Scenic Switzerland

Numbers to Know when Biking Switzerland

Switzerland is one of the safest nations in the world but it's still a good idea to be prepared for anything— especially if you are taking a self-guided bike tour. Here are a few helpful phone numbers and other general bits of information to keep on hand when biking Switzerland.

The country code for Switzerland is 41. Remember, to make a call to any foreign country you must dial the country code (CC) then area code and phone number. Other helpful phone numbers for Switzerland include:

• Directory Assistance: 111
• Tourist Info & Snow Reports: 140
• Roadside Assistance: 140
• Weather: 162
• Road Conditions: 163
• Police: 117 (Emergencies only)

Swiss Celebrations

Switzerland is home to some of the world’s most popular festivals and celebrations.

Onion Celebration. Yes, this really is in honor of the humble onion! Held in ZibelemÄrit in November, this fall festival if filled with fun and celebration of the onion—in all its glory.

Montreux Jazz Festival. This is a DuVine experience not to be missed! Situated on the banks of Lake Geneva, the Montreux Jazz Festival is one of the largest music events in the world. It is held every July.

L'Escalade. Road race meets costume parades, this December celebration commemorates Geneva's victory against the Duke of Savoy.

Swiss Cheese?

When cycling the Swiss Alps, take a little time out for wine and cheese...make that Swiss cheese. Switzerland has been making cheese for hundreds of years. In fact, many fine varieties of Swiss cheese bear little resemblance to the sliced Swiss on your sandwich.

The French are known for approximately 365 varieties of cheese, the Italians for 400 and the Swiss take the lead with over 450 varieties of cheese! The vast majority of these are produced on a small scale and known for their local flavor. Satisfy your cheese craving and indulge in:

Emmental: This is similar to the “Swiss cheese” you’ll find at most supermarkets and delis. But make no mistake, local Emmental is substantially different—in the best way: it is aged a minimum of four months to achieve that delicious mild, yet rich flavor.

Fondue. If memories of dipping vegetables into a shared community pot are your only experience with Fondue, prepare for a delightfully different experience. Typically made with Gruyere, authentic cheese fondue is a blend of white wine and cheeses, seasoned with herbs and spices.

Raclette. Raclette is not only a dish but also used to indicate a type of cheese melted on an open fire, making it the perfect combination with homemade bread at the end of a satisfying day of biking.

Swiss Sports

If you are planning a bike tour in the Swiss Alps then chances are you’ll appreciate something a little out of the ordinary. DuVine specializes in creating a satisfying experience even for the most adventurous traveler. Interested in an authentic sporting event - Swiss style? Here are a few you might enjoy...

Schwingen. Put on a pair of special over sized shorts, and prepare to meet your match in this traditional Swiss sport that resembles wrestling.

Waffenlaufen. For the runners in the group here is a traditional Swiss challenge you won't want to miss. To participate you don a backpack (with rifle and supplies) and race with thousands of other Swiss across rugged terrain covering 15-20 miles.

Hornuss. Finally, if wrestling and running aren't your style, Hornuss might be more to your liking. This traditional Swiss sport is described as a blend of lacrosse and cricket: opposing teams attempt to stop a flying disc with wooden bats.

Switzerland Overview

From the Swiss Alps to lakeside trails leading to vineyards, a bicycle vacation in Switzerland is nothing short of spectacular. Known for world class accommodations, breathtaking vistas and a rich blend of cultures, a bicycle vacation in the Swiss Alps is an experience like no other. To help you get started use our quick tips:

When to travel. Switzerland has something to offer at any time of the year, but summer is by far the most preferred time to visit thanks to the moderate weather.

Entry Requirements. To enter Switzerland you only need a valid passport. No special vaccination certificates are required.

What to pack. The Swiss Alps in particular are known for dramatic temperature fluctuations. A waterproof jacket and warm clothes are advised in any season.

Language. German, French and Italian, although English is widely spoken.

Health Risks. Switzerland is considered a very safe and healthy travel destination with no major health risks reported. In fact, the medical care and health facilities are among the best in the world.

Money Matters. All major credit cards are accepted. ATMs are common and currency exchange facilities are available in most airports/hotels. The Swiss Franc is the official currency.

Time. Switzerland is GMT +1. Bern is 5 hours ahead of EST.

Driving. Cars drive on the right side of the road in Switzerland.

Did you know? Minimum drinking age in Switzerland is 16, so don't be surprised to see people a little younger than usual drinking.

Switzerland Shopping

Even if you don't typically enjoy shopping sprees, you’ll find yourself tempted by the world-class merchandise of Switzerland. From fine watches to wine, Switzerland might not be the first place you think about when planning a shopping trip, but prepare to be surprised! Here are just a few gift ideas that might entice you to spend a little time shopping on your bike tour of Switzerland.

Watches and Clocks. The Swiss have a long and distinguished history of creating superb time pieces, but don't even think about wearing a fake Swiss watch into the country. Beginning July 2008, Swiss customs officials will be granted authority to confiscate any counterfeit Swiss watches!

Cheese and Wine. Arguably the cheese capital of the world, Switzerland offers a superb selection of both wine and cheeses ranging from simple to sophisticated—and always divine.

Chocolate. While most Americans might recognize brands like Lindt or Toblerone it would be a shame to miss out on the lesser known varieties found only within Switzerland. The Swiss love their chocolate and with good reason - they consumer more of it than any other population on earth. Did you know? The average Swiss citizen consumes the equivalent of one chocolate bar every day.

The Hills Are Alive

You may be surprised to discover that love of music is alive and well among the Swiss and it isn’t limited to yodeling! In fact, Switzerland offers a wide variety of music ranging from traditional Swiss folk music to the sophistication of world class orchestras to the Montreux Jazz Festival.

Yodeling. A unique vocalization long associated with the Alpine regions.

Alphorn. The traditional Swiss national instrument is called an Alphorn. Be sure to check out the Yodeling Festival which includes an Alphorn competition.

Flag Throwing. In addition to the yodeling and alphorn blowing, flag waving is another traditional activity associated with the need to communicate across large distances in the mountains.

The Swiss Yodeling festival takes place every three years and draws thousands of tourists from around the world. The next festival is scheduled for the summer of 2008, making it the perfect time to plan a DuVine bike tour of Switzerland!