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Romance in Switzerland at the Dolder Grand Hotel in Zurich

The fairytale castle has awakened

The article first appeared on Travel Start South Africa

Romance in Switzerland at the Dolder Hotel in Zurich
Dolder Grand Hotel, Zurich | Switzerland by Chantelle Flores | www.kzaravisual.com

Crown the day of lovers by spending a night in Switzerland’s most romantic hotel – The Dolder Grand. 

This luxurious hotel which resembles that of a fairytale castle has been inundated with awards. Conde Nast Traveler has awarded The Dolder Grand the 18th spot, out of 50 of the best hotels in the world. They have also received awards such as the Best City Hotel, 2nd place as the Best Hotel in Switzerland, and One of the 10 Best Hotels in all of Europe.

Romance in Switzerland at the Dolder Hotel in Zurich
Dolder Grand Hotel, Zurich | Switzerland by Chantelle Flores | www.kzaravisual.com

They are also members of the Leading Hotels of the World and have been famed by the Swiss Deluxe Hotels organization.

This 5-star city-based resort rests high above Zurich city on Adlisberg Hill. Making it a unique location for unwinding amidst privileged views of Zurich and the Alps. And depending on where you position yourself throughout the hotel, you can enjoy other views of the invigorating nature, such as panoramic views of Zurich Lake and even the forest.

Romance in Switzerland at the Dolder Hotel in Zurich
Dolder Grand Hotel, Zurich | Switzerland by Chantelle Flores | www.kzaravisual.com

The Dolder Hotel has been welcoming guests for over 100 years. It has enjoyed a long-standing history as being a meeting place for the royal and political. As well as film celebrities. 

In war times, guests such as Winston Churchill and Thomas Mann graced these premises. And in recent times, high-profile people such as Nelson Mandela, Liz Taylor, Michael Jackson, Luciano Pavarotti, Prince Philip, and Mikhail Gorbachev have also all gravitated here.

And just like them, you can expect to receive a world-class service filled with celebrity treatment. 

Romance in Switzerland at the Dolder Hotel in Zurich
Dolder Grand Hotel, Zurich | Switzerland by Chantelle Flores | www.kzaravisual.com

This sought-out experience could quite possibly be attributed to the commitment and dedication of the Hotel’s 407+ staff members that come from 51 countries. This cultural infusion adds a unique personality and touch to the Hotel.

With this increased number of staff members, you can only begin to comprehend the size of this property. It is 40,000 square meters.

Romance in Switzerland at the Dolder Hotel in Zurich
Dolder Grand Hotel, Zurich | Switzerland by Chantelle Flores | www.kzaravisual.com

The Hotel was originally built in 1899 and has undergone extensive renovations to turn it into the haven it is today. Architecturally speaking, it retains its historic charm, yet boasts a magnitude of modernism. Even so, it has been awarded the Hotel Design Innovation of the Year, amongst many others. 

Romance in Switzerland at the Dolder Hotel in Zurich
Dolder Grand Hotel, Zurich | Switzerland by Chantelle Flores | www.kzaravisual.com

On the premises, you can also expect to find a large pool that boats out-worldly panoramic views. As well as an incomparable spa, two award-winning restaurants as well as fitness facilities. 

Worried about how you can fork the bill? The hotel is now accepting Bitcoin. It is one of the first hotels in Switzerland to have opened up this payment gateway. 

Rooms

Romance in Switzerland at the Dolder Hotel in Zurich
Dolder Grand Hotel, Zurich | Switzerland by Chantelle Flores | www.kzaravisual.com

Not only is the Dolder Hotel filled to capacity with an abundance of facilities, but it also boasts 173 rooms and suites.

These are broken down into 4 room styles, each offering a varying degree of luxury. You can expect to find Junior Suites, Single and Double rooms, Suites, and Residences.

With this kind of selection available, you are spoilt for choice. 

Romance in Switzerland at the Dolder Hotel in Zurich
Dolder Grand Hotel, Zurich | Switzerland by Chantelle Flores | www.kzaravisual.com

Junior suites

Spoil yourself with plentiful space. The Junior Suites offer you a generous feeling of space alongside a choice of modern or classic ambiance. The bathroom is luxurious and comes with a whirlpool bath and an impressive view.  

