Where summer lasts the longest
Summer is over – but not without a grand finale! Experience Switzerland at its most relaxed: with Mediterranean vibes on city rooftops, secluded spots by the water, and gastronomic delights with views in the midst of nature.
Urban lifestyle at lofty heights
Making it to the top first became easy with the invention of the elevator – and transformed once unpopular attics and rooftops into desirable destinations. Today, such places are the epitome of urban lifestyle – and popular meeting places for enjoying gastronomic delights with great views. And that is especially true in the late summer. A great example in this context is the Hiltl roof terrace in Zurich. At this green oasis high above the bustling Bahnhofstrasse, lush plants, comfy armchairs, lanterns, tasty vegetarian food and a spectacular view come together to create an unforgettable blend.
On the rooftop of the Hôtel Métropole at the MET Rooftop & Lounge in Geneva, the hustle and bustle of the city street changes to a vacation vibe in an instant, amidst olive and lemon trees. Visitors can enjoy unobstructed views of the iconic Jet d’eau – and arguably the most beautiful sunset in the city. And those in the mood to marvel at the Rhine Falls from a height of 136 meters visit the RIVI Skyfall Restaurant & Bar in Neuhausen. The highest gourmet restaurant in the canton of Schaffhausen isn’t on the roof, but it’s directly below it.
Late summer dreams by and on the water
Who needs the seaside when you can get that vacation feeling at the nearest lake – or at Swiss rivers which shimmer in the late summer light just like the Mediterranean? The Schwellenmättli restaurants on the Bern Riviera are just such a place. The pavilion of the Terrasse restaurant floats right above the rushing Aare River. It’s a place in which the daily grind is quickly forgotten. The Mediterranean cuisine does the rest.
Mediterranean vibes are on the menu at the Hotel Marina Lachen on the upper shore of Lake Zurich. It’s a great place to sip a cool drink and watch the ships and boats dock and depart while your meat or fish sizzles on the open fire inside. Lake Zug also has a Mediterranean feel: especially when your eyes wander to the waves from the beautiful terrace of the Restaurant Rigiblick while you indulge in one of the many culinary delights. The motto: eat, drink, be!
Lake or river, city or rural retreat –can’t decide? Don’t worry, you don’t have to! With the City & Lake Experience you experience the flair of Zurich Old Town at the Widder, views of the Limmat at the Storchen, and total relaxation at Alex Lake Zurich, all in a just one package. The hotel ferry takes you from one place to the next. And the best thing: If you pay for your stay with your American Express Card, you’ll get a restaurant credit worth CHF 100 and a room upgrade, depending on availability. To the offer.
Natural terraces instead of city rooftops
Nature is also home to some breathtaking terraces. For example, the Terrasse de Lavaux in Vaud. With an area of more than 800 hectares, Lavaux is the largest contiguous wine-growing region in Switzerland. On the wine route from Saint-Saphorin to Lutry, you won’t just enjoy stunning views over UNESCO-protected vineyards and Lake Geneva, you also have numerous opportunities to raise a glass to the magnificent colors of late summer.
And for those who prefer a man-made terrace, the most beautiful one on Lake Maggiore is the place for you. Ristorante La Casetta in Ascona impresses with its elegant terrace, stunning views, and summery atmosphere. The kitchen and wine cellar also exude the aroma of the South. Here, summer still feels great – even when fall is well on its way elsewhere.
