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%
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