If you require removals to Switzerland and are a lover of castles and historic buildings, as many people are, then regardless of which canton you are moving to, Switzerland will not disappoint. There are a great many historic buildings that you are able to visit and some that may even be available to purchase. There are fairytale castles, magnificent mansions, and some fine old city buildings, which are bound to catch your eye. Once you have organised your removals to Switzerland and have settled in the country, you may wish to explore the local area and visit some of these wondrous edifices.
If you are looking for an experienced removals team to help with your removals to Switzerland, Hamiltons Removals are the ones to call. We have over 20 years’ experience in the business and regularly move people to and from all parts of Europe. We offer cost effective moving solutions and can tailor our service to your exact requirements. We offer full or part-load removals, we can provide secure storage and do the packing and unpacking for you. We can help you to fill out the customs forms. We can even help with the professional cleaning of the home you have just vacated. We have looked at every aspect of your removal and offer you a workable, affordable solution.
In this article, we have brought together our pick of the TOP 10 Swiss castles and historic buildings but, of course, we understand that any Top 10 is subjective so if you know of any that you feel we should have included, please feel free to add your comments.
Removals to Switzerland – click here for full information on our removals to Switzerland service.
Our Guide to Some of the Most Interesting Buildings in Switzerland
Abbey Church - Payerne
This is one of the most significant churches in Switzerland. Built in the 11th-century by the first religious community to be set up in the area, it was constructed in stages over 140 years. It would have stood alone and without protection if it weren’t for its connections with the Abbey in Cluny and the Royal family. Its beauty and charm are well preserved and presented. Sculpted and decorated from floor to ceiling and wall to wall, this is one of the finest examples of Romanesque architecture to be found anywhere in Switzerland. The building has since lost its religious status, but is used instead to host the most prestigious art exhibitions.
Batiment des Forces Motrices – Banks of the Rhone
The BFM as it is locally and affectionately known is a prime example of how to use and re-use brown belt land. An industrial site since May 1886, it was transformed into an Opera House in September of 1997. Situated as an island in the middle of the Rhone, It began life as a hydraulic power station supplying water under high pressure to the city's fountains, houses and factories. Decommissioned in the 1960’s and classified an historic building in 1988, its cultural future was secured when, in 1994, representatives of the Grand Theatre said they needed another location for their 1997-1998 season. Several phone calls, some construction and refurbishment later, it became the new 1000 seater Grand Theatre.
Benedictine Convent of St John
The Benedictine Convent of St John at Müstair features the best examples of Romanesque murals, frescoes and stuccoes to be found anywhere in Switzerland. Situated in the upper valley of the Canton of Grisons, the building underwent some interior remodelling around 1908 and then again, throughout the late 40's and early 50's. It was during these alterations that the removal of a Gothic ceiling and whitewashing revealed scenes from the Old and New Testaments dating back to the Carolingian period AD751- 987. The discovery of this artwork, painted in ochres, reds and browns, led to the site being given UNESCO world cultural heritage status.
Chenaux Castle
Not far from Payerne with its historic Abbey Church, about eight kilometres to the northwest, is the small medieval town of Estavayer. This is where you'll find the impressive Château de Chenaux. Overlooking Lake Neuchâtel and the Grande Cariçaie nature reserve, this 14th century castle is quite simply splendid. It has been through the wars a bit in its time and just one of its towers still stands but, even so, a walk around the grounds and courtyards will give you all the impression you'll need of the majesty of the place and the views of the surrounding countryside that you get from the turrets is lovely.
Château de Chillon
One of the prettiest châteaux in all of Switzerland, Château de Chillon is easy to get to too. Follow the main road from Lausanne and take the Villeneuve exit, the one after Montreux. Take the road down to the lake then turn right, you'll soon reach a car park and the entrance to the château. Give yourselves a good couple of hours, as there is a lot to see. There is a guided ipod tour available which is very interesting and all the rooms are numbered to correspond with it. After your tour, you might like to take a picnic by the lake; the views and surrounding countryside are very pretty.
Château de Prangins
Now forming part of the Swiss National Museum, Château de Prangins, which dates back to 1730, is very much open for business. It has played host to many famous guests over the years and will doubtless go on doing so for many years to come. The immaculate parks and gardens that surround the house are a joy to walk around, as is the building itself, which has been painstakingly restored to its original glory. The château houses a permanent museum and regularly features special exhibitions detailing Swiss life in the 18th and 19th centuries. There is a varied programme of other events reflecting Swiss art, culture and society.
Church San Guerg
There are many St. George’s Basilicas around the world but only one Church San Guerg in Lavin. Many tourists visit the Church all year round and, once there, you'll realise why. They come to see the famous murals dating back to 1500. The reformation of the churches saw them whitewashed, as in the case of the Benedictine Convent of St John, but the renovations of 1956 have bought them back to their former splendour. These, together with countless paintings, ornaments, intricate plasterwork and masonry, make this church well worth a visit. It’s a working church so don’t be surprised to find the place busy if your visit should coincide with Mass.
Ittingen Charterhouse
This 850-year-old building in the municipality of Warth is one of the region’s most important cultural sites. These days it is a training and conference centre with a worldwide reputation for excellence. There's a lot going on here, from its hotel and restaurant complex serving the most wonderful cuisine to its farming estate with cheese making factory and vineyard. There's a residential care home and nursery, workplaces for the disabled and an art museum. Here, people from all over the world and of all religions come to learn, to meditate and to be at one with each other in contemplation and spiritual connectivity.
Tarasp Castle
We have mouthwash to thank for this not-so-little Swiss gem. Karl August Lingner, the man behind the Odol oral hygiene brand, bought the castle as a neglected, run-down shell and completely gutted it. In the ensuing years, he spared no expense in returning the castle to better than former glory. Nothing in the castle is original and yet everything is correct and of the period. The gardens too received an extensive make over and are a joy to walk around. This was a huge restoration job. You should allocate at least half a day when visiting here and there are plenty of lovely restaurants to visit locally.
Museum Castle Kyburg
Overlooking the River Töss, the museum traces Castle Kyburg’s 800-year history giving a real insight into castle life over the centuries. As well as looking around its cellar, attic, torture chamber and kitchens, and for a truly interactive experience, you can take part in a staged court of justice. The castle once belonged to the “Count of Kyburg” Hartmann von Dillingen. The v. Dillingen’s were one of the most important and influential families in the area, after the Habsburgs and the Savoys. Join the club at Schloss Kyburg and you’ll receive free admission, a yearbook with historical information and invites to special events.
About Hamiltons Removals
For over 20 years now, Hamiltons Removals have been offering a tailored, bespoke removals service to all parts of the UK, Europe and beyond. We specialize in low cost, high quality removals and provide a service that is second to none. Our reputation speaks for us. We take pride in our work and in the fact that so many of our clients happily recommend our services to their friends. Peruse our online brochure and call us on 0845 003 8259. We look forward to assisting you with your removals to Switzerland.
Removals to Switzerland – click here for full information on our removals to Switzerland service or click here for a free European removals quote.
Monday, 27 May 2013
Wednesday, 22 May 2013
Removals to Switzerland – Most Picturesque Places to Visit
If you are looking to move to a country with spectacular and dramatic scenery, Switzerland has all of this and more. It is a country with many picturesque places to visit. Just think of the views you will encounter as you take in the awesome Alps, the beautiful lakes and the charming countryside. If you are seeking removals to Switzerland, it’s understandable that you'll want to explore these areas to discover more about this most scenic of countries.
If you are looking for the very best in removals to Switzerland, Hamiltons have the answer. At Hamiltons removals, we have worked hard to build a reputation based on our dedication to quality customer service and keen pricing. When it comes to domestic removals and commercial relocations, our 20 years plus in the removals industry have taught us the value of these things to both home-owners and business people alike.
