Diving into the water from a pier while doing a somersault in the air is one of those things you least expect to experience on a trip to Switzerland. And the truth is that, in Zurich, it wouldn’t be for lack of water to practice your Olympic diving skills. Zurich is a perfect destination to explore one of the most luxurious cities in the world, but also to enjoy an unforgettable mountain getaway and breathe in the calm waters and mountains; a place where you can put your physical fitness to the test.
Switzerland is one of the countries with the highest standard of living in the world, and Zurich is a perfect example of the luxurious lifestyle you’ll encounter everywhere, from high-end stores to gorgeous buildings of great architectural value. Even so, you will not need to spend a fortune to get to know the city. Due to its small size, it’s very easy to cover in a single day, as you are able to move around on rental bicycles with complete peace of mind. Like many other cities, Zurich is divided in two parts, the historical and the modern or financial district, making for a fascinating contrast between the old and the new. Both deserve a good walk before heading to the quiet shores of Lake Zurich, swimsuit at the ready.
Once you’ve “done” the city, it’s time to head out to the outskirts for a relaxing day in nature. Lake Zurich – known as Zürichsee – extends from east to west and is surrounded by different residential areas where tranquility is the norm. On the shores of the lake you’ll find numerous recreational areas set up to take a dip, with pontoons and floating huts with trampolines from which to jump into the cool waters of the lake, the perfect place to enjoy the unique experience of swimming in the mountains.
Finally, to experience the thrilling descent from the mountain at full speed, there’s nothing like the Floomzer slide (open from 10am to 12am in the morning), an attraction which has nothing to envy the best roller coasters you’ve ever ridden, with vertigo inducing curves taken at full speed.
At the top, before the descent, you can also enjoy an aperitif before barreling downhill with a drop of 250 meters from point to point. It’s the perfect ending for a day in the city, mountain and lakes.
Photo | Alejandro Ramirez
