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Report 1566: We Love Switzerland

By Kathryn J from USA, Summer 2008

Trip Description: Sightseeing and walking through Bernese Oberland and Central Switzerland 8/22/08 - 9/6/08, while taking full advantage of the Swiss trains.

Destinations: Countries - Switzerland

Categories: Hotels/B&Bs; Vacation Rentals; Sightseeing; Walking/Hiking; Independent Travel; 2 People

Staubach Falls from balcony

We had an uneventful trip from USA, arrived in Zurich right on time and shuffled our way through the airport - picked up luggage and followed the very easy signs to the train station. I had researched the varieties of train passes for months and had decided on the Half Fare Card. Purchasing the cards and determining the correct track (gleis?) was very easy - even with no sleep. Of course the train was on time and we boarded for Berne.

The trip to Berne was fairly short but not very scenic with no mountains in sight. We changed trains with no problems - just walked across the platform to the new train and left five minutes later. I had read about the efficiency of the train system, but it was something I had to experience to really appreciate. Shortly after leaving Berne, we began to see the mountains, Lake Thun and the scenery began to look like I had pictured Switzerland - even more beautiful. We changed trains again in Interlaken. This time, it was down a flight and then up another flight of stairs. By this time, the luggage was feeling very heavy despite the rollers.

Despite the fatigue, the trip from Interlaken to Lauterbrunnen was lovely and we were getting more and more excited to finally see the valley. It was a five to seven minute walk through town to our apartment. We stayed in Apartment Stockli that I had found on the Lauterbrunnen website. I have published a review. The apartment was very nice. One bedroom with living room and full kitchen - but the best part was the balcony. It faced Staubach Falls and the valley. We discovered later that we could also see the top of the Jungfrau with clear skies.