Swiss Stories

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.
Cow 'Chou-Fleur' © Mavachamoi

Swiss cows and goats seek sponsors

Society
Ever thought of adopting a cow or a goat to help support Swiss farmers? The idea is catching on in our cities and is proving popular with the farmers too.

by Tatiana Tissot

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

absinthe

Absinthe: Swiss local product leaves behind its shady past

Society
Switzerland's Val-de-Travers is the birthplace of absinthe and has strong links to this local product that was banned for many years. An interactive exhibition in Môtiers in the canton of Neuchâtel tells its extraordinary story, while some distillers have set about seeking a PGI. We take a closer look at a spirit with a colourful past.

by Tatiana Tissot

Silvesterchläuse

Urnäsch’s magical ‘double New Year’s Eve’

Society
The Silvesterchläuse of the village of Urnäsch in the Swiss canton of Appenzell Ausserrhoden celebrate the New Year twice. It is an old tradition going strong again.
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.
St Nicholas ©Fribourg Tourisme et Région

St Nicholas in Fribourg

Society
For the past 100 years, Fribourg has honoured St Nicholas with a festive, welcoming and lively celebration held on the first Saturday in December. The tradition dates back to the early 20th century and has become a celebration not to be missed, drawing in crowds of between 20,000 and 25,000 every year. The event is hugely popular and eagerly anticipated by residents and friends of Fribourg.

by Dimitri Kas