Undiscovered Switzerland: small towns worth visiting

A country that needs to be visited at least once in a lifetime is settled among the mountain ranges and picturesque valleys. Its landscapes, resorts, and architectural heritage are what attract tourists. Many travelers are ready to "sell their souls" just to come here. And we understand them perfectly.

If you are planning a trip to Switzerland, we recommend that you do it in advance. And in our humble opinion, you should start exploring the country from small villages. The best attractions are concentrated in them.

Morcote

On the one hand, this settlement is no different from other villages in Switzerland. On the other hand, in 2016, it was recognized as the most beautiful town in the country. We have no idea what criteria the jury used, but we know exactly why tourists come here.

Morcote is located on the shores of Lake Lugano, and its surroundings are framed by mountain ranges. The houses of the locals are cozy and nestled by the pond. From a distance, the houses seem to be floating. And it is these landscapes that make you fall in love at first sight.

We advise you not to run to the historical locations right away but to walk around the village. Every lane here deserves your attention. Masterpieces of architecture of the XIII-XVI centuries are perfectly preserved in Morkot. Be sure to visit the Church of Santa Maria del Sasso, the Botanical Park and the Art Museum.

Stein am Rhein

Another picturesque town nestled by a pond. In fact, it is quite tiny. It has only one main street with old buildings. In other terms, it is an ordinary Swiss village. It is familiar only to the inhabitants of this country, and not at all to travelers.

Once here, tourists seem to find themselves in a fairy tale. There are majestic mountains around, densely covered with a blanket of snow. The calm Rhine River, which, like a small child, plays with fishing boats. And, of course, half-timbered houses painted with different patterns. They are the village's decoration.

Although Switzerland did not take part in World War II, it felt the pain and grief of the war to the fullest due to the mistake of American bombers. On February 22, 1945, instead of the German border, the pilots destroyed Stein am Rhein to the ground. The military "missed" by 1 kilometer. However, the town rose from the ashes.

What to visit? The museum and church of the St. George Monastery, the Lindwurm exhibition hall, the Main Square, the Town Hall, the local market, and the Steinbock House.

Grindelwald

We're sure that fans of the Harry Potter and Fantastic Beasts universe are a little shocked right now. However, the village is only pronounced similarly, it has no other similarities with the dark wizard. On the contrary, it is bright and even white in winter because the snow covers the houses, mountains, and fir trees with a thick layer. At this time, you don't recognize the evergreen beauties at all. Their emerald robes are not even visible through the woven ice blanket.

The town is considered the heart of Switzerland. Although the settlement is located in the center of the country, it is not inconspicuous. You won't find expensive penthouses or fashionable hotels here. It's definitely not worth coming here for luxury. You simply won't find it. However, it is for quality that you should come here.

In general, this is a year-round ski resort. Thus, you don't have to wait for the cold season to go skiing or snowboarding. The slopes are always open, even in summer. Despite this, it's still not as crowded as other recreation centers.

There are 51 trails in Grindelwald. 30% of the trails are designed for beginners, 50% for intermediate skiers, and 20% for professionals.

Guarda

This tiny settlement has a second name, Schellen-Ursli. It was given this name in honor of the main character of a children's book. There is even a hiking trail dedicated to this character. The path stretches high up and impresses every traveler with local landscapes. Despite the winding paths, even children can easily walk it. After all, you can cover the distance in separate stages.

Those who love to admire historical buildings should come here. Almost all of the town's houses were built in the early seventeenth century. The charm of that era is felt at every step.

The settlement is beautiful at any time. However, if you come here in winter, you will definitely "hit the jackpot". It is at this time that a traditional local game takes place here, in which all the residents of Guarda take part. People run around the village and ring cow bells. This is how they hint to the "ice queen" that she shouldn't hesitate and get off their land as soon as possible.

The best way to retire and have a good rest is to go to small towns rather than megacities. It is here that the true Swiss flavor is best felt.

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