Sport and fitness

Uetliberg is billed as Zürich’s “city mountain”. At just 871 metres above sea level it might not be soaring – especially in comparison to the Alps less than 40km away – but it does offer a host of activities and breathtaking views. 

Walk up from Albisgütli tram stop in just under an hour or ride the train to the summit from Zürich Hauptbahnhof (20 minutes). At the top you’ll find several cafés, Uto Kulm hotel, a spindly observation tower and a network of hiking trails to suit varying abilities. 

Descending back into town is the fun part. Two marked mountain-bike tracks weave their way through the forest; hire some robust wheels from Smide before you head up. If the snow has settled, pick up a toboggan and shoot down the purpose-built run, which descends more than 300 metres during the 3km course. Sledging at night is also popular but bring a torch and be warned, it’s very steep.

Outdoor swimming is a way of life in Zürich. Whether it’s before work, on a lunch break or during the evening, the badis (outdoor pools) are always buzzing in summer. Be sure to take a dip at Strandbad Wollishofen, a lake-side swimming spot built in 1939 where you can also try your hand at beach volleyball, table tennis and windsurfing. Another open-air option is Badi Oberer Letten with its 400-metre stretch of the Limmat reserved for swimmers.

“The most important thing is spirit,” says Lis Mijnssen of creating the perfect hammam. With the help of architect Paola Maranta and interior designer Gabi Faeh, she opened Hammam Basar in 2013. 

Expect the full hammam experience, as well as great vegetarian food in the café. The in-house shop sells natural cosmetics, towels and fair-trade homeware. As Mijnssen says, what you can’t achieve with spirit alone “you make up for with material things”.