Having retained its medieval charm, Bern, the capital city of Switzerland envelops all who visit with a feeling of tranquillity and timelessness.  The Aare River meanders through the city, creating a peninsula enriched with greenery and a popular summer hangout at the Marzili, a lovely riverside bathing spot with scenic views of the Federal Palace and Bern Cathedral.
Proclaimed a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1983, the narrow alleyways of the Old Town, artfully scattered with fountains and clock towers are best seen with the guidance of a Bern tour guide. The majestic Clock Tower at the entrance opens into four miles of arcaded streets, housing the French church and even the home of Albert Einstein where he developed the theory of relativity.
Located in the many squares, the city centre is filled with colourful markets and the sidewalk cafes become a necessary respite for a quick snack before visiting the Kunstmuseum (Museum of fine Arts), the oldest art museum in Switzerland. The modern wave structure of the Zentrum Paul Klee building housing over 4000 works of Swiss artist Paul Klee and the museum also hosts many musical and cultural events.
A trip out of the city to Gurten is a welcome relief. Here the wonderful hiking trails and panoramic views of the Bern and the Bernese Alps allow one to savour the natural beauty of this wonderful area in Switzerland.