This first-time visitor to Gruyères captured the most stunning photographs

I have followed Andrea Monica Hug ever since our interview. Recently, this talented young photographer took her camera to the charming town of Gruyères, and we are happy that she shared the result exclusively with Newly Swissed.

Andrea, why did you pick Gruyères for your day trip?

Andrea: It took two Americans to bring this Swiss girl to Gruyères! My boyfriend and his brother wanted to spend a day there, so they took me along. This town is simply stunning, yet I might have never gone by myself.

And which was your favorite moment?

It will have to say the castle gardens, hands down. A green maze for as far as the eye can see…

On your photographs, it seems that it was still foggy in the morning, but then the sun came out. What did this feel like, and what was your favorite part of the day?

It was beautiful to witness the changing of the atmosphere. We arrived super early to beat all the tourists: First, we enjoyed a delicious brunch in Gruyères, took some pictures right at dawn and were the first ones inside the castle.

As soon as the sun was up, all the 347 other tourists arrived and squeezed their way through the historic old town. It was well worth getting up at 5 AM to catch the first train to Gruyères.

And finally, why should Gruyères be on someone’s bucket list?

In short: Gruyères is a magical miniature land away from civilization. The town is idyllic and really well maintained, and the castle grounds with the museum have a modern touch.

And those into aliens will get a kick out of the HR Giger Museum. In fact, the “Alien Café” is fun even for those who are not into fantasy. We had a cup of tea there to wrap up our visit.

I can hardly believe that I had never been to Gruyères before… I definitively want to make it a point to go on day trips in Switzerland more often!

(All photographs are copyright Andrea Monica Hug)