3. Inside Luxury Watchmaking

The art of Swiss watchmaking goes back to the 16th century – and is still going strong today. Iconic brand Audemars Piguet opens a 6,300-square-meter Z-shaped «Hôtel des Horlogers» in Le Brassus, in the heart of watchmaking valley, in 2021. Another scion of the dynasty, Olivier Piguet, offers a two-day class on watchmaking. VIPs learn how to dismantle, then reassemble a mechanical watch, and manufacture their own «skeleton» wristwatch to take home.

 4. Beat the Ski Lift Lines

A helicopter firm in Zermatt offers the world’s fastest ski lift: 20 minutes to get from the Rhone Valley (638 meters above sea level) to Zermatt-Cervinia, the linchpin between the two major ski resorts at 3,500 meters. The 1,665 Swiss franc price tag for a group of five is surprisingly mild compared to renting a (winter-proof) car, or even train fare. Besides priceless views, the heli-taxi includes a ski pass for the day and equipment rental (on request).

5. Craft Luxury Chocolate

Pascal Beschle (pictured above, at right) is the fourth generation to run with his brother Dominic Beschle the 121-year-old Swiss chocolate-maker Beschle. He is also responsible for opening up the family’s Basel atelier to workshops where participants can taste and learn about chocolate production – and make their own personalized chocolate bar. Drinks and «riche» snacks afterward can be arranged for private groups. A special Christmas version of the workshop offers children the opportunity to mold their own chocolate Santa.