Best outdoor activities in Switzerland: our top picks

Switzerland is made for lacing up your boots and getting out into the countryside. Lakes, forests, and high trails are easy to reach, and the views change with every season. Below you’ll find the best outdoor activities in Switzerland, with quick notes on how to get there and the best time to go.

1. First Cliff Walk, Grindelwald

The First Cliff Walk runs along the edge of First mountain with a suspension bridge about 150 feet (45 m) long and a platform that hangs over a 6,500-foot (2,000 m) drop. 
From there you can see the Eiger’s north face, surrounding glaciers, and sharp peaks all around. If you look down, you might even notice golden eagles flying below. The metal grating under your feet makes the height impossible to forget. It’s easy enough for most people to do but still gives you that feeling of real exposure.

How to get to First Cliff Walk

Take the gondola from Grindelwald village to the First summit station, which takes about 25 minutes. The walkway begins right by the station. You can get combination tickets that link it with other activities on First. Mornings are the best time if you want fewer people around and good light on the mountains.

When to visit First Cliff Walk

The walkway is usually open from June through October when the path is clear of snow. Early July has Alpine flowers, while September often has the clearest skies. Weekday mornings are quieter. It closes in winter and during storms because of ice.

2. Snowboarding in Verbier’s 4 Vallées

The 4 Vallées covers about 255 miles (410 km) of runs, making it one of the biggest ski areas in Europe, and Verbier is the main base for snowboarding.

You’ll find long descents, natural halfpipes, and famous freeride lines off Mont Fort at 10,925 feet (3,330 m). It’s easy to spend a full day crossing from valley to valley without repeating a run.

Verbier has a strong freeride culture, with guides who know the powder routes and mountain restaurants that break up the day. For freestyle, the La Chaux snowpark has large jumps and rails.

How to get to 4 Vallées

Fly into Geneva, then take the train to Le Châble, which takes around 2.5 hours. From there, a cable car brings you directly into Verbier. The village has rental shops with snowboards and backcountry gear. Lift passes cover the full area, so a multi-day pass usually works out best.

When to visit 4 Vallées

The season runs from December to April. January and February have the deepest snow, while March brings longer days with good conditions. Try to avoid European school holidays if you prefer quieter slopes. Accommodation fills quickly during peak weeks, so it’s worth booking early.
 

3. Mürren–Gimmelwald Via Ferrata

This 1.4 mile (2.2km) via ferrata links the car-free villages of Mürren and Gimmelwald, running along exposed limestone cliffs about 3,300 feet (1,000m) above the Lauterbrunnen Valley.

Steel cables, iron rungs, and a 230 foot (70m) suspension bridge help you across terrain that would normally need technical climbing skills. The route starts off straightforward, then gradually builds into airy traverses and narrow ledges.

You pass through waterfalls, cross the well-known “Nepal Bridge,” and spend much of the time with the Jungfrau massif filling your view. Unlike many via ferratas, this one has escape routes, so you can step off if you’ve had enough. By the end you realize you’ve climbed a serious mountain wall in a safe way.

How to get to Mürren–Gimmelwald Via Ferrata

From Stechelberg, take the cable car to Gimmelwald, or go by train to Mürren. You can rent via ferrata gear in Interlaken or in Mürren. The route begins close to Mürren’s lower cable car station. Plan around 3 to 4 hours for the climb, not including the return.

When to visit Mürren–Gimmelwald Via Ferrata

The route is usually clear of snow from mid-June through October. July and August have the most stable conditions, though it will be busier. September is cooler and brings autumn colors. Starting in the morning helps avoid summer afternoon storms.

4. Camping in Val Müstair (Engadin)

Val Müstair, in Switzerland’s far east, is a quiet valley where camping means falling asleep to mountain streams and sometimes seeing ibex nearby. The valley is part of a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, with designated camping areas close to Romansh-speaking villages.

Camping Muglin is a good base, set along a river under larch trees. At night the sky is clear enough to see the Milky Way, and during the day you can visit monasteries, farms, and trails where you are more likely to run into marmots than people.

The area also borders with the Swiss National Park. Picking up local bread, Engadin nut tart, and mountain cheese from village shops makes camp meals more memorable.

How to get to Val Müstair

Drive in over the Ofen Pass or take the PostBus from Zernez, which connects with trains from Zurich. The road continues to the Italian border. Camping Muglin is near Santa Maria. It is best to stock up on supplies in larger towns before arriving.

