OUT of 158 nations, the World Happiness Report classed Switzerland as the second happiest country in the world in 2016. Here’s a short list of some of the best activities and experiences in this cheerful (and affluent) central European country.
SolarBob
Relive your childhood fantasies with this bobsled experience (without the snow!) The town of Langenbruck, just outside of Basel, boasts a 1kilometre slide with a 540-degree helter-skelter. Bob gets his name from the solar-powered lift that carried visitors back to the top of the run.
City bike hire
Lausanne has many PubliBike hire points (available country-wide) which allow you to rent a low-cost bike and drop it at another station (even in another city!) In Zurich they allow people to use their city hire bikes for just a 20 CHF deposit. E-bikes and pedelecs (power assist) are popular in the city of Basel and are widely accessible.
Jungfraujoch
For adrenaline junkies and cultural enthusiasts alike, witnessing Europe’s highest train station at 3,454 metres would be a guaranteed mind-blowing experience. Starting in Kleine Scheidegg, it climbs through Eiger’s icy landscape and emerges at the Sphinx meteorological station. Aside from breathtaking views of the Aletsch Glacier, there’s also an Ice Palace and Snow Fun Park.
Trift Bridge
Originally designed to allow workers to access the nearby Trift hydroelectric plant, this bridge spans a 560-foot gap in the high Swiss Alps and is made of thick steel cables and wooden planks. In essence, it stands as a modern day suspension bridge that stretches over a portion of Lake Triftsee, and is a must-see for alpine enthusiasts.
Freestyle Academy
Considering Switzerland is Europe’s extreme sports’ hub, it makes sense that the country offers one central place to satisfy those urges. In Laax you will find 1,000 square metres of space for snowboarding, freeskiing, skating, climbing, freerunning and biking.
Aare outdoor baths
If you find yourself in Bern, check out the free outdoor baths at Marzili. They are some of the oldest in the country and are situated right by the grand parliament building.
Rheinfall
Europe’s largest plain waterfall, standing at 23 metres, can be witnessed via trails that thread up and alongside its shore.
Hells Grottoes
You can find these twisted, tangled stone formations and accompanying subterranean lakes in Barr. Complemented by an illuminated, eerie atmosphere, these mysteriously beautiful caverns have become extremely popular with tourists over the years.
