 Switzerland has been in my memory bank for a long time, having lived near Zurich for a brief time in the 60's (yes, I'm dating myself), and having visited numerous times while living in Germany. I truly believe that my early introduction to the Alps with my family is why I have such a deep love for mountains. The Swiss of course are well known for their watches, cheese and chocolate, but the mountain scenery, in my opinion, is the deepest connection. The Matterhorn, Eiger, Mönch, Jungfrau - all iconic sites, and worth seeing. A few years ago we went up Mount Titlis and Mount Pilatus. Also worthy. Just beautiful. With popularity come the crowds. The day we went up Mount Titlis was beautiful but took 4 hours waiting in line for the cable car to reach the top. The wonderful thing about Switzerland, though, is there is no shortage of mountain scenery, from a distance or up close. To enjoy an area less crowded is not difficult. An area we discovered oh so many years ago is Meiringen - Hasliberg, a perfect spot to explore and enjoy in all seasons, as we did. These pictures are in June, but it's also a fabulous winter resort - in fact its where I learned how to ski. Less than 90 minutes from Zurich and located between Lucerne and Interlaken, it's a perfect day trip from Zurich or a great base from which to further explore the area. The four villages of Goldern, Hohfluh, Reuti and Wasserwendi sit up above the valley offering exceptional views. The chalet we had rented was in the village of Wasserwendi, and as you can see, it also makes a perfect place for some peace, calm and a lot of fresh air. EASY DAY TRIPS FROM HASLIBERG In Hasliberg, take the cable car up the mountain. It operates in the winter months to access the ski area and during summer months for incredible hiking options.  Aare Gorge and Reichenbach Falls are very near to Meiringen and within 10 minutes of each other. Over several thousand years, the Aare River eroded a path through the mountainous rock, forming a gorge just under a mile long and about 600 feet deep. Take a walk through the gorge via a series of safe tunnels and wooden paths. The Reichenbach Falls are a waterfall cascade over seven steps, with a total drop of just over 800 feet. The falls are accessible by a funicular. The falls are best known as where Sherlock Holmes fought to his death with his archenemy Professor Moriarty. Be sure to check out the Sherlock Holmes Museum in Meiringen. Lake Brienz is located between Hasliberg and Interlaken and is known for its beautiful turquoise tone and amazing mountain views no matter where you are on the lake. One way to enjoy the lake is on an old steamship.  Interlaken is one of Switzerland's oldest and most popular resort towns, unique in that it sits in between the two beautiful lakes of Brienz and Thun and at the entrance of the Lauterbruunen Valley. Although a bit touristy, the area's network of trains, funiculars, cable cars and boats makes it a popular hub. A great view of the entire area can be seen from Harder Klum, a quick 10 minute funicular ride from town. Another option is the Schynige Platte Railway in Wilderswil.  Lauterbrunnen and Murren are both beautiful mountain villages in idyllic settings. Murren is a car free village reached by cableways from Lauterbrunnen and where you catch the cable car to Schilthorn . On clear days the views of the Eiger, Monch and Jungfrau (plus over 200 other peaks) are second to none. You may even be able to spot Mont Blanc in France. James Bond fans will recognize the scenery from the 1969 film "On Her Majesty's Secret Service".  Grindelwald is picturesque alpine village about 30 minutes from Interlaken. A perfect postcard setting, the stunning surroundings make it popular year round, with plenty of experiences for the adventurous and non-adventurous alike.  Ready for an experience that takes your adventure to a new level?
Call Laurie at 602.540.7338 to get the process started or schedule a complimentary discovery call here. Comments are closed.
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Laurie Marschall - Owner and Founder
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