Romance in Switzerland at the Dolder Hotel in Zurich
Dolder Grand Hotel, Zurich | Switzerland by Chantelle Flores | www.kzaravisual.com

Single and double rooms

The single and the double rooms boast a dark oak parquet and offer a generous amount of space. They range from 25 to 46 square meters in size.

And depending on which one you opt for, the views from them are panoramic to the splendors of nature. Some enjoy views of Lake Zurich or the Alps. Whilst others take in the silence of the forest.

Romance in Switzerland at the Dolder Hotel in Zurich
Dolder Grand Hotel, Zurich | Switzerland by Chantelle Flores | www.kzaravisual.com

Suites

The suites are situated in the main building and offer a sense of classic, yet contemporary elegance.

There are four artistically inspired suites that you can choose from. Each offers you plenty of space. You can choose between classic to rock ‘n’ roll, sculptural elegance to cinecittà. 

Romance in Switzerland at the Dolder Hotel in Zurich
Dolder Grand Hotel, Zurich | Switzerland by Chantelle Flores | www.kzaravisual.com

The Rock ‘n’ Roll one, for example, is inspired by the 60s and has been named after Club 100 in London.  You can expect an unconventional interior in black and pink as well as retro-style furniture. 

All suites even spoil you with an “on-call” butler service.

Romance in Switzerland at the Dolder Hotel in Zurich
Dolder Grand Hotel, Zurich | Switzerland by Chantelle Flores | www.kzaravisual.com

The Residence

Now, this is something to write home about.

The residence suites are geared for long stays, offering you a home away from home kinda vibe.  They allow you to live and work within this incredible wellness oasis and offer you an incredible degree of privacy to do so.  Even so that they come with private entrances, as would your own very home.

Romance in Switzerland at the Dolder Hotel in Zurich
Dolder Grand Hotel, Zurich | Switzerland by Chantelle Flores | www.kzaravisual.com

The Terrazza Suite is 390 square meters and boasts 3 bedrooms, each with 1 king bed, and is spread over 2 floors. A glass elevator transports you between the floors. Each room comes with its own ensuite bathroom, each with a shower and a separate bathtub. The master bedroom comes with the addition of a whirlpool bath as well as a sauna. It even has a walk-in closet.

Romance in Switzerland at the Dolder Hotel in Zurich
Dolder Grand Hotel, Zurich | Switzerland by Chantelle Flores | www.kzaravisual.com

There is even a large dining and living room, an office as well as a separate kitchen. And if you feel like you are in more need of spoil, then make use of your very own butler. He will attend to all of your wishes and needs during your stay. Leaving you with more time for yourself. Which could quite possibly be made use of at the hotel’s Spa.

Romance in Switzerland at the Dolder Hotel in Zurich
Dolder Grand Hotel, Zurich | Switzerland by Chantelle Flores | www.kzaravisual.com

And if your budget allows, you can begin this residence experience well before you have left your actual residence. Arrange to be picked up from your home airport and flown here on the hotel’s own private jet. You can expect a personalized experience giving you more time to enjoy your journey in complete relaxation.

Wellness Facilities

Romance in Switzerland at the Dolder Hotel in Zurich
Dolder Grand Hotel, Zurich | Switzerland by Chantelle Flores | www.kzaravisual.com

Restore your inner balance and mental well-being at the Dolder Grand Spa. Switzerland’s exclusive wellness facility. It is truly something special. 

Not only has it been awarded the Best Spa in Switzerland title, but it has also received awards as being the Spa that flaunts the best Interior design. In addition, it is one of the biggest spa complexes in the country. 

Romance in Switzerland at the Dolder Hotel in Zurich
Dolder Grand Hotel, Zurich | Switzerland by Chantelle Flores | www.kzaravisual.com

Its 4000 square meters, houses a swimming pool, a whirlpool terrace, a steam bath, a sanitarium, a mixed sauna area, a spa library, a spa shop as well as spa suites. It even has separate treatment, fitness, and meditation rooms. 

