Discover the best of Switzerland this autumn with our ultimate bucket list

Chestnuts are not only delicious roasted, but also in pasta, cakes and bread. Sample autumnal specialities alongside local wine and cheese at the Sagra della castagna Brusio (15 October) in Poschiavo. 

Make floral adornments for cows, weave on a loom, play the traditional Swiss sport of Hornussen and try out Alpine cookery at AlpKultur Days Lenk (7-21 October), a festival dedicated to folklore and customs. 

Guzzle the taste of autumn at the Truffle Market in Bonvillars (28 Oct), featuring growers, chefs and several kilos of truffles. For the ultimate experience, enjoy a cheese fondue with fresh truffle as you roll through the region in a carriage.

Aarau transforms into the Swiss carrot capital on the first Wednesday of every November, when 140 vendors descend on its Carrot Market (1 Nov) to showcase all things root veg – from sculptures to pasta.    

Ride the railway to the top of Zurich’s Uetliberg mountain, then walk the Panorama Trail, high above the lake and through dewy meadows and golden forest, to Restaurant Felsenegg. Once there, reward yourself with hearty Capuns.

Vineyards are never prettier than in the autumn. To see for yourself, take the four-hour Vineyard trail around Lake Biel, where you’ll be able to see winegrowers at work, enjoy views of the Alps and re-energise with a helping of roasted chestnuts at glorious La Neuveville.

From the top of the Grindelwald-First cableway, it’s an easy walk for a huge reward at Lake Bachalp, where the snow-topped Jungfrau Massif frames the glistening water and a delicious palette of autumn colours. A classic photo opp!

Do like a bon vivant on the Swiss Wine Route, which crosses the Unesco-listed terraced vineyards in Lavaux. Whether you go on foot or aboard the Lavaux Express, you’ll find plenty of wineries on the way. 

Marvel at the glory of central Switzerland in its autumn cloak from the top of the Brisen, which boasts unparalleled 360° views. The Ridge Hike to get there isn’t bad either, featuring fields of rubble and alpine pastures.