 Kleine Scheidegg in winter. Photo courtesy of Jungfrau Tourism With a high base above 2,000m, north-facing slopes and a modern snow canon infrastructure, you’ll maximise your chances of the white stuff being in top-notch condition up at Eigergletscher (2,333m) and Kleine Scheidegg (2,061m). No wonder that tons of money was spent to install the super-sleek Eiger Express gondola to carry 2,200 passengers per hour. Be whisked from the Grindelwald Terminal and parking station just 6.5km in 15 minutes to Eigergletscher for a wonderful day of skiing and boarding enjoyment. The ever present trio peaks, the Eiger (3,970m), Mönch (4,107m) and Jungfrau (4,158m) are your constant awe-inspiring scenery. They give you good reason to stop, catch your breath and take more photos. Lots of space, well groomed, some sneaky off Piste areas close to the lifts and never boring with 100’s of kms of runs. One can even download an app to tell one how many of these kms one skied.  The Eiger. Photo courtesy of Jungfrau Tourism  Home made Advent Calender In Lauterbrunnen for a snow experience? Here is an advent calendar of winter wonders to explore on foot.
Advent calendars have their roots in the 19th century, when German Protestants started taking creative steps to mark the days leading up to Christmas, like ticking off chalk marks on walls or doors and lighting candles. Some people still make their own and of course there are many Chocolate filled varieties in the shops.
Photo Source: Nati from Pexels A very special event on Sunday, September 15, 2024, was the Anniversary 25th Bernese Alpine Cheese Championship on the Männlichen. In stunning sunshine, after some snowfall, we were able to taste the 3 categories of cheeses that were judged the da before. 1. Berner Hobelkäse AOP, (produced in 2022 or older), 2. Coeur des Alpes (Berner Alpkäse AOP, produced in 2023) and the Alpmutschli (produced in 2024) . Overall there were 114 cheese, I didn’t try them all of course, however as a former cheesemaker myself, my favourite being the Hobelkäse. This year, the Region of Lenk was the winner in the Hobelkäse division. Alongside each cheese exhibit were the tasting notes and scores from the expert jury. The expert jury, although not immediately unanimous on every alpine cheese, nevertheless agreed in the overall assessment that the cheese quality could be significantly improved, as observed in previous years. If the participating alpine pastures at the Bernese Alpine Cheese Championship provide a whole wheel for assessment, any errors cannot be discovered beforehand and therefore avoided, which makes the competition for this natural product all the more difficult and exciting! One could experience how each cheese wheel has its own unique aroma. Each Bernese Alpine Cheese AOP contains pure alpine milk rich in herbs and is produced and cared for exclusively by hand. A natural product with a strong character. In Switzerland, Citizens are able to vote on proposed initiatives and have an active say in major changes. What is “biodiversity”? Biodiversity means "diversity of living things" on three levels: the diversity of habitats, species diversity and genetic diversity. Biodiversity provides people with numerous ecosystem services, such as the pollination of crops, and is therefore essential for agriculture. Agriculture is aware of the importance of biodiversity and takes its responsibility in this regard seriously. One fifth of the agricultural area in Switzerland is used to promote biological diversity. One of Switzerland's special features is the high level of biodiversity that goes hand in hand with its diverse landscape. The Alpine region in particular is a biodiversity hotspot for which Switzerland bears and also accepts a particularly high level of responsibility. The unique and diverse landscape in the Bernese Oberland has a huge appeal and is a magnet for guests from near and far. This sometimes pushes the limits of local businesses. In order to maintain this appeal, a good balance between protection and use is needed. Without agriculture, our valleys and mountains would not have the same importance. Respect for the environment with a focus on high biodiversity is also central in our region. Agriculture and tourism are already doing a lot to achieve this. The Federal Council and Parliament reject the biodiversity initiative because they believe it goes too far . It would severely restrict (sustainable) energy and food production , make the use of forests and tourist infrastructure in rural areas more difficult , and make building more expensive. Domestic supplies would be weakened and imports of energy, food, and wood