Snowcapped alps, trim old towns, lakes and punctual trains are what you might expect in Switzerland. But delve beneath the impeccable surface of this manicured country and you’ll find it’s far quirkier and more surprising than you might imagine.
Neighborhood watch
Beyond picturesque old towns and pretty lakeshore promenades, not everything is polite and proper about Swiss cities. Explore alternative districts and you’ll be delighted by their vibrancy, creativity and edgy appeal.
A good place to start is Zurich West, a former industrial district on the ‘wrong’ side of the tracks whose factories have been transformed into hip hotels, restaurants and stores. Shopping tip? Look out for Swiss brands such as Erfolg (knitwear and shirts), Einzigart (homeware) and Freitag (bags).



Room with a view
Less than three miles north of Carouge, on the edge of Lake Geneva, you’ll find Hotel d’Angleterre. The hotel was built in 1872 and overlooks the Jet d’Eau fountain, one of the city’s most famous landmarks. Guest experiences include a trip to the charming medieval village of Gruyères in a Bentley Arnage; a three-hour fishing tour with a local fisherman on Lake Geneva where your catch is then cooked in the hotel restaurant, and the chance to become a watchmaker for a day and create your own unique timepiece.


Food for thought
EXCEPTIONAL DINING

Ticket to ride
ALL ABOARD!
Trundle along the Emmenthal Valley… where cow-chewed meadows are covered in wildflowers, and farmhouses decked in geraniums.

Walk this way