Our range of services is as varied and bespoke as you need it to be. We offer full or part load removals, dependant upon the size of your move. We have a highly secure and fully insured storage facility. We offer a full packing and unpacking service should you require it and we even offer a cleaning service to professionally clean the property you have vacated, so you don’t have to. All of this we have put in place to ensure that your removals to Switzerland are as stress free and cost effective as possible
Removals to Switzerland – click here for full information on our removals to Switzerland service.
Here is our TOP 10 of the most scenic places to visit in Switzerland.
Lake Geneva
Where else could we start our tour of Switzerland's finest, if not at Lake Geneva? Often described as the prettiest lake in Europe, it is certainly one of the largest. The hotels and restaurants about its fringes offer some of the finest cuisine and, seen on a good day, the view of the lake with its mountainous backdrop set against a clear blue sky is, quite honestly, breath-taking. Don’t forget to look out for the famous Jet d'Eau, Geneva’s famed water fountain. You'll see it everywhere, on every piece of tourist literature and every book about the city; it’s the logo of the tourist office and Geneva’s prime photo opportunity.
Zermatt with views of the Matterhorn
The term “breath-taking” is overused these days but, when used in connection with Zermatt and The Matterhorn, it is particularly apt. Don’t bring your car unless its electric, the internal combustion engine has been banned. As a result, you can hear nature. In Zermatt, you can hear the birds and the crickets, you can hear the sounds of local children laughing and playing and the church bells as they ring out calling the locals to prayer. The horse and cart is popular here as are bicycles but you must be vigilant in the city as the electric car is virtually silent and taxi drivers forget people don’t have eyes in the back of their heads.
Mürren, Berner Oberland
If it’s mountains you're after, then they don't get much better than here in this tiny little village. Like Zermatt, it is car-free, which is a good thing since it is perched right on the edge of a 3000ft cliff. Surrounded by mountains, everywhere you look there's another awe-inspiring sight and it offers the perfect landscape for hiking. As you may expect, the shopping here is pretty poor and the nightlife even more so, but that is not why people come here, it’s not what they want. Visitors to Mürren come in search of peace and tranquillity. They come to appreciate some of the finest natural landscapes in the world.
Lauterbrunnen
Lauterbrunnen is situated just across the valley from Mürren. Literally translated as “Many Fountains”, this incredible landscape features 72 waterfalls in all, some of the most impressive and beautiful in Europe. There are many excursions to be had in the area with long walks, hiking and cross country skiing being favoured pastimes. There are lots of interesting places to see in the area, fans of James Bond 007 will love nearby Schilthorn, the 2,970 metre high summit of the Bernese Alps, where OHMSS was filmed. You can even organise a “007” themed wedding in the area, made extra special because this is where it all happened.
St. Moritz
St Moritz is one of the most famous addresses in the world, right up there with Beverley Hills, Monaco and Marbella. Yes the skiing is fantastic but St Moritz is more than just a ski resort: it is THE place to be seen. The rich and famous have been coming here for years, many taking the Glacier Express from Zermatt to arrive in style and cable cars to reach the three closest summits. St Moritz is one of the world's oldest and possibly most famous mountain resorts and there is as much going on off piste as there is on it, with posh hotels, chic restaurants, luxurious spas and as much high end shopping as you could wish for.
Lucerne
The city of Lucerne is best toured on foot and there are many guided tours in operation here. Your tour is sure to include the world-famous Chapel Bridge and Water Tower, the Jesuit Church, the Mill Bridge, the Lion Monument and the ultra modern KKL culture and convention centre and then, of course, there's the lake. Lake Lucerne is clean and crystal clear. Look over the side of any boat or bridge and you can see the bottom; you can see the fish swimming in amongst the rocks. Take a trip on one of the paddle steamer ferryboats. Lunch and dinner is available and the quality of food and service, not to mention the scenery, is top notch.
Interlaken
If you consider yourselves outdoorsy types, there's no better place than Interlaken. In the summer months, you can go hiking along one of many local trails and you can take part in one of the many adrenaline sports on offer here including: paragliding, sky diving, hang gliding, bungee jumping, canyoning, mountain biking, river rafting and rock climbing. And, in the winter of course, there's skiing, snowboarding, sledging and ice-skating to do. If the thought of doing any of that fills you more with dread than with excitement, you could always take a long leisurely walk along the shores the Thun and the Brienz.
Montreux
Famous for its annual jazz festival, this place rocks in July. Since 1967 it has played host to the likes of jazz legends like Miles Davis and Ray Charles through to contemporary performers like David Bowie and Prince. This year's festival will include sessions from Leonard Cohen, Wyclef Jean, Green Day, ZZ Top, Jake Bugg, Prince, Kraftwerk, Sting, The Hives, George Benson, Joe Cocker and Deep Purple, so you can see, it’s more than just a jazz festival. Montreux has more to offer than just music though, the Riviera is chock full of culinary delights too, with 20 or so Michelin and Gault Millau registered eateries.
Vevey
The picturesque town of Vevey is full of floral displays and public art. One of the most startling and unexpected pieces on display here is a life size statue of Charlie Chaplin stood, part bent on cane, in his usual pose looking out over Lake Geneva. He lived nearby in Corsier-sur-Vevey on a 37-acre estate called Manoir de Ban. Chaplin is not the only artiste to have found inspiration in Vevey; in 1878 the US author Henry James wrote his novella "Daisy Miller" here during a stay at the Hôtel des Trois Couronnes and you can still book a room there today. The town has lost none of its charm over the years; you can still wander the streets and alleys of the old town, visiting fine art collections and markets along the way.
Gruyères
The picturesque village of Gruyères has more restaurants and eateries than any village of its size has any right to. On the main roads and side streets in the village you'll find dozens of them, 34 at the last count and Gruyères is not a big place. Walking around its ancient streets and alleyways, it is inevitable that you will succumb to the temptations of at least one of them on your way to visit the Castle and perhaps another, on the way back. Whichever restaurant you visit, they will all have at least one thing in common: the serving of Gruyère cheese. Everywhere you go around here, you can see the cheese makers hard at work, producing their Gruyère to a recipe that had remained the same for hundreds of years.
About Hamiltons Removals
For more than 20 years now, Hamiltons Removals have been providing removals services to all parts of Europe and beyond. Our cost effective, customer oriented service continues to build on our reputation for excellence, a reputation we are proud of. If you are looking for removals to Switzerland, contact us today for your free, no obligation quote.
Removals to Switzerland – click here for full information on our removals to Switzerland service or click here for a free European removals quote.
If you are looking for the very best in removals to Switzerland, Hamiltons have the answer. At Hamiltons removals, we have worked hard to build a reputation based on our dedication to quality customer service and keen pricing. When it comes to domestic removals and commercial relocations, our 20 years plus in the removals industry have taught us the value of these things to both home-owners and business people alike.
Our range of services is as varied and bespoke as you need it to be. We offer full or part load removals, dependant upon the size of your move. We have a highly secure and fully insured storage facility. We offer a full packing and unpacking service should you require it and we even offer a cleaning service to professionally clean the property you have vacated, so you don’t have to. All of this we have put in place to ensure that your removals to Switzerland are as stress free and cost effective as possible
Removals to Switzerland – click here for full information on our removals to Switzerland service.
Here is our TOP 10 of the most scenic places to visit in Switzerland.
Lake Geneva
Where else could we start our tour of Switzerland's finest, if not at Lake Geneva? Often described as the prettiest lake in Europe, it is certainly one of the largest. The hotels and restaurants about its fringes offer some of the finest cuisine and, seen on a good day, the view of the lake with its mountainous backdrop set against a clear blue sky is, quite honestly, breath-taking. Don’t forget to look out for the famous Jet d'Eau, Geneva’s famed water fountain. You'll see it everywhere, on every piece of tourist literature and every book about the city; it’s the logo of the tourist office and Geneva’s prime photo opportunity.
