The German writer and philosopher Goethe characterized Switzerland as a combination of "the colossal and the well-ordered." The description is apt. Switzerland conjures up scenes of majestic mountains, luxurious resorts, pristine villages and towns, tranquility, and efficiency--in short, a highly attractive destination. Travelers seeking inspiration and communion with nature have been drawn to the Swiss landscape for centuries. Beyond the Alps and the resorts nestled among them, moreover, lies a rich cultural life and surprising diversity.

As the "crossroads of Europe," as well as its "rooftop," Switzerland is where all rail lines, road passes, and mountain tunnels seem to converge; since ancient times, the major routes connecting northern and southern Europe have been through Switzerland. A main European route for east-west travel also passes through Switzerland, between Lake Constance and Geneva. The drainage of its Alpine glaciers are the source of the powerful Rhine and Rhône rivers, flowing through central Europe.

Join Mike and Sandy Price on their month long trip through Switzerland. Click here to read the latest installment of their travel diary and talk back on our forum.