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Switch off TV – Discover the wonders of Switzerland!

Video on demand (VOD) platforms are a dime a dozen. Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Canal+, Apple TV+, Disney+ invite us to spend our evenings and weekends in front of the TV, and it’s tempting to stay cosy at home, looking for a virtual getaway.

However, the real world offers a wealth of experiences and discoveries that can’t be replicated by any TV series or film.

In this article, we explain why getting out and exploring Switzerland can be far more rewarding and enriching than spending your time in front of the television.

So pull the plug and immerse yourself in Switzerland’s natural, cultural and historical wonders, for an unforgettable experience. Are you coming??

Table of contents:

Switzerland: 41,285 km² of varied landscapes

Majestic mountains, crystal-clear lakes, charming villages

Switzerland is a veritable treasure trove for nature lovers, offering a breathtaking diversity of landscapes. From majestic Alpine vistas to gentle green valleys and crystal-clear lakes, each region of Switzerland has unique features that are sure to captivate and amaze visitors.

The Swiss Alps are world-famous for their towering peaks, glistening glaciers and lush green valleys dotted with picturesque chalets. Whether it’s an alpine hike, a skiing session in one of the many world-famous resorts or simply taking in the panoramic views from a cable car, the Swiss Alps offer an unforgettable mountain experience.

In contrast, lake regions such as Lake Geneva, Lake Zurich and Lake Lugano offer a peaceful and serene atmosphere. With their crystal-clear waters and shores dotted with vineyards and picturesque villages, these lakes offer countless opportunities for relaxation and recreation, whether sailing on a traditional steamboat, strolling along the banks or sampling local culinary specialities in one of the many waterside restaurants.

What’s more, Switzerland is home to a wide variety of landscapes, from the lush forests of the Jura to the flower-filled meadows of the Alpine foothills. Each region offers a unique and authentic experience, allowing visitors to discover the richness and variety of Swiss nature.

By exploring these diverse landscapes in person, TV enthusiasts have the chance to reconnect with nature, recharge their batteries and discover new and inspiring perspectives. Switzerland offers a veritable palette of natural settings to explore, guaranteeing endless adventures for those willing to step out of their comfort zone and discover what the country has to offer.

Well-developed public transport to access all regions of the country

Switzerland is renowned for its efficient and well-organised public transport system, making it an extremely accessible country for travellers and explorers. Whether you want to travel to the heights of the Alps or explore the remote areas of the Swiss valleys, transport options are plentiful and easy to use.

The Swiss railways, operated by SBB (Swiss Federal Railways), offer a convenient and comfortable way to get around the country. Swiss trains are renowned for their punctuality, cleanliness and efficiency, making them an ideal way to explore the different regions of Switzerland. What’s more, the rail network is well interconnected, making it easy for travellers to reach even the most remote parts of the country.

In addition to the trains, the Swiss bus network is also highly developed, offering links to destinations that are not served by train. These buses offer extra flexibility for travellers wishing to explore more remote regions or areas less accessible by train.

What’s more, travellers often benefit from attractive discounts with travel cards such as the Swiss Travel Pass, which offers unlimited access to the country’s trains, buses and boats for a given period. These special offers make exploring Switzerland even more attractive and accessible for travellers.

Travellers can benefit from attractive discounts with travel cards such as the Swiss Travel Pass, which offers unlimited access to the country’s trains, buses and boats for a given period. These special offers make exploring Switzerland even more attractive and accessible for travellers from all backgrounds, while promoting sustainable tourism.

Thanks to its well-developed public transport network, Switzerland offers exceptional accessibility to its most picturesque locations. Whether by train, bus or boat, TV enthusiasts can easily get out and explore the country’s natural and cultural wonders, offering an unforgettable and rewarding experience.

Immersive vs. Passive Experience

Why is it worth discovering places in person rather than watching TV?

When you go out to explore Switzerland, you engage in an immersive experience that stimulates all your senses and connects you directly with your surroundings. Unlike television, which offers a predominantly visual and auditory experience, exploring Switzerland fully engages your senses and allows you to experience every moment to the full.

The view: As you step out to discover Switzerland’s spectacular landscapes, you are immediately enveloped by the natural beauty that surrounds you. Whether it’s gazing at the snow-capped peaks of the Alps from a panoramic summit or admiring the reflection of the mountains in the crystal-clear waters of an Alpine lake, every Swiss landscape offers a breathtaking visual experience that can’t be reproduced on screen.

Hearing: As you explore Switzerland, you’ll be enchanted by the soothing natural sounds that fill the air. Listen to the gentle lapping of the water against the banks of the lake, the whisper of the wind through the leaves of the trees or the song of the birds in the alpine forests. These natural sounds offer an immersive auditory experience that adds an extra dimension to your exploration.

