On 1 August every year the Swiss celebrate the founding of their confederation. The date refers to a historic alliance reached in 1291 by the three cantons of Uri, Schwyz and Unterwalden. Fast forward to today, and up and down the alpine country, there are a wide variety of festivals and traditions that accompany 1 August such as bonfires and fireworks. If you prefer your fireworks to be the culinary kind, these Swiss specialities should light up your tastebuds!

First and foremost, Switzerland is world famous for its cheese, and rightly so. Appenzeller, Emmentaler and Gruyère are just three of the best-known varieties. Swiss cheese culture is unique and offers multi-faceted enjoyment. A particular speciality is Belper Knoll, also known as the Swiss truffle beause of its special aroma, appearance and price.

The important role played by cheese in Switzerland is demonstrated by the numerous dishes in which it is the star. First and foremost, of course, is cheese fondue, which garnered the most votes for "Typical Swiss National Dish" in a survey of the Falstaff community. Fifty nine percent of respondents voted for cheese fondue, click here for the ultimate backgrounder on fondue or check out the best wines to pair with the dish. Rösti came in second place on 16%, while another cheese speciality, raclette (14%), was third.

But it is not only savoury food that is popular with the Swiss. Switzerland's sweet side is also world-famous: chocolate, of course. And if you prefer something fruity or high-percentage on the holidays, you can opt for a cherry torte from Zug. This is arguably the most popular and well-known in Switzerland. However, the sweet little fruits place high demands on the distillers for the noble brandy needed to make them. If you fancy drinking Swiss wine instead and perhaps taking a hike at the same time, click here for our favourite Swiss wine hikes.