Zermatt with views of the Matterhorn
The term “breath-taking” is overused these days but, when used in connection with Zermatt and The Matterhorn, it is particularly apt. Don’t bring your car unless its electric, the internal combustion engine has been banned. As a result, you can hear nature. In Zermatt, you can hear the birds and the crickets, you can hear the sounds of local children laughing and playing and the church bells as they ring out calling the locals to prayer. The horse and cart is popular here as are bicycles but you must be vigilant in the city as the electric car is virtually silent and taxi drivers forget people don’t have eyes in the back of their heads.
Mürren, Berner Oberland
If it’s mountains you're after, then they don't get much better than here in this tiny little village. Like Zermatt, it is car-free, which is a good thing since it is perched right on the edge of a 3000ft cliff. Surrounded by mountains, everywhere you look there's another awe-inspiring sight and it offers the perfect landscape for hiking. As you may expect, the shopping here is pretty poor and the nightlife even more so, but that is not why people come here, it’s not what they want. Visitors to Mürren come in search of peace and tranquillity. They come to appreciate some of the finest natural landscapes in the world.
Lauterbrunnen
Lauterbrunnen is situated just across the valley from Mürren. Literally translated as “Many Fountains”, this incredible landscape features 72 waterfalls in all, some of the most impressive and beautiful in Europe. There are many excursions to be had in the area with long walks, hiking and cross country skiing being favoured pastimes. There are lots of interesting places to see in the area, fans of James Bond 007 will love nearby Schilthorn, the 2,970 metre high summit of the Bernese Alps, where OHMSS was filmed. You can even organise a “007” themed wedding in the area, made extra special because this is where it all happened.
St. Moritz
St Moritz is one of the most famous addresses in the world, right up there with Beverley Hills, Monaco and Marbella. Yes the skiing is fantastic but St Moritz is more than just a ski resort: it is THE place to be seen. The rich and famous have been coming here for years, many taking the Glacier Express from Zermatt to arrive in style and cable cars to reach the three closest summits. St Moritz is one of the world's oldest and possibly most famous mountain resorts and there is as much going on off piste as there is on it, with posh hotels, chic restaurants, luxurious spas and as much high end shopping as you could wish for.
Lucerne
The city of Lucerne is best toured on foot and there are many guided tours in operation here. Your tour is sure to include the world-famous Chapel Bridge and Water Tower, the Jesuit Church, the Mill Bridge, the Lion Monument and the ultra modern KKL culture and convention centre and then, of course, there's the lake. Lake Lucerne is clean and crystal clear. Look over the side of any boat or bridge and you can see the bottom; you can see the fish swimming in amongst the rocks. Take a trip on one of the paddle steamer ferryboats. Lunch and dinner is available and the quality of food and service, not to mention the scenery, is top notch.
Interlaken
If you consider yourselves outdoorsy types, there's no better place than Interlaken. In the summer months, you can go hiking along one of many local trails and you can take part in one of the many adrenaline sports on offer here including: paragliding, sky diving, hang gliding, bungee jumping, canyoning, mountain biking, river rafting and rock climbing. And, in the winter of course, there's skiing, snowboarding, sledging and ice-skating to do. If the thought of doing any of that fills you more with dread than with excitement, you could always take a long leisurely walk along the shores the Thun and the Brienz.
Montreux
Famous for its annual jazz festival, this place rocks in July. Since 1967 it has played host to the likes of jazz legends like Miles Davis and Ray Charles through to contemporary performers like David Bowie and Prince. This year's festival will include sessions from Leonard Cohen, Wyclef Jean, Green Day, ZZ Top, Jake Bugg, Prince, Kraftwerk, Sting, The Hives, George Benson, Joe Cocker and Deep Purple, so you can see, it’s more than just a jazz festival. Montreux has more to offer than just music though, the Riviera is chock full of culinary delights too, with 20 or so Michelin and Gault Millau registered eateries.
Vevey
The picturesque town of Vevey is full of floral displays and public art. One of the most startling and unexpected pieces on display here is a life size statue of Charlie Chaplin stood, part bent on cane, in his usual pose looking out over Lake Geneva. He lived nearby in Corsier-sur-Vevey on a 37-acre estate called Manoir de Ban. Chaplin is not the only artiste to have found inspiration in Vevey; in 1878 the US author Henry James wrote his novella "Daisy Miller" here during a stay at the Hôtel des Trois Couronnes and you can still book a room there today. The town has lost none of its charm over the years; you can still wander the streets and alleys of the old town, visiting fine art collections and markets along the way.
Gruyères
The picturesque village of Gruyères has more restaurants and eateries than any village of its size has any right to. On the main roads and side streets in the village you'll find dozens of them, 34 at the last count and Gruyères is not a big place. Walking around its ancient streets and alleyways, it is inevitable that you will succumb to the temptations of at least one of them on your way to visit the Castle and perhaps another, on the way back. Whichever restaurant you visit, they will all have at least one thing in common: the serving of Gruyère cheese. Everywhere you go around here, you can see the cheese makers hard at work, producing their Gruyère to a recipe that had remained the same for hundreds of years.
About Hamiltons Removals
For more than 20 years now, Hamiltons Removals have been providing removals services to all parts of Europe and beyond. Our cost effective, customer oriented service continues to build on our reputation for excellence, a reputation we are proud of. If you are looking for removals to Switzerland, contact us today for your free, no obligation quote.
Removals to Switzerland – click here for full information on our removals to Switzerland service or click here for a free European removals quote.
Thursday, 25 April 2013
Removals to Switzerland – Spotlight on Lake Geneva, a Guide to Living in the area
If you require removals to Switzerland, wherever you live you will be surrounded by beauty, as the Swiss landscape is so picturesque. However, the area around Lake Geneva is a particularly spectacular, because of its stunning scenery. It's also very prestigious as many celebrities have main residences, or second homes here.
Hamiltons offer top class removals at competitive prices to most European destinations, including removals to Switzerland. We pride ourselves in the service we give our customers and, as well as full and half load domestic and commercial removals to Switzerland, we also provide specialist removals. This is for awkward, or bulky goods and items such as vehicles, motorbikes, musical instruments, antiques and other treasures.
Meanwhile, if you require removals to Switzerland to the area of Lake Geneva, here’s our guide to this magnificent part of the country and some of the activities you can do here once you have settled.
Removals to Switzerland – click here to read more about our removals to Switzerland service.
Living near Lake Geneva
Beautiful and tranquil, Lake Geneva is the playground of the rich and famous. The area around the lake is a wonderful place to call home and you will enjoy all that this scenic part of the country has to offer.
Celebrities Living near Lake Geneva
Switzerland has over five thousand celebrities, as well as the super-rich and other high net worth individuals, and many of these people live in the area of Lake Geneva. The lake, also known by the French name, Lac Léman, and the German name, Genfersee, lies within two countries: Switzerland and France.
However, several celebrities live on the Swiss side, including Canadian country and western singer/songwriter Shania Twain, who has settled here with her husband Lange and son Eja. English singer Phil Collins had a house overlooking the lake and lived there with his wife Orianne Cevey, until their separation in 2006, but still lives in Switzerland. Ex-Formula 1 driver Michael Schumacher also has a home overlooking the lake, and the late Queen frontman Freddie Mercury had a second home in the area.
Scenery in and Around Lake Geneva
Lake Geneva is one of the largest in western Europe and forms the lowest point of the cantons of Vaud and Valais. It has long been praised for its beauty, but the landscape varies according to which side of the lake you are on. The eastern side of the lake has an alpine backdrop with snowy peaks; in the south, the lake is flanked by rugged mountains and in the north, the backdrop features hilly vineyards, castles and villages. Exquisite and peaceful, it is easy to see why it’s such a sought after place to live.
Activities to do on Lake Geneva
For those who enjoy being active and getting out and about in the fresh air, Lake Geneva has it all. There are all sorts of activities to do on the water including water-skiing, windsurfing and yacht racing. Indeed, high performance catamarans have been designed especially to race on the lake. But, if adrenalin fuelled activities are not for you, other sports you can get involved in include rafting, swimming and rowing.
Tourist Attractions near Lake Geneva
Lake Geneva offers plenty for residents and holidaymakers alike, including museums, castles and historic sites.