And if that is not enough, you would also quite appreciate that there is a wide selection of spa treatments on offer that make use of exclusive, carefully selected products. 

Romance in Switzerland at the Dolder Hotel in Zurich
Dolder Grand Hotel, Zurich | Switzerland by Chantelle Flores | www.kzaravisual.com

Facials, massages, and body rituals all await you. Leaving you with the rejuvenating feeling of being pampered. They even offer tailor-made well-being experiences that cater uniquely to your own personal needs. 

Romance in Switzerland at the Dolder Hotel in Zurich
Dolder Grand Hotel, Zurich | Switzerland by Chantelle Flores | www.kzaravisual.com

Gastronomic and Culinary Experiences

Indulge in innovative gourmet dishes at the hotel’s in-house Saltz Restaurant. You are sure to have an incredible and mouth-watering culinary experience. On the stove is Heiko Nieder, a renowned chef who has received multiple awards including the “Rising Star of the Year” award given by Gault Millau. 

Romance in Switzerland at the Dolder Hotel in Zurich
Dolder Grand Hotel, Zurich | Switzerland by Chantelle Flores | www.kzaravisual.com

More so, the restaurant has welcomed many other awards and ratings, including 19 Gault Millau points as well as 2 Michelin Stars. 

There is no surprise as to why. Within this stylish atmosphere, you can enjoy a 10-course gourmet meal, that sees Nieder spoiling you with his latest creations. These defy classic tastes, offering a spectrum of flavors that knows no boundaries. 

Romance in Switzerland at the Dolder Hotel in Zurich
Dolder Grand Hotel, Zurich | Switzerland by Chantelle Flores | www.kzaravisual.com
Romance in Switzerland at the Dolder Hotel in Zurich
Dolder Grand Hotel, Zurich | Switzerland by Chantelle Flores | www.kzaravisual.com

To wash it all down, you will quite appreciate the wide selection of fine wines and drinks that are on offer.

The hotel also organizes its own gourmet festival called the “Days of Culinary Masterpieces”. It sees world-renowned guest chefs from Switzerland as well as abroad, come together to celebrate the great art of gastronomic seduction. 

Romance in Switzerland at the Dolder Hotel in Zurich
Dolder Grand Hotel, Zurich | Switzerland by Chantelle Flores | www.kzaravisual.com

Ready to start planning your trip to Zurich? Book cheap flights to Switzerland with Travelstart!

Romance in Switzerland at the Dolder Hotel in Zurich
Dolder Grand Hotel, Zurich | Switzerland by Chantelle Flores | www.kzaravisual.com

Have you visited Switzerland before? Share your favorite hotel in the comment below.

Also Read:

Switzerland’s Premium and Budget-Friendly Ski Resorts

Swiss Alps: Fairy Tale Adventures 

White Christmas Destinations to Add to Your Winter Bucket List

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The Ultimate Guide to Skiing in Switzerland

Switzerland | Image by Chantelle Flores, Kzara Visual.

When dreaming of taking a ski trip, Switzerland is usually the country that first comes to mind.

Why wouldn’t it? It is where the big boys like to play.

Some of the world’s top snowboarders, freestyles, and skiers frequently head to Switzerland to take part in International winter competitions, like the Ski World Cup and the Freestyle Championships. Competitions that, we have all gotten to know and love.

With guaranteed snow during the winter months at each of its top premier ski resorts, it is no wonder why Switzerland ranks as the world’s number one ski destination.

It doesn’t matter if you are a newbie or a near pro, these resorts have some incredible ski schools, offering professional and accredited coaches that will show you the ropes. Before you know it, you could just be gliding down the slopes just like a pro.

So pack up those woollies and thermals, buy yourself that uber-cute ski outfit you have always wanted, and let’s help you start planning your trip.

Insiders Guide to saving money in Switzerland

Before we can list our favorite ski resorts, we would like to offer you some budget-friendly tips.

It’s no secret that Switzerland is expensive, but there are a few ways you can make it easier on the pocket.

When to go
If we have learned one thing from traveling the world, it is this – travel during the low session will save you a penny or two. Switzerland is no different. Not only, are the ski slopes less crowded, but the hotels make them more affordable too. Usually, the prices are lower during December (except during the Christmas and New Year periods) and in January.

