Switzerland

I took a pre-Christmas short break from London City Airport to Bern in the heart of the picturesque Bernese Oberland. The city is so accessible by public transport with trains and buses running like clockwork however there is more than enough to see in the historic centre including the Einstein Haus and Museum, Bear Park, and the local market. Various events take place year round in Bern and I was lucky to be there for the light and sound display ‘Rendez-vous Bundesplatz’ on the parliament building. I would also highly recommend dinner at ‘Kornhauskeller’, an underground hall and monument which serves traditional Bernese specialities.

After a night in Bern I took the train around Lake Thun to Kandersteg, a beautiful region in the mountains which is great for hiking in the summer and skiing in the winter. I stayed at the Waldhotel Doldenhorn in a suite with balcony and skylight over the bed which would be perfect for a special occasion. The hotel has a cosy feel and alpine style with traditional wood and fireplace in the open lounge/bar area, and is also known for its wellness facilities including indoor/outdoor pool with Jacuzzi jets, sauna, steam room and salt room.