Switzerland

This small landlocked country, half the size of Scotland, whacks a punch presenting an assortment of fun things to see and do: its culture, geography and the beautiful Swiss people's generous manners are only a few of the offerings that draw visitors to Switzerland.

Don't just think cheese and chocolate fondue because when natural beauty was being assigned, Switzerland did not miss out. The towering pyramid-shaped Matterhorn stands over 4,478 metres high and is one of the highest summits in the Alps and Europe. Along with many other world-famous soaring peaks, alpine lakes and hiking trails to see just for starters, add to your growing list the UNESCO World Heritage Aletsch Glacier claimed to be the longest and largest in Europe. You can visit by cable car or an energetic hike.

Sophistication and culture are not left wanting with the array of bars and restaurants on offer in every city and town. Sample beer from one of Europe's highest breweries or sip a cocktail at the multitude of bars from relaxed wine cellars to venues with live music, dance parties, and comedy.

Paleo Festival in Nyon, is Switzerland's largest open-air festival. Up to 230,000 visitors appreciate some 250 concerts and shows spread over six days. Held around the third week of July, tickets sell fast with the big names from around the world performing. It's a blast as the entire city celebrates music. There are loads of festivals and cultural events throughout this scenic country. In Basel, Basler Fasnacht, is considered Switzerland's biggest carnival, but it is an early start of 4 am for three days of fun, so set the alarm.

Maybe take a river cruise, visit the beautiful Chillon Castle on the shore of the delightful Lake Geneva or take a ride on Europe's highest railway taking the Jungfrau train to a height of 3,454m and through a tunnel that took 16 years to build!

There are so many magical experiences to be had in gorgeous Switzerland.

Best time to visit Switzerland

All year there is something to do in Switzerland. Pick what's on your bucket list and plan from there. January and February are winter and high season with snow almost guaranteed above 1500m.

Spring starts in March, but in the mountains, it's still winter. April and May are known as the low season with most ski resorts closed but its time for the hikers to start hitting the trails. From June the days get longer, and the sun may not set till 9.30 pm.

July and August see the high season prices return as people take time to be out and about exploring. October and November are generally quieter times till mid-December with short days but lots of fun leading into Christmas.