During some December however, there has been little or no snowfall, so carefully look into this as it could not be the most ideal time to ski. The last two weeks of March offer a good alternative and are, friendly on the budget. Skiing over Easter is something to consider as well.

Book online

Some ski resorts offer you a 20% discount when booking your ski passes online, usually one to two weeks in advance. The same rule applies to ski equipment rental and ski lessons.

Guest Cards
Most hotels in Switzerland will give you a tourist card for the duration of your stay. It is usually issued by a local tourist office and gives you all kinds of advantages, like discounts at the local stores or restaurants, public transport, free access to a swimming pool or ice skating rinks, etc.

Types of Accommodation
Eating out in Switzerland can literally eat into your budget, so booking a half-board package at your hotel or a self-catering chalet, that will allow you to cook your meals, can save you a ton of money.

Types of Ski Resorts
Luxury mountain resorts like Zermatt, Verbier, and Gstaad can be costly, however, smaller, lesser-known village resorts can offer more affordable alternatives. We have included a few of our budget-friendly resorts in the list below.

Budget Travelling with children
Traveling with children in Switzerland doesn’t have to be expensive. In fact, Switzerland is a country that caters more to children than to adults. Don’t be surprised to find that most hotels allow children to stay for free when booking a family room.

What’s more, is that ski passes for children under the age of 6 or 9 are free, with older children enjoying big discounts too. Similarly, ski rental companies provide children’s ski equipment free of charge when renting equipment for yourself.

World Class Resorts

Zermatt

If you are looking for a premier ski resort, famous worldwide, then Zermatt is your place. Its outer-worldly beauty will leave you in awe. Aside from its famous Matterhorn mountain that everyone is talking about, the views from its 37 other 4000-meter peaks are just as incredible.

It’s high altitude and glacier make this a possible ski destination all year round.

There is 360km worth of trails waiting for you to explore it. These trails cater to almost every skill level.
For experts, the 36km black track will get you the most excited and ensure your adrenaline will be pumping. Whilst it is marked, it is not a groomed track and will take you all the way down to the village.

Switzerland | Image by Chantelle Flores, Kzara Visual.

Davos – Klosters

Did skiing at Europe’s highest city make it onto your bucket list? If so, then the Davos-Klosters ski area is your place. It is the highest city in Europe and a real delight, appreciated by the “Upper Class”. Here you could just run into your celebrity crush or the likes of Prince Charles.

Not only is the region incredibly picturesque, but it also offers 300 km of slopes across its six mountains, peaking at 2,844 meters. It has been dubbed as the biggest snow sports region of the Alps.

The Parsenn ski area above Lake Davos is a favorite, offering runs of up to 12 kilometers and catering to various skill levels. If you prefer snowboarding then you will appreciate the Jakobshorn Fun Park, geared for the freestyle snowboarder.

Snowboarding and skiing are not the only things that this region is famous for.

The area is also amazing for cross-country skiing, which you can do completely for free. Tobogganing is also famous here, having started in 1883. There are nine toboggan runs, each promising fun, and diversity. More so, Davos is home to Europe’s largest natural ice rink, where you can practice your ice-hockey skills, speed skating, or just a regular ice skate.

Snowshoeing is a must here too. You can venture into deep snowy forests and enjoy the untouched winter landscapes. Night hikes are the in thing, where along with a mountain guide, you can appreciate the landscapes under the full moon and opt to spend a night in a traditional mountain hut.

Laax Resort

If you are traveling as a family, then the Laax Resort is for you. The Laax for Beginners ski school finds “little” ski enthusiasts coming here each year to learn how to ski. What’s nice about this one is, you can leave your children in the hands of trusted professionals while you enjoy a few of the 224km ski runs of your own.

What’s more, is that the resort town has retained its traditional charm, boasting a rich history and Swiss architecture.

Grindelwald

Grindelwald can be found in the Canton of Berne and is surrounded by the world-famous alpine peaks of Eiger, Wetterhorn, Faulhorn, and Fiescherhörner. It is also home to the famous UNESCO Jungfrau Railway which takes you to the Top of Europe.

