Switzerland
Landlocked. Erudite. Rugged. Swanky Switzerland is as chic as it is sporty.
Switzerland, the land of four languages, is crammed with castles, museums, and mansions, yet is known almost exclusively for its awesome landscape – most notably the mountains: Matterhorn, Eiger and Jungfrau. From fine dining in the cities to heli-skiing across The Alps, your schedule will be unfalteringly efficient and every detail will be perfect. Just remember to pack every lens you have.
Experiences
Ski or snow-shoe to a remote, private cabin, 2000m above sea level between soaring mountains; share a huge raclette washed down with crisp white wine; ski along a glacier to a frozen lake, enter a hidden ice tunnel to find a secret agent who will lead you to a charming mountain chalet with a view of the Mont Blanc from the hot tub; picnic on a glacier around a roaring fire; overlook the Matterhorn while you dine in the mountain hut of a local cattle farmer who will lay on the best local produce; sample the silky local chocolate and a shot of local kirsch; listen to yodeling; enjoy a torch lit descent back to your chalet at midnight.
Where to Stay
A mansion chalet in St. Moritz, accessible by private airfield; ski-in, ski-out chalet-apartments in Zermatt; or one of the many grand hotels and swanky mountain resorts that dot the lake shores.
When to Stay
In the summer, from June to September, enjoy panoramic views and blue skies that call for hiking, cycling, and climbing in the peaks. For skiing and snowboarding, aim for December to April.