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| Location |
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Situated
around the Vierwaldstätensee - which means literally the lake of the four wood counties -
this is "primitive" Switzerland: the historical heart which typifies the
country. Here in 1291, Switzerland was founded by the representatives of the valleys of
Uri, Schwytz and Unterwald, in defiance of their Austrian oppressors. This is also the
setting for the mythical exploits of William Tell, the Swiss national hero. A
bit more difficult to reach than other parts of Switzerland, this region is one of the
most traditional and conservative places in the country. It also offers some of
Switzerland's most romantic landscapes which have inspired visitors through the ages,
including Franz List during his pilgrimage here last century. |
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| Communities |
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Click
the thumbnails on the left to go to larger versions of the
pictures. |
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Lucerne |
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The
sixth most-visited place in Europe, Lucerne is a lovely lake-side town in the heart of the
Alps. The city holds an important place in the heart of the Swiss people. When the old
wooden bridge was burnt a few years ago, enough money to rebuild it three times was
collected in less than one month. Lucerne is also a good departure point for excursions
into the mountains, to the Rigi, for example, or to the Pilatus where you can enjoy
dramatic panoramic views of the region from the twin summits. |
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Schwyz |
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This
is one of the smallest cantons in Switzerland. It gave its name and flag to the whole
country. You will see people in traditional attire and herds of cows walking across the
towns. You might also see some of Switzerland's smartest businessmen who are here for
fiscal reasons. |
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Interlaken |
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As
its name suggests, this region is situated between the two lakes, Thun and Brienz. At the
foot of three mighty summits, the Jungfrau, the Mönch and the Eiger, it is a very good
base for the numerous hiking excursions you can take in the area. |
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Wengen |
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This
is the best resort in the Bernese Oberland. It was the favorite place of English tourists
in the nineteenth century. In winter, it is excellent for skiing and in the summer for
rambling and hiking. The highest train in Europe leaves from here to go to the
Jungfraujoch where you will see one of the most astonishing panoramas of the Alps. |
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| Your neighbors |
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Minnie Hauk
The American singer who lived in Lucerne
Liselotte Lisenhoff
German financier, who lives in St-Gall |
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Click
on the names to learn more but Beware! This file may take some time to download. |
| Transport and international connections |
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Airport |
Zürich-Kloten
Airport is the closest. The largest airport in Switzerland, with direct
connections all over the world. |
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London
Amsterdam |
1:25 by airplane
from Zürich |
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Paris
Rome
Brussels
Vienna |
1:10 by airplane
from Zürich |
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Bern |
60 min. by train
or car |
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| Activities and resources |
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This area is a
wonderful place for walking, skiing and mountain climbing. You can also enjoy sailing on
the lake. And do not forget the music festivals that take place during the summer. If you
want to experience traditional Switzerland, just take part in the Swiss wrestling
competitions in Schwytz. |
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| Vacation properties |
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Type |
Apartments and
chalets |
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Prices |
SFR 250,000 for
an apartment in the lower price range. |
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Availability |
Many low-priced
properties are still available. |
