If there’s one thing that immediately brings back memories of long car rides with my dad, it’s the unmistakable taste of Ricola. You know, those little golden drops of herbal magic that somehow soothe your throat while tasting absolutely delicious. My dad always had a pack in the car, and I grew up with that signature blend of Swiss herbs.
The Story Behind Ricola
Ricola has been around since 1930, originating in Laufen, Switzerland. The name itself is a combination of RIchterich & CO LAufen, the family-owned company that still produces these famous candies today. The secret to their success? A unique blend of 13 Swiss herbs, carefully cultivated in the pristine alpine environment.
From soothing menthol varieties to fruity twists, Ricola has expanded its range over the years, but that original herbal candy remains a classic.
Today, this family-owned company exports around 60 different herbal specialties to 45 countries across Europe, Asia, and the Americas. And no matter where in the world you find Ricola, one thing remains unchanged: every single product is made in Switzerland.
The Ricola Experience Shop in Laufen – A Must-Visit for Fans
If you’re as big a Ricola fan as I am, then visiting the Ricola Experience Shop in Laufen should be at the top of your list! This place is a true paradise for herbal candy lovers, offering not just every Ricola flavor you can imagine, but also an inside look at how those famous Swiss herbal drops are made.
In this beautifully designed shop, you can browse exclusive flavors you won’t find anywhere else—yes, even varieties from other countries! Feeling creative? Head over to the Pick & Mix station and put together your own personalized selection of Ricola candies. But plan your visit accordingly—the experience world is closed on Sundays and Mondays!
The experience doesn’t stop there! As you make your way upstairs, you’ll dive into Ricola’s fascinating history and learn all about the magic behind turning fresh alpine herbs into those iconic little drops. You can even create your own Ricola flavor and watch expert candy makers in action during live demonstrations.
And while you’re in Laufen, don’t miss the Ricola Herb Center, an architectural masterpiece designed by Herzog & de Meuron. Occasionally, guided tours are offered for groups, lasting around 1.5 hours. Want to join one? Be sure to check Ricola website to see if tours are available during your visit.
Why Ricola Holds a Special Place in My Heart
For me, Ricola isn’t just a candy; it’s a piece of my childhood. It’s the taste of family road trips, the comfort during a sore throat, and the little treat my dad always had tucked away in the glove compartment.
Whether you’re already a Ricola fan or you’ve yet to experience the magic of these Swiss herbal drops, I highly recommend diving into their world. And hey, if you make it to the Ricola Store, grab an extra pack for me!
How to Get to the Ricola Shop
Getting to Laufen from Zurich is super easy—and you even get a bonus stop in beautiful Basel along the way!
First, hop on a train from Zurich to Basel (about 1 hour). Once you arrive, I highly recommend taking some time to explore the city—either before heading to Laufen or on your way back. Basel is packed with charming old town streets, world-class museums, and scenic Rhine river views—so why not make the most of your trip?
When you’re ready, catch the S-Bahn 3 direction Porrentruy to Laufen (a 30 minute ride). From the Laufen train station, it’s just a 600-meter walk to the Ricola Experience Shop, located right in the heart of the town’s historic center.
If you love discovering Swiss specialties as much as I do, why stop at Ricola? Want to know what else the Swiss can’t live without? Check out my post on Ovomaltine (Ovaltine) and find out why it’s a national obsession!