When to visit Val Müstair

Camping is possible from June through September. July and August bring the warmest nights, while September means golden larch forests and the deer rut. The valley is drier than the western Alps, though campsites can still fill up during Swiss summer holidays, so book ahead if you want to be sure of a place.
 

5. Canoeing or paddleboarding on Lake Brienz

Lake Brienz’s turquoise color comes from glacial minerals suspended in the water, and paddling here gives you front-row views of cliffs lined with waterfalls.

Mornings are usually calm, which makes it a good time for beginners. You can set out on short one-hour trips or commit to the lake’s full 9-mile (14-kilometer) length if you want a full-day outing.

Along the way, you’ll glide past the Grandhotel Giessbach, quiet coves you can only reach by water, and maybe even an Arctic char moving beneath your board. It’s an interesting perspective while you paddle. You’re low on the water with the Bernese Alps towering above, while traditional wooden chalets dot the shoreline.

How to get to Lake Brienz

Take the train to Interlaken Ost, then switch to a local train for Brienz or one of the smaller lakeside villages. You’ll find rental shops in Brienz, Bönigen, and Iseltwald, and there are multiple launch points with nearby parking. In summer, the water temperature can reach about 68°F (20°C).

When to visit Lake Brienz

The best time is May through September. Early mornings are calmest, while afternoons can bring stronger winds. July and August have the warmest water but also the most boat traffic. September is a nice balance, with fewer crowds and autumn colors reflecting in the water.

6. Trümmelbach Falls, Lauterbrunnen

Trümmelbach is a series of ten glacier-fed waterfalls hidden inside the mountain, draining meltwater from the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau.

At peak flow, around 5,000 gallons (20,000 liters) of water crash through the gorges every second. A funicular and carved galleries take you inside the mountain, where you’re surrounded by the sound and spray of the water pounding through limestone. The force is so strong the ground shakes beneath you and conversations are drowned out by the roar.  Standing there feels like watching the rock being shaped right in front of you, with water grinding through the limestone day after day.

How to get to Trümmelbach Falls

The falls are about 2 miles (3 kilometers) from Lauterbrunnen village. You can reach them by PostBus, bike, or a walk along a scenic path. Parking is available on site. The entrance includes the funicular that takes you up inside the mountain. Wear waterproof layers since the galleries are damp with spray.

When to visit Trümmelbach Falls

The falls are open April through November. June and July usually have the strongest flows, as the glacier melt is at its highest. Afternoons after sunny mornings can be especially dramatic, and rainy days often increase the volume even more.
 

7. Paragliding from Harder Kulm, Interlaken

Harder Kulm rises 4,338 feet (1,322 meters) above Interlaken and is one of the main places people go for tandem paragliding. The launch is straightforward: you run off a wooden platform and suddenly you are in the air, drifting out over the valley.

From above, you can see Lake Brienz on one side, Lake Thun on the other, with the Jungfrau massif in front of you. Thermals from the valley floor keep you airborne for around 20 to 30 minutes, and it is common to share the sky with eagles.

The flight ends with a gentle landing right in Interlaken’s central park, which makes it easy to step straight back into town.

How to get to Harder Kulm

The funicular from Interlaken Ost takes about 8 minutes to reach the summit. After the flight, paragliding companies usually arrange transport back. Flights in summer fill up quickly, so it helps to book ahead. The funicular runs into the evening, which means you can time it for sunset. Tandem flights have weight restrictions, so check details before booking.

When to visit Harder Kulm

The main season is May through October, with June to September usually giving the most reliable conditions. Morning flights are calmer, while afternoons have stronger thermals that can extend flight time. Clear days after rainfall often give the best views. Winter flights are possible but mostly for experienced pilots.

8. Oeschinensee (rowing in summer, hiking in winter)

Oeschinensee is 5,177 feet (1,578 meters) above sea level and changes completely with the seasons. In summer, you can rent a wooden rowboat and paddle across the turquoise water fed by glacial streams.

The lake is surrounded by peaks over 9,800 feet (3,000 meters), and the sound of oars carries back from the cliffs.

In winter the lake freezes and becomes a place for snowshoeing or following marked trails across the ice, with frozen waterfalls hanging above the basin. There are no hotels right at the lake, only a mountain restaurant and a rental hut, which keeps the area quiet. The short hike from the gondola is one of the best parts, with new views opening up as you climb.

