Very few tourist destinations are actually able to match up to the touched-up pictures which depict them in glossy brochures. The woods are rarely as dense and green; the snows never as white, and the prettily cobbled streets are invariably too crowded for comfort. Switzerland however manages, pretty effectively, to be the exception. Here, the snows are freshly-fallen white, the mountains majestic, the chocolates sinful and every little detail perfect.

Everything about Switzerland is legendary: from its traditions of democracy and integrity (Swiss bankers!) to its impossible-to-fault tourist attractions. This is the country of the glorious Alps, of the Jungfrau, the Mont Blanc and the Matterhorn; of cheese fondues, Lindt chocolates and Emmental; of alpine meadows, alpenhorns and lakes, of cuckoo clocks and Rolex watches.

Visit the `land between the lakes'- Interlaken- to climb mountains and go hiking; ski all you wish at Zermatt and Davos; or spend a glorious holiday in the beautiful lakeside cities of Geneva, Lugano and Lucerne. All are packed with quaint old chalets, medieval churches, pretty gardens and plenty of scope for enjoyment. Take an excursion to the solid 13th century fortress of Chateau de Chillon near Montreux, visit one of the world's best zoos at Basel (also renowned for its many museums); or spend some time at the capital, Bern, with its delightful old Clock Tower and the exquisite Munster Cathedral. Travel to the bastion of `French' Switzerland - Lausanne, chockfull of cathedrals and chateaux, museums and pretty town squares; and to Zurich,the world's leading financial centre and an extremely attractive tourist destination.

Go for a relaxing cruise on a crystal-clear lake; trek through green alpine meadows, and up towering mountains. Guzzle wine; shop for crystal, watches, lace, chocolates, cheese- pamper yourself. After all, the perfect holiday comes along only as often as you visit Switzerland.

Making your way here…
Zurich and Geneva have international airports, but domestic air travel is limited. Switzerland is connected by highways to neighbouring countries and motoring in is a good idea. The train network is extensive and this is a great way of seeing the spectacular scenery. Eurail is valid on most intercity trains.

…and getting around
A Swiss Pass offers unlimited travel on the railways, postal buses and lake steamers, covering 30 cities, with a validity of between 4 to 30 days. For more information on other passes available you may contact Switzerland Tourism. The yellow postal buses are very popular as they connect the main cities with the smallest village, and yes - you can use your Swiss Pass on these buses! Rent a car and see the country - road conditions within the Swiss mainland are usually excellent. The roads are well surfaced - although the winding paths along the mountains make for low average speeds. Watch the weather though - the winter brings roadblocks and your vehicle needs to be equipped with snow-chains and fog lights.

A Roof over Your Head…
From bed and breakfasts to local chalets to the finest and most expensive in luxury lodging, your options for accommodation are ad infinitum. If you were planning to make a longish stop in the hills, one of the chalets or mountain lodges run by the friendly locals would be a good idea. Cheap and comfortable, these cozy cottages are usually located at the heart of the landscape with beautiful views. If you want to get a taste of Swiss city life as it is, choose from the wide range of hotels listed in the "Schweizer Hotelfuhrer" (Swiss Hotel Guide).

… a Good Meal, a Great Bargain and more
Dining options range from luxury establishments to modest cafes, stubli (tavern cafes), and restaurants specializing in local cuisine. The Swiss kitchen has much on offer: from fondues, to raclette and rostii and Swiss sausage is great fast food. The streets are flooded with inexpensive souvenirs or you might want to return home with a cuckoo clock or a sleek Rolex

…and one Last bit of Advice
Be careful not to make Lindtt chocolates and gruyere, emmentaler or vacherin cheese your staple!

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