Off-road adventure in the Albanian Alps – freedom far away from the roads
The journey begins in Europe, in a place that is still considered an insider tip. For SWISS employee Taulant, the Albanian Alps are a true paradise for adventurers. Off-road vehicles can be hired in Tirana, and then you're ready to go. Just a short drive out of the city, you'll find yourself in a landscape that is wild, unspoilt and impressive all at once. Away from paved roads, a whole new way of travelling opens up here.

What makes it particularly unique is the opportunity to travel far away from civilisation and even camp in the wild in many places, which is considered a rare privilege in Europe. The Albanian Alps offer mountain lovers an intense experience of nature, full of freedom and a spirit of discovery.

 

Experience Mauritius – nature, culture and relaxation in harmony
Far away yet easily accessible, Mauritius is a destination that for many is the epitome of long-haul travel. For our SWISS colleague Lesia, the island is one of the most impressive destinations in the SWISS network. Mauritius combines breathtaking nature with crystal-clear water and offers a variety of activities: from hiking in national parks to visiting cultural and religious sites, water sports or relaxing hours in beautiful hotels.

A particular highlight is Chamarel National Park with its famous ‘Seven Coloured Earths’ (undulating hills of volcanic earth), a unique natural phenomenon. Equally fascinating are the numerous Hindu temples, which offer insights into the culture and warm exchanges with the local population. Boat trips also depart daily from the lively Grand Baie Marina. This is therefore the perfect starting point for discovering Mauritius from the sea. A destination that combines adventure, culture and relaxation in a very special way.

 

Discover Kamakura – a perfect day trip to the sea
From an island in the Indian Ocean, the journey continues to Asia. For employee Sarah, Kamakura is the ideal counterbalance to the bustling metropolis of Tokyo. Just an hour and a half away by car, this Japanese coastal town combines relaxing beach walks with impressive culture and history. It is a place where you can take a deep breath and discover so much at the same time.

Sarah's highlights include the imposing giant Buddha at Kotoku-in Temple and the Hasedera Temple complex with its beautiful view of the sea. Komachi-dori Street is perfect for a stroll, and a ride on the little Enoden Line along the coast and through charming villages makes the trip complete. Kamakura shows just how varied a day outside the big city can be.

 

Gliding near São Paulo – nature from a different perspective
Once again, we cross the ocean to South America. For Tasnim, gliding near São Paulo was one of the most memorable adventures of her travels. About an hour and a half from the city lies Ipuã, a place that seems unremarkable at first glance but offers a very special experience. At the Aeroclube de Voo a Vela CTA, you can fly high without an engine.

After a brief introduction to the glider, it's time to take off: pulled by the launch aircraft and then suddenly silence. Just wind, vastness and the endless nature of the São Paulo region below. For Tasnim, this silent gliding was a feeling of freedom, courage and inner peace all at once – an experience that shows the otherwise vibrant metropolis of São Paulo from its quiet side.

 

The Wieliczka Salt Mine near Krakow – a fascinating world underground
To conclude our journey, we return to Europe and dive deep beneath the earth's surface. For Tom, the Wieliczka Salt Mine near Krakow is a very special excursion at a SWISS destination. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the site offers impressive insights into traditional mining techniques and features historic shafts and tunnels that were once used for salt mining.

Particularly impressive are the underground lakes, the sculptures artfully carved from rock salt and the numerous chapels deep below the earth. A visit to Wieliczka opens up a unique perspective on history and craftsmanship and shows that unforgettable experiences are sometimes closer than you think.