It’s no secret, Switzerland is full of ski resorts (over 300), from small local hills, to massive resorts. Ticino hosts a few of these ski areas with many of them being smaller family-friendly ski areas. Carì is a small resort and about an hour drive from Lugano, Switzerland.
The ski hill offers 2 ski lifts and a small Kid’s Village (with a magic carpet) at both the bottom of the mountain and middle station. Other winter sports like sledding and snow shoeing are also possible.
Adults:
43 CHF
Teens (13-20):
35 CHF
Kids (6-12):
27 CHF
Family (2 Adults + children to 11)
95 CHF
Skiing can be an expensive sport, especially if you are skiing as a family. In the past Carì was a family favorite as it was very affordable for a family of 5, with their family discount ticket. Unfortunately, they have lowered the age limit for the family ticket to only include children under 11, making it more expensive for families with teenagers, but it’s still affordable.
The trails are quite picturesque. The above trail winds through small cabins and is possible to snowshoe, sled, or ski on. You can access the trail from the mid-mountain or snowshoe up from the bottom.
Two drawbacks we have found when skiing Carì:
The long lines at the bottom of the hill. The 2-person lift can get quite long. Once you reach mid mountain, it is not so bad, as there is a quad lift to the top (Black and Red runs only).
The parking situation. If you do not arrive early, it is possible you will have to park on the side of the road and be bused up. Or worse, we have arrived at 10 am and have been turned away as no more parking. My advice: arrive early or don’t go on peak days.
The Lodge sits mid-mountain with fantastic views over the valley. They offer a large outdoor seating patio which makes the dining experience comfortable. Inside there are also many tables and a cafeteria serving hearty Swiss lunches.
On top of the mountain sits a small cabin with a few benches inside and out. You are able to purchase a few snacks here along with drinks. It’s the perfect setting for an afternoon aperitivo with incredible views.
Carì has blue, red and black runs for all levels of skiers. The resort is quite small (20km) but we have enjoyed skiing Carì as it is an easy, affordable option when skiing as a family.
Christmastime can feel quite magical. Ever since we’ve moved to Europe we have really started to embrace the Christmas Markets. Each canton in Switzerland have different traditions and specialties they offer. From warm chestnuts to mulled-wine, the feeling of Christmas is in the air.
Zurich, Switzerland Christmas MarketNov 21, 2019 – Dec 24, 2019
Zurich has a few Christmas Markets scattered throughout the city. The train station hosts a gorgeous Swarvoski Christmas Tree surrounded by booths. Each year since we’ve lived in Switzerland the markets seem to improve. There are food booths of many, traditional Christmas crafts and many pop-up fondue and raclette restaurants throughout the city, a winter favorite.
The market at Sechseläutenplatz has an ice rink, food booths and a few fondue chalets. I prefer this market over the one in the train station as there seems to be a bit more action, but both are lovely to visit. In addition to the ice rink, there is a fantastic play area (Santa’s workshop) just above the market for the younger crowd.
Zurich is definitely a must visit city around Christmastime, with the magically lit Conelli circus tent on the river, to the singing Christmas Tree, the feeling of Christmas surrounds you in this beautiful city.
Lugano, Switzerland Christmas MarketNov 30, 2019 – Jan 06, 2020
The Christmas market begins with the lighting of the Christmas tree in the main square of Piazza Reforma and continues throughout the New Year.
This year Lugano has really stepped it up by adding an ice rink, sledding ramp, and holiday projections on their buildings. Almost every evening there is a DJ and drinks in the square. There is also a Christmas craft area for the children.
Many booths are set up in Piazza Reforma and continue to wind throughout the cobble-stoned streets. The moderate climate in Ticino makes for very enjoyable evenings celebrating Christmas festivities out in the plaza.
Montreux , Switzerland. Nov 21, 2019 – Dec 24, 2019
I have not had the chance to visit this market yet, but this year my friend, Tanya, from Swiss Family Fun enjoyed a visit to the Montreux Christmas market. You can link to her blog for a more detailed write-up.
One of the highlights of this market is Santa and his reindeer soaring high above the Christmas market. (How awesome is that?) This market is definitely high on our list to visit next year.
Locarno on Ice, SwitzerlandNov 21, 2019 – Jan 06, 2020
Locarno has a beautiful ice rink installed in the middle of the town square. The town is full of Christmas events, food booths, goodies, etc. The ice rink is open daily through the holiday season. You can bring your own skates or there are also skates for hire.