Touch: As you venture through the Swiss landscape, you can physically feel the texture of the rocks beneath your feet, the coolness of the water in the rivers and the warmth of the sun on your skin. This physical connection with your surroundings allows you to feel truly present and engaged in your experience, something that’s often absent when you’re watching television.

The sense of smell: Switzerland is also a land of olfactory delights, with its fragrant meadows, aromatic pine forests and local produce markets. Breathing in the pure mountain air or sampling the tantalising aromas of Swiss culinary specialities, you are transported into a world of rich and varied scents that stimulate your senses and awaken your taste buds.

Exploring Switzerland offers an incomparable immersive experience that engages all your senses and allows you to connect fully with your surroundings. In comparison, watching television offers a passive, one-dimensional experience that can’t compete with the sensory richness of exploring in person. By getting out and exploring Switzerland, you’re giving yourself a truly enriching experience that will stay with you for years to come.

What are the benefits of outdoor exploration?

Physical activity: Outdoor exploration usually involves some form of physical activity, whether it’s walking, hiking, cycling or even swimming. These activities strengthen muscles, improve circulation and help maintain an active, healthy lifestyle.

Exposure to the sun: Getting outdoors exposes you to the benefits of natural sunlight, which promotes the production of vitamin D in the body. Adequate exposure to the sun is essential for bone health, the immune system and general well-being.

Breathing fresh air: Far from urban pollution, the fresh mountain or forest air of Switzerland is purified and rich in oxygen, which improves lung function, cardiovascular health and can even help reduce stress and anxiety.

Stress reduction: Outdoor exploration offers a natural escape from everyday stress, allowing you to disconnect from the cares of everyday life and focus on the present moment. The natural beauty and tranquillity of the Swiss landscape acts as a natural antidote to stress and anxiety.

Improved mood: Physical activity in the great outdoors stimulates the release of endorphins, the happy hormones, which can lead to an improvement in mood and a general feeling of well-being. What’s more, the beauty of the Swiss landscape and the satisfaction of discovery create positive memories that can lift the spirit long after the experience.

Cognitive stimulation: Exploring new environments and solving natural challenges stimulates the mind, encourages creativity and improves cognitive function. In contrast, the passivity of watching television does not stimulate the brain in the same way and can lead to mental stagnation.

Physical activity, exposure to nature and mental stimulation offer an enriching experience that contributes to a healthy, balanced life.

Discover Switzerland's local culture

Switzerland: a land of tradition, history and gastronomy

Switzerland is much more than a country of magnificent landscapes; it is also a veritable melting pot of cultural diversity, with rich and varied traditions, customs and heritage. By exploring Switzerland, you have the opportunity to immerse yourself in this rich cultural mosaic and learn more about the different aspects that make this country such a unique destination.

1. Traditions : Switzerland is proud of its age-old traditions, which are still very much alive today. From folk festivals in Alpine villages to traditional costume parades and religious celebrations, each Swiss region has its own customs and rituals that bear witness to its history and cultural identity.

2. Gastronomy: Switzerland is also renowned for its rich and varied gastronomy, influenced by its European neighbours but also by its own culinary traditions. From famous Swiss cheeses such as Gruyère and Emmental to chocolate delights and famous fondues and raclettes, each region of Switzerland offers a unique and tasty gastronomic experience to discover and enjoy.

3. Art and architecture: Swiss architecture is a harmonious blend of traditional and contemporary styles, with well-preserved villages dating back centuries and vibrant cities with modern, avant-garde buildings. In addition, Switzerland is home to a multitude of museums, art galleries and cultural centres showcasing Swiss art as well as works by international artists.

4. History: As you explore Switzerland, you’ll also discover its rich historical heritage, from Roman remains and medieval castles to historic sites linked to the Protestant Reformation and Swiss neutrality. Each monument and historic site tells a part of Switzerland’s fascinating story and offers a unique opportunity to learn more about the country’s past.

Explore Switzerland to discover its culture

Getting out and exploring Switzerland offers much more than just discovering the natural landscapes and sights; it’s also a valuable opportunity for personal enrichment, connection with the local community and intercultural exchange. By immersing themselves in Swiss culture, travellers can truly enjoy an authentic and memorable experience that goes far beyond the boundaries of traditional tourism:

1. Interaction with the locals: As you head out to explore Switzerland, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to interact with the locals, whether it’s chatting to shopkeepers at a traditional market, exchanging smiles and greetings with hikers you pass along the way, or sharing a meal at a picturesque mountain inn. These authentic interactions not only give you a better understanding of the local culture, but also help you forge precious bonds with the locals, creating warm and lasting memories.

2. Immersion in daily life: As you explore Swiss towns and villages, you’ll have the opportunity to immerse yourself in local daily life, observing the habits and traditions of Swiss residents. Whether it’s visiting a weekly market, attending a village fete or taking part in a traditional craft activity, you’ll discover local life from an authentic and enriching perspective.