For those who are fascinated by the Roman era, the Roman Museum in Avenches is housed in a fortified tower and, as well as mosaics and sculptures, you can also see the remains of an amphitheatre, a temple and roman baths.
If you enjoy exploring castles, there are plenty of these in the area including the romantic 13th century Chillon Castle, which lies on the edge of Lake Geneva, near Montreux. Lord Byron was inspired to write ‘The Prisoner of Chillon’ after visiting the castle in the early 19th century. It’s a popular attraction, drawing 300,000 visitors a year.
If you love wine, The Vine and Wine Museum is based at Aigle Castle, and shows a collection of all sorts of wine related tools including corkscrews, decanters, barrels, presses and measuring implements.
Properties near Lake Geneva
From secluded mansions located right on the edge of the lake, to houses and apartments, there are all sorts of properties you can buy here. As you would expect, properties that overlook Lake Geneva are pricey, but you are paying for the views and the exclusivity of the area.
At the time of writing, prices range from £1.5 million for a house containing two apartments (overlooking the lake), to just over £2.5 million for an exclusive apartment with a part view of the lake, and up to several million for a hideaway mansion.
Removals to Switzerland – click here for full information on our removals to Switzerland service or click here for a free European removals quote.
Hamiltons offer top class removals at competitive prices to most European destinations, including removals to Switzerland. We pride ourselves in the service we give our customers and, as well as full and half load domestic and commercial removals to Switzerland, we also provide specialist removals. This is for awkward, or bulky goods and items such as vehicles, motorbikes, musical instruments, antiques and other treasures.
Meanwhile, if you require removals to Switzerland to the area of Lake Geneva, here’s our guide to this magnificent part of the country and some of the activities you can do here once you have settled.
Removals to Switzerland – click here to read more about our removals to Switzerland service.
Living near Lake Geneva
Beautiful and tranquil, Lake Geneva is the playground of the rich and famous. The area around the lake is a wonderful place to call home and you will enjoy all that this scenic part of the country has to offer.
Celebrities Living near Lake Geneva
Switzerland has over five thousand celebrities, as well as the super-rich and other high net worth individuals, and many of these people live in the area of Lake Geneva. The lake, also known by the French name, Lac Léman, and the German name, Genfersee, lies within two countries: Switzerland and France.
However, several celebrities live on the Swiss side, including Canadian country and western singer/songwriter Shania Twain, who has settled here with her husband Lange and son Eja. English singer Phil Collins had a house overlooking the lake and lived there with his wife Orianne Cevey, until their separation in 2006, but still lives in Switzerland. Ex-Formula 1 driver Michael Schumacher also has a home overlooking the lake, and the late Queen frontman Freddie Mercury had a second home in the area.
Scenery in and Around Lake Geneva
Lake Geneva is one of the largest in western Europe and forms the lowest point of the cantons of Vaud and Valais. It has long been praised for its beauty, but the landscape varies according to which side of the lake you are on. The eastern side of the lake has an alpine backdrop with snowy peaks; in the south, the lake is flanked by rugged mountains and in the north, the backdrop features hilly vineyards, castles and villages. Exquisite and peaceful, it is easy to see why it’s such a sought after place to live.
Activities to do on Lake Geneva
For those who enjoy being active and getting out and about in the fresh air, Lake Geneva has it all. There are all sorts of activities to do on the water including water-skiing, windsurfing and yacht racing. Indeed, high performance catamarans have been designed especially to race on the lake. But, if adrenalin fuelled activities are not for you, other sports you can get involved in include rafting, swimming and rowing.
Tourist Attractions near Lake Geneva
Lake Geneva offers plenty for residents and holidaymakers alike, including museums, castles and historic sites.
For those who are fascinated by the Roman era, the Roman Museum in Avenches is housed in a fortified tower and, as well as mosaics and sculptures, you can also see the remains of an amphitheatre, a temple and roman baths.
If you enjoy exploring castles, there are plenty of these in the area including the romantic 13th century Chillon Castle, which lies on the edge of Lake Geneva, near Montreux. Lord Byron was inspired to write ‘The Prisoner of Chillon’ after visiting the castle in the early 19th century. It’s a popular attraction, drawing 300,000 visitors a year.
If you love wine, The Vine and Wine Museum is based at Aigle Castle, and shows a collection of all sorts of wine related tools including corkscrews, decanters, barrels, presses and measuring implements.
Properties near Lake Geneva
From secluded mansions located right on the edge of the lake, to houses and apartments, there are all sorts of properties you can buy here. As you would expect, properties that overlook Lake Geneva are pricey, but you are paying for the views and the exclusivity of the area.
At the time of writing, prices range from £1.5 million for a house containing two apartments (overlooking the lake), to just over £2.5 million for an exclusive apartment with a part view of the lake, and up to several million for a hideaway mansion.
Removals to Switzerland – click here for full information on our removals to Switzerland service or click here for a free European removals quote.
Monday, 22 April 2013
Removals to Switzerland – A Guide to the Country’s Best Family-Friendly Attractions
If you are a young family and require removals to Switzerland, one of the things you’ll want to think about is how to keep the little ones amused, especially during the weekends and school holidays. To help you, we’ve compiled a guide to some of the best family-friendly attractions that your children will love.
Hamiltons are specialists in high class removals to Switzerland and are committed to quality and service. We provide tailor made removals and our experienced team do all they can to deliver commercial and household belongings smoothly and promptly to your destination. In addition to our full or part load removals to Switzerland, we also provide specialist removals to Switzerland and are happy to transport vehicles, bulky goods, antiques and other valuables.
For more information on removals to Switzerland, contact our professional staff by telephone, or use the link below.
Removals to Switzerland – click here to read more about our removals to Switzerland service.
Meanwhile, to help you adjust to your new surroundings, here’s Hamiltons’ guide to some of the country’s most popular family-friendly attractions – and some of these may be on your doorstep. We are unable to list all the best attractions here, but here’s our pick of what we feel are the most memorable.
Moving to Switzerland: Top Family Friendly Attractions
Ballenburg Open Air Museum – It’s definitely worth setting aside a whole day to see this Brienz museum because you can spend hours here. Your children will love exploring the 100 or so century old buildings, depicting rural life of yesteryear in Switzerland. You will also get the chance to see farm animals at first hand and test the weight of the heavy cow bells. In addition to this are the various displays, including demonstrations of the Alpine Horn and ancient crafts such as rope making and weaving. A top tip is to bring good shoes as you can expect lots of walking.
Basel Zoological Garden (locally known as Zolli) –For those who don’t live nearby, the zoo is well connected, with good transport links, and is near Basel’s main train station. It is worthwhile setting aside at least an afternoon to see this zoo as there’re lots to see. Firm favourites are the apes and the aquarium and you’ll also get the chance to watch the animals being fed. In addition to this, there’s a playground for the youngest of your group. Again, it is a good idea to bring good walking shoes as you will be on your feet a lot.
Conny-Land Zoo – This Lipperswil zoo is ideal for water fanatics and has more than 60 fun-filled attractions. The main attractions include live shows featuring dolphins, sea lions and parrots. And while the youngest ones of your group will enjoy the pony rides, the oldest children can enjoy a ride on Europe’s largest linear roller coaster, the Cobra. Other popular draws are the Voodoo Island log flume, Dino Attack (with moving ‘dinosaurs’), the petting zoo and Kiddies’ Activity area, where your children can splash about in the fountains. It’s a good idea to bring a swimming costume, spare clothing and a towel.
Heidi Village – The novel, Heidi, which depicts the story of an orphaned girl in the Alps, has captured the imagination of millions of children worldwide. You will find this fantastic attraction, dedicated to the main character of the book, in Maienfield. The village takes children back in time to the 19th century, the era when the novel was penned by Johanna Spyri. You can follow the idyllic trail to Heidi’s house and the Heidi Alp and your children will enjoy seeing the farm animals at first hand. You can also send a post card home with a Heidi stamp!