How to get to Oeschinensee

From Kandersteg village, take the cable car to the upper station. From there it is about a 25 minute walk to the lake. The path is clear and marked, though it can be icy in winter, so spikes are useful if you plan to cross the snow. Boats are available to rent in summer, and the gondola usually runs until early evening.

When to visit Oeschinensee

Rowing season runs from June to September once the ice has melted. Winter hiking is usually best from January to March when the lake is fully frozen. July and August have the warmest water but also the most visitors. In May the trail is lined with Alpine roses in bloom.
 

9. Canyoning in Interlaken

The limestone gorges around the Jungfrau region make canyoning here one of the best outdoor activities in Switzerland.

A typical trip combines cliff jumps, natural slides, and rappelling down waterfalls into clear pools.Saxeten Gorge and Grimsel Valley are two popular areas, with routes that range from easy splashy sections to technical descents that include rappels up to 165 feet (50 meters).

You might slide down smooth chutes, jump from about 30 feet (10 meters) into deep water, or lower yourself through a waterfall. Thick wetsuits keep you warm and buoyant as you explore places you could never reach on foot.

This area is known for narrow rock passages and sculpted chambers where the light barely reaches. It;s best done with local guides know which jumps have safe landings and which slides are worth trying.

How to get to Interlaken canyoning

Most companies arrange transportation from Interlaken to the canyon, usually a 30 to 60 minute drive. All equipment is included in the tour. Summer is busy, so it’s smart to book ahead. Routes vary in difficulty, so check what matches your level. Some canyons involve a short hike to the start.

When to visit for canyoning

The main season is June through September, when water temperatures are manageable with a wetsuit. July and August are warmer, though water levels can be higher. Early September usually has steady flow and fewer groups. In spring, snowmelt makes some canyons unsafe, so tours do not run then.
 

10. Snowshoeing in Arosa Lenzerheide

Arosa and Lenzerheide are linked by a network of 14 marked snowshoe trails that lead through forests and across open meadows. The pace is unhurried. One of the most rewarding routes is the purple-marked panorama trail from Arosa to Tschuggen, which avoids avalanche terrain while opening up wide views of the mountains.

Along the way, mountain huts appear every few miles where you can stop for a warm meal or drink before heading back outside. On the trails you may notice deer moving through the trees or fox tracks in the snow. The steady rhythm of walking through fresh powder is truly a peaceful experience.

Shorter trails are easy for families, while longer loops give you a good workout without requiring mountaineering skills. Evening tours are common and can end with fondue dinner under the full moon.

How to get to Arosa Lenzerheide

From Chur, it takes about one hour by train to reach Arosa, with the line passing through deep gorges. Lenzerheide is around 30 minutes away by bus. Snowshoes are easy to rent in both villages, and trail maps are available at the tourist offices. Some trails begin directly in the villages, while others start after a short cable car ride.

When to visit for snowshoeing

December through March usually provides the most reliable snow. January and February often mean deeper snow and clearer skies, though winter full moon nights are especially memorable. Weekdays tend to be quieter. For higher routes, it is always worth checking avalanche conditions before setting out.
 

11. International Alphorn Festival, Nendaz

Each July, more than 150 Alphorn players gather in the alpine meadows above Nendaz, filling the valleys with the sound of long wooden horns that stretch over 11 feet (3.5 meters).

During the three-day festival you might hear everything from traditional folk tunes to newer compositions echoing off the surrounding peaks. Players wear traditional dress and compete in different categories, from solos to large ensembles where dozens of horns play together.

This is a fantastic outdoor experience in Switzerland. Cows graze in the fields, and the ring of their bells sometimes blends into the music. Visitors can join workshops to try the instrument, and evening concerts occasionally pair Alphorn with contemporary music.

How to get to Nendaz

From Sion train station, the PostBus takes about 30 minutes to reach Nendaz. During the festival, shuttle buses link to the performance meadows, and cable cars run to higher venues. Accommodation fills quickly, so plan well in advance.

When to visit International Alphorn Festival

The festival is held annually in late July. Friday usually begins with an opening ceremony, Saturday hosts the main competitions, and Sunday ends with all players performing together. Mountain weather changes quickly, so bring layers and rain protection.

