Switzerland Weather
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Switzerland Overview

Beautiful, mountainous and wealthy, with a population of just seven million, Switzerland is famous for its high quality of life, majestic mountains, sophisticated ski resorts, luxurious watches, and dangerously delicious chocolate and cheese. Switzerland's famed political neutrality and isolated location have enabled it to play a safe but central role in European affairs. The coveted Swiss bank account has made Zürich one of Europe's major financial hubs. Outdoor lovers will be spoilt for choice among the breathtaking beauty of the Alps, lakes and meadows, while the ancient capital of Berne provides elegant shopping, dining and nightlife.

The conveniently central location in the middle of Europe has also made Switzerland a favourite meeting place for conventions and international conferences.

Switzerland’s political model is based on consensus-building, and considering that the country consists of several culturally-different groups speaking different languages; Swiss German, French, Italian and Rhaeto-Rumantsch, the country’s peaceful domestic situation is admirable.

Switzerland is bordered by France to the west, Germany to the north, Austria to the east and Italy to the south. It has the highest mountains in Europe, with waterfalls and lakes set amid green pastures. The highest peaks are Dufour Peak, at 4634 metres, the Dom of 4545 metres, the famous Matterhorn reaching 4478 metres, and the Jungfrau at 4166m. Since the 1950s, the Swiss government has introduces measures to protect its forests, lakes and marshlands from environmental damage.

For a small country of just 41,285 sq km, Switzerland has a multitude of attractions. Aside from its fine ski conditions, it boasts three UNESCO World Heritage sites: Bern’s historic city centre, Saint Gallen’s Cathedral and abbey library, and the convent of Saint John in Mustair.

Visit this website for photographs and further information about Matterhorn in Switzerland.

Many beautiful castles dot the landscape such as the castles around Lake Thun and the Chateau de Chillion in Montreux, which is perhaps the most famous. There are grand cathedrals in Basel, Bern and Solothurn, but those in Einsiedeln and Saint Gallen are the most impressive.

Climate

Switzerland offers a wide variety of things to do and see, whatever the season. Summer lasts roughly from June until September, and offers the most pleasant climate for outdoor activities. Temperatures average around 20°C to 25°C.
If you visit during the spring (April to May) or the autumn (September to October), you're likely to find fewer tourists and special promotions in hotels and resorts. Mountains and meadows are bursting with springtime wildflowers. Temperatures hover around 7°C to 14°C.

Winter sports venues begin operating in late-November and close down when the snow begins to melt in spring. However, really keen skiers can take to the slopes practically the whole year on a number of glaciers around the country. Temperatures drop to around 2°C to 6°C.

Bring warm clothes and rainwear; lightweights for summer.