It is 3,453 meters above sea level, making it the highest railway station in Europe. The journey up is incredible offering spectacular close-up views of the towering Eiger North face and views of the Grindelwald Valley.
The Ice Palace boasting a range of artificial ice sculptures is something special to see, and while you are there, visit the highest chocolate shop in the world – The Lindt Swiss Chocolate Heaven.

Skiing at Grindelwald is world-class. The resort town offers over 60 kilometers of sun-kissed groomed slopes with magnificent panoramic views.

Switzerland | Image by Chantelle Flores, Kzara Visual.

Mürren Resort

53 km of prepared ski and snowboard pistes, toboggan runs and a network of winter walking trails are what await you at the Ski Resort of Mürren.

Adrenaline is guaranteed on piste No. 9; the steepest slope in the Jungfrau area. It offers an incline of 88% and breathtaking panorama views can be enjoyed on its long descent.

Snowboarders and freeskiers can appreciate the runs at the Skyline Snowpark.

St. Moritz

St Moritz ranks high up there as one of Switzerland’s premier alpine resort towns. Celebrities are bustling here, for its modern alpine lifestyle which is characterized by top-class restaurants offering gastronomic variety, glamorous hotels, and high streets filled with big-named designer boutiques.

Despite all of this, the town’s real riches lie outdoors, in the mountains. It has 88 snow-covered slopes, sparkling in the sun, waiting to be explored. There are four large and varied ski areas, namely, Corviglia/Piz Nair, Corvatsch, Diavolezza/Lagalb, and Zuoz, as well as five smaller ones, equally as beautiful. Collectively, these areas offer runs of up to 330km.

The town is also the birthplace of alpine winter tourism, which started 150 years ago. It has hosted the Winter Olympics twice as well as the world-championship Cresta Run (a bobsled run made of natural ice) and has an outdoor Olympic ice rink. Its frozen lake hosts polo, cricket, and even horse racing on ice.

Budget-Friendly Resorts

Les Diablerets

In the heart of the Vaud Alps, Les Diablerets offers exceptional skiing at a fraction of the cost, especially during the months of October to May.

The 112 km worth of slopes is perfect for the whole family and offers spectacular scenery. Children under the age of 9 can take advantage of free ski passes and can learn how to ski in the resort’s snow gardens. Advanced skiers can appreciate the fantastic snowpark; Glacier3000 which offers the highest slopes in the region.

In addition, you can find many self-catering units, and restaurants offering budget meals, specifically the L’Ormonan’s, where you can enjoy a Chinese meal from 5CHF.

Interlaken
The lakeside town of Interlaken has become a favorite amongst backpackers. Whilst there is no local ski area, it is a great base when wanting to access the ski areas of Wengen, Grindelwald, and Murren.

Apartment rentals here are wallet-friendly and trains and buses around the region are usually offered free of charge when you have a ski pass.

Coop, Migros, and Aldi will save you a pretty penny when it comes to nosh – pick up a sandwich at one of the delis for a mountain-packed lunch.

Nendaz

Nendaz lets you ski Verbier’s terrain since it shares the same 4 Valley ski area. When it comes to prices, this alternative tends to be much cheaper.

If you are just starting to learn how to ski or snowboard, then you can appreciate the free access given to Park Tracouet. The idea behind the access is to give beginners the to learn all the basics.

What’s more, the resort offers additional canny ways to save. Instead of purchasing a pass that covers the full 412km of slopes, you will be able to purchase the Printze Pass. This pass only covers 220km worth of trails but will save you 60CHF in the long run.

There are budget-friendly accommodation options on offer here too. That said, catered chalets in the area offer packages that include both food and wine in the overall price.

Saas-Fee

You won’t be disappointed with the slopes at Saas-Fee. They offer some of the best ski conditions in the Alps, thanks to the Allalin Glacier. There are 145km of pistes to be discovered and you would be surprised at the number of deals this resort town has on offer.

Children under the age of 9 can ski for free when purchasing a 6-day adult pass. Similarly, groups of 10 people can benefit from the lift passes that are also thrown in for free.

