Visitor numbers to Switzerland have officially surpassed pre-Covid levels, so there's never been a better time to experience all our country has to offer this summer! This year, Switzerland is set to share some of its best-kept secrets, from new hiking trails to the latest culinary experiences and lesser-known panoramic train rides. Besides crystal clear lakes to cool off in, Switzerland offers excellent wines, awe-inspiring nature, greener travel and the finest Swiss chocolate. Here are seven of the top news stories for this summer, including a brief outlook on autumn:

1. Gornergrat Railway NostalChic Class

The Gornergrat Railway has introduced a new luxurious travel experience, where visitors can now travel up to the Gornergrat in the new NostalChic Class. This vintage-inspired train carriage seats 22 people, complete with views of the Matterhorn, culinary specialties, and a guide to share information about the region. gornergrat.ch/en/stories/nostalchic-class

2. Swiss gourmet tours of Lausanne

Lausanne Tourism has launched four new food-themed walking tours: The Trendy Gourmet Tour takes visitors to three of the latest food joints, the Veggie Gourmet Tour explores Lausanne's plant-based specialities, the Swiss Gourmet Tour is great for anyone wanting to discover traditional Swiss dishes and, finally, the Lausanne Choco Tour visits five of the city's best chocolatiers. Each of the four gourmet tours starts with an aperitif platter in the morning, a main course at lunchtime and a takeaway dessert in the afternoon. lausanne-tourisme.ch/en/offer

3. The Eiger Walk of Fame

The Eiger North face can be seen up close with the new themed hiking trail created by the Jungfrau Region. The trail starts at the Eigergletscher station, where you can follow different information panels along the trail that convey the history of mountaineers who took on the North Face. Further on the trail, you can take a selfie with the Eiger North Face in the background or simply enjoy the views of the nearby town of Grindelwald. jungfrau.ch/en-gb/kleine-scheidegg/eiger-walk-of-fame

4. e-TukTuk tours in Geneva

Guided tours are brought to the next level in and around the city of Geneva, where passengers can enjoy a traditional Swiss fondue with a glass of wine onboard an e-TukTuk. The tour lasts 90 minutes and you can choose between three different routes: Geneva's old town, the nearby town of Carouge or the shores of Lake Léman. They also have a three-hour e-TukTuk tour available, where you can explore the vineyards surrounding Geneva and taste local wines. geneve.com/en/attractions/detail/fondue-tour-tuktuk

5. 100 years of the Vigezzina-Centovalli Railway

Industrial developments in Switzerland in the early 20th century led to the construction of a new railway line linking Locarno in Ticino with Domodossola over the border in Italy, crossing the Centovalli and Vigezzo valleys. Inaugurated a 100 years ago, the Vigezzina-Centovalli Railway's narrow-gauge line still represents a masterpiece of civil engineering, spanning 52km as it winds through gorges, mountains, rivers and waterfalls, over 83 bridges and through 31 tunnels in just under two hours. vigezzinacentovalli.com/en

6. Grape Escapes

As part of a new initiative to promote Switzerland's six wine producing regions, Grape Escapes was launched in May this year. This selection of around 60 wine-themed locations where you can stay the night in vineyards or with a view of them. From chic boutique hotels to simple Räbhüsli to oak barrels, everything is included, providing a unique way to discover and taste the rarity that is Swiss wine whilst experiencing the region where it is produced. switzerland.com/grape-escapes

7. Autumn in Switzerland

For those who've already booked their summer break, there are also advantages to exploring Switzerland in Autumn. Fewer crowds, milder temperatures, trees decked in vivid colours, wine festivals taking place across the country, plus visitors can enjoy seasonal specialties, such as pumpkin and chestnuts. Hiking is particularly enjoyable at this time of year, as the view of the mist-covered mountains make for the perfect backdrop for hikers. switzerland.com/autumn

-ENDS-

About Switzerland Tourism

Switzerland Tourism is the Swiss national tourist board responsible for promoting Switzerland as a premier holiday and business destination. Headquartered in Zurich, Switzerland Tourism is present in 23 markets worldwide, employing around 270 people. Its UK and Ireland office is in Holborn, London. switzerland.com