Switzerland in 3 Steps


Jura & Three-Lakes, the authentic and inspiring Switzerland



Between shimmering lakes, human-scale towns and preserved landscapes, Jura & Three-Lakes embodies an authentic, cultural, and deeply vibrant Switzerland. Here, the curious traveler discovers a destination that is accessible and remote in feel, far from Alpine clichés.

Impossible to mention the region without talking about the spectacular Creux du Van. This natural rocky amphitheater offers one of the most impressive panoramas in the country. A few kilometres away, the shores of Lake Neuchâtel invite contemplation, bike rides, or cruises between wine villages and nature reserves.

The region is also the cradle of a globally renowned craft: watchmaking. In La Chaux-de-Fonds, inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List for its watchmaking urban planning, the industrial history is written into the very layout of the town. In Biel/Bienne, another major watchmaking hub, industrial heritage and modernity constantly converse.

The medieval lanes of Saint-Ursanne plunge visitors into a timeless atmosphere. Further south, the Chasseral offers a spectacular view over the Three-Lakes region and, on clear days, as far as the Alps.

On the culinary side, Jura & Three-Lakes asserts a bold character. La Tête de Moine, the emblematic cheese to be enjoyed in thin rosettes, tells the monastic history of Jura. Neuchâtel’s unfiltered wine, a local specialty bottled in the heart of winter, surprises with its freshness and authenticity. Along the shores of Lake Biel, terraced vineyards complete this flavourful mosaic.

Easily accessible from France, Jura & Three-Lakes constitutes a discreet alternative to the major Swiss destinations. People come here to explore a sincere Switzerland, where spectacular nature, vibrant towns, and living traditions form a concentrated array of cultural, historical, and gastronomic experiences.

Photo credits for the Jura & Three-Lakes episode: © Switzerland Tourism / Lorenz Richard, © Nicole Schafer, Freiburger Tourismusverband, Stefan Weber, david&kathrin Photography and Film GmbH, Dominik Baur, Lorenz Richard, Raffael Waldner, Guillaume Perret.



© Jura Tois-Lacs


Valais, at the Heart of the Swiss Alps

In the heart of the Swiss Alps, Valais stretches between snowy peaks, terraced vineyards, and picturesque villages. Here, the curious traveler discovers an authentic Switzerland, lively and accessible, far from alpine clichés.

Impossible to visit Valais without admiring the spectacular Aletsch Glacier, the largest glacier in the Alps, tucked in the Aletsch Arena region, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The main viewpoints are easily accessible thanks to the View Point Package, while the Aletsch Glacier Tour offers a nature- and education-oriented immersion. For those who prefer independent exploration, the Discovery Passport simplifies travel and lets you fully enjoy the region.

In Zermatt, the Gornergrat Railway offers one of the country’s most iconic experiences. The first electric cog railway in Switzerland climbs above breathtaking views of the Matterhorn. The NostalChic Class, elegant and nostalgic, appeals to travelers seeking a premium moment, summer or winter.

In the Four Valleys, the Nendaz area is perfect for summer adventures as well as gourmet getaways. Nendaz Trekking offers three days of hiking with two nights in mountain huts, ideal for families and intermediate walkers. In winter, the Raquettes Raclette experience blends gentle walking with local gastronomy. And for a breath-taking panorama, the Mont Fort viewpoint overlooks the valley and the surrounding peaks.

On the cultural side, Stockalper Castle in Brig tells the region’s medieval and mercantile history, while Alpine traditions, like the Alphorn in Nendaz, echo the living heritage of Valais.

Easily accessible from France, Valais is a destination for its spectacular panoramas, charming villages, and authentic experiences. People come here to explore a living Switzerland, where nature, culture, and gastronomy meet in a concentration of unforgettable experiences.

Photo credits for the Valais episode : © Valais/Wallis Promotion – Pascal Gertschen, Kim Corpataux, Nico Schaerer, Tamara Berger, Lorenz Richard, Moosalp Tourismus AG, Dominik Baur, André Meier, Christian Pfammatter, Tim Bardsley-Smith, Florian Bouvet-Fournier, Christian Meixner, Nicola Fürer, Colla Images, Jan Geerk, Frederic Huber, Pascal Gertschen, Bruno Augsburger, Christian Bürgi, David Carlier, Daniel Loosli, Brig Simplon Tourismus, Giglio Pasqua.



© Switzerland Tourism


The Unmissable Glacier Express

The Glacier Express is one of Switzerland’s most sought-after tourism products and a must-have in any rail travel portfolio. Connecting the world-famous ski resorts of Zermatt and St. Moritz, it offers an eight-hour panoramic journey through the Swiss Alps. It is renowned worldwide as “the slowest express train in the world” due to the emphasis placed on comfort, scenery, and the passenger experience.

Covering 291 kilometres, the route crosses 291 bridges and 91 tunnels, delivering an exceptional panoramic experience that has become a benchmark for Alpine rail travel. The train traverses the cantons of Valais, Uri, and Graubünden, revealing iconic landscapes ranging from the Matterhorn region to the Rhine Gorge, often called the “Grand Canyon of Switzerland,” culminating in the Engadine lake region.

All cars are equipped with panoramic windows, ensuring unobstructed views, while the onboard dining serves freshly prepared dishes at your seat. These features make the journey appealing to both solo travelers and groups.

The premium segment is served by the Excellence Class, a luxury product that guarantees window-side seats, an exclusive bar, personalized concierge service, infotainment integrated into a tablet, and a five-course gourmet menu with wine pairings. Excellence Class consistently achieves high customer satisfaction and offers partners the opportunity to present a unique luxurious rail experience.

Operationally, the Glacier Express runs two trains per direction per day in winter, and four trains per direction per day in summer. The ticket required to ride is fully covered by the Swiss Travel Pass, but seat reservations remain separate and are mandatory.

For tourism professionals, the train’s solid reputation, consistently high service quality, and high customer recommendation rates provide a reliable, low-risk product highly attractive to a broad range of client profiles. Whether included in a multi-day itinerary or sold as a flagship journey, the Glacier Express remains among Switzerland’s most sought-after rail experiences and enjoys exceptional global recognition.

Photo credits for the Glacier Express episode : © GaudenzDanuser.com, Christian Pfammatter Photography, STEFAN SCHLUMPF, Marco Schnyder, Christian Bürgi / MGBahn



Switzerland in Brief


Contact Jura & Three-Lakes


La Suisse en trois étapes
Website: www.j3l.ch/fr/

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Valais / Wallis Promotion Contact


La Suisse en trois étapes
Website: www.valais.ch/fr

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Glacier Express Contact


La Suisse en trois étapes
Website: https://glacierexpress.ch/fr

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Swiss Tourism Contact


La Suisse en trois étapes
Website: www.myswitzerland.com/fr-fr/

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Amara Nambinga

Amara Nambinga

I write about tourism, culture, and emerging destinations with a Namibian perspective. Through my articles, I try to highlight the places, people, and travel stories that show how Africa and the wider world are changing.