12. Torchlight descent, Zermatt

On Wednesday evenings in winter, ski instructors in Zermatt guide a line of torch-bearing skiers down the slopes, creating a stream of light that can be seen from the village. Participants are given wooden torches at the top before descending from Sunnegga through the dark, with the Matterhorn visible in the night sky.

You need to be at least an intermediate skier to take part. The experience is less about the skiing itself and more about the atmosphere: the crackle of fire, the smoke from the pitch, and the shared energy of moving as a group. The tradition comes from the days when torches were used for night rescues. Today, the descent finishes in the village with mulled wine and live music.

How to get to the Torchlight descent in Zermatt

Take the funicular from Zermatt village to Sunnegga for the start of the event. Registration is required with ski schools ahead of time. Torches are distributed at the summit, and the funicular runs evening trips especially for the descent. Remember that Zermatt is car-free, so you need to arrive by train from Täsch.

When to visit for Torchlight descent

The descent takes place from mid-December through March, every Wednesday evening if the weather allows. January and February generally have the most reliable snow. Full moon nights are the best. Holiday weeks are busier and may have participation limits.
 

13. Creux du Van, Jura region

Creux du Van is a massive rocky cirque in the Jura mountains that stretches nearly three-quarters of a mile (1,200m) across with cliffs that drop about 525 feet (160m). The area was shaped by glaciers and can be an interesting place to hike.  Ibex and chamois are common, and if you are patient you might even glimpse a lynx.

The hike up winds through quiet beech forests before opening out onto the rim. From there, you can walk the full circuit and look down over sheer vertical drops with views that extend all the way to the Alps. The exposed walls show layer upon layer of limestone, recording millions of years of history in stone.

In spring the meadows are full of wildflowers, while autumn mornings often bring fog that makes the cliffs seem even more dramatic. This is one of the best outdoor activities in Switzerland. Compared with the Alps, this part of the Jura feels quieter and wilder.

How to get to Creux du Van

Drive or take the train to Noiraigue, then hike about 2 hours to the rim. Trails also connect from nearby villages. The “Sentier du Single” is a 9-mile (14km) loop around the whole cirque. Parking is limited and fills quickly on weekends, so trains are often the easier choice.

When to visit Creux du Van

May through October is best for hiking, with June being peak wildflower season. September and October usually mean clear skies and fall colors. Early mornings are good for wildlife. In winter you can reach it with snowshoes, but only if you have experience. On foggy days the views disappear, so it is worth waiting for clear weather.

14. Jungfraujoch, Top of Europe

At 11,332 feet (3,454m), Jungfraujoch is the highest railway station in Europe, perched between the Jungfrau and Mönch peaks. The air is thin here, about 30 percent less oxygen than at sea level, and the views stretch across the Alps and sometimes as far as France and Germany.

This is a main tourist attraction, but it’s still worth coming to.  The cogwheel train climbs from Kleine Scheidegg, cutting through tunnels inside the Eiger itself. Windows carved into the North Face let you glimpse the world-famous wall from the inside out. At the top, you can explore ice tunnels dug into the Aletsch Glacier, which is the longest glacier in Europe, or step out onto the glacier itself to walk in snow even in August.

The Sphinx Observatory has a viewing platform that feels like you’re above the clouds, while the Ice Palace displays frozen sculptures in permanent sub-zero temperatures. It’s one of the few places where anyone can reach extreme altitude without needing climbing skills.

How to get to Jungfraujoch

Trains run from Interlaken Ost through Grindelwald or Lauterbrunnen to Kleine Scheidegg. From there you switch to the Jungfrau Railway for the last stretch. The full trip takes around 2.5 hours. In summer, tickets sell out quickly, so book ahead. If you want to avoid the rush, staying overnight at Kleine Scheidegg lets you catch the first train up.

When to visit Jungfraujoch

You can go year-round. May through September usually brings the clearest views. Winter is quieter but very cold. Morning trains give the best chance of seeing the mountains before clouds move in. Check the webcams before buying tickets since they are expensive. The altitude can affect anyone, so move slowly and drink plenty of water.
 

15. Outdoor hot pools, Leukerbad

Leukerbad has Europe’s largest Alpine thermal spa, and the main draw is its outdoor pools surrounded by mountains. The water stays around 104°F (40°C) and is full of minerals like calcium and sulfates. Two main complexes anchor the village: Leukerbad Therme, which has family-friendly pools, and the Walliser Alpentherme, known for its mineral baths and wellness facilities.

