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 Visit Switzerland this winter
and enjoy some unforgettable experiences!
Of course Switzerland is a veritable paradise for lovers of snow sports, but it has other unique and extraordinary surprises in store for you to share with your friends, partner or family, such as romantic nights in a real igloo, adventurous ice diving or even night skiing...
So many remarkable activities to discover from December – and all are within easy reach by TGV Lyria des Neiges (Snow train) or a TGV Lyria des Grisons (train to the Graubünden region), both of which stop at numerous destinations.
 A snowy igloo paradise welcomes you
From 25 December, the igloo village of Zermatt, nestling at the foot of Mount Cervin in the Valais Alps, promises you enchanted nights in breathtaking natural scenery. You can enjoy a unique experience, snug and cosy in your cocoon of ice - as comfortable as it is exotic.
Decorated with ice stars and flowers or even genuine Inuit sculptures, your igloo will open the doors to a magical and enchanted universe, far from the hustle and bustle of the world.
The ambient temperature, close to zero, creates an intimate, convivial atmosphere. Designed to accommodate between two and six people, these igloos provide the ideal setting for a declaration of love, for celebrating reunions with friends or organising amazing seminars.
Make the most of your dream winter break and enjoy a dip in the outdoor jacuzzi with panoramic views of the snow-capped summits. And, exclusively in Zermatt, cheese lovers can enjoy a hearty gourmet fondue night every Tuesday.
To find out more, visit: the official website www.iglu-dorf.com
The train: the best way to get to Zermatt
Starting in Paris, take the TGV Lyria des Neiges (Snow train) to Visp. From there, take the connection to Täsch, then another to Zermatt, a car-free village. Then, all you need to do is take the Gornergrat railway, which drops you off at the foot of the igloo village after passing through natural landscapes with splendid views of the Alps.
 Looking for thrills? Try ice diving !
Recommended for all thrill-seekers with a diving certificate, ice diving in the Lioson lake is a totally unique experience.
Located at an altitude of 1850m in the Pic Chaussy mountain range in the Vaudois Alps, this well-known spot, celebrated throughout Europe, commands the respect and admiration of those who endeavour to conquer it. Three diving holes are regularly maintained during the winter to ensure they are always accessible to the numerous clubs that visit during this season.
Immersed in a world of utter silence, in clear green waters, you will admire the way the light dances on the ice and you may get a chance to see the wonderful, shiny, dark brown trout.
The bolder divers amongst you might want to try a night dive while powerful lamps light up the extraordinary aquatic spectacle. Then gather your thoughts in the shelter on the banks of the lake where you will find rest, warmth and comfort before you do it all again!
Les Mosses La Léchette resort is only about thirty kilometres from Aigle train station, which is served by the TGV Lyria des Neiges.
To find out more, visit the official website : www.lesmosses.ch
Prolong the fun in the snow – right into the night
For some, a few hours’ skiing a day is plenty, but there are others who find the days just too short and would like to prolong the fun! With these people in mind, around sixty winter sports resorts in Switzerland now offer illuminated slopes for night skiing, including ski lifts. One of them is Crans-Montana in the Valais region, which offers 4 km of illuminated runs, while another, Giswil-Mörlialp in central Switzerland, has no fewer than 3 illuminated pistes. Skiing by night is no longer a privilege reserved exclusively for participants in the traditional “Descentes aux Flambeaux” when skiers descend the slopes carrying flame torches. So, before dinner the little ones have the chance to show you what progress they made with their teacher during the day. You could also use the evening time to try your hand at snow blading or riding a snow scooter. And you might want to finish off with some delicious fondue or a glass of mulled wine in one of the high-altitude restaurants and bars that stay open for the evening activities before “gliding” your way back to your resort.
Whether you’re taking the TGV Lyria des Neiges ( Snow train) to Crans-Montana (get off at Sierre station) or the TGV Lyria to Zurich, to discover central Switzerland, TGV Lyria trains will get you there in just a few hours – then you’re off to discover Switzerland’s numerous winter sports!
Find illuminated pistes at: www.myswitzerland.com
Good plans soon
Good addresses
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