Swiss Alps spring
Switzerland’s alpine region is renowned as a winter wonderland, but there’s a case to be made for a seasonal change.
When you think of the Swiss Alps, you likely think of snow – and no wonder. It’s a snow sports hub, the birthplace of apres-ski, and an awe-inspiring landscape for a winter escape.
But as magical as the flurry of snowflakes and glint of white-tipped mountains are, unless you’re a skier or snowboarder, autumn and winter are not the best seasons in the Alps.
The appeal of Switzerland in spring is often overlooked. With the weather perfect (hot and sunny, but not scorching), the landscape primed (rolling green hills blanketed in wildflowers) and the activities delightful (no boards to be strapped to your feet), you can appreciate one of the world’s most iconic places in a fresh light.
Travel
It’s rare that the transit portion of a holiday is a highlight, but heading from Zurich to the Alps is not only a breeze, but a stunning journey from start to finish. Whether you choose to hire a car and drive (about 1½ hours) or travel by train, it’s easy, cost-effective and beautiful. If travelling by train, you’ll likely depart from Zurich’s main train station, Zurich Hauptbahnhof, where you’ll board a spacious, clean carriage. And, just like the country’s watches, Swiss trains run precisely on time.
The two to three-hour train ride takes you past crystal-clear blue lakes, around lush green hills and over the steepled brown rooftops of chalets and churches, before you land in your chosen destination, Interlaken, Zermatt or – my top choice – Andermatt. There’s no need for on-board entertainment; simply gaze out the window as the breathtaking scenery rolls by.
Stay
Switzerland is renowned for its luxury accommodation. The Chedi Andermatt hotel blends history, luxury and adventure into one. A member of the five-star hospitality group that has locations dotted across the world’s most beautiful cities, from Mumbai to Montenegro, The Chedi Andermatt delivers Swiss tradition with a Japanese twist.
While the exterior draws on the classic chalet look, inside, fire pits and bars sit under wooden slatted ceilings modelled after Japanese temples and adorned with white ceramic apples that mimic temple offerings. Fur and timber details in each guestroom contrast with low chabudai tables, around which guests sit on zabuton cushions. The hotel’s three restaurants mix both cuisines with a deft hand.
All interests are well catered to. For those preferring to stay in, the fully serviced courtyard, lobby and libraries are perfect for lounging; the spa and salon are equipped with yoga studio, gym, sauna and couples treatment rooms. For more in-house indulgence, there’s a cheese room plus cigar and wine venues.
Those seeking adventure will find it in abundance. Hike or bike through hills painted with wildflowers, hire a car (sporty, vintage or off-road) to drive through sweeping valleys (including Furka Pass, which featured in the James Bond film Goldfinger), or play a round on the property’s 18-hole golf course. The hotel offers both bike and car hire to make things as smooth as possible.
Do
Don’t be constrained by your locale — it’s easy and cost-effective to get around via the train network, meaning you can easily organise day trips to neighbouring towns to expand your options. Look to the towns of Grindelwald, Interlaken and Flims to see a little more of the Swiss countryside. If a trip lake-side is more your speed, the small town of Locarno sits alongside one of Switzerland’s famous glassy blue lakes, and is home to water-sports of all kinds, from wakeboarding to canoeing. Keen hikers have no shortage of options. In Andermatt, the Sewenhütte hike through the Uri canton is a perfect two-and-a-half-hour walk for nature lovers. Meanwhile, a trip up and down Meiggelenstock comes in at just under eight hours, for those wanting a challenge. Fishers have an abundance of choices, but will likely find themselves at the beautiful and well stocked Lake Göscheneralpsee or Lake Oberalpsee.
Art lovers can look to the small but impeccably curated galleries that are scattered throughout the region. Artrust SA in Melano and Plexus Art Gallery in Montreux are worth the day trip.
The Swiss are also fond of festivals. Whether yodelling parades; the annual cow march where doe-eyed cattle are dressed in flower crowns, flags and decorative bells and walked through most Alpine towns (although, you can head to Engstligenalp or Appenzell for a more immersive experience), there’s always an event to pencil in your calendar.
Eat and drink
Gourmands should look to wine tours, cheese tasting (Engelberg’s cheese factory is a great option here), and the dozens of Michelin-starred restaurants around the region (three of which belong to the Chedi Andermatt — Gütsch by Markus Neff and Zwyssighaus are two other great options). Swiss fare is hearty and filling – think schnitzel, cervelat sausages and potato-heavy dishes – but the Alps’ proximity to the borders of France and Italy means there’s access to lighter cuisines too.
The Swiss are also known for their love of wine, which ranges from full, dry and fruity chasselas to pinot noir. Chat with a Swiss wine-lover about their favourite drops and be prepared for a long and fascinating discussion. If you’re open to a day trip, head to Vini Bettoni, Vini Frasa and Rebberg Buchholz wineries. Lean into the locality and try one of the local dôle or gamay wines, which produce light, fruity reds.