Swiss Stories

swiss night trains

Night trains – sustainability in style

Society
It's certainly no secret that railways are the most environmentally friendly means of motorised transport. Yet the waning demand for night trains did not start making its comeback until relatively recently, with increasing environmental awareness and concerns about the planet's sustainability. It's easy to see where the travel trends are taking us: more and more people want a clear conscience included when reserving trips like the one from Zurich to Vienna.
Happy Genie

Swiss a-Peel

Environment
Two start-ups born in Switzerland are bringing the concepts of 'cradle-to-cradle' and 'circular economy' closer to home by giving organic waste a new, fashionable lease on life.

by Miguel Quintana

© Claudio Bader

The forbidding side of Val Bavona, frozen in time

History
Val Bavona is one of the wildest valleys in the Swiss Alps. Bordering Ticino, it has remained frozen in the 16th century. The valley is only inhabited in summertime and has opted to remain true to its rustic roots, even shunning electricity.
Sledging in Grindelwald © grindelwaldbus – David Birri

10 very Swiss ideas for the festive season

Society
As excitement mounts in the run-up to Christmas, various festive activities are keeping people occupied across Switzerland this December – from snow hikes to Christmas markets; from fun runs to open-air swimming or visits to Santa’s grotto. We recommend the following ten activities to get you in the mood before Father Christmas arrives.
Amaury Guichon

Amaury Guichon's chocolate creations go viral

Society
Despite being told by his teachers that he would never amount to anything, Amaury Guichon refused to give up on his dreams. Today, at the young age of 32, he has become the world's most famous chocolatier, boasting 50 million followers on social media. He has also founded his own pastry academy. Portrait of a resilient entrepreneur.

by Lea Huszno

Winegrower Marie-Thérèse Chappaz in her vineyard © 2013 Dominique Derisbourg

Swiss wine embraces its feminine side

Society
The number of female winegrowers in Switzerland is increasing all the time. Their wines are as reputed as those of their male counterparts and many have won awards. We talked to four Swiss women who have made a career in winemaking, each in a different canton.
Christmas tree and cookies

Christmas and New Year traditions in Switzerland

Society
December is full of magic, festivities and light – although every now and then something other-worldly can emerge. It is a time of year well known for its particularly abundant end-of-year celebrations, especially Christian traditions such as Saint Nicholas (Santa Claus) and Christmas.
Barbara Piatti

by Barbara Piatti