For such a small country Switzerland, a land of mountains, is spoiled by its spectacular natural scenery. In almost any part of the country, you’ll be treated to view that will take your breath away, and leave a lasting memory. Here, discover 17 of the natural wonders that can be found in Switzerland.
Matterhorn
Renowned as the most photographed mountain in the world, the jagged tooth-like Matterhorn is a wonder to behold. At a dizzying 4,478-metres high it’s one of the tallest mountain in the Alps.
The Rhine Falls
The Rhine Falls, Europe’s largest waterfall, is a wall of frothing white foam that thunders from afar as hundreds of cubic feet of water flow over it every single second. Even more impressive are the rocks at its centre which have somehow withstood it’s erosive power for centuries.
Oeschinensee
Other lakes may be larger, but few challenge the Oeschinensee in terms of beauty. Like a mirror, it reflects the surrounding mountain walls that surrounds it, making it perhaps the most photogenic lake in the Alps.
Aletsch Glacier
One of the great glaciers from the last Ice Age, the Aletsch Glacier stretches for 23 kilometres and is the largest glacier that can be found in Europe today.
Jungfraujoch
Known as the Top of Europe, the Jungfraujoch is one of the most spectacular areas of the Swiss Alps, directly accessible by railway.
Lauterbrunnen Valley
This ancient glacial valley is 3 kilometres deep! Its distinctive U-shape makes it easy to imagine the massive glaciers that carved it from the surrounding mountains. Not to mention, a staggering 72 waterfalls line the valley.
Staubbach Falls
Among the many waterfalls in the Lauterbrunnen Valley are the Staubbach Falls, the highest free-falling waterfall in Europe, where the water cascades from 300 metres high.
Eiger
Eiger is where you’ll find the Mordwand, the Death Wall. This another name for Eiger’s notorious north face which has claimed many experienced climbers’ lives over the years. This fear-inspiring reputation has ensured Eiger more fame than the taller mountains of Monch and Jungfrau which stand nearby.
Lake Lucerne
Four-armed Lake Lucerne, is a picturesque, if not complicated, lake. In German it is known as the “Lake of the Four Forested Elements” which explains quite well its unusual shape, full of sharp bends and a width that spans four valleys.
Lac Léman
The largest lake in Switzerland, and in the Alps, Lac Léman (also known as Lake Geneva) curves for 73 kilometres from Geneva, on the western border with France, all the way along to the resort town of Montreux. Towering above it are the Alps, making for dramatic views along the breadth of the water’s edge.
– Dorra Claus