A Week in Winter Wonderlands of Switzerland

Winters for any Mumbaikar is that time when you bring out your hoodie and turn down the speed of the fan to the minimum. So, obviously, when I was told that my visit to Switzerland will have me braving temperatures that would be below zero degrees, I went into panic mode. How many jackets should I carry? Should I wear layers of thermals, will I need more than eight pairs of socks, and where can I buy snowshoes? I had just too many questions. The answers to which I found during my week-long stay, which also happened to be the best time of the year to visit this part of the world — during Christmas. Traditionally a summer holiday destination, Switzerland is also a great winter vacation option. Here’s why...

Snow stories

Aletsch Arena and A room with a snowy view

Hopping off the flight at Zurich, I ran to the changing room to layer up. The blast of cold wind against my face felt refreshing. I couldn’t get enough of it. Then, my companions and I hopped on a train to make our way to Morel. The Swiss are very proud of their transport system, which works with the precision that things in this country are known for. Getting yourself a Swiss Rail Pass is the most convenient way to travel. Sitting by the window, I saw scenes of beautiful landscapes covered in pristine white snow zip past me. We reached Eggishorn Viewpoint for a view of the famous Aletsch Glacier, but the weather condition wouldn’t permit it. Instead, we opted to feast on local dishes like Goulash, Rosti, and have a glass of Rivella, a drink that’s made from milk serum (I was told). That sure left me feeling a bit cheated at having been made to drink the plain, boring white version for most of my childhood. It was then time to head to Hotel Royal, Art Furrer Hotels, where my room offered a view of the wonderful snowy landscape.

Ready, steady, ski

Skiing gear is carefully selected to ensure comfort

The second day began with me wearing skiing gear. I was mighty impressed with the way my skis were selected and adjusted, making sure I was absolutely comfortable. That didn’t mean that I didn’t feel like an alien while striding towards the skiing location. Skiing proved to be a great experience thanks to my instructors who were very patient. After about two hours, we headed to the Aletsch Sports Cafe, which offers you food as well as skiing equipment. The second night at Riederalp, which is a family-friendly, car-free summer and winter holiday resort in the Upper Valais, was spent sipping on some local wine and tasting Raclette, a Swiss dish that is made after heating the cheese and scraping off the melted part.

Say cheese

(Clockwise from left) Gruyèr Cheese Factory; Gruyères; and Chillon Castle, Montreux

You can’t be in Switzerland and not be fascinated with the plethora of cheese that’s available here. The town of Gruyères is home to the famous Gruyère Cheese Factory. The next morning, I hopped on to a train from Montreux to get to this quaint town. After spending some time at the factory, it was time to visit the Gruyères castle. Stepping into the square, I was thrilled to see how beautiful the place looked with Christmas decorations. A walk around the castle and a stop for hot chocolate later, I returned to Montreux to head to the majestic Chillon Castle. The setting sun and the picturesque backdrop are breathtaking and the perfect sight to end your day with. Before calling it a night, I stopped by Queen: The Studio Experience dedicated to the British band, a must-visit for every fan.

A day well spent

Zürich

I arrived at Zürich on an overcast day, but the city is always so gorgeous. After a short walk around Marktgasse, I headed to Hitl for lunch. This is my first vegetarian meal in the last few days. It is the oldest vegetarian eatery in the world and serves food of various cuisines. Very popular with locals and tourists, besides a la carte, it also has a buffet option, where you pay by the plate. This stop should definitely be on your itinerary. If you are looking to unwind after a bout of walking, spend a relaxing evening at Thermalbad & Spa Zürich at B2 Boutique Hotels and Spa. The Irish-Roman bath here is the most famous one, which has you making rounds of various pools with water at different temperatures and a few sauna rooms. The experience is just what one needs after hours of walking.

Meeting Chaplin

Vevey and Chaplin’s World, Corsier sur Vevey

From Montreux, we visited the quaint town of Vevey, which is home to unique boutiques and wonderful chocolate shops. The promenade next to the Lake Geneva offers a stunning view. Besides its great shopping option and the landscape, Vevey is also home to some unique museums like the Nutrition Museum, which gives an insight into the food we eat and Nest, which charts the history of the Nestle company. The building may look like any other from the outside, but the interiors are shaped like a nest. Already impressed with the town, I began my journey to visit Charlie Chaplin’s home. Chaplin’s World, Corsier sur Vevey, is the place to be. While most of us know of his work in some form, the brilliance of this man is catalogued with great care and precision here. What’s amazing is that this proves to be a highly interactive session, with scenes from some of Chaplin’s most famous works being created. I ended my trip here with a visit to the house, Manoir de Ban, where he lived for 25 years, from 1952 until his death in 1977.

X’mas fever

View of Matterhorn and Montreux Noel

Just as I headed to Montreux, the sky cleared up and I got an amazing view of the Matterhorn. Another comfortable train ride later, I found myself at Montreux Riveriera. The Christmas fervour hits you here big time. The Christmas Market here is really popular. Locals set up shops and offer you everything from Mulled Wine to candies and knick-knacks that you can take home.

To the Christmas markets

Zürich and Singing Christmas tree at Werdmühleplatzas

On my last day in Zürich, I spent the day walking around the town that was busy celebrating Christmas. X’mas markets are spread all over the city. The one at Zürich train station is the largest indoor X’mas market and its unique feature is the Swarovski Christmas tree that has over 6,000 shimmering pieces, making it a spectacular sight. Giving this tree major competition is the singing Christmas tree at the market at Werdmühleplatz where kids stand on various levels and sing festive songs. Then, there’s Circus Conelli, which caters especially to children. The market near the Opera House is probably the busiest one. I ended my night at Bahnhofstrasse under millions of light here, which seemed to be the perfect way to bid adieu to this wonderful experience.