would increase. In addition, there are already sufficient instruments and legal provisions to promote biodiversity. How is biodiversity doing in Switzerland? The loss of species occurred mainly between 1850 and 2000. Thanks to numerous measures, the negative trend has been halted. Among other things, every fifth hectare of agricultural land is now used specifically to promote biodiversity. In addition, mountain farming maintains 220,000 hectares of particularly species-rich grassland in summer pastures. However, there is still a need to ensure the survival of endangered species. On the other hand, there are also winners who feel very comfortable in Switzerland and whose numbers are increasing. Examples of this are the stork or heat-loving butterflies. Unfortunately, unwanted, so-called invasive non-native animals and plants are also migrating, damaging native biodiversity. Ultimately, we agree: everyone is called upon to protect and promote biodiversity. What is the reason for the insect extinction? The decline in insects is due to numerous factors. These include the disappearance of habitats, light pollution, climate change and overly intensive agricultural production methods. Insects are important for agriculture because they pollinate numerous crops and thus ensure harvests. Accordingly, a trend towards sustainable production took place some time ago and numerous measures have been implemented. Farming families now use almost 20% of their land to promote biodiversity and thus as a habitat and food source for insects. More and more companies are also producing according to label specifications such as (organic, IP, etc.), which are linked to additional services related to biodiversity. What can be done to better protect endangered species? Quantity alone is not enough. Rather, quality must be optimized and the areas must be carefully cared for and managed. Rare habitats such as low hedges, carefully placed individual shrubs, sparse woody plants, high-quality fallow land with a permanently high abundance of flowers, raw soil for wild bees and germination niches for accompanying flora in fields must be specifically promoted. The targeted care of quality meadows and liberalization of methods for keeping pastures open, especially in summer pasture areas, are further approaches to improvement. Swiss agriculture is committed to this. Source: https://biodiversitaetsinitiative-nein.ch/faq.html Photo: https://www.volkswirtschaftbeo.ch/ 
At some of the highlight views around the Jungfrau, some Film location hearts mark the photo points from from Crash Landing on You. A top rating South Korean television series that aired on tvN from December 14, 2019 to February 16, 2020. It has now brought in a flood of people to also experience these scenes from the romance adventure of Yoon Se-ri’s paragliding flight off course into North Korea. In this clip from tvN one can see the Jungfrau Joch in the background as the flyer drifts around the Eiger from Eiger Gletscher.  Early on in the series, the two stars were filmed at Kleine Scheidegg watching paragliders like a prophecy years before Yoon Se-ri made her Crash landing. Early on in the series, the two stars were filmed at Kleine Scheidegg watching paragliders like a prophecy years before Yoon Se-ri made her Crash landing. (Left)
The tearful reunion of stars Ri Jeong Hyeok and Yoon Se-ri was filmed in the popular landscape of Grindelwald. Where you can also safely fly on the First Flyer after first catching the cable car up to Station First from Grindlewald. (RIght) Taking a walk back in time, you can visit the “Sagi” or saw mill that was built in 1858 and still runs on just waterpower, no electricity is there. Here, trees are cut and trimmed. You need to book a tour with Mürren Tourism to see inside. You can get a glimpse on this link here https://youtu.be/pwYmC7tdskQ It is a worthwhile round walk from Gimmelwald Lift station of about 6 kilometres and stroller friendly. From Gimmelwald Lift station, head up the road passing Pension Gimmelwald and when you reach a sharp left bend marking to Im Tal. Followign this path that becomes a gravel road through a forest to a view point over the valley and you will reach the Sawmill. After the Sawmill there is another crossroad, if you turn right you will go back uphill to Gimmelwald.  Photo Credi: Mürren Tourism
