TL;DR: the Swiss Alps offer lakes, snow capped peaks and storybook villages, and Lucerne and Zermatt are two favourites. Chapel Bridge and a boat on Lake Lucerne suit a gentle moment, and the Gornergrat train and the Riffelsee reflection give big mountain views near Zermatt. Cloud is common, some lifts close out of season, and cold affects fingers, so check conditions and keep a backup. Pieces start from £600.
Why the Swiss Alps
The scenery is dramatic and well organised, with trains, boats and lifts that make high views easy to reach. It suits couples who want a grand setting and are happy to plan ahead.
Lucerne
- Chapel Bridge, the wooden covered bridge, best early in the morning.
- Lake Lucerne, with a boat trip and mountain views. Check timetables.
- Mount Pilatus or Rigi, for panoramic views. Check lift operation and seasons.
Zermatt
- Gornergrat, reached by a mountain train, with a viewpoint of the Matterhorn. Check schedules and tickets.
- Riffelsee, known for the Matterhorn reflection on calm mornings.
- Village streets at dusk, for a quieter moment.
Choosing between them
- For a pretty town and a lake, choose Lucerne.
- For a famous peak, choose Zermatt.
- For ease, choose a lake boat or a train, which are comfortable for everyone.
- For a quiet moment, choose a village street early or late.
Seasons
Summer suits hiking and lakes, and winter brings snow. Some lifts and trails close in off peak periods, so check before you plan around them.
A sample two day plan
Spend the first day in Lucerne, walking the old town and the covered bridge, and take a lake boat in the afternoon. Travel to Zermatt on the second day, settle in, and keep an evening free in case the weather turns. If the mountain is clear the next morning, go up early for the best light and the fewest people. If it is not, the village streets, a warm restaurant and a quiet table still make a lovely backup. Allow an extra day if you can, because mountain weather is unpredictable.
Planning the moment
- Check lift and train timetables and weather.
- Pick a main spot and a backup for cloud, because the Matterhorn is often hidden.
- Allow time for altitude, and dress in layers.
- Arrange a photographer if you would like one.
- Book somewhere to celebrate afterwards.
The ring at altitude
Altitude and cold can shrink fingers, so take care with gloves, and keep the box in an inner pocket. See cold climate ring care and winter gloves and ring fit.
Choosing a ring for a cold proposal
If you are proposing in snow, avoid a design that depends on tiny details that can disappear in cold fingers or deep snow. A ring with a secure setting and a slightly roomier fit is easier to put on in the cold, and a bright box or a ribbon helps you find it if it drops. Tell us where and when you plan to propose, and we will suggest practical details, such as a fit that suits cold hands, then confirm everything in writing before making begins.
Ordering from the UK
We work by video consultation and message, send sketches and CAD renders, and make nothing until you approve the design in writing. Standard making time is 5 to 6 weeks, varying with your location and how busy we are. Delivery is insured and tracked with FedEx, and the customer pays import duty and tax, which differ by country. See ten questions international customers ask.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Matterhorn always visible?
No. Cloud is common, so allow flexibility.
Is Switzerland expensive?
Often, so plan ahead.
Do the lifts run all year?
Not all of them. Check timetables.
How far ahead should I order the ring?
Allow at least 8 weeks, more for overseas delivery.