Rachael RoweThe alpine views and panoramas are a highlight of any visit to Switzerland. But where do you go to get the best views in Switzerland? Here’s the lowdown.
1. The Aletsch Glacier at Riederalp
Image Credit: John Fowler
As the largest glacier in Europe, the Aletsch stretches across the Alps and is an impressive corridor of ice. Hike at Riederalp to see it at its most scenic or get up close with a guided glacier walk.
2. Rochers De Naye
Image Credit: Kosala Bandara
Take the mountain train from Montreux which whistles upwards to the Rochers De Naye by a feat of Swiss engineering. From the summit there’s a view to be enjoyed stretching to the Jungfrau, Mont Blanc and Zermatt. There are walking trails around here too, and an alpine flower garden.
3. The Bernina Express Journey
Image Credit: Michael Holler
This unique journey begins in Chur in the heart of the Graubunden Region and passes 196 bridges, 55 tunnels and some amazing views as it travels through the countryside. It descends into the Poschiavo Valley with a descent of 7% before arriving in sunny Lugano. The views are simply breathtaking.
4. Reichenbach Falls
Image Credit: Mike Knell
The cascade at the Reichenbach Falls is one of the most spectacular in the Alps. Catch the train from Meiringen and marvel at this superb waterfall. It is also the place where the fictional Sherlock Holmes fell to his death.
5. Zermatt
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Visitors arriving in Zermatt only see the famous Matterhorn at the last moment when the reach the village. Rising above Zermatt it is best seen from the Gornergrat railway where views include the Monte Rosa and Breithorn glaciers. Alternatively the cable cars to Klein Matterhorn hold even more amazing views of the alpine panorama.
6. Lake Geneva
Image Credit: Severin.stalder
One of the loveliest ways to see the vineyards stretching from Lausanne is to take a boat ride on Lake Geneva. Seen from the water the vines, mountains, and small towns are beautiful. There’s also that classic sight of the Chateau De Chillon just outside Montreux to enjoy.
Also Read: The Majestic Vineyards of Lake Geneva, Switzerland
7. View from Mount Rigi
Image Credit: Kathlyn_e
Considered one of the classic viewpoints in the Alps the Rigi cog railway is a spectacular journey that departs from Vitznau. It climbs upwards through the clouds to the Rigi Kulm. From there the views across the Bernese Oberland and lakes are unforgettable.
8. Schynige Platte
Image Credit: Alain Gavillet
A classic mountain train journey, the Schynigge Platte has some fabulous panoramas. From the cog wheel railway you’ll get views of the Monch, Jungfrau, and Eiger as well as glimpses of Lakes Brienz and Thon below. With some of the most famous mountains in the world here this is a high point of visiting Switzerland.
9. Lake Lucerne
Image Credit: Edwin Lee
One of the most scenic towns in Switzerland, Lucerne is famed for its beautiful lake which is said to have inspired Beethoven’s Moonlight Sonata. Take a boat out onto Lake Lucerne and the views of Mount Pilatus and the Rigi are beautiful. The 3 D effect of the mountain peaks disappearing into the clear water is another highlight of seeing this view in Switzerland.
10. Grindlewald
Image Credit: Jphoto
The village of Grindlewald is picturesque enough with its alpine meadows and chalets. It is also home to one of the longest cable car journeys in the world at Mannlichen. Take this ride and you’ll be spoiled for choice with the mesmerising views of those classic mountain peaks as it sweeps down into Wengen.
11. Schilthorn and Piz Gloria
Image Credit: Paul Stephenson
How about soaking up a view from a James Bond movie? At the revolving restaurant on Piz Gloria you can enjoy a champagne breakfast and take in the stunning views across to the Eiger, Monch and Jungfrau. For a classic movie moment this is one of the finest viewpoints in the world.
12. Lauterbrunnen Valley
Image Credit: Kosala Bandara
Home to 72 waterfalls and some impressive mountain peaks, the Lauterbrunnen Valley is one of the most scenic in Europe. This is the place to see the highest freefalling cascade in Europe at the Staubbach Falls, and to enjoy walking through delightful alpine meadows. Full of chocolate box scenery there’s a wonderful view round every corner here.
Also Read: 15 Tips to Make a Budget Trip to Switzerland Possible
Switzerland has some of the most remarkable views in the world. Choosing which to see on a visit there is tricky. That’s why one visit to Switzerland is never enough.