Saturday – Sunday, 10.00 – 1.00 (the hours are fantastic and open daily!)
Locarno on Ice is packed full of action, from musical events to a New Year’s celebration, this is the place to be. Such a lovely city to visit during the holiday season in Switzerland.
It’s hard to pick a favorite Christmas market in Switzerland, they are all so magical and each has it’s own unique flare. No matter which one you decide to visit, I think it will get you into the holiday spirit.
It is easy to see why one of the most famous hikes in Zermatt, Switzerland is the 5 Lakes trail. The views of the Matterhorn from the lakes are simply amazing. A few of the lakes you can get a clear reflection of the Matterhorn.
The 5 lakes trail follows a path by five lakes : Grindjisee , Stellisee, Moosjisee, Grünsee, and Leisee. The hiking level is not difficult and suitable for children. There is a playground at Leisee , along with an area to enjoy a picnic all while taking in the views of the Matterhorn.
The Matterhorn Bergbahnen is about a five minute ride from Zermatt up to Sunnegga. From Sunnegga you can take the gondola up Blauherd that will drop you off near the start of the trail.
Before hoping on the gondola up to Blauherd you may want to consider a stop at the Sunnegga self-service buffet bar . It is the perfect place to enjoy a morning cup of coffee whilst soaking in the views (and maybe a chocolate Toblerone too).
In the summertime this trail can be quite crowded so you may want to consider getting an early start. We were one of the first ones up the mountain and had the trail mostly to ourselves.
Almost every turnout there is a magnificent view of the Matterhorn, no wonder this is one of the most famous hikes in Zermatt.
Even the not so seasoned hiker will be able to enjoy the trail. The trail winds through out the mountains but never seemed overly difficult. There are many places along the way to stop, enjoy a little break and soak in the views.
For the Adventurous ones (or tired hiking legs), a ride down the mountain is a great way to finish the hike. During the summer months, you can rent a mountain cart to take you down the mountain. I would recommended this for children 12+, as the incline is steep and the carts go quite fast! We had an absolute blast riding down the mountain and would definitely advise to give it a go!
The reflections of the Matterhorn from many of these lakes is simply jaw-dropping. The 5 Lakes Trail is a photographers dream, a hike not to be missed while visiting Zermatt.
This past week I had the opportunity to have a girls’ get-away to Zermatt and really enjoyed our stay at CERVO Moutain Boutique Hotel. Posh, yet charming, this hotel combines luxury and comfort. The Matterhorn is Switzerland’s most iconic mountain and the backdrop to the hotel.
Cervo offers chalets with a variety of rooms: from cozy, yet luxurious, to Rooftop Suites. They even have an Owners lodge available. In total there are 36 suites making this resort feel quaint, but yet it also includes all the comforts that are expected at a 5-star Resort.
When we arrived at the train station in Zermatt (almost immediately next to the train platform) was a phone for hotel pick-up, making it convenient to contact the hotel. The driver transported us only a few minutes up the road to the luxury CERVO Boutique Resort.
Upon arrival at the hotel a welcoming and attentive staff greeted us. Our bags were delivered to our room while we were accompanied to the hotel’s terrace for a champagne welcome drink. Cheers to that! The terrace overlooks the Matterhorn with jaw dropping views.
There was no formal check-in, which was quite refreshing. While sipping on our champagne, the staff provided us with a resort overview and a CERVO events calendar, a much appreciated touch. The calendar mapped out a variety of activities at the Resort, from outdoor movie night, yoga, raclette evenings and more.
After a refreshing glass of cold champagne we sat back and admired the views of the stunning Matterhorn in the distance. Simply breathtaking.
Calm, tasteful and beautifully designed the CERVO (meaning Deer in Italian) carries a rustic yet modern feel that felt very delightful.
The beauty of the hotel location is the proximity to the slopes. CERVO is the only ski-in / ski-out resort in Zermatt meaning you can ski right up to your room or terrace. Imagine that! The sprawling terrace with views of the Matterhorn creates an impression of excitement, especially with a drink in hand after a long day on the mountain.
The boutique resort boasts 2 Restaurants; CERVO Puro and Ferdinand, serving a delicious range of food.
Both the lunch and dinner menu provided us with a choice of dishes beautifully presented and appetizing. We enjoyed their CERVO board with fresh bread, butter infused with flavors, and a variety of cheeses and meats that complimented each other.
