This past month, I set out to improve my mental and physical well-being and lift my spirit. Switzerland offered me everything I needed — and much more.

What I Loved About Switzerland

The nature is absolutely breathtaking. Towering mountains, endless trails, and crystal-clear lakes create the perfect backdrop for adventure.
I was impressed by the quality of the food and the cultural richness — where else can you greet people with “Guten Tag,” “Bonjour,” “Grüessech,” or “Buongiorno” all in one day?
I met a lot of kind people and discovered a country that feels both peaceful and alive.

Surprising Discoveries

• Despite the Swiss reputation for strict rules, the reality is more relaxed. If something isn’t explicitly prohibited, it’s usually allowed — including wild camping or exploring remote areas.
• I learned that Switzerland has mandatory military service and a strong army, despite its neutrality. Fighter jets train daily across the skies.
• The right to bear arms in the U.S. was actually inspired by Switzerland. Here, owning a gun is common, especially in rural areas.
• Swiss children are given real freedom to explore and take risks — falling down or getting bruised is seen as a healthy part of growing up.
• Summer is low season in the Alps. Winter is peak time due to the ski resorts, even though summer hiking is incredible.
• Prices surprised me. While services can be expensive, the price of food (especially unprocessed) was often similar to Slovakia, sometimes even cheaper and better in quality.
• There are about 1.5 million cows in Switzerland — roughly one cow for every five people.
• Many people start working as early as 16 and work hard to maintain the Swiss lifestyle.

How I Traveled

I stayed true to a minimalist and self-sufficient approach:

• I didn’t use any campgrounds (average cost: 50 CHF per night) and always found free spots in nature.
• I didn’t eat at restaurants but cooked hearty meals daily.
• I didn’t use cable cars or mountain huts, which can be expensive. I walked every mountain by foot and carried all I needed.
• I didn’t feel lonely, even though I spent 99% of the time alone. I was fully present and connected to my surroundings.

Wildlife

I saw cattle, eagles, marmots, chamois, Saint Bernard dogs, snakes, frogs, butterflies, birds, goats, horses, bees, and more. Nature truly kept me company.

Favorite Places

Some of the places that stayed with me:

• Saviesse
• Lac du Moiry
• Val d’Hérens
• Furkapass
• Melchsee-Frutt

I spent most of my time in Canton Valais — a spectacular region where the Rhône River cuts through the valley and the Alps rise dramatically all around.

By the Numbers

• Mountains climbed: around 20 (6 over 3,000m)
• Glaciers seen: 4
• Weather: sun, rain, snow, ice, temperatures from 0 to 34°C
  (average around 15°C in the mountains)
• Average elevation gain per day: 400m up / 900m total
  (highest: 1,200m up / 2,400m total)
• Total elevation gain: 12,000m up / 24,000m combined
• Distance: average 12 km/day
  (longest day: 25 km; total: 360 km)
• Longest trek: 11 hours without stop
• Time walking daily: 6–8 hours
• Highest peak reached: 3,300m
  (average elevation where I lived: 2,000–3,000m)

What I Gained

• A deep passion for exploration
• Stronger endurance and physical condition
• Better decision-making and mental resilience
• Emotional clarity and joy through solitude
• A daily routine of self-care — through movement, good food, silence, and simplicity

I’ve found real motivation and fulfillment in this experience. Being in motion, breathing clean air, living with purpose — it all added up to a powerful sense of happiness.

Looking Ahead

I have no specific plans for the next month. And that’s okay. I’m open to whatever comes next.

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Final Thoughts

This month was more than a journey through mountains — it was a journey into myself.
It reminded me of what’s possible when I trust the process, take care of myself, and stay connected to the natural world.

If you made it this far, thanks for reading. Maybe this inspires you to get out there too — or just take time to reconnect with what matters.