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10 Absurdly Underrated Places in Switzerland
A Side of Switzerland Few Travelers Ever See
Alex Mustaros
January 23, 2025
In partnership with
I hope this week's edition finds you well, and you’re warm and cozy while you read it.
I was going through Switzerland’s tourism website, and after browsing for a good number of minutes, I came to the conclusion that Switzerland is a country that always leaves me in awe.
Yes, that beautiful spot right in the middle of Europe, has always drawn in travelers with its picture-perfect views: the stunning Matterhorn reaching up through fluffy clouds, the clear waters of Alpine lakes reflecting the sky, and chic cities like Zurich, Geneva, and Lucerne buzzing with a lively vibe.
You know, while tons of people visit these famous landmarks every year (and honestly, who can blame them?), I've found that there's an even more fascinating story just waiting to be uncovered.
Imagine, for a moment, wandering just a few miles away from the usual spots to uncover a Switzerland that feels like a hidden gem, something you’d share with a close friend.
I’ve curated a list for you about these hidden corners of Switzerland.
They allow visitors to soak in some stunning beauty while enjoying a peaceful vibe.
So, let’s go, but first… here’s what’s happening in luxury travel worldwide:
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10 Absurdly Underrated Places in Switzerland
Grandria - My Switzerland
Here’s a detailed guide to the 10 underrated destinations in Switzerland, complete with recommendations for luxury and boutique hotels, activities, and nearby attractions to enhance your client’s visit.
1. Val Bavona (Ticino)
It is a breathtaking alpine valley with waterfalls, rustic stone houses, and unspoiled nature. It is ideal for tranquility seekers and nature lovers.
Top Place to Stay:
Luxury: Villa Orselina (Orselina) Website
Perched above Locarno, this 5-star retreat features panoramic views, a spa, and Mediterranean fine dining.
Activities:
Visit the iconic Foroglio Waterfall and explore the nearby hamlet.
Hike the Sabbione Trail, passing stone villages and cascading streams.
A rustic meal at Grotto La Froda, near the waterfall.
Nearby Attractions:
Ascona and Locarno, for lakeside promenades and cultural festivals.
2. Creux du Van (Neuchâtel/Jura)
Known as Switzerland’s "Grand Canyon," this natural amphitheater offers spectacular views and wildlife spotting.
Top Place to Stay:
Luxury: Beau-Rivage Hotel (Neuchâtel) Website
A 5-star lakeside property with elegant suites, gourmet dining, and proximity to Creux du Van.
Activities:
Hike the Noiraigue Trail to the rim of the Creux du Van.
Spot wildlife like ibex and golden eagles.
Taste local wines and cheese at nearby Jura vineyards.
Nearby Attractions:
La Maison de l’Absinthe in Môtiers, for a taste of local history and spirits.
3. Binn Valley (Valais)
The "Valley of Hidden Treasures" is known for its rare minerals, lush meadows, and peaceful ambiance.
Top Place to Stay:
Luxury: The Omnia (Zermatt) Website
A luxurious alpine lodge with modern designs and panoramic views is located an hour away.
Activities:
Explore Binntal Nature Park for scenic hiking and wildlife spotting.
Visit the historic village of Ernen, known for its wooden architecture.
Join a guided mineral hunting tour.
Nearby Attractions:
The Aletsch Glacier is the largest glacier in the Alps for guided tours or hiking.
4. Rheinau Abbey (Zurich Region)
A serene Baroque monastery on an island in the Rhine River, offering history, tranquility, and natural beauty.
Top Place to Stay:
Luxury: The Dolder Grand (Zurich) Website
A 5-star hotel blending art, luxury, and views of Zurich and the Alps.
Activities:
Tour the Rheinau Abbey, known for its stunning interiors.
Walk along the Rhine River and enjoy vineyard trails.
Kayak or take a boat ride on the Rhine for a unique perspective.
Nearby Attractions:
The Rhine Falls, the largest waterfall in Europe, located 30 minutes away.
5. Valle Verzasca (Ticino)
Home to emerald-green rivers, stone bridges, and quaint villages. A paradise for adventurers and photographers.
Top Place to Stay:
Luxury: Hotel Splendide Royal (Lugano) Website
A 5-star lakeside hotel with opulent decor and Italian fine dining.
Activities:
Swim in the crystal-clear waters of the Verzasca River.
Cross the Ponte dei Salti, a Roman bridge in Lavertezzo.
Try bungee jumping at the Verzasca Dam, made famous by James Bond.
Nearby Attractions:
Bellinzona’s Castles, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, are just an hour away.
6. Etang de la Gruère (Jura)
A peaceful peat bog lake surrounded by dense forests, perfect for nature lovers and bird-watchers.
Top Place to Stay:
Luxury: Grand Hotel des Rasses (Les Rasses) Website
A 4-star alpine retreat with panoramic views and a relaxing spa.
Activities:
Walk the trail around Etang de la Gruère for serene views.
Bird-watch or enjoy a picnic by the lake.
Visit the medieval village of St-Ursanne nearby.
Nearby Attractions:
Chasseral Regional Park, offering hiking trails and local cheeses.
7. Greina Plateau (Graubünden/Ticino)
A remote high-altitude plain known for its untouched beauty and dramatic landscapes.
Top Place to Stay:
Luxury: Hotel Waldhaus (Sils Maria) Website
A 5-star alpine resort with luxurious amenities and stunning views.
Activities:
Hike through the plateau, crossing wildflower meadows and glacial streams.
Spot wildlife like marmots and ibex.
Enjoy stargazing in this remote, light-pollution-free area.
Nearby Attractions:
The Val Lumnezia, a serene valley with small villages and cultural sites.
8. Soglio (Graubünden)
Known as the "Gateway to Paradise," Soglio offers stunning views of the Bregaglia mountain range and a tranquil atmosphere.
Top Place to Stay:
Luxury: Grand Hotel Kronenhof (Pontresina) Website
A historic 5-star hotel with opulent decor and world-class facilities.
Activities:
Wander the cobblestone streets and admire the preserved architecture.
Hike the Sentiero Panoramico trail for incredible mountain views.
Savor local delicacies at Hotel Palazzo Salis’ restaurant.
Nearby Attractions:
The Bregaglia Valley, known for its hiking trails and scenic beauty.
9. Blausee (Bernese Oberland)
A tiny turquoise lake surrounded by mystical forests, perfect for a relaxing escape.
Top Places to Stay:
Luxury: The Cambrian (Adelboden) Website
A chic alpine resort with an infinity pool overlooking the mountains.
Activities:
Take a glass-bottom boat ride to admire the lake’s underwater sculptures.
Walk the trail around the lake and explore its serene surroundings.
Dine at the lakeside restaurant, known for its freshly caught trout.
Nearby Attractions:
Oeschinensee, another stunning alpine lake, is a short drive away.
10. Arolla (Valais)
A small, serene mountain village surrounded by glaciers and towering peaks.
Top Places to Stay:
Luxury: Crans Ambassador (Crans-Montana) Website
A luxurious alpine retreat with a spa and exceptional views.
Activities:
Hike to the Arolla Glacier and take in the stunning views.
Explore trails to Mont Collon or Pas de Chèvres.
Enjoy a quiet meal in the village’s traditional Swiss restaurants.
Nearby Attractions:
Val d’Hérens, known for its pastoral beauty and unique “Evolène cows.”
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