Despite the gushing, rushing and many fast flowing rivers and streams in Lauterbrunnen and the region that already contribute to the electricity needs, there is still a shortage of power and the search for renewable energy goes on. Soon there will be Alpine Solar farms installed. They will look a bit like the avalanche inhibiting structures that you already see high up on the mountains above villages. In alpine areas, the sun shines more often, there are fewer foggy days and the snow-covered environment reflects the light. This intense sunlight enables high electricity production all year round. Legislation on large-scale photovoltaic systems was carried out at the federal level. The municipalities are not involved in the building permit procedure for such plants. So the communities will vote on 17th June if they will accept these projects. You will also see that there is new work underway to upgrade the Schilthorn cable car structures. The region is very progressive to enable visitors an efficient and pleasant experience.  Photo Credit: SchiltSolar Project, the planned photovoltaic system viewed from Wasenegg
A beautiful quiet place with amazing views of the Lauterbrunnen valley, is the Staubbachbänkli. From Wengen train station, walk past the COOP supermarket, veer right down the hill under the rail tracks then take your first left. There is a sign post and it is about 30 minutes along a view filled stroller friendly path. You will pass Mary’s café at the foot of Innerwengen where the finish line and the offices of the World cup are also located. Up a small slope and past a dairy, (with goats, donkeys and chickens) where you can buy cheese and icecream from their ATM. Shortly past here you will find the 9 or 10 seats that face the breath-taking view. You will need to sit down to take it all in. Here, you will see the second waterfall of the Staubbach. It is above in the forest but visible and a true waterfall itself as it. Apparently a waterfall is water flowing off a horizontal to drop around 1.5 metres or 5 foot. This waterfall certainly adds to the 72 in the Lauterbrunnen Valley. As well as a lovely place for a picnic, you may meet some local feathered residents or see some wild deer down the slope.  Second Staubbach waterfall above and left in forest As the snow begins to melt and we wave goodbye to our winter playground, the valley gets louder. Loud from many more rushing waters as the snow melts and the smaller watercourses burst out of the majestically high rock faces from the force of the groundwater behind them. Of course the name ‘Lauterbrunnen’ means loud fountains and that is very true. Looking up the 300 metre steep cliffs, especially on the left hand side heading toward Stechelberg, one can often spot these random water spurts bursting through. That is how the valley waterfall count can get as high as or even higher than 72 😊 Sitting on the right-hand side of the train up to Wengen, I think one gets the best views. Also one comes close to the 6 or so waterfalls rushing over the Wengen side rock ridge. Sometimes hard to read the names quickly, however most of them are named. What is a better experience, is to walk up, or down the path to Wengen. One can come closer to these waterfalls hidden by forest and rock ridges. On one hairpin walking track bend, after passing under the arch of an old rocky rail bridge over head, one can see the old train track that has a chain across it. For the adventurous, the walk along this old track is at your own risk and takes you nearer to these exciting gushing waters. A Flühli (or Flue) is characteristic of rock formations and rock peaks embedded in gentler shapes, mostly made of limestone. Flühli is describing the chimney-like formation where the watercourse races through.  Chilbiflühli Other enjoyment options include walking along the paths that are usually only available in summer. This year with much sun, has revealed the summer paths already behind Wengen. And what a delightful series of hiking paths there are, for example the Gemsen Weg. Gemsen are Chamois or goats who live up in the rocky parts overlooking Wengen. Taking the path out of Wengen at the end of the village, turn right and past the Cinema /Kino and head for part of the Gemsen Weg. The Gemsen Weg proper, zig zags up under the Männlichen cable car to the peak. However there is a round path that also brings you back through the forest and into the village. Or left at the end of the village towards the reformed church with its fabulous views of the Lauterbrunnen Valley steeply below. Then continue along the path, after the Hotel Bellevue veer to the right towards Hunneflue. At the Hunneflue, you are looking down toward Zweilütschinen and Wilderswil. From here it is possible to also choose the route via Leiterhorn or a round trip that includes part of the Gemsen weg back into Wengen. There are seats along the way that are needed to take in the spectacular views.  