Papiliorama and Nocturama Tropical Gardens - Also known as the Exotic Butterfly Park, you can see more than 1,000 species of butterflies at this attraction in Kerzers. Other attractions include the Nocturama hall, where you can see night animals in the dark, such as night monkeys, bats and anacondas, and The Jungle Trek where you will find tropical birds and plants. The youngest ones in your group will also enjoy the mini zoo and playground.
Amusement Park and Mini-Zoo – This makes a great day out for kids, especially during the holiday period, and you can find this attraction at Sitterdorf Airport. Some of the most popular attractions are the hamster wheel, cable car, Nautic-Jet and Butterfly. And, if you don’t need to keep your feet firmly on the ground, there’s also a chance to take a leisure flight or a balloon ride at the airport.
Removals to Switzerland – click here for full information on our removals to Switzerland service or click here for a free European removals quote.
Hamiltons are specialists in high class removals to Switzerland and are committed to quality and service. We provide tailor made removals and our experienced team do all they can to deliver commercial and household belongings smoothly and promptly to your destination. In addition to our full or part load removals to Switzerland, we also provide specialist removals to Switzerland and are happy to transport vehicles, bulky goods, antiques and other valuables.
For more information on removals to Switzerland, contact our professional staff by telephone, or use the link below.
Removals to Switzerland – click here to read more about our removals to Switzerland service.
Meanwhile, to help you adjust to your new surroundings, here’s Hamiltons’ guide to some of the country’s most popular family-friendly attractions – and some of these may be on your doorstep. We are unable to list all the best attractions here, but here’s our pick of what we feel are the most memorable.
Moving to Switzerland: Top Family Friendly Attractions
Ballenburg Open Air Museum – It’s definitely worth setting aside a whole day to see this Brienz museum because you can spend hours here. Your children will love exploring the 100 or so century old buildings, depicting rural life of yesteryear in Switzerland. You will also get the chance to see farm animals at first hand and test the weight of the heavy cow bells. In addition to this are the various displays, including demonstrations of the Alpine Horn and ancient crafts such as rope making and weaving. A top tip is to bring good shoes as you can expect lots of walking.
Basel Zoological Garden (locally known as Zolli) –For those who don’t live nearby, the zoo is well connected, with good transport links, and is near Basel’s main train station. It is worthwhile setting aside at least an afternoon to see this zoo as there’re lots to see. Firm favourites are the apes and the aquarium and you’ll also get the chance to watch the animals being fed. In addition to this, there’s a playground for the youngest of your group. Again, it is a good idea to bring good walking shoes as you will be on your feet a lot.
Conny-Land Zoo – This Lipperswil zoo is ideal for water fanatics and has more than 60 fun-filled attractions. The main attractions include live shows featuring dolphins, sea lions and parrots. And while the youngest ones of your group will enjoy the pony rides, the oldest children can enjoy a ride on Europe’s largest linear roller coaster, the Cobra. Other popular draws are the Voodoo Island log flume, Dino Attack (with moving ‘dinosaurs’), the petting zoo and Kiddies’ Activity area, where your children can splash about in the fountains. It’s a good idea to bring a swimming costume, spare clothing and a towel.
Heidi Village – The novel, Heidi, which depicts the story of an orphaned girl in the Alps, has captured the imagination of millions of children worldwide. You will find this fantastic attraction, dedicated to the main character of the book, in Maienfield. The village takes children back in time to the 19th century, the era when the novel was penned by Johanna Spyri. You can follow the idyllic trail to Heidi’s house and the Heidi Alp and your children will enjoy seeing the farm animals at first hand. You can also send a post card home with a Heidi stamp!
Papiliorama and Nocturama Tropical Gardens - Also known as the Exotic Butterfly Park, you can see more than 1,000 species of butterflies at this attraction in Kerzers. Other attractions include the Nocturama hall, where you can see night animals in the dark, such as night monkeys, bats and anacondas, and The Jungle Trek where you will find tropical birds and plants. The youngest ones in your group will also enjoy the mini zoo and playground.
Amusement Park and Mini-Zoo – This makes a great day out for kids, especially during the holiday period, and you can find this attraction at Sitterdorf Airport. Some of the most popular attractions are the hamster wheel, cable car, Nautic-Jet and Butterfly. And, if you don’t need to keep your feet firmly on the ground, there’s also a chance to take a leisure flight or a balloon ride at the airport.
Removals to Switzerland – click here for full information on our removals to Switzerland service or click here for a free European removals quote.
Thursday, 21 March 2013
Removals to Switzerland – A Guide to Some of the Best Swiss Museums
If you are looking for a company to assist with your removals to Switzerland, you will want to find an experienced firm, dedicated to making your move go smoothly. At Hamiltons, we know that every removal is different and that each one requires specific attention to detail. We offer exactly that: a removals service tailored to your individual needs and requirements, which we closely monitor from door to door.
We pride ourselves on our ability to deliver an efficient and cost effective service, whilst maintaining that all important personal touch. So whether you are moving locally, nationally or internationally, our careful forward planning will ensure that your removals to Switzerland is completed to your satisfaction.
Whatever your reasons for needing removals to Switzerland, whether it is for work, or to be closer to family, we are sure that once there, you will want to learn more about this great country and its history. To that end we have gathered together some information about its most famous museums which we hope will be of interest to you.
Removals to Switzerland - click here to read more about our removals to Switzerland service.
Hamiltons Removals’ Top Pick of Museums in Switzerland
The Swiss National Museum in Zurich
Where better to start on our tour of the museums of Switzerland, than The Swiss National Museum in Zurich? Built by Gustav Gull in 1898 and nestled between the city's main train station and Platzspitz Park, it showcases everything from ancient art and crafts, to ordinary everyday objects.
Its permanent exhibitions describe Switzerland's history from as far back as possible, right through to the present day. Split into foursections, it covers the history of migration and settlement, religious and intellectual history, political history and the economic development of the country.
Its Collections Gallery features 20 different displays which are laid out to give an overview of the museum’s 820,000 plus curios - the country's largest cultural history and handicrafts collection.
Another permanent display centres on Swiss homes and furnishings. It features painstakingly reconstructed period rooms, as well as Swiss furniture from the 19th and 20th century. The exhibition illustrates how people’s needs and desires within the home have changed over the years, and how furniture, and rooms, have been adapted to suit.
The Armoury Tower is another permanent display featuring the museum's collection of arms. Arranged by theme, the display features everything from Mediaeval body armour and jousting helmets, to Baroque ceremonial pieces and Swiss Army uniforms of the 19th and 20th centuries. The weaponry, uniforms and equipment are displayed and their usages explained in historical context.
The museum's newest permanent display was installed in April 2012. It's a fully operable television studio where people of all ages can play at being TV presenters and be filmed with a real studio camera. Sat at the presenter's desk, you can change the backdrop to suit whether you're presenting the news, the weather, or a sports item. Visitors can literally create their own TV shows which can be watched live on screen in the auditorium.
The History Museum in Berne
Berne's museum of history is as fascinating to look at on the outside, as it is to look inside. Built in 1894 by André Lambert, it is the second largest historical museum in Switzerland and, like something out of a Swiss fairytale, it's all spires, turrets and arched windows.
There are 11 permanent exhibitions displayed here, covering the Middle Ages and the Ancient Regime, treasure and textiles, the Stone Age, the Celts and the Romans. There are treasures on display from the tombs of Ancient Egypt and artefacts from Asia, the Americas and the Orient.
It’s not all about ancient history and treasures from distant lands though. There's an exhibition entirely dedicated to Albert Einstein and a six room installation entitled Berne and the 20th Century, which brings you right up to date with modern day Berne, its achievements and its place in the world today. It covers a wide range of topics from politics to the economy, society, sport, technology, science, everyday life, and art and design. The exhibition doesn't just champion the great and successful either, in a charmingly self-effacing way, it takes a look at some of Switzerland's less successful inventions too.
