Issue link: https://www.wacmagazine.com/i/1547391
Strolling through a Christmas market beneath twinkling lights sounds like a scene straight out of a Hallmark movie, but in Basel, Switzerland, it's simply a typical winter evening. Located about an hour northwest of Zurich, Basel offers the perfect holiday escape, filled with festive tradition and charming historic streets. Spend your days browsing the city's cozy Christmas market, shopping through the beauti- fully decorated Old Town, or catching the annual Santa Claus Harley-Davidson parade. For an extra dose of holiday magic, venture into Basel's secret courtyards, which transform into enchanting sea- sonal hideaways each winter. Decked with sparkling lights and garlands, these cozy spaces are filled with the inviting winter scents of mulled wine and cinna- mon, offering a peaceful escape from the bustling crowds. If you're feeling a little homesick, take a ride aboard one of Basel's famous Rhine ferries. While they may look a bit different from the ferries we know in Seattle, they offer one of the best ways to admire the city's gorgeous waterfront. e historic Rhine ferries have been operating since 1854, and four tradition- al motorless ferries still carry passengers across the river today. Using only a cable and the power of the current, the ferries will silently take you from shore to shore, allowing you a moment to slow down and savor your Swiss adventure. For a deeper look at local culture, Ba- sel is home to nearly 40 museums. High- lights include Fondation Beyeler, Kunst- museum Basel, and Museum Tinguely, each offering world-class collections and distinctive artistic experiences. Aer a day of exploring, treat your- self to dinner at Club de Bâle, a WAC reciprocal club overlooking the Rhine. e club pairs elegant surroundings with exceptional seasonal cuisine craed under the direction of head chef Nicolas Marceau, making it the perfect place to unwind before an evening out. e night doesn't end there as you must experience one of Basel's most fabulous holiday traditions: the Palazzo Colombino Christmas variety show. is internationally acclaimed production combines gourmet dining with dazzling performances, creating an unforgettable night of entertainment. Hosted inside a mirrored circus tent, the show features an eclectic mix of acrobats, jugglers, magicians, musicians, and comedians. Together, they create a whimsical atmosphere that allows guests to escape the outside world and immerse themselves in the wonder of the season. No matter how you choose to spend your time in Basel, you'll discover that this charming Swiss city delivers all the ingredients for a truly unforgettable holiday. C O U R T E S E Y P H O T O ( 2 ) Request a letter of introduction on the WAC app. Menu > Reciprocal Network > LOI Request Form. Submit club reviews at wac.net/reciprocal- reviews. wac.net/reciprocal-clubs BASEL , SWITZERLAND Club de Bâle Rheinsprung 5, 4051 Basel, Switzerland clubdebale.ch Club de Bâle is an exclusive business club providing a lively culture with a personal touch. Featuring a restaurant, terrace, bar and lounge, event spaces, and library, Club de Bâle is carefully curated to maintain a breathtaking atmosphere. There are no hotel rooms or fitness facilities. RECIPROCAL CLUB Swiss Winter Escape Experience the magic of the holidays in Basel FALL / WINTER 2026 37 club life reciprocal club