The world's highest rollercoaster

The Swiss Alps may be one of the world's top skiing destinations, but over the summer Switzerland's mountains are no less of an active holiday hotspot.

Though walking holidays are some of the most popular activities in the Alps, thrill-seekers can also take advantage of a new roller coaster.

At 3,000 meters above sea level the Alpine Coaster stakes its claim to being the highest in the world.

Opened in May 2007, the ride is located on a glacier between Les Diablerets and Gstaad, two top ski resorts.

Designed to run all year round, the Glacier 3000 has ten turns across its one kilometre-long track, which it covers in two minutes.

While on the ride holidaymakers can see 24 mountains with peaks over 4,000 metres.

For those who cannot get enough of the mountain roller coaster there is the chance to get a ride for free, if you go on it four times.

Each ride costs six swiss francs (around £2.50), and the roller coaster is open to everyone, though children aged under nine must ride with their parents.

The roller coaster is the first in a series of new visitor attractions planned for the area. Future events include a ski race, a mountain marathon, and a series of concerts.

However, there is more to the Glacier 3000 area than just the roller coaster.

A cable car designed by Swiss architect Mario Botta offers views over the Matterhorn, one of the most famous peaks in the Alps, as well as the glaciers of Jungfrau and Mont Blanc, and is accessible by public transport or car from Gstaad or Les Diablerets.

There are also other facilities available for active holidaymakers, including a snowpark, a half-pipe, climbing walls and dog sledding.

The authentic Swiss mountain walking experience can be had by hiking to Lake Sanetsch, which takes around four hours.

For more information about the Alpine roller coaster ride see www.glacier3000.ch (in French) or www.myswitzerland.com