Of all the world’s mountain ranges, the Swiss Alps top many peoples’ lists for the most breathtakingly beautiful. Swiss Alps is a reference to that part of the mountain range that is located in Switzerland, and is also referred to as the Central Alps, simply because of their location in proximity to the other stretches of mountains.

Situated on the Italy-Switzerland border, Dufourspitze is the highest of all peaks in the Swiss Alps, at over 15,000 feet. Switzerland shares particular mountain ranges of the Alps with Italy, France, Austria, and Liechtenstein. The vast Alps cover an unbelievable 65 percent of all of the landmass in the country of Switzerland, so it is not hard to understand why most postcards from Switzerland feature the snow-capped wonders.

Tourists embarking on a Swiss Alps vacation will discover that there is not one type of Alps experience, but many. Based on the cultural diversity and the mixture of topography from one corner of the country to the other, you might experience a snowy skiing voyage in Graubunden to the northeast near Germany, while another enjoys a boat ride on Lake Neuchatel to the west, bordering France. There are so many things to do in the Swiss Alps, it is simply a matter of determining the ideal vacation itinerary for you. So many treasures await the eager traveler in the Switzerland mountains. Not many countries can boast world-class winter sports, some of the finest cuisine from a host of European cultures, high-end designer boutiques, and eye-grabbing natural wonders, from Swiss lakes, to vineyards, to deep valleys and even higher mountain peaks.

Switzerland Map

When considering a Swiss Alps vacation, keep in mind that many of Switzerland’s most popular attractions are well connected by cable car and train, so you do not have to limit yourself to one area. Many people will book hiking tours through the Bernese Oberland Highlands, for instance, and then catch a train to the canton of Graubunden for some world-class skiing. Of all the things to do in the Swiss Alps, the most popular has got to be skiing. Two winter Olympics have been held in Switzerland, and yearly, the most talented downhill skiers from around the world converge on the Swiss Alps for competitions, and for fun.

Hiking is a must on any Swiss Alps vacation, as it is simply hard to rival the raw landscape of not only the Alps, but also the country’s lakes, valleys, and rivers. Many trails in Switzerland give travelers access to mountain passes that you will not see the likes of anywhere else in the world. High peaks such as Jungfrau and the Matterhorn are well known around the world, and for good reason. Outdoor lovers heading to this part of Western Europe, oftentimes schedule their entire trip around activities like hiking in the Alps, and exploring the many cathedrals and castles on the Swiss countryside. It is a vacation in and of itself simply to explore the canton of Bern and the Bernese Oberland region, let alone the whole country.

So after doing some research, booking travel, and deciding where to stay, you may begin to plan your itinerary. Give this process plenty of time, as there are so many things to do in the Swiss Alps. Whether you are an outdoor enthusiast looking for a hiking or skiing adventure, or would simply like some relaxation and enjoyment at some of the world’s most enviable resorts, lodges, shops and restaurants, Switzerland will surely not disappoint.