ZERMATT, Switzerland (AP) - One sheer drop-off to the right, another eight feet to the left. A switchback ridge so steep that three steps brings you to the next turn.

The Swiss have been mastering the mountains for centuries, with cable-cars, tunnels and high-elevation railways giving easy access to peaks and historic towns. Skiing here is simply part of life ...

Another legend from the highest Swiss Alps holds that Moench (“Monk”) peak is protecting the Jungfrau from the nearby Eiger (“Ogre”). Advertisement “It is a good name, Jungfrau -- Virgin.

Western Europe's tallest mountain has shrunk over the last two years, according to researchers. Mont Blanc's peak has been measured at 4,805.59m (15,766ft 4 in), which is 2.22m shorter than in ...