A unique aerial view of Chateau de Chillon, Montreux, as reflected in an ornamental ball decorating a Christmas tree within the courtyard.

Christmas in Switzerland can take you back in time. The Swiss have worked studiously to preserve their historical and natural environment for an excellent quality of life. The entire country is a cornucopia of recreation, food and drink. A trip by my wife and I to the Lake Geneva region (www.lake-geneva-region.ch) centered on Montreux, but the choices are many.