I am looking at getting contents and private liability insurance with Axa but I am only in Switzerland for 1 year. Normally this wouldn't be a problem but Axa seem to only do 5 year policies.

Does anyone know if you are able to stop the policy after 1 year?

Before you lock yourself into something that you may or may not be able to get out of when you want, have a look at these two threads for some helpful pointers and suggestions first: -

Contents Insurance: Best, cheapest options?

Insurance advice offered

Additionally, have you tried calling and asking Axa Winterthur if they can accommodate your request?