An expert expat’s tips for Zug, Switzerland

Life on the lake of Zug in central Switzerland couldn’t be more different than the shores of Queensland’s Redcliffe peninsula, where Kristin Reinhard grew up. The freelance writer and photographer initially left Brisbane for a gap year as an au pair, but after falling for a local, she still calls Switzerland home, 23 years later. See z-nuni.com

SEE

Even after two decades of calling Switzerland home, taking in the view across the alps, especially from the Rigi’s panorama trail, still results in a “pinch-me” moment. The 7km path starts with a gondola ride to Rigi Scheidegg and has me getting out my camera as each turn presents one mountain peak after another. Before taking the cog train down from Rigi First, I stop at Chalet Schild for a bite (if I remember to reserve). The menu, written on a blackboard, is ever-changing, but älplermaggeron, the Swiss version of mac and cheese, is one I look out for. See rigi.ch, chaletschild.ch

DO

Life in Zug revolves around the lake, especially after a long winter. When the sun is warm enough, I love to meet friends lakeside for lunch, stroll along it with the family on a Sunday afternoon, and in peak summer, grab a bottle of something sparkling to share with friends as we take in one of Zug’s famous sunsets. Summertime also means “badi time”, where lakeside swimming spots (called a badi) open up for us to laze the days away. While not what I would call a beach, Zug’s Strandbad is the next best thing – a view of the distant Rigi is an added bonus. See zug-tourismus.ch

EAT

My everyday life revolves around visits to the Freiruum, a food hall, co-working and activity space that has become the beating heart of Zug. It satisfies my multicultural food cravings, like the pulled pork sandwich from Brisket, has fantastic coffee and is a great place to meet with colleagues and friends alike. For something classic, my Swiss husband and I escape the kids for date night at the Zugersee Lido, a 10-minute drive from Zug in the village of Walchwil. This lakeside restaurant cooks freshwater fish caught by the local fisherman the Zug way- poached in white wine and cream sauce. See freiruum.ch, zugersee-lido.ch

DRINK

Platzhirsch, with its sommelier-curated wine list, is my go-to when in the mood for a glass of wine. Add on either a charcuterie platter or, my favourite, the eggplant tartare, and a quick drink can quickly turn into dinner. If I am in the mood for a cocktail, it’s time for Kurioz and their spicy margaritas. Add their raw cheese platter, and I am a happy woman. See platzhirschzug.ch, kurioz.ch