The rustic alpine touches throughout were enchanting and gave off a luxury cabin feeling. A place that must feel magical in the winter months with views of the snow covered mountains.
Our Chalet had a breathtaking view of the Matterhorn and all the touches you would expect from a 5 star hotel.
The room had the feel of a beautifully designed hunting lodge. We enjoyed the extra touches in the room from a “Welcome box” filled with goodies (including Swiss Chocolates), to a stocked fridge offered by the hotel.
Vaulted beamed ceilings and hardwood floors, designed with a chalet feel, made it both charming and delightful. A very comfortable king size bed provided us with a relaxing and a luxurious stay.
Views from our balcony were incredible. I mean, how can you ever tire of that view? Most of the suites feature a balcony with a view of the Matterhorn. The balcony was the perfect place for us to lounge and relax.
On the terrace the recliners, warm blankets, Hendricks Gin bottles with flowers all helped enhance the ambiance. All of this beauty at the foot of the Matterhorn was truly a majestic experience.
The scenery from the groud floor spa attached to our Chalet was fantastic. I imagine the snow falling while sitting in the hot tub must feel superb after a long day on the slopes. Each of the chalets (6 units) have their own spa and sauna.
Summertime heat proved to be too much for the spa time, but we look forward to returning in the winter months to experience a magical winter wonderland at CERVO.
You can’t get much closer to the mountain slopes than the base of Sunnegga. The elevator sits directly across the street from the hotel. We took the elevator and rode up in the early morning to hike around, the close proximity made it so we were able to beat the crowds.
A Champagne toast while admiring the Matterhorn was a memorable experience. Our little get away was truly a pleasurable experience, away from the hustle and bustle it felt like a haven of peace and relaxation. The hotel itself has the coziness and uniqueness of what truly makes an alpine hotel special. CERVO Boutique provided us with an air of grace and class.
Hopefully you enjoyed my review for CERVO Mountain Boutique Resort . A big thank you to the CERVO Mountain Boutique Resort for hosting us. Opinions in the post are my own and based on my own personal experience at the hotel.
Many people reach out to me looking for advice on visiting Switzerland, in-particular the Swiss Alps. I have created an easy itinerary of what I would recommend on your first visit to Switzerland. If you have more time, of course, I would recommend visiting so much more of Switzerland. But if it is just the Swiss Alps you are looking to visit, I think this may be the perfect start for you.
Day 1:
Morning arrival to the Zürich airport
Take an easy train-ride to the center of Zürich from the airport. Enjoy a stroll through the beautiful city of Zürich with a visit to Zeughauskeller for lunch.
After a short visit in Zürich, catch a late-afternoon train from the Zürich Bahnhof (HB) to Interlaken, only a 2 hour train ride (1.55 mins) It is a delightful train ride through Switzerland with breathtaking views along the way. You can also dine in one of the train cars on your journey.
Spend the night in Interlaken
Interlaken is a quaint village in-between two Lakes, Lake Thun and Lake Brienz. If you have time, both lakes have Ferryboats you can take to different villages along the lake. You may want to consider adding another day to explore Interlaken or cut-out Zürich.
Day 2:
Take the train from Interlaken to Grindelwald. Spend some time exploring the town of Grindelwald, then go up the mountain to Kleine Scheidegg. I recommend going to the Kleine Scheidegg from Grindelwald, not only is it cheaper ( return ticket for 62 CHF), but also for the sake of time constraints.
Going to the top of the Jungfrau will put you back about 200 CHF per adult, (Yes, Switzerland is expensive, but the views are PRICELESS) Grindlewald to the top of Jungfrau is 190 CHF for an Adult Return ticket.
For budget travelers, you may want to consider hiking up part of the mountain from the valley. There are many trails and the Tourism office will help you find a good route. During the summertime you can enjoy gorgeous hikes around the area and in the wintertime skiing in the Alps is a dream .
Check out the Jungfrau page for details on the routes for hiking.
Spend the night in Grindelwald
After a day on the Jungfrau take the train back to Grindelwald, enjoy a traditional Swiss meal in one of the many restaurants and spend the night in Grindelwald. There are restaurants scattered throughout the area offering dining with a view.
Day 3:
Explore the Berner Oberland villages of Mürren, Lauterbrunnen, Wengen, and Gimmelwald. Lauterbrunnen is the only town you can drive in, the rest of the villages are car-free so you have to take the train into the towns. All of these villages are a short train ride from Lauterbrunnen. The train ride is an experience itself with magnificent views out the train windows.
