With snow-capped Alps, forested hills, fairytale castles, Renaissance cathedrals, shimmering lakes, stylish spas and luxury ski resorts - it's easy to see why Switzerland has been one of the world's top tourist destinations for the past two centuries.

It is the country that fashioned tourism, so it's no surprise that Switzerland caters to visitors all year round. In spring and summer it offers lakeside chalets, mountain trails and spa resorts. In the sunny southern region of Ticino, near the Italian border, visitors will find palm-fringed Riviera-style resorts offering a host of water sports. Those keen and mountaineering will find over 31,000 miles (50,000 Km) of mountain and forest trails throughout the country.

Full country name: Swiss Confederation
Area: 41,295 sq km (16,105 sq mi)
Population: 7.3 million
Capitals: Bern (pop 130,000)
People: 74% German, 20% French, 4% Italian & 1% Romansch
Languages: German, French, Italian & Romansch
Religion: 49% Roman Catholic & 48% Protestant
Government: Federal republic
President: Kaspar Villiger
GDP per person: sfr54, 000
GDP: €449 billion
Area: 41,285 sq Km
Unemployment rate: 3,7%
Inflation:1%
GDP growth: 2,6%