10-Nights Switzerland: Hidden Trails & Majestic Peaks

Neuchatel

Located 25 mi/40 km west of Bern, Neuchatel is truly a sparkling little city—its buildings of yellow sandstone glitter in the sun. It's also the cantonal seat, situated at the foot of the Jura Mountains on one of the largest lakes in Switzerland. The city is acclaimed academically because of its outstanding prep schools and university. It's also said that the purest French spoken in Switzerland is spoken in Neuchatel.

At the Art and History Museum, (http://www.mahn.ch) ask if you can see the androids—three mechanical puppets built in 1774 that are so fascinating, they were invited to perform in the courts of 18th- and 19th-century Europe. In tiny towns clustered throughout the canton, Swiss clocks and watches are made.

Lucerne

Without a doubt one of the prettiest towns in Switzerland, Lucerne lies in the heart of the country on famous lake of Lucerne. Dotted with Renaissance and Baroque fountains, colorful paintings on the gables and commanded by the exquisite wooden bridge, the Kapellbrücke and Wasserturm, the 13th century octagonal water tower, Lucerne's character is pure charm. Spectacular views and sights abound from almost every vantage point in and around Lucerne. The Old Town Hall is a fine example of a Renaissance building while the City Wall, built between 1350 and 1405 stands proud above the city. A stroll along the quay leads past the modern health resort and onto the largest, most important Transport Museum in Europe and the only Planetarium in Switzerland. The famous Lion Monument and Glacier Garden make for remarkable viewing as do the mountain peaks surrounding the city. A short drive from town takes visitors to some of the most breathtaking landscapes on earth, and a short drive from Viewaldstätter Lake leads to nearby winter resorts and many more lakes.

Zermatt

Friendly, welcoming Zermatt, with its grandiose panoramas of snow-capped peaks that include the legendary Matterhorn, boasts the longest winter season in Europe and the highest skiiing area. Horse-drawn carriages in summer and snow sleighs in winter add further ambience to Zermatt's quaint Walliser houses and the elegant, often world famous hotels. The absence of cars has helped bestow an elite status on Zermatt. The picture perfect streets and snow-lined pathways are clean, pristine and romantic in atmosphere. In the summertime, walking and climbing enthusiasts can enjoy the unlimited scope of the magnificent mountains and glaciers, while skiing devotees enjoy the seemingly endless pistes in wonderful powder snow. Zermatt attracts tourists, not only for its fresh and clean mountain air, but also for its excellent restaurants, bars and nightclubs; the tempting, exclusive shops and boutiques and the friendly hospitality of the local residents.