The Museum of Art in Zurich
The Kunsthaus in Zurich is THE place to go for big name artists like Picasso, Van Gogh, Monet. So, when you're done with window-shopping on the Bahnhofstrasse and you've taken enough pictures of Zurich Old Town, if you have the energy and a good two to three hours spare, head for Heimplatz 1, Zurich 8001. It costs a bit to get in but it’s worth it. This fantastic art museum displays artworks from as far back as the 1600’s and has an especially impressive selection of modern art.
The Kunsthaus regularly features visiting collections and is currently showing pieces by Epaminonda, Chagall, Signac and Hodler, including both versions of Hodler's “The Truth”. Future exhibitions and displays will feature works by Kelly Nipper, Richard Wagner, Lonnie van Brummelen and Edvard Munch with his paintings; ‘The Scream,’ ‘Madonna,’ ‘Melancholy,’ and ‘The Sin,’ taking centre stage.
Zurich's art museum also has a very impressive line up of “resident” artists including Baselitz, Léger, Giacometti and Fuseli and features photographic works by Max Ernst, Hannah Höch, Marcel Duchamp, Erwin Blumenfeld, Christian Schad, Constantin Brancusi, Robert Frank and Balthasar Burkhard, among many others.
Embracing new technologies and moving with the times is at the heart of the Kunsthaus Zurich and this goes to its video art collection. The Kunsthaus has been a collector of video art since 1979. It is seen as an important creative medium and is given deserved space. The video art collection features works by Vito Acconci, John Baldessari, Joseph Beuys, Sophie Calle, Fischli/Weiss, Dan Graham, Gary Hill, Hubbard / Birchler, Christian Marclay, Bruce Nauman, Nam June Paik, Arnulf Rainer and Dieter Roth, Pipilotti Rist, Richard Serra, Roman Signer, and Bill Viola.
Whilst not being particularly child unfriendly, if you are planning on visiting the museum, it might be best to leave the younger ones at home, especially during the week. However, the museum sometimes runs special programmes for children on Sundays, which is ideal for grandparents to bring their grandchildren to.
For low cost removals to Switzerland, call Hamiltons Removals. With 20 years of experience in the removals business, we have the ability to deliver your belongings, safely and securely to your new home.
Removals to Switzerland - click here for full information on our removals to Switzerland service or click here for a free European removals quote.
We pride ourselves on our ability to deliver an efficient and cost effective service, whilst maintaining that all important personal touch. So whether you are moving locally, nationally or internationally, our careful forward planning will ensure that your removals to Switzerland is completed to your satisfaction.
Whatever your reasons for needing removals to Switzerland, whether it is for work, or to be closer to family, we are sure that once there, you will want to learn more about this great country and its history. To that end we have gathered together some information about its most famous museums which we hope will be of interest to you.
Removals to Switzerland - click here to read more about our removals to Switzerland service.
Hamiltons Removals’ Top Pick of Museums in Switzerland
The Swiss National Museum in Zurich
Where better to start on our tour of the museums of Switzerland, than The Swiss National Museum in Zurich? Built by Gustav Gull in 1898 and nestled between the city's main train station and Platzspitz Park, it showcases everything from ancient art and crafts, to ordinary everyday objects.
Its permanent exhibitions describe Switzerland's history from as far back as possible, right through to the present day. Split into foursections, it covers the history of migration and settlement, religious and intellectual history, political history and the economic development of the country.
Its Collections Gallery features 20 different displays which are laid out to give an overview of the museum’s 820,000 plus curios - the country's largest cultural history and handicrafts collection.
Another permanent display centres on Swiss homes and furnishings. It features painstakingly reconstructed period rooms, as well as Swiss furniture from the 19th and 20th century. The exhibition illustrates how people’s needs and desires within the home have changed over the years, and how furniture, and rooms, have been adapted to suit.
The Armoury Tower is another permanent display featuring the museum's collection of arms. Arranged by theme, the display features everything from Mediaeval body armour and jousting helmets, to Baroque ceremonial pieces and Swiss Army uniforms of the 19th and 20th centuries. The weaponry, uniforms and equipment are displayed and their usages explained in historical context.
The museum's newest permanent display was installed in April 2012. It's a fully operable television studio where people of all ages can play at being TV presenters and be filmed with a real studio camera. Sat at the presenter's desk, you can change the backdrop to suit whether you're presenting the news, the weather, or a sports item. Visitors can literally create their own TV shows which can be watched live on screen in the auditorium.
The History Museum in Berne
Berne's museum of history is as fascinating to look at on the outside, as it is to look inside. Built in 1894 by André Lambert, it is the second largest historical museum in Switzerland and, like something out of a Swiss fairytale, it's all spires, turrets and arched windows.
There are 11 permanent exhibitions displayed here, covering the Middle Ages and the Ancient Regime, treasure and textiles, the Stone Age, the Celts and the Romans. There are treasures on display from the tombs of Ancient Egypt and artefacts from Asia, the Americas and the Orient.
It’s not all about ancient history and treasures from distant lands though. There's an exhibition entirely dedicated to Albert Einstein and a six room installation entitled Berne and the 20th Century, which brings you right up to date with modern day Berne, its achievements and its place in the world today. It covers a wide range of topics from politics to the economy, society, sport, technology, science, everyday life, and art and design. The exhibition doesn't just champion the great and successful either, in a charmingly self-effacing way, it takes a look at some of Switzerland's less successful inventions too.
The Museum of Art in Zurich
The Kunsthaus in Zurich is THE place to go for big name artists like Picasso, Van Gogh, Monet. So, when you're done with window-shopping on the Bahnhofstrasse and you've taken enough pictures of Zurich Old Town, if you have the energy and a good two to three hours spare, head for Heimplatz 1, Zurich 8001. It costs a bit to get in but it’s worth it. This fantastic art museum displays artworks from as far back as the 1600’s and has an especially impressive selection of modern art.
The Kunsthaus regularly features visiting collections and is currently showing pieces by Epaminonda, Chagall, Signac and Hodler, including both versions of Hodler's “The Truth”. Future exhibitions and displays will feature works by Kelly Nipper, Richard Wagner, Lonnie van Brummelen and Edvard Munch with his paintings; ‘The Scream,’ ‘Madonna,’ ‘Melancholy,’ and ‘The Sin,’ taking centre stage.
Zurich's art museum also has a very impressive line up of “resident” artists including Baselitz, Léger, Giacometti and Fuseli and features photographic works by Max Ernst, Hannah Höch, Marcel Duchamp, Erwin Blumenfeld, Christian Schad, Constantin Brancusi, Robert Frank and Balthasar Burkhard, among many others.
Embracing new technologies and moving with the times is at the heart of the Kunsthaus Zurich and this goes to its video art collection. The Kunsthaus has been a collector of video art since 1979. It is seen as an important creative medium and is given deserved space. The video art collection features works by Vito Acconci, John Baldessari, Joseph Beuys, Sophie Calle, Fischli/Weiss, Dan Graham, Gary Hill, Hubbard / Birchler, Christian Marclay, Bruce Nauman, Nam June Paik, Arnulf Rainer and Dieter Roth, Pipilotti Rist, Richard Serra, Roman Signer, and Bill Viola.
Whilst not being particularly child unfriendly, if you are planning on visiting the museum, it might be best to leave the younger ones at home, especially during the week. However, the museum sometimes runs special programmes for children on Sundays, which is ideal for grandparents to bring their grandchildren to.
For low cost removals to Switzerland, call Hamiltons Removals. With 20 years of experience in the removals business, we have the ability to deliver your belongings, safely and securely to your new home.
Removals to Switzerland - click here for full information on our removals to Switzerland service or click here for a free European removals quote.
Monday, 4 March 2013
Removals to Switzerland: Finest Things to Come Out of Switzerland
Should you require removals to Switzerland, you will already know that the country is known for more than its spectacular and dramatic scenery and as a skiing destination. It is also a country which produces many fine things, chocolate and watches to name a few.
