Felicity Long
Switzerland is heading into summer on an upswing, bolstered by strong visitor numbers and a menu of special events on tap.
For the record, visitor numbers from the U.S. are up 23% over this time in 2019, signaling that the destination is back post-pandemic and ready to welcome tourists.
In Geneva, for example, oenophiles can join a new, two-and-a-half-hour guided Heritage and Wine tour that winds through the Old Town, stopping for tastings of local varietals along the way. The tour includes a visit to La Maison Rousseau et Litterature, the house where celebrated author Jean-Jacques Rousseau was born.
Highlighting art and culture
Basel, a city long known for its blend of culture and science, is promoting ARTour Basel this summer to mark the 125th anniversary of Roche pharmaceutical company -- a key presence and economic driver in Basel. The Augmented Reality tour showcases the works of a handful of artists who created 10 digital works in the center of Basel on the theme of Celebrate Life. Visitors can download the app to view the works as they tour the city.
There is more art on tap at Bad Ragartz 2024, the 9th Swiss Sculpture Triennial in Bad Ragatz, Grisons, through Oct. 30. The exhibition showcases works by international artists throughout the city, including in parks, gardens and downtown streets. Guided tours are available, including for young people and people with disabilities.
An Unexpected Classic Tour in Lugano blends old and new, thanks to costumed actor-guides who blend the history of the city with a dash of entertainment. Visitors will discover the city's historical monuments and modern buildings by renowned Ticino architects. The free tour takes place every Monday at 10 a.m., and reservations are required.
Lucerne bills itself as a city of music, and this summer there are numerous events to choose from. The Lucerne Festival includes Piano Fest through May 12 and the Summer Festival from August to September, offering a range of musical styles and talent.
Finally, Zurich is transforming the former workshops of Swiss Federal Railways in the Altstetten district into Werkstadt Zurich (German-only site), a multi-use project that features housing, commercial spaces, art studios, workshops, pop-ups, restaurants, coffee shops and cultural venues.
Werkstadt Zurich is set to be fully completed by next year, but many companies and shops are already open.
New hotels to stay in
As to accommodations, the 90-room Grand Hotel Belvedere is poised to open this summer in a private forest in Wengen. The property will offer classic Alpine architecture and views of the Lauterbrunnen Valley. Amenities will include the Brasserie Belvedere and the Waldrand restaurant, a spa with five treatment rooms, saunas, a hammam and indoor and outdoor pools.
Activities will include guided tours, mountain sports, yoga and live music with the hotel's DJ.