Switzerland is far more than high-priced ski resorts and glossy brochures. From the 12-yearly Unspunnen festival and 40-cow alpine dairies to historic mountain railways and lakeside Christmas markets, discover the authentic heart and living traditions of the Swiss cantons with travel writer Martin Hesp.

Bern is magical at Christmas, when its medieval Old Town fills with Christmas markets, festive lights and the delicious smells of Swiss food. Explore Bern's Christmas markets, historic streets and traditional festive treats.

Switzerland's Christmas markets are among Europe's most atmospheric, from snowy Geneva and magical Bern to the spectacular market in Basel. Discover Swiss Christmas traditions, festive food, Glühwein, fondue and more.

Switzerland is famous for its mountains, lakes and immaculate towns, but it also has a remarkable collection of historic hotels. On a journey through the country I discovered some wonderfully atmospheric places to stay, from grand lakeside hotels to remote mountain retreats. These are the Swiss Historic Hotels that took me back into another era of travel.

From the icy glaciers of the High Alps to the sun-drenched palm trees of northern Italy, the Bernina Express is widely regarded as one of the world's most spectacular rail journeys. Here is what it's really like to ride this UNESCO-listed engineering marve

Explore St Moritz and the higher Engadine in Switzerland, from the famous 1864 wager that created its winter reputation to its Alpine scenery, skiing, sunshine and White Turf horse racing.

Ascending through the solid rock of the Eiger and Mönch, the Jungfrau Railway is one of the world's crowning engineering triumphs. Step aboard from Kleine Scheidegg to reach the Top of Europe at 3,454 metres, overlooking the frozen expanse of the great Aletsch Glacier.

A visit to Bern's historic Old Town reveals two fascinating landmarks: the medieval Zytglogge Clock Tower and the modest apartment where Albert Einstein lived during his remarkable years in Switzerland.

Discover the fascinating history of Emmental cheese in Switzerland, visit the Emmentaler Visitor Centre and learn how the famous holes are created and how this traditional cheese is made.

Basel's remarkable Rhine ferries cross the river without engines, using nothing but the current and a steel cable. Martin Hesp takes a memorable winter journey across the Rhine.

Basel has one of Europe's most atmospheric Christmas markets, filling the city's medieval centre with festive lights, traditional Swiss food and more than 180 stalls. Discover the market, Münsterplatz and the extraordinary Johan Wanner Christmas Shop.

An epic travel novel that begins in the wild hills of Exmoor before sweeping through Greece, northern Italy and Switzerland in a compelling story of love, mystery and redemption.

<p class="">English journalist looks back on over 20 years of walks writing</p>

A winter journey through Lucerne and the Swiss mountains, taking in the Lilu Festival, Mount Pilatus, Lake Lucerne, Vitznau, Weggis and spectacular Alpine scenery.

Martin Hesp recalls the time he joined a group of Dartmoor farmers on a trip to the Simmental in Switzerland

Having a barbecue halfway up a Swiss mountain in winter might not sound like much fun - but it can be fantastic experience if you happen to have a snug and cosy BBQ-hut to cook in

Held only once every twelve years in Interlaken, the Unspunnenfest is a colossal celebration of pure alpine identity. From massive stone-hurling and traditional Schwingen wrestling to horn-blowing symphonies, discover what true "Swissness" looks like when the cantons gather.

Climbing into the high Urseren Valley, the railway to Andermatt takes you straight to the historic crossroads of the Swiss Alps. Discover how this dramatic mountain outpost blends ancient mountain pass heritage, soaring granite peaks, and effortless scenic rail travel.

<p class="">Martin Hesp spends time in Zermatt exploring the area around the famous Matterhorn</p>

<p class="">Martin Hesp recalls a winter voyage in Switzerland</p>