nature reserves. Lauterbrunnen is reached by train from Interlaken, a most impressive journey. On arrival, the majestic waterfall, with its Swiss flag planted in the rock, greets you with its grandeur. Here, tourists in city shoes and mountaineers meet in a friendly atmosphere, under the watchful eye of the mountains. Charming!
3. Ascona
Ascona, a small, tranquil village on the Italian side of Switzerland, is often referred to as the pearl of Lake Maggiore. With its bucolic setting, Ascona has been a favorite haunt of artists and intellectuals since the early 20th century. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Ascona underwent a singular cultural experience: a group advocating a return to nature settled on a hill they named Monte Verità. Thanks to the initiative of Baroness Antoinette de Saint-Léger, the area became a center of utopian experimentation, attracting attention as well as political and artistic initiatives. A vast cultural and spiritual project developed around this movement, bringing together revolutionaries, philosophers and world-renowned artists.
4. Morcote
Morcote is one of Switzerland's most beautiful villages, with its architectural splendor, majestic panoramas and relaxing spots. This charming fishing village, popular with tourists in summer, lies at the tip of the Ceresio peninsula, on the shores of Lake Lugano, earning it the nickname "Pearl of Ceresio". It is home to two remarkable religious buildings, both for their location and for the frescoes they contain. They are reached by long, seemingly endless stone staircases that offer breathtaking views. The descent to the lake takes you along a number of picturesque lanes. Very accessible from Lugano, you can get there in 10 minutes by car, by public transport (train to Melide, then bus), or on foot from Melide for a 2h20 walk. Not to be missed!
5. Soglio, one of Switzerland's most beautiful villages
Soglio is a small, charming village of 300 souls, nestled in the Grisons region of Switzerland. A Swiss village built on a magnificent natural terrace, often bathed in sunshine. And it enchants its visitors with its cobbled streets and the flowers that brighten up the village. All around, you'll marvel at the impressive, majestic scenery and the many fabulous hiking trails. For lovers, Soglio guarantees a romantic atmosphere and a successful romantic trip.
6. Interlaken
Those who dream of high altitude, eternal snow, natural reflections, wooden chalets and green pastures will be enchanted by the Interlaken region. Situated between Lakes Thun and Brienz, and at the foot of the majestic Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau mountains, Interlaken boasts an exceptional location and breathtaking scenery. To fully appreciate this beauty, we recommend taking to the heights, whether hiking or riding the cog railway. Paragliders add a spectacular touch every day, landing in the heart of the town on a vast expanse of grass. Tourists flock to Interlaken in all seasons, and enjoy horse-drawn carriage rides through the town. A superb getaway before considering other mountain destinations to spend the summer in the fresh air.
7. Bremgarten
Nestled in a vast meander of the Reuss river, this peninsula is home to a veritable Swiss treasure. A medieval treasure: the village of Bremgarten. Both the upper and lower parts of the village were once surrounded by an imposing rampart, and it's a real pleasure to stroll through the narrow streets, weaving in and out of the historic buildings. Last but not least, the superb covered wooden bridge, built in the 16th century and topped by half-timbered turrets, is a must-see for both the building and the view over the town.
8. Sainte-Ursanne
Here, water reigns supreme - welcome to Clos-du-Doubs! The region celebrates its river, particularly in local gastronomy, where trout takes pride of place. History buffs and old stone enthusiasts will be delighted by a visit to Saint-Ursanne, an ancient medieval town nestled in the heart of lush countryside. This place, marked by a prestigious history, is home to centuries-old witnesses such as the collegiate church and the cloister. The old town, with its rustic houses perched above the river, stretches around the Pont Saint-Jean Népomucène. On the higher ground, the ruins of a 14th-century castle await you. In short, a superb Swiss village, one of our trendiest destinations worldwide.
9. Saint-Moritz, one of Switzerland's most beautiful villages
The gotha regularly visits Saint-Moritz, nicknamed the metropolis of the Alps. Nestled between lakes and peaks, this prestigious resort offers a multitude of luxury hotels and boutiques, wellness centers, as well as top-of-the-range facilities for skiing, golfing and other exclusive activities. St. Moritz is the flagship resort of Graubünden, and indeed of the whole of Switzerland. Despite its status, the town remains modest, with a permanent population of 5,500, plus 3,000 seasonal workers. Its success is due to a dry, sunny climate (the sun shines, according to the slogan, more than 322 days a year), beautiful scenery, a long tradition of hospitality, and a very select cosmopolitan clientele. This upmarket resort retains the charm and relaxed atmosphere of its proximity to Italy. The lake, the mountains and their encounters are truly enchanting.
