Thanks, Nas, for the invitation to write another travel piece for your blog. It took me no time at all to decide on a location to write about – Swiss lakes! And for the usual reasons – mainly that they’re so pretty, usually with a mountain backdrop, the sort of location most of us would like to visit one day.
Photo Copyright Annie West
Plus I was lucky enough to make a trip to Switzerland earlier this year so I have some photos to share – always a good thing. And finally because I was thinking about my just released book (Demanding His Desert Queen) and, contrary to what you’d expect, it starts by a lake in Switzerland! J Definitely something unexpected for a sheikh romance.
As there’s only room today for a brief overview I thought I’d just touch on some of the reasons these are worth a visit. Let’s begin with the scenery. Truly, the combination of lakes and mountains together makes for memorable locations. Here’s my view when I stayed in the small town of Brienz on the edge of Lake Brienz.
Photo Copyright Annie West
That’s an easy drive south of the capital, Berne. I took so many photos from my balcony, at different times of the day and in different weather, and found it was gorgeous all the time, even in rain!
The Swiss are incredibly proud of their country. You can see that here with all the Swiss flags decorating this tourist boat. That’s one of the things I enjoyed about Switzerland, it was so Swiss! From the picturesque wooden houses in the countryside, to the cheese fondues and chocolate, there was so much local charm.
Photo Copyright Annie West
Here’s a taste of that local charm, again in Brienz, in the old part of town, with traditionally made wooden homes leading down to the lake.
Photo Copyright Annie West
Then of course there are the castles. Did you know that Switzerland has lots of castles? I think my favourites are on waterfront. This one is on Lake Thun and can be used as a wedding venue. Now, wouldn’t that be fun?
Chateau Chillon Photo Copyright Annie West
Or, on a larger scale, here’s the famous Chateau Chillon on the eastern corner of Lake Geneva. There might be bustling cities further around the lake but here it’s all history and scenery (and tourists).
Photo Copyright Annie West
And if relatively peaceful lakeside scenery isn’t for you, you can choose bustle. The city of Lugano is busy and expensive (the old centre is jam packed with expensive brand stores). It spreads out along the shoreline towards Italy and attracts lots of visitors. I was fascinated to see this floating beach platform for bathers since the only ‘beach’ was small and on the far side of the town.
Of course, I’ve only just mentioned a couple of Swiss lakes in this whistle stop tour. There are so many more to explore. Perfect for armchair travelling if you don’t plan on a trip. I hope you’ve enjoyed these.
About Annie
Australian Annie West loves writing passionate, intense romances and not just because it gives her a chance to ignore housework! She is a USA Today Bestselling author, published in 25 languages. Annie writes contemporary stories about charismatic heroes and strong heroines. She loves being in contact with readers as far apart as Brisbane, Bremen and Bermuda. When not writing and avoiding housework she can be found walking, enjoying good food and good company, travelling and reading. She’s currently writing a book she hopes will be her 40th Harlequin Presents novel.
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Annie has a two new books out right now!
Sheikh's Royal Baby Revelation (Secret Heirs of Billionaires)
Desert captives for one night
Bound forever by their unexpected baby
When desert prince Ashraf was kidnapped alongside geologist Tori, the desperation of their life-threatening situation led to passionate oblivion. Rescued the next day, Ash never knew Tori’s fate…but this powerful sheikh never stopped looking for her. Now he’s finally found Tori—and discovered she’s had his son! To claim them, Ashraf’s prepared to make Tori his queen…but can he offer more than his royal name?
Demanding His Desert Queen (Royal Brides for Desert Brothers Book 2)
Duty bound at the altar…
Passionately reunited in his bed!
Desert prince Karim needs a bride to ensure his smooth ascension to the throne. Intelligent, captivating Queen Safiyah is the perfect choice, yet the pain of their broken engagement remains.
This time Karim’s demands are simple: a diplomatic agreement, nothing more, for their country’s sake. But Safiyah’s reunion with Karim, the man she was forbidden from loving, is anything but convenient! Duty may have brought them back together, but it’s their undeniable bond that will force them to confront a still-burning desire…
Elizabeth, I'm glad you enjoyed the photos, and the sound of the books! That's great to hear. I can definitely recommend Switzerland, especially in fine weather. :)
Wonderful photos, the books sound great, too. Valerie
ReplyDeleteHi Valerie. I'm glad you like the photos, and the sound of the books! It was wonderful researching locations.
ReplyDeleteSwitzerland is a bucket list trip for me so all of these beautiful photos are much appreciated.
ReplyDeleteSuzanne, I'm glad to help out. It's an amazing place. The only negative was the cost. I found it expensive, but I'd still love to go back again.
ReplyDeleteWhat gorgeous pictures. I'd love to visit. Books sound good too!
ReplyDeleteElizabeth, I'm glad you enjoyed the photos, and the sound of the books! That's great to hear. I can definitely recommend Switzerland, especially in fine weather. :)
ReplyDelete