Swiss Day Festivities, Zermatt

The First of August in Switzerland is a pretty big deal. After all, it happens to mark the country's birthday!

The quiet little town booms with atmosphere in the evening, with crowds of locals and tourists coming together (in the name of beer, might I add) to celebrate.

Waking up bright and early, we started the day by catching the cable car up to Furi.

This is one of the lowest hamlet's sitting on the mountain above Zermatt, but still offers a lovely view of both the town and Matterhorn. There are plenty of walks to hike up or down, though walking down will generally take around 40 minutes regardless of which route you take.

We fancied a short walk so decided to hike down, stopping off at one of our favourite restaurants along the way.

Walking in the midst of the trees on the mountain truly is a Sound of Music moment, especially with the spectacular views on offer. It's peace and tranquility at its finest, with the only noise being from other hikers blurting out the odd "hello" or the crickets that chirp and squeak in the grass.

Soon enough, we reached the cluster of chalets that make up Zum See.

We walked a little further across the farming fields towards Blatten for some of the best food in town.

We ordered two plates between the three of us and shared the plain rosti (a hash brown of sorts and a traditional Swiss dish) and a cheese toastie.

Both sound rather simple and basic but hey, this is Swiss food we're talking about. They know they're way around the kitchen to say the least. And umm...SWISS CHEESE. Need I say more?

Marvellously stuffed and somewhat resembling oompa loompas, we rolled down the mountain in the must un-elegant of manners.

Stopping along the way to take in Mother Nature's gifts.

Back at base, we slipped into our best gear ready for the fun evening ahead.

Our hotel always plans such a lovely evening for National Day. The evening begins with canapes, hors d'eouvers and champagne outside on the terrace, followed by the most exquisite five-course meal, which is all finished off with more champagne once again on the terrace to watch the fireworks display.

It's such a special evening and one that I have held dear to my heart every year since I was a little girl.

For the occasion, I wore my favourite floral number from Brandy Melville - a shop I seldom visit or purchase anything from, but this Parisian-inspired wrap dress was just too feminine to pass up. It highlights all the right curves and cinches in the waist thanks to the tie (nobody has to know you've been indulging in too much Swiss cheese). And due to the wrap fit, it feels rather like wearing a dressing gown!

I kept it simple a single gold leaf bangle from Accessorize, a Chloe-inspired clutch from Zara and nude heels.

Jess opted for a more contemporary look with pink metallic culottes, teamed with silver loafers and a beautiful black tee with bell sleeves.

Far too much champagne later, we waddled off to bed full of cheese and a little drunk. But it was all more than worth it.

Happy birthday Switzerland!