Swiss Stories

Rita Christen

Rita Christen, the first female president of the Swiss Mountain Guides Association

Society
Rita Christen is the first woman to be elected president of the Swiss Mountain Guides Association (SMGA) in the organisation's more than 100-year history. This 54-year-old from Disentis is a mountain guide, a lawyer and much more besides.
Five laughing girls in Guatemala

The global heritage of Johann Heinrich Pestalozzi – the father of modern education

Society
Few people have had as much influence on education as the Swiss Johann Heinrich Pestalozzi. His energy, persistence and courage, sometimes during periods of political upheaval and war, provided a foundation and inspiration for later educationalists such as Maria Montessori. Today, schools all over the world implement his philosophy.

by John Durham

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

Tour de France

Switzerland: a country for avid cyclists

Society
With breathtaking alpine passes and stunning trails along the Swiss waterways and through the plains, the variety of the Swiss cycling landscape has long fascinated local enthusiasts and international visitors alike. What makes Switzerland such a great place to ride?
Lucerne

Basel and Lucerne – when carnival becomes art

Society
Did you know that Switzerland is (also) home to the carnival? A number of cities organise carnivals every year, like Basel and Lucerne. Over the course of several days, locals adorn themselves in festive costume – to the delight of all.

by Dimitri Kas

A mythical race through the heart of the Swiss Alps

A mythical race through the heart of the Swiss Alps

Society
In the early days of the Second World War, Switzerland's Mountain Brigade 10 was ready and waiting on standby. Its mission: to defend the south-eastern Alps. Two captains in the brigade – including future Federal Councillor Roger Bonvin – came up with a novel idea to test their soldiers' abilities.
Swiss dogs on Instagram

Swiss dogs on Instagram

Society
Meet the Swiss Instagrammers who share their uplifting pictures of everyday life with their dogs in the incomparable Swiss outdoors.