Summer SOJOURN

A country synonymous with classy sophistication and natural grandeur, Switzerland beckons discerning travellers to embark on a sun-filled odyssey.

- JOHN NG

When the summer sun ascends above Switzerland, impressive mountains and lush valleys present a realm where luxurious explorations and tranquillity are indistinguishable. Whether it be beautiful hiking trails or glassy fields reflecting the vibrant hues of the surrounding landscape, there are plenty of outdoor adventures waiting to be conquered.

After a 13-hour flight with Swissair (www.swissair.com) from Singapore to Zurich and dropping my luggage off at Hotel Schweizerhof (www.schweizerhof-engelberg.ch) in Engelberg, my adventure began with an easy trail hike at the picturesque Fürenalp. Next was Mt Titlis. Situated in between the cantons of Obwalden and Bern, it’s one of the highest — standing at an astounding 3,238 m above sea level — and most easily accessible mountain in Switzerland where the weather can change instantaneously and without warning, and as I discovered, snow could be expected even in the middle of summer. To get a 360-degree view of the mountains, I took a ride on the Titlis Rotair, the first revolving gondola in the world.

Mt Titlis is not only home to breathtaking scenery but also a wide range of exciting activities like mountain biking, climbing and hiking. I hiked a little to the Titlis Cliff Walk — Europe’s highest suspension bridge and mustered just enough courage to walk across before checking out the Glacier Cave, where I saw some incredible ice sculptures. We began our descent back to Engelberg after lunch at Titlis Panorama Restaurant. At the Trübsee Adventure Park, I ziplined my way down to the stunning mountain lake where holidaymakers could be seen rowing boats or playing with their children at the adventure playground.