Choose From A Wide Range Of Switzerland Accommodations
The breathtaking scenery draws travellers from around the world; accommodations in Switzerland have been welcoming guests since the early 1800s. Now numbering over 4,000, there are more hotels per capita than any other country in Europe. From a luxurious palace to a bare youth hostel, you'll find a vast choice of Switzerland accommodations to match every travel budget.
Accommodations in Switzerland can be found virtually everywhere – from the tiniest village to the biggest city and as high as a cable car can climb. Standards are extremely high and, even the most inexpensive hotels are likely to be clean. There is an independent star rating system but, be forewarned, you'll find it lacking in consistency:
Couples travelling together can ask for a double bed. But, most likely in a traditional Swiss hotel, you will find twin beds pushed together. Older hotels and less expensive rooms often have layouts that are long and narrow with beds placed end to end. Also, rather than top sheets and blankets, you're more likely to find a "Decke" or duvet. That's a feather or down comforter tucked inside a sheet bag, and it takes a bit of getting used to -- especially if you get often warm and like to push the covers down. For those who do a lot of tossing and turning, the Decke often winds up on the floor. Of course, top of the line Switzerland accommodations go beyond providing standard creature comfort. But, once you go below 3 stars, a private bath gets iffy. Don't be surprised if you happen upon a toilet brush in your water closet. Many Swiss toilets have their own unique design that requires visitors to do some scrubbing. Money can be saved in some hotels by taking a room without a private bath or shower. And, bath lovers be forewarned – there are budget hotels that charge extra for you to enjoy that pleasure. While bed and breakfasts are a relatively new phenomenon in the realm of Switzerland accommodations, private rooms have long been offered by swiss homeowners. Rates are generally quite reasonable and the surroundings are often delightful enough to make this experience a special treat. If you are interested in trying a private room, look for signs on windows that read:
Apartments, chalets and villas are available for weekly rental. Arrangements for any of these choices can be made by email at web sites like these: You can save money by dealing with homeowners directly. There is a free translation web site at Alta Vista that will allow you to write a letter in the language of the region you're interested in visiting: http://babelfish.altavista.com/
For a country with a reputation for being expensive, there are also some attractive accommodations available that are relatively affordable. There are several hundred campgrounds open from spring through fall, all rated like hotels with a one to five star system. And nearly every Swiss town has at least one youth hostel, some of which are surprisingly modern and luxurious.
If you're traveling with children, the popular "Sleep in Straw" or "Schlafen im Stroh" program is an option well worth considering. This happens during the summer, when cows are moved to alpine pastures and farmer turn their barns into rustic hotels. Prices run as low as 10 to 20 francs per night, including breakfast, which makes this the ultimate bargain in Switzerland accommodations.
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