3. Cultural learning: Discovering Switzerland also offers many opportunities for cultural learning, whether by taking part in guided tours of local museums, attending cultural performances or discovering traditional crafts. By immersing yourself in Swiss culture, you will have the opportunity to acquire new knowledge, develop your understanding of the world around you, and appreciate the richness and diversity of Swiss culture.

4. Intercultural exchange: Finally, going out to explore Switzerland also promotes intercultural exchange, allowing you to share your own experiences, traditions and perspectives with local people, and in turn learn from their culture and traditions. These mutual exchanges strengthen human bonds and help to promote understanding and respect between different cultures and communities.

Switzerland: memorable experiences

Creating unforgettable memories

Getting out to explore Switzerland offers a unique opportunity to create unforgettable memories that enrich your life and nourish your spirit, and offers you:

Creating unique memories: By getting out to explore Switzerland, you have the opportunity to enjoy unique and memorable experiences that you will treasure forever. Whether it’s watching the sun set from a mountain peak, sailing on the crystal-clear waters of an Alpine lake, or sampling local culinary specialities in a picturesque restaurant, every moment spent discovering Switzerland offers a precious opportunity to create lasting and meaningful memories.

Strengthening bonds: The experiences shared while exploring Switzerland can also strengthen bonds with those closest to you, whether that’s travelling with friends, sharing adventures with family, or meeting new people while exploring. These moments of connection and sharing help to strengthen relationships and create bonds that will last well beyond your trip to Switzerland.

Inspiration: Experiences gained from exploring Switzerland can also be a source of inspiration and motivation for the future. Whether it’s discovering new hobbies and interests, broadening your horizons or finding new passions, every experience in Switzerland can open new doors and inspire you to pursue your dreams with enthusiasm and determination.

Photographic memories: As you explore Switzerland, you’ll also have the opportunity to capture the most memorable moments through photographs and videos, which will become tangible souvenirs of your trip. Whether it’s immortalising a breathtaking landscape, capturing moments of joy and adventure with loved ones, or documenting your culinary experiences, photographic memories allow you to relive those special moments again and again, even after you’ve returned home.

Suggestions of activities and places to visit in Switzerland

Hiking in the Alps: The Swiss Alps offer countless hiking opportunities for all abilities, with marked trails winding through spectacular scenery. From leisurely strolls along Alpine lakes to more strenuous climbs to snow-capped peaks, hiking in Switzerland is an unmissable experience for nature lovers.

Visit historic cities: Switzerland is home to several fascinating historic cities, such as Zurich, Berne, Lucerne and Geneva, each with its own unique charm and history. Explore medieval alleyways, admire iconic monuments and discover the cultural and artistic wealth of these vibrant cities.

Lake cruising: Swiss lakes such as Lake Geneva, Lake Zurich and Lake Lucerne offer breathtaking natural beauty and are perfect for a relaxing cruise. Climb aboard a traditional steamboat and let the tranquil waters lull you to sleep as you take in the picturesque scenery.

Exploring mountain villages: Swiss mountain villages such as Zermatt, Grindelwald and Wengen offer an authentic taste of Alpine life. Stroll the cobbled streets, discover the traditional architecture of the wooden chalets and soak up the warm and welcoming atmosphere of these charming Alpine villages.

Cheese and wine tasting: Switzerland is renowned for its delicious cuisine, especially its famous cheeses such as Gruyère, Emmental and Raclette. Take a trip to the local cheese dairies to sample these authentic cheese delights, accompanied by a perfectly matched glass of Swiss wine.

Outdoor adventure: For adventure seekers, Switzerland offers a multitude of exciting outdoor activities, such as paragliding over the Alps, mountain biking along mountain trails, rafting on rushing rivers and much more. Let the adrenalin flow and enjoy unforgettable experiences in the heart of Swiss nature.

Why use Discovr to explore Switzerland?

Multilingual search engine

Our powerful search engine allows you to find fascinating destinations according to your preferences and language. Whether you’re passionate about nature, history, art or leisure, Discovr offers you accurate and relevant results.

Thematic classification

Immerse yourself in Switzerland’s cultural and natural wealth thanks to our thematic classification. Explore categories such as Natural Places, Works of Art, Places of Recreation, Historic Sites, and much more. Each category offers a carefully-curated selection of Switzerland’s gems, which you should see at least once in your life.

Itinerary planner

Simplify your trip planning with our itinerary planning tool. Whether you have a whole week or just a few days to explore, we help you maximise your time by creating personalised itineraries that cover the places that captivate you most.

Available anywhere, anytime

Discovr can be accessed at any time, directly from your smartphone. So the treasures of Switzerland are at your fingertips, whether you’re at home, travelling or out and about, ready to explore.

Instant geolocation

Take advantage of geolocation to discover the places around you in real time. No need to guess where the exceptional sites are, we’ll guide you with precision.

Valuable time savings

Simplify your itinerary planning with our suggestions. Save time and make the most of each location without worrying about logistics.