View along return path to Wengen from Hunneflue. Peaks left to right: Lauberhorn, Mönch and Jungfrau.  This view is from the top of the Männlichen Cabelcar The Männlichen Cabelcar set a technical record in 1957 as the longest single-cable gondola in Europe with a length of 6.2 kilometers. Total journey time was around half an hour and gave one time to eat a picnic lunch in winter to get ready for the afternoon’s skiing. It is faster now. In 1978, it was also the first gondola lift to have so-called rubber band accelerators, which enable comfortable acceleration and deceleration of the gondolas in the stations. Now, one can sing one’s way to the top in one of the 2 Karaoke Gondolas! The website says, “The greatest music hits of all time are waiting to be chosen and can be performed together with the other gondola guests. And of course there are soothing Ricola sweets available so that you can make the most of your singing potential.”  Sources:
https://www.maennlichen.ch/en/winter/experiences/ricola-karaoke-gondola.html https://www.enviadi.com/blog/maennlichenbahn-grindelwald/ With the cooler December months come Christmas markets and Mulled wine, or Glühwein. Glühwein literally translates as "Glowing Wine", the name being derived from the time when hot irons were used to heat the drink. If you have not tasted it, then you can make your own. It is a hot beverage consisting of red wine that is gently heated with with various spices such as cinnamon, anis, cloves, cardamom, and citrus fruits. A non-alcoholic mulled wine is called Kinderpunsch. Ingredients 1.5 liter red wine 2 bottles 75 cl each 4 oranges untreated 5 cloves 3 Cinnamon Sticks 3 star anise 75 ml rum or brandy (optional) 100gr brown sugar if you can get Belgium Rock Sugar How to: Slice two oranges and juice the two remaining oranges. Add the red wine, orange slices, and freshly pressed orange juice and spices in a pot. Gently heat the mixture at a low temperature. Do not let it boil! The ideal temperature is 72°C/ 161 °F. Anything over 78°C/172,4°F and the alcohol will evaporate. You can best check this with a cooking thermometer. Optional Step: leave the Glühwein to sit for an hour or two and then reheat. This will allow for the spices to fully develop their flavour. I don’t add sugar, as a good wine can speak for itself. But if using a cheaper wine, add some sugar. The right amount of sugar will depend on your personal taste. For an extra warmth factor, add in some brandy or rum. To serve, strain out the orange slices and spices and serve the wine hot. You can also make it in a slow cooker or crock pot so that it will keep warm for your outdoor Grill Fest or BBQ in the crisp winter air.  Why not save the disappointment of not reaching the “I’m going to do this….” And plunge into dismal disenchantment when you haven’t lost those extra Christmas kilos by Easter. The ancient Babylonians came up with the idea of promising new things to their gods at the beginning of their year. And we are still doing it! A long tradition of four thousand years, we are still talking about our ‘next year’ plans. Since ‘resolutions’ is such a hard word, maybe that is why they don’t stick, but maybe think of dreams and new habits instead. How could that be different? A dream is something you’d like to get done at some point in life. For example, “I’d like to walk the Mönch peak track” or “I’d love to find the source of the Staubbach.” They can be something just around the corner or something that might take several years to work up to. Apparently the best goals are the ones that are just out of reach at the present moment. If you can put an easy timeline and deadline to it and knowing that you could do it, then , its probably not big enough to be a dream but a goal. A goal is a dream with a deadline. That means it is specific, measurable, achievable, relevant and with a time frame. For example, “I’d like to save up 2,000€ towards renovating the kitchen by June this year.” A habit is a daily or weekly activity that helps one accomplish their goals. For example, “I’m going to ditch my Netflix account and put that money towards the kitchen.” A habit helps put structure around a goal, making it more attainable. Maybe instead of a resolution, we need to spend more time dreaming about what we want out of life. Then we could take those dreams and start turning them into goals and habits. Then maybe at year end the dreams have come true.  Photo: Mönch South-East Ridge, near the top October 2, 2020 Jean-Nicolas Fahrenberg
 Summer has slowly waved farewell and autumn has been boasting its colours to beautify the valley in gold before the shorter winter days and snow appear.
