Travels in the ‘secret’ Switzerland

Swiss train

The best way to explore Switzerland, whether it's the secret parts or not, is on the country's super-efficient rail network. Trains are clean, comfortable, run on time, and offer a moving view of some of the world's most postcard-perfect scenery. For the best value, pick up a Swiss Pass or Swiss Flexipass, with adult prices from $184. (Photo: Zak Patten)

View of Chur

Editor's note: Senior Editor Zak Patten spent eight days exploring Switzerland in the fall of 2006. Most of the photos and all of the captions in this slideshow are the result of his experiences on this trip.

Despite thousands of years of human settlement, Chur, the capital of the Graubünden region, is rooted in the present as much as in the past. A regional center for culture, the city is also an adventure lovers' dream town, with summer mountain biking and winter skiing opportunities all around. (Photo: Zak Patten)

Near Disentis

Disentis, on the Glacier Express railway line, is the perfect spot for cultural activities such as a visit to the famous Benedictine monastery (in German only), or eavesdropping on conversations in Romansh, the local language. Of course, there are innumerable outdoor possibilities as well, whether you want to test your nerve at paragliding or take a quiet walk in the farm country. (Photo: Zak Patten)

Sion's grape harvest

Swiss wines may not take up much space at your local wine shop, but that's due more to the number of bottles produced than the quality of what's inside the bottles. For vineyards, wine cellars, and wines you won't know but are sure to love, a visit to Sion, the capital of Canton Valais, is in order. (Photo: ST/swiss-image.ch)

Arosa

On warm summer nights, Arosa offers everything from waterworks light shows on Lake Obersee to a forest opera festival. Value-conscious visitors will appreciate the Arosa Card, free to all overnight summer and autumn guests, which allows the bearer to take the cable cars and buses, as well as borrow boats, visit the local museum, and even go ice skating on the indoor rink. In the colder months, the area's Alps are transformed into a winter sports center, as skiers, skaters, and even curlers arrive. (Photo: Zak Patten)

Biking in Flims

The mountains surrounding Flims are not just home to natural beauty, but are also crisscrossed by an extensive network of mountain bike pathways. Of course, this being Switzerland, the trails are both scenic and civilized. In fact, they're so civilized that for 39 CHF, you can bike your way from meal to meal on the Culinary Trail. Start off with a morning ride and then tuck into a bowl of homemade soup. Then set off on another adventure and stop for some pear ravioli. Once you've worked that off, finish up by gorgeous Lake Cresta with ice cream and crepes. (Photo: ST/swiss-image.ch)

Orsieres

Orsières may be small and out-of-the-way, but it's this author's favorite European destination. Exquisitely preserved wooden houses dot this quiet valley town, which can boast both magnificent food and thrilling adventure opportunities (both websites in French only). (Photo: Zak Patten)

Cavardiras

In the Disentis area, the tiny mountain hamlet of Cavardiras is home to just a few dozen residents, but luckily for visitors, it's also the location of Pign Padua. This B&B, owned by a friendly English-Swiss couple, has rooms with full Swiss breakfast for just 55 CHF or 80 CHF when a three-course dinner is included. (Photo: Zak Patten)

The Glacier Express

Arguably the most scenic railway in the entire world, the Glacier Express runs through central Switzerland. For a true Old World experience, order a delicious three-course meal and enjoy it in the historic dining car. Meals are 38 CHF (about $31; see XE.com for current exchange rates) and reservations are required. (Photo: Zak Patten)

At St. Bernard Pass

Though the eponymous breed of canine isn't used for mountain rescue anymore, the dogs who live at the Great St. Bernard Pass still have the ability to cheer up even the most jaded traveler. In addition to being a breeding place for St. Bernard dogs, a museum and many hiking trails are nearby. (Photo: Zak Patten)