Switzerland Travel Guide
CLIMATE
The climate is extremely varied. Switzerland lies at the point of intersection of the main climatic regions of Europe: the oceanic, the northern European, the Mediterranean, and the continental. Ascona, in the canton of Tieino, lies at the lowest point of the country at 643 feet (196 meters) above sea level. The climate here is much like the Mediterranean-there are even palm trees. An arctic climate is found at the country's highest point, the Dufour Peak, which is 15,199 feet (4,634 meters) high. One would have to travel only 43 miles (70 kilometers), as the crow flies, to cover the distance between these two extremes. To visitors, the country's most famous mountain,
and one of the highest in the Alps, would probably be the Matterhorn. It is situated in the south, in the canton of Valais, which is a dry, mountainous region. However, if one were to travel into the valleys of this region, one would find an abundance of apricots, cherries, tomatoes, and grapes. Temperatures in Switzerland are on average
about 68°F to 77F(20°C to 25°C) in summer and 36°F to 43°F (2°C to 6°C) in winter.
The Fohn, also the German word for "hairdryer;' is a warm, dry wind that swoops down over the leeward side of the Alps. It can arrive at any time, at the year but occurs most frequently in spring and fall. Recognized by mostly clear skies with a distinct arch of clouds, it brings with it a quick rise in temperature and sudden atmospheric changes. These conditions are said to have an unsettling effect on people, causing headaches and anxiety. The perfect scapegoat, the Fohn is said to be blamed by the Swiss for all their problems.
In the French-speaking region between the Jura and the Alps a strong cold wind known as La Bise can blow from the north, northeast, or east in winter, spring, or fall. In winter the "Bise Noir" rontributes to the gloom with rain, snow, or hail.
Geographically speaking, Switzerland is divided into three regions: the Jura, the Plateau, and the Alps. The Jura (Celtic for "wood") is a limestone mountain range stretching from Lake Geneva to the Rhine and extending into eastern France and southern Germany. This subalpine area makes up about 10 percent of the country's surface area. On average, it is 2,296 feet (700 meters) above sea level. It is a picturesque highland crossed by river. |