Make sure to visit the famous Staubbach Falls in Lauterbrunnen. There are over 70 waterfalls in the valley, but this is the most famous waterfall. It is easy to see why, with the water falling about 300 meters into the valley.
You can take little joy ride on a Toboggan (Rodelbahn) down the Swiss mountains. It is an easy cable-car ride up the mountain from Grindelwald to Pfingstegg. The cable cars open once the snow has melted. (usually mid-June)
After a day exploring a few of these quaint Swiss villages either catch the train back to Zürich in the evening (2.5 hour train ride) or spend your last night in the mountains before returning to Zürich.
Obviously, this is a whirlwind visit to the Swiss Alps. If you want to spend more time hiking and seeing more of Switzerland you would have to add more days to your trip, but I think this is a good start to seeing some of the Swiss Alps and experiencing the beauty of Switzerland.
Things to Consider:
SBB (Switzerland Railway) offers international passes for visitors, for both Adult and Youth Prices (under 26). Train travel throughout Switzerland can be expensive, so taking advantage of the offers through SBB can help save money.
Children from 6-16 can travel free if a parent buys the Swiss Family Card at the Railway station.
If you are flying in and out of Zürich you can easily rent a car but I would also consider taking the train. Swiss Trains are reliable, relaxing and the views along the way are incredible.
Zermatt, Switzerland
Consider adding more days to your vacation and travel down to the Matterhorn in Zermatt. It is a 2 hour train ride from Interlaken to Zermatt. Explore the area of Zermatt for a day or two before taking the train back to Zurich, a 3.5 hour ride.
Do you have any questions on visiting the area? We would love to hear from you.
Lugano may not have snowcapped trees but it definitely has its share of a winter wonderland. It is hard not to to embrace the Christmas spirt in this quaint city.
The Christmas market begins with the lighting of the Christmas tree in the main square of Piazza Reforma and continues throughout the New Year.
(2018 Season 22.11.2018 – 06.01.2019). Market hours are from 11.00 until 19.00 throughout the season.
Many booths are set up in Piazza Reforma and continue to wind throughout the cobblestoned streets.
The side-streets are lined with booths and twinkling lights, making one feel the magic of Christmas. Even after the stands close, the festivities continue in the Piazzas. Bars and restaurants offer Champagne, food and wine. The mulled-wine is perfect to keep one warm in the crisp winter air.
A stroll through Lugano can almost feel magical. Most of the restaurants have outdoor seating that seems to inctise you to cuddle up with their cozy blankets and candlelit tables .
Right outside Piazza Cioccaro you can find the Gabbini cafe. In the Piazza there are adorable gondola-lifts where you can order fondue and have drinks. I highly recommend to reserve a gondola for dinner, as this is a popular hang-out in the evenings.
Many of the stores participate in the holiday traditions, even offering their own Christmas drinks to their clients. Wether you are just visiting this darling town for the day or for week, you will quickly fall in love with the spirit of the holidays in Lugano.
We finally got to see a Swiss tradition that we have been wanting to experience for years. In the springtime the cows are taken up the mountains to graze for the summer. Then, at the end of summer, the Swiss farmers bring their cows back down from mountains. It is called the Alpabzug. Not every Swiss town participates, you can check out the Swiss tourism site for participation towns. Usually the Alpabzug takes place in the month of September.
Just near the north entrance of the San Gottardo tunnel, which separates the German from the Italian speaking regions of the country, is a little village called Wassen. We have driven past this village many times but have never stopped. Wassen is such a quaint Swiss Village.
The Alphorns are very traditional and actually used by the farmers to call the cows into the barns at milking time.
Alpabzug celebrations are a big deal in these villages. Typically there is a town market where you can get all the local goodies, including raclette and bratwurst for lunch.
Each cow is adorned with a head piece and giant bell. It really is quite the sight to see.
Switzerland has different cantons, which are like states, each canton has their own flag. Wassen is in Canton Uri, which is represented on the yellow flag.
The blue shirt, worn by this farmer, is a traditional Swiss costume. Each Canton has their own type of costume. Between the 26 Cantons in Switzerland there are over 700 types of tradition Swiss costumes.
The local farmers and their family walk their own herd of cows down the mountain.
We really enjoyed our first experience at the Alpabzug and would highly recommend seeking out one if you are in Switzerland during the month of September.
The Christmas market begins with the lighting of the Christmas tree in the main square of 