November is a time when many businesses try and take a month of rest. They seek some remaining warm weather a little further south to get recharged in readiness for winter visitors. This summer has been full in the valley, with many more visitors than usual as people have begun to travel again after Covid put their plans on hold. This has caused quite an overload this year on the valley of Lauterbrunnen and the services offered by the local council, such as toilets and parking. So what is it like to live in a village that has suddenly become an Instagram favourite? Here are some comments from local residents at a local meeting….. “We feel like employees at an amusement park” “We are almost desperate, we locals simply have no room left in Lauterbrunnen,” At a local residents meeting, it was clearly said that Day-trippers are problematic for traffic because they come just to see the Staubbach waterfall and leave without even buying a coffee, “They come in a rental car, take photos of the Staubbach Falls and then leave again.” This leads to traffic chaos: “I have the feeling that I live next to a motorway, people drive into the valley and out again. It’s annoying” Tourists walk into people's private garden areas to take photos and disrespectfully play football in the cemetery. Visitors are so awed at the Staubbach falls as they enter the village, that they will unconsciously stand in the middle of the narrow road to take photos of the Falls and become a traffic hazard themselves and cause danger to drivers. A quaint little rural village, that only has a narrow footpath on one side through the village, has a lot of congestion when tourists are not mindful to look out for their own safety. We welcome you to Lauterbrunnen, to enjoy the beauty of nature and the many other offerings here. Now you know what it can be like for residents to share their village with the holiday makers we all like to welcome. Source: https://www.srf.ch/news/schweiz/tourismusflut-in-lauterbrunnen-wir-fuehlen-uns-wie-angestellte-in-einem-freizeitpark Photo: Willian Justen de Vasconcellos The beauty of fall or autumn colours in Lauterbrunnen in October is truly spectacular. This forests come alive with vibrant autumn hues during this time of year. The weather can be quite variable, with daytime temperatures typically ranging from 8°C to 15°C (46°F to 59°F). Nights can be chilly, with temperatures dropping to around 0°C to 5°C (32°F to 41°F). It's essential to pack layers and be prepared for cooler weather, especially if you plan to hike. Our laundry is an excellent place to dry clothes or store muddy boots. As the leaves on the trees change colours, the entire valley transforms into a sea of gold, red, orange, and yellow. The contrast between the colourful trees and the rugged, snow-capped peaks of the surrounding mountains is breathtaking. As the melting summer snow contributes to higher water flow, the waterfalls remain on full power. However, some attractions may have reduced hours or accessibility. However you can always watch the Staubbach falls from our balcony directly opposite. It waterfall plunges from a cliff with a height of approximately 297 meters (974 feet). It's one of the tallest free-falling waterfalls in Europe. It is a sight to behold as it tumbles down from the cliffside amidst the changing leaves. It appears almost like a veil of water, especially when there's a gentle breeze causing the water to disperse into fine mist or dust, the German word is "staub," which gives the waterfall its name. Depending on the weather, the track up to the falls themselves may be closed. Staubbach Falls has also inspired poets and writers, including Johann David Wyss, who mentioned it in his novel "The Swiss Family Robinson." There are many waterfalls in the valley, this photo is of the Spiessbach, just along from the Staubbach falls. The hiking trails around Lauterbrunnen become even more picturesque in October. You can explore paths that wind through forests and meadows, offering stunning vistas of the valley and the surrounding mountains. Popular hikes like the one to Mürren or Wengen allow you to immerse yourself in the autumnal beauty. The soft, diffused light of fall enhances the colours and provides excellent conditions for capturing the beauty of the landscape with your smartphone. There are fewer crowds compared to the summer months so you can enjoy the natural beauty in a more peaceful and relaxed environment.  Ever wanted to sleep high in the mountains, say 2260 meters in a cozy rustic mountain hut? Only sleeping 8 people with a confirmed reservation, the Schradrihutte is at the south-east end of the Lauterbrunnen Valley in the nature reserve called Hinteres Lauterbrunnental. Coordinates WGS 84: 46.49914, 7.89231 or 46°29'56.921″N 7°53'32.313″E The wardens are not on site but wood and basic Cooking facilities with wood stove are supplied. Only 1 lamp, so bring some candles, and running water is about 30m south of the hut. Rustic, quiet and just a beautiful walk to arrive there. From Stechelberg, in the direction of Oberhoresee via Tanzhubel and up beside the magnificent Schradribach Waterfall, you will be well rewarded with stunning views and in mountain peace. Reservations here: https://www.aacb.ch/huetten/schmadrihuette/#OnlinereservationSchlafplaetze  “I almost wish we were butterflies and liv'd but three summer days - three such days with you I could fill with more delight than fifty common years could ever contain.”
― John Keats, Bright Star: Love Letters and Poems of John Keats to Fanny Brawne  Via ferrata is Italian for “iron road” and is part hiking, part rock climbing, and part sturdy adventurous. On a via ferrata you follow a path that consists mainly of iron rungs attached to the mountainside all the while being clipped onto a steel cable.
