This winter, Switzerland Tourism continues with its 'Travel Better' initiative, encouraging prospective and returning visitors to consider lesser-known destinations, stay in sustainable accommodation, travel by public transport and visit in the shoulder season. Besides world-class skiing, Switzerland offers ample alternative winter activities, panoramic train rides, delicious food and awe-inspiring nature. Here our nine top news stories:

1. New cable car for Eggishorn

Aletsch Bahnen will replace the Fiescheralp-Eggishorn cable car with a modern lift system starting in spring 2026, to be completed by winter 2027. The project includes two higher-capacity cabins, a new mountain restaurant and a glacier exhibition space. The new buildings will be integrated into the natural landscape as much as possible and are designed in a progressive and future-oriented way to cope with the melting permafrost.

aletscharena.ch/en/about-the-region/about-us/aletsch-bahnen-ag/eggishorn-project

2. Night skiing in Haslital

Located in the Jungfrau Region, Haslital offers dramatic alpine landscapes and winter adventures. The Meiringen-Hasliberg ski area features 60km of slopes, a dedicated ski race centre, and Skihäsliland for beginners. Night skiing and sledging from Mägisalp add a magical touch, with fondue and live music at mountain restaurants creating the perfect après-ski experience. Ideal for all levels, from first- timers to pros. haslital.swiss/en

3. New cable car for Savoleyres in Verbier

Verbier's ageing Savoleyres cable car is set for retirement, with a major two-phase lift overhaul now under way. A new six-seater chairlift from Les Planards to Savoleyres summit will open in 2025, followed by a full Télémixte system (blending gondolas and chairs) by winter 2026/27. The upgrade will eliminate bottlenecks, improve access to La Tzoumaz, and replace the outdated link with a modern, high-capacity connection. tmx-savoleyres.ch/en

4. New UN visitors' centre in Geneva

The United Nations will soon open a new visitors' centre at its European HQ, the Palais des Nations in Geneva. Visitors to the Portail des Nations will soon be able to learn about the important work of the UN via an immersive experience, discovering along the way how it fosters peace, sustainability and prosperity through international cooperation. The visitors' centre is due to open to the public in early 2026. portaildesnations.ch/en

5. Balloons for everyone

Ballons du Léman is a Swiss hot-air balloon operator which now offers accessible flights for people with a wide range of disabilities, thanks to specially adapted baskets. These accessible hot-air balloons will be available for hire at the next instalment of the annual International Balloon Festival in Château d'Oex on 24 January - 1 February 2026.

ballons-du-leman.ch/en | festivaldeballons.ch/en

6. Reopening of Barryland in Martigny

Barryland, the world's only visitor attraction dedicated to the iconic Swiss St Bernard dog, officially reopened in June this year. The new complex, shaped like a dog's paw, celebrates 300 years of tradition through a modern, family-friendly experience, comprising a cinema room, interactive exhibits and a whole floor where visitors can visit the dogs. The hospice on the Great St Bernard Pass also remains open throughout winter for ski tourers. barryland.ch/en

7. World Cheese Awards 2025 in Bern

On 13-15 November, Switzerland will host the World Cheese Awards for the very first time, as the city of Bern transforms into the Capital of Cheese for three days. Visitors to the event can enjoy

competitions featuring some of the best cheeses in the world, as well as a Fine Food Market and other fun events suitable for all ages. It ain't easy being cheesy but we reckon our Swiss varieties stand a good chance of winning! capitalofcheese.com/en

8. Highest Christmas market in Europe

Mount Pilatus launches its Christmas season from 14-16 November with Europe's highest Christmas market (2,132m a.s.l.). New this year, the decorated panorama gallery remains open through the New Year, offering alpine views just one hour from Lucerne. Highlights include a pre- bookable “Champagne basket” gondola ride, festive menus for groups in Queen Victoria Hall and Christmas overnight stays at Pilatus-Kulm Hotels. pilatus.ch/en/activities/christmas-market

9. Fondue and raclette ship in Lucerne

Enjoy the wonderful views of Lake Lucerne whilst tasting exquisite Swiss cheese from Urnerboden. The alpine cheese dairy is located at 1,400m a.s.l. where the Alpine herbs grow at their best. The boat departs from Lucerne every Friday from 24 October to 27 March 2026.

lakelucerne.ch/en/culinary/culinary-cruises/cheese-fondue-and-raclette-cruise

-ENDS-

To read the new Winter 2025/2026 media booklet, click here

About Switzerland Tourism

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