Switzerland is a stunning country that offers more than just its well-known cities such as Lucerne, Bern, and Geneva. There are numerous lesser-known yet captivating travel destinations that are ideally explored by car. These hidden gems provide a glimpse of Switzerland's natural beauty, charming towns, and cultural heritage. Although Switzerland is renowned for its breathtaking beauty, its best places to visit are often the secret spots where you can fully experience nature without being surrounded by tons of tourists. Here is our list of five of those places.
Gelmersee
The stunning Gelmersee, with its crystal-clear waters and mirror-like reflections, is located near Meiringen and makes a great day trip from Zurich, only a two-hour drive away. If you're looking for an unworldly and peaceful experience, then this turquoise lake and its breathtaking surroundings are perfect for you. For an even more enjoyable experience, you should take the Gelmerbahn funicular and dive into the spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, including the Handegg waterfall. Once at the top, you can explore hiking trails and enjoy panoramic views of the Swiss Alps. Don't miss the 7 km long hike that takes approximately 3 hours to complete, offering a unique and unforgettable hiking experience. You won't be disappointed!
Caumasee
If you're looking for a peaceful and less crowded place by tourists to visit in Switzerland, Caumasee is an excellent option. This beautiful lake is located in the Grisons region and it is a must-see attraction whether you are going alone or with the whole family. The lake's warm waters make it an ideal location for swimming compared to other lakes in Switzerland. However, the best time to visit is in the summer. Caumasee, also known as Lake of Noon Rest, is surrounded by trees and is great for relaxing, swimming, and picnicking. The lake's greatest distinguishing characteristic is its turquoise-green water, which is extremely magnificent and makes it picture-perfect.
Lavertezzo
Have you heard of Lavertezzo? It's a picturesque village that looks like it's straight out of a postcard. The stone bridges, transparent river, and rustic ambiance make this village a romantic hidden gem. With only a few hundred residents, visiting Lavertezzo feels like a trip back in time. During the summertime, the crystal-clear river makes this area a popular spot for swimming as well. And, the best part is, our next suggestion, Ascona is only a 30-minute drive from this medieval village.
Ascona
Ascona, located on the northern shore of Lake Maggiore, is Switzerland's lowest-lying town at just 196 meters above sea level. It is renowned for its mild climate, charming Old Town, and lake promenade lined with street cafés. In Ascona, you can enjoy an artistic atmosphere, take a leisurely walk along its streets, and get lost in the Mediterranean-like vibe. Above Ascona lies Monte Verità, the Mountain of Truth, where at the start of the 20th century, a group of free thinkers established a colony that subscribed to unconventional philosophies. If you thought the first hippie movement was in America, you're in for a surprise. Discover the story of how middle-class youths rebelled against their time and created the original alternative community in 1900 on Monte Verità, the mountain of truth, at this very spot, by watching this documentary. It is about how in 1900 a group of middle-class kids revolted against their time and started the original alternative community - Monte Verità, the mountain of truth, exactly on this spot. If you want to feel that kind of a vibe, put Ascona on your bucket list.
Lake Thun
Last but not least, is Lake Thun, which you can find at only 32 km from the historic capital of Switzerland, Bern. The town of Thun, pronounced "Toon"," is located on the northern shore of the lake in the Bernese Oberland region and is easily reachable by car. You can enjoy a scenic drive along the beautiful shore of Lake Thun, surrounded by the majestic Swiss Alps. It's a peaceful and perfect retreat from your busy everyday life. During the ride, you can explore medieval castles that offer a glimpse into a fascinating history. However, the best way to experience the lake is to take a boat tour.
Switzerland's lesser-known destinations hold stories waiting to be told.
Before starting your journey through Switzerland, it is important to plan your trip carefully. In our latest article, we covered most of the safety tips that are essential when it comes to traveling abroad. To make the most of your trip, stay informed about the forecasted weather conditions for the areas you'll be driving through. Adjust your driving style and speed according to road conditions. And a very important step, check the toll systems. Since Switzerland has changed the current toll collection service for foreign vehicles and will gradually replace the manual system at the border, we at eTOLLs EU already have the option to purchase e-vignettes for Switzerland before entering the country.
So, no worries about anything, just choose your favorite Swiss place, install eTOLLs EU App and let’s explore together!
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