September is almost over, the summer is long gone and you are probably in need of a quick fix to get rid of your holiday blues. If a dreamy stay in the Maldives or a cultural trip to Jordan aren’t on your radar at the moment, then there is always time for a short weekend break to recharge your batteries.

When it comes to planning a weekend away, Europe spoils us for choice. Walking around Lisbon’s barrio alto eating pasteles de natas, strolling around Paris on a mild autumn day or challenging your inner archaeologist around Rome’s majestic architecture – you name it, Europe has it.

But where should you go to recharge your batteries, without having to fly to the other side of the world? Tucked away in the Alps, Zurich is the wellness destination that you were looking for – and it’s just a few hours away from home.

From cool rooftop pools to exciting water sports, through amazing panoramic views – here are five reasons why you need to make Zurich your next wellness destination. 

Stay in a mini wellness oasis

If you are on a mission to get yourself back on track after a long indulgent summer, Swissôtel Zurich has got you covered. The Swiss chain created a room made especially for those seeking to keep their life balanced and healthy, even while on holiday.

Their vitality room features a ‘wellbeing wall’, a series of training equipment which includes a multilingual cyber-trainer ready to motivate you, even in the most difficult mornings.

The light in the room – that has the constant aroma of calming essential oils – can be adjusted, the bathroom is a chromotherapy sanctuary and the fridge is filled with healthy snacks and beverages. If you are lucky, you may even find a Swiss chocolate bar waiting for you. 

Hike, bike and breath

If you think that Zurich is a busy financial hub, bustling with big cars and men in expensive suits – think again. In this alpine city, there is so much more than just banks and fancy restaurants.

Just outside the hustle and bustle of the city centre, Zurich has several of mountains, lakes and rivers to discover. For a quick nature break, get your hiking boots on or jump on a mountain bike, and head to Uetliberg. This local mountain scales to the height of around 870m to offer the tourists (and the locals) an amazing view of the city and beyond. 

Indulge in a thermal bath

Rome, Turkey and Morocco might be famous for it’s thermal baths but the Swiss are famous for making everything better (or at least more efficient).

Wellness also means pampering yourself, so why not enjoy a rooftop thermal pool on a chilly autumn day? The pure Swiss thermal waters trickle down to the retreat, creating a wellness experience that you won’t easily forget. 

Train in the coolest gym

Tired of the nightclub-like gyms that are taking the UK by storm? Zurich will help you to feel motivated once again. 

Half bar and half gym, Balboa is one of the coolest spots in town. Either for an intense boxing match, an invigorating yoga lesson or a more chilled drink with friends, the atmosphere at Balboa is so electric you won’t be able to sit still. 

Try out a water sport

If you are more a swimmer than a climber, nothing to worry about – Zurich has something for everybody.

Lake Zurich and the two rivers that populate the city, Limmat and Sihl, are there for your entertainment. Wakeboarding, waterskiing, paddling, kayaking or just swimming, you can do it all – and right in the middle of town. Just make sure to pack your swimsuit. 

What to pack 

For a perfect wellness weekend, you need to pack light but still be comfortable at all times. See our edit below of everything you need for a sporty and pampering getaway to Zurich. 

Pictures: Provided / Unsplash / Alessia Armenise