Exploring by Train: Majestic Alps, Medieval Castles & Chocolate

SWITZERLAND

Switzerland is a country that feels like stepping into a postcard, and my wife and I were lucky enough to experience it firsthand in 2023. Over the course of our trip, we visited 10 stunning towns, traveling by train and soaking in some of the most breathtaking scenery in the world. From the towering Alps to serene lakeside villages, every stop felt like a dream.

We were especially captivated by Swiss culture and food—seriously, the chocolate alone is worth the trip. One of the highlights was exploring Chillon Castle, a medieval fortress that looks like it belongs in a fantasy novel. We also indulged in Swiss art, fashion, and, of course, plenty of fondue.

For the thrill-seekers in us, we took on the adventure of ziplining in the picturesque village of Grindelwald—an experience that was both exhilarating and humbling as we soared above the lush landscapes. And then there was Zermatt, where we hiked near the iconic Matterhorn—or, as we like to call it, “that mountain from the Toblerone bar.”

Speaking of hiking, here’s where things got interesting. Somewhere along the trails of Zermatt, we managed to get completely lost. What was supposed to be a scenic, peaceful trek turned into a real-life survival challenge (okay, maybe not that dramatic, but it sure felt like it). After several wrong turns and a brief moment of wondering if we'd have to live off Swiss chocolate for the rest of our lives, we finally found our way back to civilization. Lesson learned: always trust the Swiss trail signs, not your gut instincts.