Switzerland

Switzerland is an Alpine country in the heart of Europe, known for its political neutrality, prosperity and scenic landscapes. Switzerland borders Germany, France, Italy, Austria and Liechtenstein. Four official languages are spoken: German, French, Italian and Romansh, reflecting its geographical and historical diversity. The landscape is dominated by the Alps and the Jura Mountains, making Switzerland one of Europe's top destinations for winter sports and hiking. Famous resorts such as Zermatt, St. Moritz and Interlaken attract tourists all year round. Switzerland is also home to several large lakes, with Lake Geneva, Lake Zurich and Lake Lugano being some of the most famous. Switzerland is a federal republic with 26 cantons and has one of the world's oldest democratic systems. The capital is Bern, while Zurich and Geneva are the country's largest and most internationally-acclaimed cities. The country is not a member of the EU but has strong economic and political ties to the union. The economy is strong and is based on high technology, banking, the pharmaceutical industry and the export of products such as watches, cheese and chocolate. Switzerland has a deep-rooted cheese culture that is an important part of both its gastronomy and its identity. Swiss cheeses have been made for centuries, often in the traditional way in Alpine dairies, where the milk comes from cows that graze freely in the pure environment of the Alps. The result is cheeses with a rich flavor, high quality and strong regional roots. Among the most famous varieties are: Gruyère, Emmentaler, Appenzeller and Tête de Moine. Switzerland is also home to the classic dish fondue, where melted cheese (often a blend of Gruyère and Vacherin) is dipped with pieces of bread, and raclette, where half a cheese is melted and scraped over potatoes, meat and vegetables.