Switzerland: A Magical Winter Destination
December 9, 2020 Jim Byers
The Swiss know a thing or two about winter. They also know how to really enjoy it.
Switzerland Tourism officials took part in a virtual chat earlier today, outlining some of the amazing activities that folks can take part in during the winter months.
Canadians and Americans can only visit now if they’re deemed essential workers, and they need to quarantine for 14 days. But officials said they’ll be ready to welcome North American visitors as soon as they can.
Zermatt has been rated the best ski resort in the Alps, and there are tons of other great places for skiers of all levels in the mountains of Switzerland. You’ll also find a terrific apres ski scene, perhaps with fondue and a glass of Swiss wine.
Another cool activity is the sledding/toboggan park in Leysin, near Montreux. It was designed by an Olympic champion bobsledder and features runs for folks of all ages and abilities.
Leysin also is home to a cheese museum.
Other great activities include hiking, snow-biking (the bikes have large, special tires built for the snow), horseback riding and even winter kayaking.
The Christmas market in Basel had to be called off this year due to the pandemic, but they hope to have it going next year. The market might not be operating, but you probably can still find famous Basler Brunsli cookies; spiced chocolate treats that are very popular at Christmas.
There are new and refurbished hotels opening soon in various parts of the country, including the Berghuus Radons in Savognin on December 19 and the Volkshaus Basel Hotel, a 45-room property in an historic building in Basel. The Cervo Mountain Resort will re-open in Zermatt later this month, as well.
“We are ready for guests when we’re able to travel again,” said Ursula Beamish-Mader from the Switzerland Tourism office in Toronto.
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