10. Gruyères
A must-see tourist destination, Gruyères in French, or Greyerz in German, is one of the most emblematic localities in French-speaking Switzerland, just a few kilometers from Montreux, which hosts one of the world's top 10 cultural festivals. Lovers of geraniums, accordions and, of course, cheese, take note! Located 33 kilometers from Fribourg and 5 kilometers from Bulle, this small town at the gateway to the Alps gives its name to the famous cheese that originated in its mountains. Nestled in an enchanting setting at an altitude of 830 metres, it lies at the foot of the Moléson, the Dent de Broc and the Dent du Chamois. And the ancient fortified town of Gruyères is a real gem. Car-free, it invites visitors from all over the world to stroll along its famous cobbled main street, lined with magnificent homes proudly displaying heraldic cranes, symbols of the town. Dominating the town, the castle of the Counts of Gruyères, whose foundations date back to the 12th century, offers a majestic panorama.
11. Zermatt
Zermatt, situated at an altitude of 1,600 m, is one of Switzerland's most prestigious ski resorts, renowned in particular for its pedestrianized town center, and one of the most beautiful places to visit in the country. The resort is a charming village that combines authentic charm with year-round ski slopes and magnificent trails. It is distinguished by its state-of-the-art facilities, which make exceptionally beautiful peaks accessible, offering breathtaking panoramas. The sight of the legendary Matterhorn, at 4,478 m, commands respect with its majestic silhouette, often associated with the iconic shape of Toblerone chocolate bars. All around it, 29 peaks topping 4,000 m dominate the landscape. An iconic destination!
12. Grindelwald, one of Switzerland's most beautiful villages
Grindelwald is a village in the Bernese Alps perched at an altitude of 1,034 m, combining the charm of the neighboring high mountains with that of a green, wooded valley. Surrounded by imposing peaks such as the Eiger and Wetterhorn, Grindelwald is the ideal starting point for hiking in the region and a popular winter sports venue, a popularity well deserved. Highlights include the impressive Grindelwald Glacier Gorge, a natural wonder, and the magnificent Bachalp Lake, nestled at over 2,000 m altitude. As for the village, it's one of the country's most beautiful and oldest seaside resorts. One of a kind!
13. Luthern
On the border between the cantons of Lucerne and Bern, in the middle of a green postcard landscape, lies the village of Luthern, with its superb stately homes. These historic monuments are complemented by the parish church of S.Ulrice. A pleasant medieval atmosphere and a good starting point for hiking in the local valleys. Before taking your hiking boots to the best hiking destinations.
14. Poschiavo
The Val Poschiavo is an isolated mountain valley linking the Engadine to Italy's Valtellina (the Lake Como and Adda Valley region). For some 30 kilometers, the Poschiavo torrent flows south from Lac Blanc (2,300 m) at the Bernina Pass to its confluence with the Adda at Tirano, near the Italian border (429 m). The landscape here is of great beauty and unique character: nowhere else in Switzerland is there such a marked transition between sub-Mediterranean vegetation and Alpine and snow flora. Poschiavo, the capital of the unspoilt Valposchiavo region, is surrounded by majestic patrician houses lining a Piazza reminiscent of Italy. Set between lakes and mountains, it's a dream setting for a village bursting with charm.
15. Les Marécottes, one of Switzerland's most beautiful villages
The village of Les Marécottes, whose name refers to the marshes of the Trient Valley, embodies typical Swiss charm, with its wooden chalets set on stone foundations. Famous for housing one of Europe's highest zoos at an altitude of 1,100 m, it offers visitors the chance to discover over 150 species in an area of 35,000 m². In summer, the zoo offers a fun-filled visit, combining exploration of Alpine flora and fauna with the chance to cool off in a magnificent natural pool. In winter, the village is transformed into a small ski resort perfect for families, with 28 km of pistes designed for beginners. In short, a Swiss village like no other, which could very well be one of the best destinations for a mountain vacation.
