Switzerland is one of the most beautiful countries in the world with numerous postcard places. The landlocked country is dotted with rugged mountains, dramatic landscapes, scenic lakes and beautiful cities and even more beautiful villages nestled in the valley. If you want to go beyond Zurich and Geneva, Zernez, Stein am Rhein, Zermatt, and Kandersteg are some of the most charming places to visit in Switzerland. Apart from these, here are the other 10 Most Charming Villages To Visit In Switzerland.
1. Grindelwald
One of the oldest resorts of Switzerland, Grindelwald is also known as the ‘Glacier Village’. The picture-perfect village is surrounded by a number of mountains and glaciers, it is a popular holiday spot for hikers and keen adventurers. You can go for trekking, skiing, mountain biking and hop on the famous flying fox ride. There is Lake Bachalpsee offers some breathtaking views. At night when the village lights up with the enormous Alps behind it, it becomes even more beautiful.
2. Lauterbrunnen
Located in the Lauterbrunnen Valley, Lauterbrunnen has won many hearts over the years with its lush green meadows dotted with chalets and surrounded by exciting rocky cliffs and snow-capped mountains. Lauterbrunnen is also renowned as the ‘Valley of 72 waterfalls’ as it has 72 waterfalls flowing down the steep cliffs of the valley. Staubbach Falls and Trummelbach Waterfalls are two of the famous attractions in this Swiss village.
3. Guarda
Also called a Schellen Ursli’s, Guarda is another beautiful Swiss village known for its historic architecture, including 17th homes that have colourfully painted exteriors. You can hike the Piz Buin mountain and in the winter you can enjoy toboggan runs, ice rinks, and cross-country ski routes.
4. Appenzell
Cuddled in the middle of the rolling green hills is the tiny cantonal capital Appenzell famous for its traditional architecture and colourful façades. With the inviting main square, the brightly painted wooden houses and narrow lanes with its beautiful castle, the Catholic church, and mural-covered town hall, Appenzell is one of the most charming and attractive places to visit in Switzerland.
5. Iseltwald & Brienz
Located on the shores of Lake Brienz, Iseltwald & Brienz are two charming villages, you can explore one and then take a boat to another. With numerous chocolate-coloured chalets with bright coloured doors and windows decorated with, surrounded by huge mountains, Iseltwald is a perfect place to unplug.
On your way to Brienz, you can see the gorgeous Giessbach Falls. Brienz is known for its traditional wood carving. Visit Rothorn Mountain, the mountain rides are a great way to enjoy here. Explore the Bernese Alps, Lake Brienz, the Grimsel area and the museum to learn more about the country.
6. Andermatt
The village of Andermatt is located in a valley where eight mountain passes meet in the Alps, at the center of the Gothard Massif. In the winter skiing becomes the favorite activity in the village. If you visit in winter, you can enjoy hiking, mountain biking, climbing, and fishing. Andermatt is a stunning and peaceful village and is a favorite with photographers. After exploring the village you can ride the Glacier Express and make a stop at Zermatt another beautiful place to visit in Switzerland.
7. Wengen
Wengen is a popular destination among hikers and skiers. The car-free Alpine village is located in the Jungfrau region and from here you can enjoy the view of the Lauterbrunnen Valley, and the mountains like the Jungfrau and Schilthorn. There are many hiking trails here from the Mannlichen mountain to the mountains of Scheidegg and Jungfraujoch.
8. Gimmelwald
Another car-free Alpine village, Gimmelwald is located halfway up a mountain in the Bernese Oberland, in the Alps overlooking the Lauterbrunnen Valley. You can reach the village by hiking or cable car. Gimmelwald is a charming, laidback and beautiful village with the most spectacular views.
9. Spiez & Interlaken
Spiez & Interlaken are two of the most charming towns in Switzerland. Spiez is located on the edge of Lake Thun surrounded by the views of mountains and bright blue lake waters. Enjoy the view, go hiking, visit the castle and the 1000-year-old church within Spiez Castle.
Interlaken is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Switzerland that offers a bunch of activities to do. Surrounded by mountains, it is a popular spot for paragliding. From Interlaken, you should take the Jungfraujoch express and explore the Jungfrau region.
10. Murren & Soglio
Murren is a tiny village located at the foot of the iconic Schilthorn Peak. Naturally, this charming mountain village offers dozens of hiking trails with the of the Alps. You have to travel to the village on a cable car as the village is car-free or you can also choose to hike from the Lauterbrunnen Valley floor.
The village of Sogilo is also a tiny green village nestled in the hills surrounded by snow-capped mountains. In the summer wildflowers make this village, even more, picture-perfect. The Church of San Lorenzo with its bell tower is a popular landmark in the village. You can also go on hikes or visit the Palazzo Solis.
Have you been to any of these villages before? Which one would you like to visit? Do let us know your thoughts in the comments below.
