Swiss Stories

Justine Mettraux aboard Teamwork during the Solitaire du Figaro in 2016

The Swiss who shine at sea

Society
This November, Geneva-born Alan Roura is setting sail for his second Vendée Globe – the hardest solo sailing race in the world, and a veritable Swiss tradition for getting your sea legs. Despite not having their own sea, Switzerland's sailors have been taking part in the most prestigious events over the last forty years. We've talked to journalist and sailing photographer Jean-Guy Python who recently published a book on this epic Swiss tale.

by Bertrand Monnard

Mujinga Kambundji

How high will Switzerland climb up Tokyo’s Mount Olympus?

Society

On 31 July 1996, 25 years ago, Pascal Richard from Vaud won the holy grail of medals, becoming the Olympic cycling champion in Atlanta.

by Bertrand Monnard

Le Rhône

Enchanted Swiss waters

History
Lakes are deeply mysterious and provide the setting for an array of ancient tales. Lakes are steeped in myth, symbolising unknown realms. They are said to have purifying or life-giving powers.
Electric trucks

Electric trucks herald breakthrough in electromobility

Environment
Environment-friendly electromobility solutions with increased battery capacity from Switzerland are sending a clear signal to the logistics industry.

by John Durham

Albert Hofmann with a model of the LSD molecule in the early 1950s © Novartis corporate archive

The Swiss beginnings of LSD

History
In a stroke of serendipity 80 years ago, Swiss chemist Albert Hofmann (1906–2008) discovered the effects of lysergic acid diethylamide – otherwise known as LSD. Initially this new hallucinogen was explored by Western scientists for its therapeutic potential. But LSD soon found its way out of the lab and into the world of recreational use by the counterculture movement. From the late 1960s it started to be banned, putting a halt to medical research in psychedelic substances. Since the 1990s, however, clinical studies of LSD have gradually resumed in some countries, including Switzerland.
André Borschberg

André Borschberg - Turning obstacles into opportunities

Environment
Engineer, entrepreneur, CEO, accomplished pilot: this broad set of talents has enabled Switzerland's André Borschberg, co-founder of Solar Impulse, to play a key role in making this plane without fuel a reality.
“Mayaguana” bag © Exuma

Seven designers setting the style in Switzerland

Economics
The Swiss fashion and accessory scene has produced its fair share of designers, who are able to give expression to new and unexpected ideas. A passion for all things Swiss is driven by fashion events that put the spotlight on these designers’ craft and by the country’s art schools, which have become a true breeding ground for up-and-coming designers.

by Vanessa Hambaryan