Brief Description
Located in the heart of Europe, Switzerland is a small and landlocked country that has pretty much become synonymous with mountaineering. The south and east of the country are dominated by the Alps, while the Jura Mountains sit on the western border with France. As a result of its stunning natural beauty, tourism is one of the drivers of the Swiss economy.
Famous Mountains in Switzerland
While the Swiss Alps are home to a number of prominent peaks and iconic alpine landmarks, the most famous and easily recognised is the Matterhorn.
Located in the very south of the country, on the border with Italy, the Matterhorn is the tenth highest peak in Switzerland with an elevation of 4,478 metres (14,692 feet). It’s pyramidal summit makes it one of the most well-known mountains in the world and the peak has long been a destination for intermediate-level mountaineers and avid trekkers.
Other popular peaks in Switzerland are:
- Dufourspitze
- Breithorn
- Jungfrau
- Mönch
- Eiger
- Reverse Haute Route
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Quick Facts about Switzerland
- In spite of its relatively small size, Switzerland is home to 48 of the Alps’ 82 mountains with an elevation of 4,000 metres (13,100 feet) or more. The other 34 are mostly located within 20 kilometres (12 miles) of the country’s borders too.
- The idyllic Swiss town of Zermatt is one of the continent’s top destinations for outdoor adventurers. The mountain serves as a starting point for ascents of the Matterhorn, among many others, as well as the starting point of the Reverse Haute Route.
- Away from the Alps, Switzerland is also home to the Jura Mountains. While much smaller in size, the Jura Mountains are a popular destination for hiking enthusiasts looking to enjoy some of the country’s incredible wilderness.
How To Get To Switzerland
Most trips to Switzerland will begin either with a flight into Geneva International Airport (GVA) or Zurich Airport (ZRH). From here, it is easiest to rent a car and make the scenic drive to the start of the trip. It is also possible to take a connecting flight to a smaller airport or take a combination of buses and trains to the start of the final destination.
What To Expect in Switzerland
Weather: Summers in the Swiss Alps tend to be warm and humid, with average temperatures hovering in the high teens to low-20s (low to mid-60s) in the valleys. Rainfall is not uncommon during the summer, but there are still plenty of nice days. Temperatures tend to drop toward and below freezing as elevation is gained.
Peak Trekking/Climbing Season: July to September
Currency: Swiss franc (CHF)
Language: German, Italian, French, Romanch, English
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