Uncover These Switzerland’s Lesser Known Wonders That’ll Leave You Amazed

Switzerland, a small landlocked mountainous country found in central Europe, is known for its stunning landscape beauty, excellent engineering, and classical beauty. It offers tourists abundant natural beauty, majestic mountains that inspire wonder, and spectacular cities that are located along the banks of beautiful lakes. 

The cultural tapestry, natural beauty, and pursuit of excellence make it a fantastic country worthy of admiration and exploration. And, although there are a lot of people who can tell you about the breathtaking Alps and delicious chocolates made there, there are still some interesting facts about Switzerland that are usually not discovered.

Check out this list of some interesting facts about Switzerland that’ll leave you amazed –

1. Switzerland has four official languages

Switzerland itself has four language districts, namely, western French, Italian for the south, and in a few southeastern parts, Romanish, with Swiss-German for the rest. Nevertheless, English is enough in big cities like Zurich, Geneva, and tourist destinations; learn a couple of new sayings, and you will only add to your experience.

2. The Alps make up almost 60% of the country

The iconic Swiss Alps boast almost 60% of the country’s land area, making up the rugged beauty of the country with mountain peaks capped by snow. This scenery of mountains is not only a spectacle that attracts tourists with its breathtaking scenery, but also offers a place of adventure to outdoor lovers all the time. 

3. Switzerland has 7000 lakes

Switzerland not only represents the majestic mountains, but it is also a place of calm waters. With approximately 7,000 glistening cool lakes in its environment, Switzerland promises limitless choices for relaxation, water sports, and picturesque walks along the waterfront. The largest in Switzerland is Lake Geneva, which covers a surface area of 580.03 km2. It is known as Lac Léman, 40.47 percent of its area is shared with France.

4. Switzerland is one of the happiest countries in the world

Switzerland has reliably been a part of the happiest nations on the planet despite being a relatively small country. With a high quality of life, great medical services, cultural and ecological facilities, and a clean environment, it is no surprise that Switzerland is still a symbol of happiness and healthy living.

5. Switzerland has one of the lowest crime rates in the world

Switzerland is among the safest countries in the world, with one of the lowest crime rates and also one of the highest gun ownership rates. The overall rate of murder in the country is almost zero, with an average of 45 cases of murder a year. Be it the busy urban centres or the heavenly landscapes, Switzerland offers a comforting feeling of safety that enables travelers to experience it in a relaxed state of mind.

6. Zurich is not the capital city of Switzerland

While Zurich may be the financial hub of Switzerland, and Geneva the diplomatic center, neither of them happens to be the capital city. Rather, the honor belongs to Bern, a picturesque medieval town, with its perfectly intact UNESCO Heritage-listed old town and the iconic bear pit. Here, you’ll also view other great landmarks, such as the Parliament Building and the French Church, among many more, that have existed over the centuries. 

7. Switzerland has the longest railway tunnel in the world

The Gotthard Tunnel in Switzerland holds the title for being the world’s longest tunnel, stretching 57 kilometers, which means it is 7 kilometers longer than the Channel Tunnel linking England and France. It was built over seventeen years. The primary purpose of the Gotthard Base Tunnel is to improve the local transportation capacity by passing the Alpine barrier.