Switzerland

Holidays by Destination Europe Switzerland 

The fact that Switzerland is one of the world's richest countries is probably the main reason that it is not a major holiday destination. Prices can be high, particularly for basics like food, (though lower than London's, argues the tourist office). However, tourism has been a major earner since the 19th century and the Swiss know how to do it well.

Increasingly, this means catering not just to cultural or active tourists, but their offspring as well. Even in the last five years the information for families has grown markedly, largely in lake or mountain resorts, as have the number of hotels which specifically indicate that they welcome children. Newer hotels now have larger rooms suitable for sharing, or renovations have in some cases introduced the option of connecting rooms.

For families the countryside is the main draw, with plenty of good fresh air (the Swiss are keen NIMBYs when it comes to pollution), and laws protecting forests, lakes and marshlands in place since the '50s. Not surprisingly, the country is rich in wildlife starting from squirrels and butterflies, and the wildflowers can be outstanding, particularly in May.

If you want to do more than just admire the surroundings, there is a growing range of sporting activities, starting with the classic walking right up to river rafting, parasailing and more, including for children and teens, accessibility depending on age.

There is also culture, largely in the towns which, unlike much of the rest of Europe, were preserved from bombing by the country's neutrality during WWII. What is more, even in the dark days of ‘60s planning, the Swiss took care of their towns and villages, and most have retained the attractions of the past, enhanced by the comforts of the present. Medieval centres have survived and are home to some first class art collections, plus other museums.

Finally there is the weather, good in summer but not as hot as the Mediterranean. It adds up to an option which should suit most families.



One practical point to note is that place names can differ markedly in the different languages. Graubunden for example becomes Grisons in French. The Rough Guide usefully gives a table of these for each area.