Sports-mad Mike Rees is not adverse to spending a week’s holiday lounging on a beach but when the chance arose to enjoy Switzerland’s most popular activity destination, he jumped at the chance.

With snow-capped mountains, forested hills, shimmering lakes, stylish spas and luxury ski resorts, it’s easy to see why Switzerland is one of Europe’s top tourist destinations.

It is a country containing the most spectacular scenery, road tunnels that pierce mountains with little thought, chalets located on mountain-sides where only goats might think of making home in other countries.

All seasons have their attractions. In November, ski resorts begin opening and visitors pour in throughout the Christmas season and until the snow begins to melt with the onset of spring but you don’t have to wait until winter to enjoy the stunning scenery the country offers.

Flims is in the heart of Graubünden, the largest region in Switzerland. A place that is not only beautiful but full of things to do for the adventurous type. For anyone who seeks outdoor adventure or extreme sports, this is THE place.

Made up of the three villages of Flims, Laax and Falera, it is an adventure playground for just about anyone who loves the outdoors.

The villages offer a range of stylish and comfortable accommodation options, from traditional alpine hotels to luxurious self catering apartments in the new award-winning rocksresort complex in Laax.

Flims offers a total network of 250km of signposted hiking trails leading through one of the most varied hiking areas in the Alps. This region has been on the UNESCO World Heritage List since 2008 and offers incredible variety, including refreshing swimming lakes, crystal clear mountain streams and unspoilt woodlands.

The region is also perfect for mountain bikers as it boasts 330km of cross country routes and exhilarating free-ride options.

It is undoubtedly one of Europe’s leading mountain biking destinations and world champion Nino Schurter’s regular training ground.

There are many routes that you can do with different distances and variations and the good news is that you don’t have to be a cyclist to enjoy the scenery.

Our guide knew my group’s trail like the back of his hand. But he was a true pro and always made sure we met up at a particulart point, even if some younger and fitter members of our group had their hearts set on racing off and having their own ‘competition’

For those of you who want a little help, electric bikes – which work just like normal ones – are available.The only real difference being that when you pedal, the battery automatically kicks in and your power is increased by up to 80%!

So you can cover almost twice the distance with half the effort !

Halfway through our ride we came across a beautiful lake, a combination of every blue and green you’ve ever seen.

It hadn’t long started raining but that didn’t stop me and a friend changing our shorts and diving in. Our colleagues were not far behind after some ‘gentle persuasion"

Cycling in Flims is all about pleasure and not about gasping for breath. Ideally located for both winter and summer activities, the new Rocksresort is situated adjacent to the base station in Laax and takes its name and identity from the surrounding landscape.

Finished in rough-hewn stone, the exterior of this hotel complex succeeds at blending in with its environment, while also standing as a bold design statement.

The self-contained complex also includes apartments, shops, restaurants and bars – all arranged around a central square.

Natural materials from the region are used throughout the apartments to create a warm and inviting atmosphere. It is the perfect place to relax and spend the evening after a day’s walking or cycling.

All in all, if you want to escape the stresses of your everyday world, make sure you take a trip to this part of Switzerland, you won’t regret it.

It is truly a beautiful country.

For further information visitwww.graubunden.com, www.flims.comand www.signinahotel.com