Karen & Steve's 14-Day Tour
Europe Through The Back Door
- 2008 -
It's no wonder the Swiss love to hike and enjoy the beauty of their country. Our journey through Europe took us deep into the
Swiss Alps to find the beautiful Valley of Lauterbrunnan. Everywhere we looked was breathtaking and we took in every sight we
could from the moment we arrived to the moment we left. We had a full day on our own, so prepared with information from Dave
(our tour guide) and our Rick Steve's guide book in hand, we set off to enjoy all that we could.
The next morning, we teamed up with our tour buddies Joe, Terri, Brian and Rachel, then set off to make a loop around
the valley.
The first part of our journey involved taking a gondola (cable car) from Lauterbrunnen to Grutschalp where we caught a train to Murren.
Arriving in Murren, Karen and Joe checked the map at the train station. From there we took a scenic
walk through town.
One of the many water fountains we'd see along the way.
After taking in the beautiful view and a delightful lunch, we were ready to continue on our way back down the mountain until nature
decided to change our plans. A violent thunderstorm rolled in very quickly and the cable cars stopped working, but
45 minutes later, the skys were blue again and we were off to our next stop - Gimmelwald.
On the train to Murren while enjoying the spectacular beauty of the ever-changing landscape.
Terri, Steve and Joe, sharing some laughs - probably about Joe's German mispronunciations.
Lunch in the revolving restaurant at the top of Schilthorn.
Here we are traveling to the top of the mountain in the cable car. We even managed to get a great smile
out of Rachel - She was terrified on our jouney going up on the gondola.
The peaceful little alpine valley of Lauterbrunnen is a place that must be seen to appreciate its fairytale charm. A beautiful
explosion of colors and dollhouse-like chalets lined the little street and mountain sides. It was so exciting to know that
we'd be spending the next two nights there.
We arrived at the Hotel Oberland. Up two flights of stairs and we were at home in our cozy corner room with a magnificent view of
the village and Staubbach waterfall (complete with a full moon at night).
A few laughs together and a few more photo shoots and we were at the gondola station to catch the next car to
Schilthorn.
Another beautiful Alpine fountain.
Look closely and find the happy goat relaxing while people-watching.
One final picture in Gimmelwald and from here we'll catch the next gondola down a steep incline to Stechelberg.
This seemed to
us like an incredible little "Munchkin" village.
Once again, Karen is caught up in the magic.
Even the wood sheds are alive with color.
Lauterbrunnen Valley - Part 1
Switzerland Part 1