Local restaurants like Bar No 1 are making it easier to have an easy-on-the-pocket trip as well. For example, you can enjoy their meal of the day for as little as 10CHF, saving you at least 60% on dining out.

Moreso, nights out in the town don’t have to break the bank either. Gletcher Grotte offers the cheapest beer and glühwein around.

Article commissioned by Travel Start, South Africa

*Disclaimer*
All information on this blog page was correct at the time of publishing and may change at any time without prior notice. 51 Countries and Counting will not be held liable for loss or inconvenience resulting from the use of outdated or incorrectly noted information.

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Celebrating Switzerland’s “Fifth Season” – The Luzern Carnival

 

Luzern’s fantastical carnival

Lucern Carnival | Switzerland  Image by Chantelle Flores www.51countriesandcounting.com

Lucern Carnival | Switzerland | Image by Chantelle Flores | www.kzaravisual.com

 

Located in the shadow of majestic Mount, Lucerne, famous for its energetic mood goes wild.

 

People wearing wonderfully elaborate masks, and playing horrendously loud music on trumpets, horns, and drums fill its narrow streets.

 

This is, Fasnacht, the Swiss version of carnival.

Lucern Carnival | Switzerland  Image by Chantelle Flores www.51countriesandcounting.com

Lucern Carnival | Switzerland | Image by Chantelle Flores | www.kzaravisual.com

The Fasnacht celebration

Switzerland Tourism dubs the dates of the Carnival as follows: “Dirty Thursday till Carnival Tuesday prior to Ash Wednesday”.

 

The festival starts on, Schmutzig (fat) Thursday, just one week before Ash Wednesday.

Lucern Carnival | Switzerland  Image by Chantelle Flores www.51countriesandcounting.com

Lucern Carnival | Switzerland | Image by Chantelle Flores | www.kzaravisual.com

 

On Thursday, a big bang (the Urknall), coming from the town hall at five in the morning, marks the start of Switzerland’s “Fifth season”.

 

The old town is transformed into a festival ground, long before the sun is up.

Lucern Carnival | Switzerland  Image by Chantelle Flores www.51countriesandcounting.com

Lucern Carnival | Switzerland | Image by Chantelle Flores | www.kzaravisual.com

 

The symbolic figure guild that marks the event is called Fritschi.

 

This straw puppet figure dates back to the fifteenth century and plays a huge part in these celebrations.

 

Each year, Fritschi and his family roams the streets in a wagon, accompanied over the centuries by a colorful, loud parade.

Lucern Carnival | Switzerland  Image by Chantelle Flores www.51countriesandcounting.com

Lucern Carnival | Switzerland | Image by Chantelle Flores | www.kzaravisual.com

 

The battle of the oranges begins, whereby oranges and confetti are thrown into the crowd; presumably to offer everyone plenty of vitamin C to survive the rest of the festivities.

 

A Satirical Twist

Lucern Carnival | Switzerland  Image by Chantelle Flores www.51countriesandcounting.com

Lucern Carnival | Switzerland | Image by Chantelle Flores | www.kzaravisual.com

Lucern Carnival | Switzerland  Image by Chantelle Flores www.51countriesandcounting.com

Lucern Carnival | Switzerland | Image by Chantelle Flores | www.kzaravisual.com

 

The carnival was once a symbol of patriarchy, history, and folklore, but today it is the highlight of colorful merrymaking. This interesting spectacular is incredible to watch.

 

Despite the festival taking on a satirical twist, it is meant to be as scary and loud as possible to scare winter away, yet turns the city into a center of happiness and joy.

Lucern Carnival | Switzerland  Image by Chantelle Flores www.51countriesandcounting.com

Lucern Carnival | Switzerland | Image by Chantelle Flores | www.kzaravisual.com

 

Bizarrely masked bands called, Guggemuusige are the heart of Fasnacht.

They take to the streets, playing well-known joyful cacophony tunes on their brass and percussion instruments.

 

Despite it being a little bit out of tune, it will surely get your feet moving to the beat.

Lucern Carnival | Switzerland  Image by Chantelle Flores www.51countriesandcounting.com

Lucern Carnival | Switzerland | Image by Chantelle Flores | www.kzaravisual.com

 

The marching parades are distinctly different. Unlike other carnivals in the world, they do not march in the streets in a strict formation.

