Switzerland: Cheese, chocolate, culture

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. R.J. Biermann
  • 31st Fighter Wing Public Affairs
AVIANO AIR BASE, Italy --  Few men will argue that the fastest way to their heart is through their stomach. On my recent trip to Lugano, Switzerland, the Swiss certainly won my "heart" with their cheese and chocolate.

Just a short four-hour drive away, Lugano is the largest city in Ticino, the Italian-speaking region of southern Switzerland.

Our first stop was at the Alprose Chocolate Factory. Since 1957, the factory has produced Swiss chocolate that is enjoyed in 35 countries around the world. Each year, the company produces more than 8,000 tons of chocolate, according to the company's website.

Customers can purchase a wide variety of chocolate products, but if you're having trouble deciding what to buy, enjoy a limitless supply of eight products from their sample section.

Next, we visited Civico-Ciani Park where we hiked a short distance for a picturesque view of Lake Lugano and the prealps. The hiking trail took us past beautiful sculptures and local flora, and was well worth our time.

After visiting the park, we arrived at the city square. The square hosts a pedestrian-only street where tourists can shop without worrying about traffic. Walking past any food vendor and you're sure to be invited to try any number of local cheeses.

On one end of the street, we visited the Church of S. Maria degli Angioli. The church is well known for its paintings by Bernardino Luini, a friend and mentee of Leonardo di Vinci. Luini's featured paintings include the Virgin Mary, Christ Child and his version of the Last Supper. The church has remained virtually unchanged for centuries except for the addition of a modern heating system installed under the floorboards.

After doing a little shopping, we walked across the street to the lake front. Tourists and locals can be seen swimming, fishing, taking photos, feeding birds or just relaxing. For a reasonable price topped off our trip with an hour-long boat ride around Lake Lugano.

If cheese, chocolate or culture entices your inner tourist, then consider visiting Lugano. The city is a worthwhile destination. For more information about trips like this or others throughout Europe, visit 31st Force Support Squadron Information Tickets and Travel office website at www.31fss.com/itt.shtml.