Switzerland Travel Tips: A Guide for August 4-8, 2018
Introduction
Exploring Switzerland in early August is like sampling a bite before a multi-course meal. These four days will act as an appetizer, preparing you for the grand feast of Swiss adventures to come. The choice of how to approach this destination is entirely yours—a mix of following popular attractions, spontaneous local interactions, or focusing on a specific place you've heard about. Whether your preference lies in bustling cities or serene mountain tops, this guide will help you plan a memorable trip.
August 4-8 2018: Quick Insights
Upon arrival, you'll find Switzerland holding a celebratory atmosphere, especially with the Swiss National Day on August 1st. Despite the initial fireworks display in Zurich, the weather can quickly turn rainy, which is a common occurrence throughout the rental period. Planning early and packing rain gear is essential. Wake up early to enjoy the scenery and avoid the rain.
Navigating the Railway System
The Swiss railway system, known as SBB, offers a convenient and scenic route from Zurich to Interlaken, which is a mere couple of hours away. The journey through Zug and Lucerne showcases the beauty of the Swiss landscape. Train enthusiasts may enjoy the more scenic route but will have to deal with more frequent stops. Lucerne is a popular stop, often reserved for extended exploration.
Interlaken and Its Surrounding Valleys
Interlaken is a natural starting point, surrounded by two narrow, tourist-friendly valleys. Trains and cable systems provide access to the Jungfraujoch, an expensive yet worthwhile adventure, and the Schilthorn peak. Gimmelwald, Murren, and Wengen offer cable car rides and appealing hiking paths. Wengen, located in the second valley, Lauterbrunnen, is surrounded by a cluster of picturesque small hotels.
Exploring the Swiss Alps
From Interlaken, you can explore the Swiss Alps, famous for the Eiger, a towering rock formation that claimed a classmate's father's life in 1966. The area surrounding Interlaken is a paradise for hikers and skiers. Spiez, a town your SBB concierge may recommend, offers a shorter train journey to Brig or Visp, where you can catch the BVZ train to Zermatt.
Indianapolis and the Gornergrat
Zermatt is a highly touristy town, known for its breathtaking views, including the Matterhorn. In late July, the Matterhorn's upper two-thirds may be obscured by clouds, making it a less typical experience. However, there are less crowded areas to explore. The Gornergrat railway offers an expensive yet relaxing ride to the Kleine Matterhorn.
Hostel and Youth Accommodation
For budget travelers, the youth hostels in Interlaken offer a cheap and fantastic experience. Many travelers, like myself, would recommend staying in areas like Murren, where skiing adventures can be had, and even visiting neighboring Italian towns for a change of scenery.
Conclusion
While four days may seem ample, Swiss adventures are truly endless. More time, and perhaps a return visit, are necessary to fully explore all the beauty and charm that Switzerland has to offer. The highlights of Interlaken, Jungfraujoch, and Zermatt are merely the beginnings of a lifetime of Swiss explorations.