This summer between some of my comings and goings I decided to change the beach for the mountains and enjoy some pure nature. My destination was Switzerland.
At my first stop, I chose Zurich, with such beautiful countryside and as the financial and cultural capital of Switzerland; it’s considered by many people to be the world’s best city with one of the highest qualities of life.
Zurich, SwitzerlandIt is definitely a very visitor-friendly city and ideal for walking and sightseeing, stopovers in art galleries, shopping and enjoying its exquisite dining. For those more adventurous and active, it is good to know that bike hire in Zurich is free and the bike paths are well laid out and easy to navigate. For those who wish to walk the city, it is also easy to do and a great way to mix with the people of Zurich whose style is either chic and sophisticated, or edgy and avant-garde.
Visit the Best City in the World
During my different walks and visits to the most popular attractions – including some churches such as St Peter’s Church with Europe’s largest clock face. A museum which I would highlight is the Museum of Art with works that include Picasso and Munch among others. I felt the presence and vibrations of Üetliberg Mountain, which creates a beautiful picture of different points of Zurich.
The gorgeous and famous pedestrian street Bahnhofstrass located very near to the train station Hauptbahnhof is a must see. This area is one of the most luxurious and expensive streets in the world where some of the most powerful banks, extravagant fashion brands and exclusive shops sell anything you can possibly imagine.
The best and most well-known chocolatier is located on number 21 of the same road: Sprungli. It is considered an iconic location in Zurich, where you can enjoy a wonderful meal and sample delicious cakes and chocolates with a delightful cup of tea.
Sprungli
Very close to Sprungli is the old town Altstadt, where you will find the luxurious and respected hotel Storchen. It is located in a beautiful cobbled street with a panoramic view of the river Limmat, classic furnishings, warm colours and modern facilities. This romantic residence has been open to the public for over 650 years and it is the only hotel in Zurich located on the river. There is a wonderful story about a pair of rare black storks whom nested on its roof, which is how the hotel acquired its name, and a gorgeous mosaic of stork eggs will welcome you at the reception.
Storchen Hotel, Zurich
Not far from there, there is another unique property to visit: The Ascot Hotel. With a total of 74 rooms, last renovated in 2010 – all of them are well equipped, comfortable and very spacious – it is suited to both a business and a pleasure break. Its breakfast is delicious, with a wide selection and its two restaurants along with a bar/lounge, invite you to enjoy plates from international cuisine: Ascot restaurant, where you can enjoy the best steak and seafood specialities and Fujiya restaurant which offers exquisite Japanese food.
I also had a fantastic dining experience at Spice. You will find it on the top of a hill and surrounded by beautiful trees in The Rigiblick Hotel. This Michelin-starred restaurant with wonderful views of the city and its famous lake, offers a variety of delicious dishes cooked with a lot of delicacy, where the recognized chef Dennis Puchert combines local products with all kind of ingredients creating pleasant bites in imaginative modern artful plates. Just fantastic!
By Mr. Jones