As specialists in removals to Switzerland, we offer high quality European removals for household and business clients. Our removals to Europe are competitively priced and, in addition to removals to Switzerland, we also offer European removals to France, Belgium, Germany, Italy, Spain and The Netherlands. Contact us now to find out more about this or any other of our services.
If you are settling in Switzerland and require removals to Switzerland, here is our guide to some of the best things produced in the country.
Removals to Switzerland – click here to read more about our removals to Switzerland service.
Fine Things Made in Switzerland
Watches
Switzerland is famous for its fine watches and has been renowned for its watch making as far back as the 16th century. Some of the world’s leading brands of watches are made in Switzerland including Rolex and Patek Philippe.
If a watch carries the words ‘Swiss Made’ it is the ultimate in quality, and these two words cover the appearance, technical quality, originality of design and craftsmanship. Many people aspire to owning a quality Swiss made watch and prices vary from affordable to the masses, to millions of pounds for an exquisite design. Exports in Swiss watches have continued to rise year after year and now amount to just over $19 billion.
Chocolate
Switzerland is well known for its fine chocolate and many leading brands of Swiss chocolate, such as Lindt and Toblerone, are sold globally. The Swiss are also big consumers of chocolate and consume an average of 23lbs of chocolate per year, per head of population (compared to 17lbs in the UK).
Some of the reasons why Swiss chocolate is so popular is because of the type milk used in the chocolate – from specially bred Swiss cows – only the finest cocoa beans are used, and also the techniques used in making the chocolate (it generally undergoes a much longer folding and rolling process, called conching).
Cheese
Just as chocolate has made a name for itself in Switzerland, so has cheese. Most of the country’s cheese is made with cow’s milk and the remainder are made up of sheep or goat’s milk. The Swiss are estimated to consumer around 47lbs of cheese per year, per head of population.
Some of the most popular names in Swiss cheese are: Emmental (a medium hard cheese which is known to have holes or ‘eyes’ in and is produced in the Bern canton of Switzerland), Gruyère (a hard cheese with Appellation d’Origine Contrôlée status) and Raclette, which is also a Swiss dish as well as a cheese. Both Emmental and Gruyère are used in fondues.
Swiss Army Knife
Swiss Army Knives are known world-wide as small, multi-purpose pocket knives in usually a red casing which house a variety of pull-out options for everyday use from nail files to screwdrivers, bottle openers and scissors.
It has its origins in the latter half of the 19th century after a company producing folding pocket knives gained the contract for the Swiss military. The biggest Swiss Army penknife is The Giant, an 87 multi-functional tool penknife which made its way into the Guinness Book of Records. The most up-to-date and advanced versions include Bluetooth and also a laser pointer.
Musical Boxes
Fine musical boxes have been produced in Sainte-Croix in Switzerland since the early 19th century and a century ago they made up as much as 10 per cent of the country’s exports.
The music box began in the last part of the 18th century when a pocket watchmaker created a musical watch. This caught people’s imagination and Sainte-Croix became the capital of the music box industry. There is even a museum dedicated to musical boxes (including wind up singing birds) in the Canton of Vaud. Swiss music boxes are known for its high quality craftsmanship and attention to detail.
In addition to musical boxes, Switzerland is also known for creating fine quality musical instruments, laces and carved wooden objects.
About Hamiltons
Hamiltons offer weekly removals to Switzerland and, in addition to our European removals, we are also experts in the removals of specialist items including antiques and high quality musical instruments.
Removals to Switzerland – click here for full information on our removals to Switzerland service or click here for a free European removals quote.
As specialists in removals to Switzerland, we offer high quality European removals for household and business clients. Our removals to Europe are competitively priced and, in addition to removals to Switzerland, we also offer European removals to France, Belgium, Germany, Italy, Spain and The Netherlands. Contact us now to find out more about this or any other of our services.
If you are settling in Switzerland and require removals to Switzerland, here is our guide to some of the best things produced in the country.
Removals to Switzerland – click here to read more about our removals to Switzerland service.
Fine Things Made in Switzerland
Watches
Switzerland is famous for its fine watches and has been renowned for its watch making as far back as the 16th century. Some of the world’s leading brands of watches are made in Switzerland including Rolex and Patek Philippe.
If a watch carries the words ‘Swiss Made’ it is the ultimate in quality, and these two words cover the appearance, technical quality, originality of design and craftsmanship. Many people aspire to owning a quality Swiss made watch and prices vary from affordable to the masses, to millions of pounds for an exquisite design. Exports in Swiss watches have continued to rise year after year and now amount to just over $19 billion.
Chocolate
Switzerland is well known for its fine chocolate and many leading brands of Swiss chocolate, such as Lindt and Toblerone, are sold globally. The Swiss are also big consumers of chocolate and consume an average of 23lbs of chocolate per year, per head of population (compared to 17lbs in the UK).
Some of the reasons why Swiss chocolate is so popular is because of the type milk used in the chocolate – from specially bred Swiss cows – only the finest cocoa beans are used, and also the techniques used in making the chocolate (it generally undergoes a much longer folding and rolling process, called conching).
Cheese
Just as chocolate has made a name for itself in Switzerland, so has cheese. Most of the country’s cheese is made with cow’s milk and the remainder are made up of sheep or goat’s milk. The Swiss are estimated to consumer around 47lbs of cheese per year, per head of population.
Some of the most popular names in Swiss cheese are: Emmental (a medium hard cheese which is known to have holes or ‘eyes’ in and is produced in the Bern canton of Switzerland), Gruyère (a hard cheese with Appellation d’Origine Contrôlée status) and Raclette, which is also a Swiss dish as well as a cheese. Both Emmental and Gruyère are used in fondues.
Swiss Army Knife
Swiss Army Knives are known world-wide as small, multi-purpose pocket knives in usually a red casing which house a variety of pull-out options for everyday use from nail files to screwdrivers, bottle openers and scissors.
It has its origins in the latter half of the 19th century after a company producing folding pocket knives gained the contract for the Swiss military. The biggest Swiss Army penknife is The Giant, an 87 multi-functional tool penknife which made its way into the Guinness Book of Records. The most up-to-date and advanced versions include Bluetooth and also a laser pointer.
Musical Boxes
Fine musical boxes have been produced in Sainte-Croix in Switzerland since the early 19th century and a century ago they made up as much as 10 per cent of the country’s exports.
The music box began in the last part of the 18th century when a pocket watchmaker created a musical watch. This caught people’s imagination and Sainte-Croix became the capital of the music box industry. There is even a museum dedicated to musical boxes (including wind up singing birds) in the Canton of Vaud. Swiss music boxes are known for its high quality craftsmanship and attention to detail.
In addition to musical boxes, Switzerland is also known for creating fine quality musical instruments, laces and carved wooden objects.
About Hamiltons
Hamiltons offer weekly removals to Switzerland and, in addition to our European removals, we are also experts in the removals of specialist items including antiques and high quality musical instruments.
Removals to Switzerland – click here for full information on our removals to Switzerland service or click here for a free European removals quote.
Friday, 1 March 2013
Removals to Switzerland: Swiss Watch Making
If you require removals to Switzerland, you will already know that the country is renowned for its fine watch-making. For many people, owning a Swiss watch is something to aspire to and, whatever your budget, there are many different types of fine Swiss watches, from affordable ones to time pieces worth several millions.
Before you move to Switzerland, you will need a company to rely on for the safe removals of your possessions to Switzerland. Hamiltons is dedicated to customer service and, whether you require commercial or household moves, you can depend on us for prompt and efficient European removals including removals to Switzerland.
Our removals to Switzerland service is specifically designed to suit the customer and, whether you want storage, transportation, packing, unpacking, the supply of boxes, cleaning or the removal of specialist items, we can help.
Meanwhile, if you require removals to Switzerland and love fine watches, see below to find a brief history of watch-making and some of the leading names who produce these important time-pieces.
Removals to Switzerland – click here to read more about our removals to Switzerland service.