 

Instead, they parade the streets in a chaotic “any-direction-you-like”, making frequent stops. They act out scenes and mingle with the crowd who are bouncing to the beat.

Lucern Carnival | Switzerland  Image by Chantelle Flores www.51countriesandcounting.com

Lucern Carnival | Switzerland | Image by Chantelle Flores | www.kzaravisual.com

Lucern Carnival | Switzerland  Image by Chantelle Flores www.51countriesandcounting.com

Lucern Carnival | Switzerland | Image by Chantelle Flores | www.kzaravisual.com

 

What’s more, is that every single person participates, each flaunting their magnificently customized costumes depicting characters that embellish their hidden fantastical side.

Lucern Carnival | Switzerland  Image by Chantelle Flores www.51countriesandcounting.com

Lucern Carnival | Switzerland | Image by Chantelle Flores | www.kzaravisual.com

 

A few dozen ghosts, carrying bloated disfigured heads on their shoulders, bang their kettledrums as they march above the Reuss River.

 

A Martian removes his head to answer his mobile phone while another alien adjusts his huge eyes as if he can’t believe what’s unfolding around him.

Lucern Carnival | Switzerland  Image by Chantelle Flores www.51countriesandcounting.com

Lucern Carnival | Switzerland | Image by Chantelle Flores | www.kzaravisual.com

 

Traditional Food and Drink

The carnival is not just about the music and the dress-up. It is a “fat feast” as well.

 

This unruly celebration starts just before Easter which means that a 40-day religious fast is about to begin. During this time, locals give up some of their favorite things, which are usually meat and alcohol.

 

With that prospect before the locals, it’s no wonder why people take to the streets to party and eat in this way.

Lucern Carnival | Switzerland  Image by Chantelle Flores www.51countriesandcounting.com

Lucern Carnival | Switzerland | Image by Chantelle Flores | www.kzaravisual.com

Lucern Carnival | Switzerland  Image by Chantelle Flores www.51countriesandcounting.com

Lucern Carnival | Switzerland | Image by Chantelle Flores | www.kzaravisual.com

 

Certain traditional foods, high in calories mark the season. The idea behind these foods is to build up some fat reserves before fasting began at Lent.

 

Greasy sausages and desserts similar to doughnuts and carnival cakes are served on the streets.

 

Luzerner Chügelipastete’s are a must try too! This typical local dish is made of many layers of dough, filled with meat, and cooked in a sauce made with berries and rum.

 

The local coffee drink called, Kaffee Lutz serves as a cultural asset. Traditionally it was made to make precious coffee last longer by diluting it heavily with homemade brandy and sugar. Today, it is the favorite carnival drink.

Lucern Carnival | Switzerland  Image by Chantelle Flores www.51countriesandcounting.com

Lucern Carnival | Switzerland | Image by Chantelle Flores | www.kzaravisual.com

Lucern Carnival | Switzerland  Image by Chantelle Flores www.51countriesandcounting.com

Lucern Carnival | Switzerland | Image by Chantelle Flores | www.kzaravisual.com

Lucern Carnival | Switzerland  Image by Chantelle Flores www.51countriesandcounting.com

Lucern Carnival | Switzerland | Image by Chantelle Flores | www.kzaravisual.com

Lucern Carnival | Switzerland  Image by Chantelle Flores www.51countriesandcounting.com

Lucern Carnival | Switzerland | Image by Chantelle Flores | www.kzaravisual.com

Lucern Carnival | Switzerland  Image by Chantelle Flores www.51countriesandcounting.com

Lucern Carnival | Switzerland | Image by Chantelle Flores | www.kzaravisual.com

Lucern Carnival | Switzerland  Image by Chantelle Flores www.51countriesandcounting.com

Lucern Carnival | Switzerland | Image by Chantelle Flores | www.kzaravisual.com

Lucern Carnival | Switzerland  Image by Chantelle Flores www.51countriesandcounting.com

Lucern Carnival | Switzerland | Image by Chantelle Flores | www.kzaravisual.com

 

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