Nestling in the Rhine Valley between Austria and Switzerland is the tiny independent principality of Liechtenstein. Consisting of only 160sq km and with a population of just 34,000, it is by far the smallest German speaking country in the world. Long ignored by UK visitors due to the difficulties in travelling there, the arrival of budget airlines to Zurich airport and then a direct train journey have made Liechtenstein much more accessible.
Due to its location it is obviously a great place for a ski break, and there are a few resorts, namely Malbun, which has slopes to suit all levels of experience as well as a school for snowboarding. Winter sports aren’t the only activities available in Liechtenstein however, and the cycle routes along the banks of the Rhine are a great way to explore the countryside and the mountains are extremely popular with hikers.
Whilst its size restricts the amount of attractions to be found here, the quaint charm and unspoilt beauty of Liechtenstein is something that can be enjoyed in very few of the bigger countries. Vaduz is the tiny village that has the lofty title of Capital of Liechtenstein, and whilst there are only two main streets, it is the most poplar destination for tourists and is home to the three most important museums in the country.
Triesenberg to the north is a minute region that actually sits on a terrace which overlooks both Vaduz and the Rhine Valley. It is home to a unique church with an onion shaped dome and also the Heimatsmuseum. This is a museum dedicated to the Walser people who travelled across the Swiss border in the 13th century on a pilgrimage and whose unique dialect you can still hear spoken there today.