History of Watch Making in Switzerland
Geneva has been at the centre of Swiss watch making from the 16th century thanks to the various restrictions put in place during the Protestant Reformation. Influential pastor Jean Calvin banned people wearing jewels which meant jewellers put their skills into another form of craft – watch making.
Fortunately, it wasn’t long before the Genevan watchmakers won critical acclaim for their fine quality craftsmanship and the Watchmakers’ Guild of Geneva was founded at the start of the 17th century. A hundred years later, thousands of watches were being exported from Switzerland.
The Swiss brought about a number of innovations including the first wrist watch and the first water-proof watch. Now Swiss watches are sold all over the globe from the colourful fashion accessories to jewelled watches worth hundreds of thousands of Euros. The Swiss export billions of pounds worth of watches a year. And watches that carry the mark ‘Swiss Made’ are seen as the ultimate in quality, beauty and originality of design.
Some Leading Names in Watch Making in Switzerland
If you require removals to Switzerland and want to invest in a Swiss timepiece, there are numerous brands to choose from. We have been unable to include all the leading names here as there are other fantastic Swiss brands that you may also want to consider. So here are our top pick of just some of the best known names.
Rolex – Rolex is the largest luxury watch brand and many people aspire to owning one. The company was founded in England just over a century ago but moved its base to Geneva in 1919. Some £190 billion of Rolex watches are produced a year and it was the first ever company to produce a water resistant wrist watch. Rolexes have played an important part in certain historic events – the organiser of the Great Escape ordered one while he was still a prisoner of war! His Rolex was to play an important timekeeping role in the escape.
Swatch – The Swatch Group is the largest watch company in the world. The brand was developed in the 1980’s and is known for its brightly coloured line of watches worn as a fashion statement. Swatch watches have less components than other watches and are reasonably priced. Swatch have five product lines.
Omega – This brand has made history as an Omega watch was the first watch that made its way to the moon in 1969! An Omega watch has also been worn by James Bond in films since the mid 1990’s. Omega is owned by the Swatch Group.
Tag Heuer – Tag Heuer watches have been worn by a host of celebrities from Steve McQueen to Cameron Diaz, Brad Pitt and Barrack Obama. The company can trace its roots to the 1860’s and is based in Neuchâtel, Switzerland.
Tissot – The brand was founded in the mid 19th century and is part of the Swatch Group. It produces high quality time pieces at reasonable prices and the watches are sold in about 160 countries world-wide.
Longines – This company was founded in 1832 and is also part of the Swatch Group. It is known for its ‘Aviator’ watches which American aviator Charles Lindberg helped design. A Longines watch was also used in an expedition to the North Pole in 1899.
Chopard – This luxury watch brand was founded in 1860 and initially specialised in developing highly accurate pocket watches. In the mid 20th century it was seen as a benchmark in precision luxury watches.
Zenith - This company specialises in high end watches and these timepieces are well known for their precision and quality. Zenith is a subsidiary of LVMH (Moët Hennessy. Louis Vuitton).
Breitling – Breitling was founded in 1884. In addition to its other product lines, it has an Emergency line of watches designed for pilots who encounter difficulties. In 2003, two British helicopter pilots who crashed in Antarctica were rescued after activating the emergency transmitter on their Breitling Emergency watches.
Baume et Mercia – This company was founded in 1830 and is sold in 75 countries world-wide, with the principal market in Europe. It is known as a manufacturer of sports related chronographs (watches combined with stopwatches).
Patek Philippe – Patek Philippe produces some of the most complicated and expensive watches in the world and some have been auctioned for millions. The company makes its own components and, in the mid 19th century, it supplied watches to Queen Victoria.
Removals to Switzerland – click here for full information on our removals to Switzerland service or click here for a free European removals quote.
Before you move to Switzerland, you will need a company to rely on for the safe removals of your possessions to Switzerland. Hamiltons is dedicated to customer service and, whether you require commercial or household moves, you can depend on us for prompt and efficient European removals including removals to Switzerland.
Our removals to Switzerland service is specifically designed to suit the customer and, whether you want storage, transportation, packing, unpacking, the supply of boxes, cleaning or the removal of specialist items, we can help.
Meanwhile, if you require removals to Switzerland and love fine watches, see below to find a brief history of watch-making and some of the leading names who produce these important time-pieces.
Removals to Switzerland – click here to read more about our removals to Switzerland service.
History of Watch Making in Switzerland
Geneva has been at the centre of Swiss watch making from the 16th century thanks to the various restrictions put in place during the Protestant Reformation. Influential pastor Jean Calvin banned people wearing jewels which meant jewellers put their skills into another form of craft – watch making.
Fortunately, it wasn’t long before the Genevan watchmakers won critical acclaim for their fine quality craftsmanship and the Watchmakers’ Guild of Geneva was founded at the start of the 17th century. A hundred years later, thousands of watches were being exported from Switzerland.
The Swiss brought about a number of innovations including the first wrist watch and the first water-proof watch. Now Swiss watches are sold all over the globe from the colourful fashion accessories to jewelled watches worth hundreds of thousands of Euros. The Swiss export billions of pounds worth of watches a year. And watches that carry the mark ‘Swiss Made’ are seen as the ultimate in quality, beauty and originality of design.
Some Leading Names in Watch Making in Switzerland
If you require removals to Switzerland and want to invest in a Swiss timepiece, there are numerous brands to choose from. We have been unable to include all the leading names here as there are other fantastic Swiss brands that you may also want to consider. So here are our top pick of just some of the best known names.
Rolex – Rolex is the largest luxury watch brand and many people aspire to owning one. The company was founded in England just over a century ago but moved its base to Geneva in 1919. Some £190 billion of Rolex watches are produced a year and it was the first ever company to produce a water resistant wrist watch. Rolexes have played an important part in certain historic events – the organiser of the Great Escape ordered one while he was still a prisoner of war! His Rolex was to play an important timekeeping role in the escape.
Swatch – The Swatch Group is the largest watch company in the world. The brand was developed in the 1980’s and is known for its brightly coloured line of watches worn as a fashion statement. Swatch watches have less components than other watches and are reasonably priced. Swatch have five product lines.
Omega – This brand has made history as an Omega watch was the first watch that made its way to the moon in 1969! An Omega watch has also been worn by James Bond in films since the mid 1990’s. Omega is owned by the Swatch Group.
Tag Heuer – Tag Heuer watches have been worn by a host of celebrities from Steve McQueen to Cameron Diaz, Brad Pitt and Barrack Obama. The company can trace its roots to the 1860’s and is based in Neuchâtel, Switzerland.
Tissot – The brand was founded in the mid 19th century and is part of the Swatch Group. It produces high quality time pieces at reasonable prices and the watches are sold in about 160 countries world-wide.
Longines – This company was founded in 1832 and is also part of the Swatch Group. It is known for its ‘Aviator’ watches which American aviator Charles Lindberg helped design. A Longines watch was also used in an expedition to the North Pole in 1899.
Chopard – This luxury watch brand was founded in 1860 and initially specialised in developing highly accurate pocket watches. In the mid 20th century it was seen as a benchmark in precision luxury watches.
Zenith - This company specialises in high end watches and these timepieces are well known for their precision and quality. Zenith is a subsidiary of LVMH (Moët Hennessy. Louis Vuitton).
Breitling – Breitling was founded in 1884. In addition to its other product lines, it has an Emergency line of watches designed for pilots who encounter difficulties. In 2003, two British helicopter pilots who crashed in Antarctica were rescued after activating the emergency transmitter on their Breitling Emergency watches.
Baume et Mercia – This company was founded in 1830 and is sold in 75 countries world-wide, with the principal market in Europe. It is known as a manufacturer of sports related chronographs (watches combined with stopwatches).
Patek Philippe – Patek Philippe produces some of the most complicated and expensive watches in the world and some have been auctioned for millions. The company makes its own components and, in the mid 19th century, it supplied watches to Queen Victoria.
Removals to Switzerland – click here for full information on our removals to Switzerland service or click here for a free European removals quote.
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