1.A ferrata from Murren to Gimmelwald. You can do it without a guide. About 3 hours, 2 km. For a non climber it was incredibly scary as you walk around the rock face but it is mega specular as there is 400 meters of nothing below you. It is made up of a couple of tightrope canyon crossings, a Nepalese of suspension bridge and ladders. Think of it as a high up ropes park. https://www.klettersteig-muerren.ch/index.php/de/ https://www.switzerlandical.com/murren-via-ferrata/ There is a Hostel that sells burgers and food in Gimmelwald with the most amazing view from their deck. 2. Also from Gimmelwald, there is a "climbing garden". From the village of Gimmelwald it is a 50-minute walk to the foot of the wall. Follow the gravel road towards Chilchbalm. After crossing the river, a path leads up to the wall on the right. At the Chilchbalm, the end of the small valley, one can see the receding glacier, it is a magical walk that many people don't know about. 3. There is also a family friendly climbing garden on the Riggli. From the Birg station (middle station of the Schilthornbahn). From Birg you follow the white signposts downhill through the Engetal and after about 40 minutes you are at the foot of the wall, a few minutes' walk below the Schilthornhütte. 4.The Rotstock Via Ferrata is a family climb right next to the famous North Face Wall of Eiger. Using a harness, stairs and metal stairs you can climb 400m of incline to the 360-degree panoramic viewpoint. You can get there from the Eigergletscher Station which is above the Kleine Scheidegg station on the train route to Jungfraujoch. It is marked with the blue and white mountain standard trail signs. Of course there is the Eiger - need I say more :) 5. Also from Eigergletscher Station is a blue and white graded walk to the ´Guggi hut that needs some athletic climbing skills but well worth it for the views and the traverse so close to the glaciers. 6. Mönch ridge walk is also a must do....walking toward the Mönch hut ís about an hour walk from Jungfrau Joch train station but before the hut you go up the southeast ridge. The lower section of the climb will lead you to the rain gauge, and from there you will easily climb to the first snow ridge. There is snow along the way but it is not far. You can do it as a day trip when you start early. BE the adventurer.  The life of a river is complicated. Complicated by changing weather patterns and seasons. The raging Weisse Lütchine is always underway carrying massive amounts I glacial moraine from melting glaciers and capturing the many rivers, streams and tributaries that come into this ancient Lauterbrunnen Valley.
A stroll beside the Weisse Lütchine from Stechelberg to Lauterbrunnen will give you an appreciation for how it changes in mood , speed and sound. Always a postcard, it is rarely not featured in famous Insta shot spots. The constant river management projects of the local council can be seen at many points along the length of the Weisse Lütchine before it joins up with it’s sister from Grindelwald, the Schwarz Lütschine at their rendezvous point in Zweilütchine. Widening the river helps to slow down this bustling river and protect the adjoining farming pastures from flooding. The valley was first and will always be, a significant agricultural region. So the farmers are most grateful and of course the canoeists who enjoy the swiftness are still never disappointed with the changes. Your passion is extreme sports in the mountains? Then canyoning could be for you. You are torn: dare to do it or rather go paddling instead? Only after you have had this full on experience will you know if canyoning is the right sport for you.  -Suspended in the air, attached to a rope, and that's just the beginning. A breathtaking adventure, you will discover a unique and exciting activity.
With a helmet, wetsuit and harness, you'll throw yourself down rocks, ditches, waterfalls and deep gorges. As you whiz down these natural slides and let yourself be carried away by the water, the feelings are indescribable. "Try it out" is the motto! Experience this insane moment where the adrenaline will soar. In a safe way, of course. It was explained to you: once the fears are overcome, everything else is downhill. I mean, running downhill, down a rock face....totally exhilarating. And abseiling through a waterfall is just the best. Only from May to October. Contact: Outdoor Switzerland AG Hauptstrasse 15 3800 Matten bei Interlaken Schweiz Phone: +41 33 224 07 04 E-mail: [email protected] Website: www.outdoor.ch/en Need to know - Canyoning is only possible in the summer (May-October) - Whether or not the tours can go ahead depends on weather conditions and water levels - You will be provided with all the necessary equipment (neoprene suit, helmet and life jacket) - Please bring the following with you: Swimming costume, large towel, small backpack, money for video and souvenirs - Swimming ability: recommended but not essential - Fitness: physically fit - Minimum age: 12 (beginners’ tour) - Weight: Max 125 kg 3 kilometers, 600 meters in altitude and an average gradient of 20%..  Photo from https://velosolutions.com/
