Who doesn’t love a good Christmas market? 🎄🎇 I’ve been to the one in Bristol this week, and very jolly it was too! Give me a good quality German sausage and a large glass filled and frothing with a proper Pilsner, and I am a happy festive chap, despite the rain and the chill. You might prefer a warming hot chocolate or mulled wine - whatever your tipple, European-style Christmas markets are one of the great seasonal success stories of recent years. Not surprising... They of

For those of us who grew up in the rural West Country decades ago, vacations were modest affairs — they often involved camping in tents or staying in caravans. These holidays were enjoyable in their own way, but certainly lacking in luxury or sophistication. Watching television programs like the early Saint series or adaptations of Agatha Christie novels, I became aware of an entirely different world — a world of smart hotels and elegant lifestyles, far removed from the cons

<p class="">Martin Hesp recalls the occasions when he’s been fortunate enough to ride on the Bernina Express</p>

<p class="">Martin Hesp looks back on several visits to the town of St Moritz in eastern Switzerland</p>

<p class="">Explore the Swiss Alps on the Jungfrau Railway, an engineering marvel taking you to Jungfraujoch, Europe's highest railway station. Starting from Interlaken, this scenic journey offers breathtaking views of the Aletsch Glacier, Eiger and Mönch mountains. At Jungfraujoch, experience the Ice Palace, Sphinx Observatory, and alpine activities. With stops at Eigerwand and Eismeer for stunning vistas, the Jungfrau Railway is an unforgettable adventure, perfect for those

<p class=""><strong><em>The astronomical clock in the Zytglogge Clock Tower of Bern, Switzerland, was designed by master clockmaker Kaspar Brunner. It was installed in the tower in the year 1530. This intricate and historically significant clock has been captivating visitors and locals alike for centuries with its mechanical and astronomical features. Kaspar Brunner's work on the Zytglogge Clock is a testament to the remarkable craftsmanship of his time and remains an endurin

<p class=""><strong><em>This article explores Emmental cheese's history and the Emmentaler Visitor Centre in Switzerland. Originating in the 13th century, Emmental is famous for its large holes and nutty flavor. Made from raw cow's milk, its quality is marked by the holes' size, created during fermentation. The Visitor Centre offers an immersive look into its production and cultural significance, showcasing traditional and modern cheesemaking methods, attracting cheese lovers

<p class=""><strong><em>The article describes Basel's engineless foot ferries, known as "Fähri," which cross the Rhine River using the river's current instead of engines. Connected to a steel cable, these eco-friendly ferries offer a serene journey with panoramic views of Basel. Four distinct ferries operate at different river points, serving pedestrians and cyclists while preserving the city's riverine heritage.</em></strong></p>

<p class=""><strong><em>The Basel Christmas Market in Switzerland is celebrated as one of Europe's most enchanting holiday destinations, drawing nearly a million visitors annually. Set in Basel's medieval city centre, it blends historical charm with modern festivity from late November to Christmas Eve. The market features over 180 stalls offering traditional Swiss crafts and gastronomic delights</em></strong></p>

<p class="">A few notes about my novel The Lemon Tree Forest </p>

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

<p class="">A winter week in Lucerne, Switzerland</p>

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

<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>

<p class="">In Switzerland with the Sherlockians - Martin Hesp joined the very special visit that members opf the Sherlock Holmes Society of London arrange once every seven years</p>

<p class="" style="white-space:pre-wrap;">Laax is one of the loveliest ski resorts in the world - a great high altitude place in which to learn to ski</p>

<p class="" style="white-space:pre-wrap;">Exploring the delights of one of Switzerland’s best kept secrets - the country’s superb way with salads</p>

A poem from Martin Hesp all about Vitznau in Switzerland