Are you looking forward to spending a fun winter weekend in Switzerland? Then Schwägalp region in eastern Switzerland has a lot in store for you. In addition to the picturesque views of Alps, Schwägalp offers unique experiences for people of all ages alike.

1. Scratch the map

The Schwägalp Pass is located about 90-100 km southeast of Zurich and it takes about 1hour 30 minutes to reach there from Zurich by car. The road to Schwägalp along Urnäsch has beautiful views of snow-clad mountains on both sides and this is just the beginning of breathtaking sceneries awaiting you in this mountain destination.

2.Tour Highlights

You can enjoy a lot of fun activities in Schwägalp during winter. To make the most of this winter experience, its worth spending a night at the 'Säntis- das Hotel' located at the foothills of Säntis mountain. 

2.a Lantern Walk

The key highlight for us in Schwägalp was the evening “Lantern Walk” through the snow covered Weidwald forest. This “Lantern Walk” is open from Thursday to Saturday during every winter season. It’s a 40 min circular loop where you can follow the trail illuminated by lanterns along the way. 

This white winter trail under twinkling bright stars is the perfect recipe for a magical evening. After this amazing fairy tale walk, don’t forget to enjoy a drink at the cute Laternlibar and end your day with some delicious hot fondue for dinner.

Note that there is no entry fee for the Lantern Walk and plenty of parking space is available near the above mentioned hotel from where the trail starts.

2.b Säntis peak

The Santis mountain peak can be reached via a 10 minute cable car ride from the Schwebebahn cable car base station. There are multiple observation decks at the top offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountain ranges spanning across 6 countries. If you are lucky to be there on a bright sunny day, you will get some of most stunning views of Alps from this mountain peak.

You can also have breakfast or lunch at the restaurants in the Säntis complex while enjoying the amazing view from indoors.

2.c Sledging on the mountain base

Children can also enjoy a thrilling slide on the snowy slopes at the base of the mountain. So don"t forget to carry sledges for unlimited fun and adventure.

4. Useful Tips 

• Number of days: Its best to stay overnight for a day to have a relaxing and enjoyable weekend

• Accommodation: 'Säntis- das Hotel' was the perfect choice for our stay in Schwägalp given its proximity to the cable car base station.

• Best time to visit: Late December-January is the best time to visit to maximise chances of having snow. However, its always a good idea to check the weather conditions a week in advance so that you are not disappointed later.

• Robust footwear: The lantern walk trail can be quite slippery at some places especially while going downhill. Please carry good sturdy footwear so that you are fully equipped to enjoy the "romantic walk".

5. Goodbye Notes

Its time to say goodbye for now but I will be back soon with more travel stories for you. Till then, wish you happy and safe journey for your upcoming travels.