The Grütsch trail in Lauterbrunnen offers advanced bikers a real challenge. The ground is constantly changing. From the dusty ground to rocks, roots and North Shore elements, everything is there. The trail is steep and the turns are tight. Nevertheless, the track is incredibly smooth. "As the name "Grütsch" already suggests in Bern German, it is a large landslide. The big boulders in the lower part of the route were an enormous challenge for the shape crew. Since blasting was not a solution, the crew quickly built north shore constructions over the cairns. The cable car takes bikers comfortably to the start on the Grütschalp. When you get hungry or thirsty, you can sit on one of the terraces of the base bars on Dorfstrasse. And Vernon at Imboden Bike shop in Lauterbrunnen can fit you out with whatever bike gear you need. www.coop.ch/en/Online-Supermarket.htmlNo car during your stay and feeling like cooking? Just shop online! We have always found the prices at the Coop store in Lauterbrunnen to be the same as in Interlaken and also at, Murren and Wengen. Of course the range is not the same in Lauterbrunnen as it is in Interlaken. Coop offer online shopping, you can have it delivered (free if over 200CHF) or you can pick it up in Lauterbrunnen for free. At Camping Jungfrau, their small store offers a range of not-so-cheap grocery and fresh bread options. A lot of local items from the region: cheese, for example, beer, bread and croissants from Beck. Plus souvenirs. It is a short walk left along the Weiße Lütchine, then over the wooden Bridge. Their restaurant called Restaurant Weidstübli is fantastic, but you need to book. +41 33 856 20 10 If you have a car, some of the most uncrowded grocery shopping and easy parking is at the Oberland Centre just 2 minutes drive from Wildersvil. Here you can park undercover and there is a Migros Store (comparable to Coop) and a cheaper Denner next door. www.oberlandshopping.ch Address: Aegertiweg 33 3812 Wilderswil You can park for 2 hours free of charge (but your car number must be entered at the machine). Also Bus line 105 stops right in front of Oberland Shopping.   Just an hour and a half by car (or 2 and a half by train) on the other side of the Breithorn, the tallest peak that you can see from the balcony, is the village of Lötschental.
Do you dare to cross the mountain? At Carnival, these Tschäggättä masked figures will appear in the Lötschental. These bestial creatures are in fact locals from the valley who wear old clothes inside out, with the fur facing outwards. They are covered by two pieces of sheepskin or goatskin, held together by a leather belt with a cow bell ("Trichla") usually hanging down from their leather belt. Hiding behind their handmade wooden masks, they run alone or in groups through the narrow streets of the mountain villages and frighten those around them and play pranks. This tradition sometimes became so reckless that the Church repeatedly had to prohibit it. Today, the Tschäggättä chiefly roam the valley on "Dirty Thursday",(Shrove Thursday) and hunt down and frighten anyone who is still out on the streets. There is a masked parade in the village of Wiler on the Saturday prior to Ash Wednesday. The remote valley in the canton of Valais has only been connected to the outside world by a paved road since 1954. And so customs have survived here that are no longer known elsewhere. The Tschäggätta are the most spectacular proof of this. In the mountain village of Blatten, the last town in the narrow valley, holidaymakers can see the best mask specimens. The "Maskenkeller" is a small museum and houses particularly impressive masks. https://www.loetschentalermuseum.ch/tragmaske-6/ No one really knows were the custom originated. However a story of the shady side of the valley with even poorer inhabitants is also often told: In order to be able to steal a few groceries from their more affluent neighbors on the sunny side without being recognized, they are said to have disguised themselves and thus established the custom. You can do a mask carving workshop for 49CHF https://www.loetschental.ch/de/sommer/gruppenangebote/maskenschnitzen-79 The Carnival in Lötschental is from 03.02.2023 to 21.02.2023 Tschäggättä-Procession from Blatten to Ferden: 8pm 16. February Carnival masquerade in Wiler: 3pm 18. February  Hot Tug by Pirate Bay in Brienz Up to 3 people can enjoy their own private and unique wellness spa in 38°C warm water in a private tug boat on Lake Brienz. 248CHF for 90 minutes including a refreshment drink.www.pirate-bay.ch/de/hottug/wellness-hotpot-boot/
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Eyhus 5,
3822 Lauterbrunnen, Schweiz Email: [email protected] About Us: We love the Jungfrau Region and enjoy helping guests to plan and discover the beauty here for themselves. Summer, Winter, Spring and Autumn each have their opportunities to give inspiration in this amazing Playground. |
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