The Alps are undoubtedly the showier, sexier bit of Switzerland. What, however, is as beguiling but frequently bypassed by the strident march of many towards the peaks of Titlis or Jungfraujoch, is the well-kept secret of the Canton of Jura and the three lakes. Affectionately dubbed the “meeting place between man and horse”, with its orchards and medieval towns, vast open spaces and waters — Jura is where the locals go when they want a change of scene.

A rich café culture, cycling trails, literature and film festivals, carnivals and Swiss walking events keep the old, Baroque town of Solothurn lively throughout the year