The real highlight is the cliff-edge pools where you can float in steaming water while looking out at snow-covered peaks.

Depending on when you go, the experience changes completely. Some of the best times are soaking under a starry sky, swimming as the sun hits the mountains, or watching snowflakes fall into the hot water around you. It makes for a relaxing stop after hiking or skiing.

How to get to Leukerbad

From Leuk train station, a bus takes about 30 minutes up the mountain. The village is compact and easy to walk around. Day passes give you access to the pools, and some hotels include entry. Towels are available to rent, but bringing your own is easier. Parking exists in the village but spaces are limited.

When to visit Leukerbad hot pools

You can visit any time of year. Winter, from December to March, is best if you want the contrast of snow and hot water. September and October are good months for combining hiking with evening soaks. Weekday mornings are usually quiet, and avoiding Swiss school holidays will make for a calmer visit.

16. Curling on Lake Davos

When the ice on Lake Davos reaches about 24 inches (60 cm) thick, the lake turns into the largest natural skating rink in Switzerland. One of the most unique things to do here is curling on the frozen surface. The ice itself adds a layer of unpredictability, since the natural patterns affect how the stones move.

Local clubs run beginner sessions where you can learn the basics and try sliding granite stones across about 500 feet (150 m) of ice. It takes place in truly beautiful setting, with mountains surrounding in each direction.Evening sessions are often played under floodlights with a break for mulled wine.

How to get to Lake Davos

Take the train to Davos Platz or Davos Dorf. The lake is between the two and easy to reach on foot. The Curling Club rents out equipment and runs lessons. The tourist office can tell you about current ice conditions. There are also free areas for skating when the lake is frozen.

When to visit for curling on Lake Davos

The season usually runs from late December to February, depending on weather. January is the most reliable month for ice. Booking a curling session ahead of time is a good idea. The ice is at its best in the morning before the sun softens it. International competitions in January.
 

17. Swiss National Park, Engadin

Switzerland’s only national park covers about 65 square miles (170 sq km) of protected Alpine wilderness. Since 1914, it has been left almost completely untouched, which makes hiking here feel very different from other parts of the Alps. There are about 50 miles (80 km) of marked trails, and you might see golden eagles overhead, bearded vultures circling cliffs, or herds of ibex grazing.

Rules are strict, which means no camping, no picking plants, and no wandering off trail, but those restrictions are what keep the landscape wild.

Different seasons bring different highlights. In September, the red deer rut fills valleys with deep, echoing calls. In July, more than 650 species of wildflowers bloom on the slopes.

The park’s philosophy is total non-intervention, so you’ll see avalanche areas slowly regrowing and forests shifting naturally over time. Walking here is one of the most wild outdoor activities in Switzerland.

How to get to Swiss National Park

Take the train to Zernez, which is the main gateway and has a visitor center. PostBus services connect Zernez to trailheads. If you are driving, you need to leave your car in designated parking areas outside the park, since no vehicles are allowed inside. Trails are not heavily marked, so bring a map with you. Guided wildlife walks are available if you book in advance.

When to visit Swiss National Park

The best time is between June and October, when the snow has melted from the trails. July is ideal for wildflowers and September for deer rutting season and golden larch forests. Early mornings and evenings are when you are most likely to see wildlife. Some trails close in spring to protect ibex during calving season, so check ahead before you hike.
 

18. Aletsch Glacier hike

The Aletsch is Europe’s longest glacier, stretching 14 miles (23 km) with ice up to 3,000 feet (900 m) thick. For the main viewpoints at Bettmerhorn and Eggishorn you do not need special gear, just the cable car ride up and a short walk. If you want to step onto the glacier itself, you need a guide and proper equipment. Guided trips leave from Konkordiaplatz and take you out onto the ice.

The glacier contains around 27 billion tons of ice. To put that in perspective, it would be enough to supply every person on Earth with about three quarts (3 liters) of water a day for six years.

Along the edges, moraines show where the glacier once reached and make it clear how much it has retreated. In summer you might come across glowing blue ice caves, and deep crevasses reveal layers of ice. The surrounding UNESCO-listed area also has old Swiss pine forests and a range of Alpine plants.

Though well known, this is one of the best outdoor activities in Switzerland.

How to get to Aletsch Glacier

Cable cars run from Fiesch, Bettmeralp, and Riederalp to different viewpoints. The villages are car-free and can only be reached by cable car. For glacier walks, book a guided trip from Jungfraujoch or from the Konkordia hut. Multi-day treks connect huts along the glacier, but space is limited and you need to reserve well in advance.

When to visit Aletsch Glacier

July through September is the best time for glacier hiking since the crevasses are open and conditions are more stable. In June snow bridges can still hide dangerous gaps, which is why you need a guide. October often has clear views but colder conditions. Climate change has made the conditions less predictable each year, so it is worth checking with local guides before you go.

19. Ice skating on natural rinks, St. Moritz

In winter, the lake in St. Moritz freezes into a wide outdoor rink. You can skate casually, try a longer loop for speed, or watch locals play hockey and curling. Temporary bars, restaurants, and even a snow golf course are set up on the ice, which makes it feel more like a winter village than just a skating area.

On clear, cold days, the surface turns into “black ice,” so transparent that you can see the lakebed below. For something smaller and quieter, head to Lej da Staz, where the rink is framed by snowy pine forests. Skating at night under the stars with the mountains glowing in the moonlight is a highlight you won’t find inside an arena.

How to get to St. Moritz natural rinks

Take the train to St. Moritz station and then walk or catch a local bus down to the lake. Skate rentals are available at several spots around the shoreline. Lej da Staz is reached on foot in about 45 minutes, or you can ride in by horse-drawn sleigh. Always check ice conditions first, since wind can change the surface quickly.

When to visit for ice skating

The season usually runs from December to early March, with the most dependable ice in January and February. Morning sessions are best since the sun can soften the surface by afternoon. Throughout the winter, the lake also hosts big events like polo tournaments, horse racing, and food festivals. This is one of the best outdoor activities in Switzerland.
 

20. Canyon swing, Stockhorn

At Stockhorn, you step off a platform into a 130-foot (40-meter) freefall before the ropes catch and sweep you in a wide arc 295 feet (90 meters) above the canyon floor.

Unlike bungee, there’s no bounce. It’s just the smooth pendulum swing that makes you feel like you’re flying across the gorge. The hardest part is that first step, but once you’re in the air, the view of the Bernese Alps hits you almost as hard as the adrenaline.

You can jump forwards, backwards, or in tandem, depending on how much of a challenge you want. The crew is well-practiced, and safety standards are strict, so the experience is open to most people between 100 and 265 pounds (45–120kg).

How to get to Canyon swing Stockhorn

Ride the cable car from Erlenbach up to Stockhorn. The swing is set up at the middle station, so you don’t need to go all the way to the top. Booking in advance is smart, especially on summer weekends. Some packages combine the swing with the cable car ticket. Make sure to check weight and age requirements before going.

When to visit Canyon swing Stockhorn

This outdoor Switzerland experience runs from May through October, as long as the weather is good. Mornings are calmer, while in the afternoons the rising air currents can make the swing feel even wilder. Clear days give you the best mountain views. Operations pause after heavy rain until the ropes are safe again.

21. Forest bathing in Sihlwald

Only 20 minutes from Zurich, Sihlwald is Switzerland’s first wilderness park and one of the easiest places to step into a truly wild forest. Since 2000, the 4.6-square-mile (12-square-kilometer) beech forest has been left to grow naturally, so you’ll find towering 200-year-old trees and a dense, untouched landscape.

Guided forest bathing sessions here follow the Japanese practice of shinrin-yoku. Trained guides lead you through simple sensory activities such as slowing your breath, paying attention to textures, or listening to the sound of woodpeckers.

Research carried out in Sihlwald shows that this kind of time in the forest can reduce stress hormones, lower blood pressure, and support your immune system. The Sihl River runs through the valley and adds a constant background of flowing water.

There are also quiet hides where you can watch wildlife without disturbing it. Unlike a typical hike, where you might be focused on covering distance, forest bathing is about slowing down. You could spend two hours moving less than a third of a mile (500 meters).

How to get to Sihlwald

Take the S-Bahn from Zurich Hauptbahnhof to Sihlwald station, which takes about 20 minutes. The visitor center has maps and information on guided sessions. Trails are clearly marked and manageable for all fitness levels. The forest is open throughout the year and easy to reach by train. Parking is available but limited.

When to visit Sihlwald

You can come in any season, and each one feels different. May and June is when you’ll see fresh green leaves and bird calls. October is a good time for autumn colors and mushrooms. In winter the bare trees reveal more of the forest’s structure. For a quieter visit, go on weekdays. Guided sessions usually take place from April through October.
 

22. Rafting on the Saane River

The Saane, also called the Sarine, is one of the best rivers in Switzerland for rafting because it changes so much along the way. Near Gstaad the water is calm enough for family trips, while further downstream around Zweisimmen you get waves and Grade IV rapids that are much more challenging. In between, the Simmental gorges bring tight, technical runs that keep you on your toes.

Spring snowmelt makes the river powerful and fast. By summer the levels drop and you get narrower passages with more rocks to navigate.

What makes it one of the best outdoor activities in Swizterland is how the scenery shifts in a single trip. One stretch takes you through wide alpine meadows, and before long you are in steep limestone canyons with clear green water rushing past. Sometimes you even see trout swimming below the surface.

Guides usually share stories about the region as they steer through rapids with names like Washing Machine and Devil’s Throat. Trips often end with a relaxed barbecue and a beer by the river.

How to get to Saane River rafting

Most rafting companies arrange transport from Interlaken, Gstaad, or Zweisimmen to the river. Some sections are easy to reach by public transport using the MOB railway. All the gear is provided. Since different stretches suit different skill levels, let the company know what kind of run you are looking for when you book.

When to visit for Saane rafting

May and June bring the fastest water. July and August are warmer and more stable, which is better if you are new to rafting. September is quieter and you get autumn colors along the river. During heavy snowmelt some areas can be unsafe, and guides will decide what is possible. Wetsuits keep the cold water comfortable.

23. Five Lakes Walk, Zermatt

The Five Lakes Walk is a 5.5 mile (9 km) trail that links five alpine lakes, each with its own view of the Matterhorn. You start from Blauherd and pass Stellisee, Grindjisee, Grünsee, Moosjisee, and Leisee before finishing at Sunnegga.

Every lake feels a little different. Stellisee is known for its mirror-like reflections in the early morning. Grünsee is off the main path and feels quieter than the others.

The walk is mostly downhill and easy to follow. It still feels wild enough that you might see marmots along the way. In July the meadows are filled with wildflowers, and by late September the larch trees around the lakes turn gold.

Because the trail links with the cable car system you get big mountain views without a tough climb. Bringing food is a good idea since there are plenty of places by the lakes where you can sit down for a picnic.

How to get to Five Lakes Walk

Take the cable car from Zermatt to Blauherd via Sunnegga to reach the start. The route ends back at Sunnegga, where you can take the funicular to town. The path is clearly marked, but you should have sturdy shoes. If you want to see Stellisee at its best, head out early when the water is calm. Maps are available at the tourist office.

When to visit Five Lakes Walk

The trail is best between July and September when the lakes are free of ice and the paths are clear. Early July is good for flowers, while late September brings golden larch trees. Mornings usually give you the clearest reflections, though clouds can cover the Matterhorn quickly. August is the busiest time, and Stellisee can be crowded by midday, so starting early makes a difference.
 

24. Sailing or swimming on Lake Geneva

Lake Geneva is the largest Alpine lake in Western Europe, covering about 224 square miles (580 sq km), with the French Alps rising up in the distance. The wind is reliable here, with the Bise blowing in from the northeast and the Vent from the southwest, so sailing conditions are consistent. Around the lake you’ll find sailing schools in most towns where you can learn the basics or work your way up to handling larger boats.

Swimming is just as rewarding. You can spend the day at lidos with diving platforms and pools, slip into the water from quieter pebble beaches, or find small coves below the Lavaux vineyards.

In summer the water warms to about 75°F (24°C), which is comfortable for long swims. The lake is clear enough that you can see several meters below the surface. If you go in the evening, the light over Mont Blanc turns the sky pink while old paddle steamers pass by.

How to get to Lake Geneva

Trains connect the main towns around the lake, including Geneva, Lausanne, Montreux, and Vevey. Local buses and trams will take you the rest of the way to public beaches and ports. You can also rent boats at most marinas, and CGN ferries run between all the towns. Parking near the lake is limited in summer, so use designated lots if you are driving.

When to visit Lake Geneva

Swimming is best from June to September when the water stays above 68°F (20°C). July and August are the warmest months, though beaches can be crowded. September is still warm but less busy. For sailing, the wind is most reliable from May through October. If you want calm water for a swim, mornings are usually the best time.