Unforgettable Alpine Adventures: Exploring the Majestic Bernese Alps of Switzerland
Toronto to Switzerland
Welcome to our Bernese Alps blog.
We visited in September.
We loved Switzerland and was blown away by the spectacular beauty of it's mountain peaks, glimmering lake and quaint villages as well as the vibrant cities.
The first time I saw a photo of Staubbach Falls, I was so fascinated. The illusion from afar of the free flowing waters with a mist of spray falling over chalets was an irresistible draw to this stunning village. I was so overwhelmed and could not contain the excitement within to have been there. The valley totally exceeded my expectations and still drooly when thinking back.
Bernese Alps
The Bernese Alps in Switzerland are a magnificent mountain range that offer breathtaking vistas, world-renowned skiing and hiking opportunities, charming alpine villages, picturesque lakes and waterfalls, and a unique blend of Swiss-German culture and traditions.
Air Travel
Air Canada non-stop flight from Toronto to Zurich.
Transit from Zurich Flughafen Airport to Spiez
The train from the airport to Spiez, with one very short train change-over at Bern, took about 2 hours. We purchased tickets in advance online from SBB - Swiss Federal Railways ( national railway company of Switzerland). Single journey supersaver ticket US$53 (CHF 50.60) p/p.
Directions at the airport are clear and easy to follow for trains. Trains are always right on schedule - if carrying a lot of luggage be sure to board the train ahead of time. The connecting train for Spiez was just across the platform in Bern.
** Trainline: Your Travel Companion
If you’re planning a rail journey across Europe, Trainline is an indispensable tool to have in your travel arsenal. Trainline is a comprehensive platform that simplifies the process of booking train and bus tickets, making your travel experience smooth and hassle-free.
Weather
We were blessed when visited in early September, clear sunny days with perfect temperatures all day and everyday averaging 21 degrees Celsius. We just needed to wear our light jacket early mornings and evenings as the days were pretty warm. Flowers still in full bloom everywhere, clear views of mountains peeking from afar with their snow capped peaks.
Transit Pass
Berner Oberland - regional pass. We purchased the 4-day pass for unlimited travel by bus, train ( long distance and regional), boat and cable car in the Bernese Oberland. It also includes discounts and benefits with bonus partners. We preferred this pass rather than the Swiss pass as it had better benefits for our Bernese Alps trip. We saved a lot by using this pass - cable cars and trains are quite expensive in Switzerland. Purchased online from Berner Oberland - 4-day pass US$285 (CHF 270) p/p
Accommodation
Faulensee
6 nights
Lake and mountain view chalet - very clean, family friendly, spacious with a fully equipped kitchen and also a washing machine. There is also a free parking space if driving.
From Spiez station, bus 65 to Faulensee Am See stop (9 stops, 10 mins).
The host Agnes very kindly offered to pick us up at Spiez station which is about 5 mins drive to the chalet. She is a very nice and friendly lady and made our stay very enjoyable, always available to answer our questions about visiting the region.
The views of the lake and mountains are simply amazing from the chalet, which is on an elevation. Beautiful sunrise over the mountains and amazing sunset on the lake.
Very convenient location with bus stop just down the steps on the main road to travel to Spiez, Interlaken, etc.; 5 mins walk away is the boat dock Faulensee on Lake Thun.
There is small superette Vlog about 15 mins walk from the chalet and some restaurants near the boat dock.
Zurich
2 nights
Conveniently located from the airport with free airport shuttle. Room is spacious and clean. Good breakfast from 6.30am to start the day. Didn't have dinner at hotel.
Tourist Office:
Tourismusburo Faulensee is just a few mins walk away from the chalet. Please check them out, they are friendly and helpful.
Eat
It is very expensive to eat out every day in Switzerland. Fortunately, Migros supermarket is a life saver, so to speak, and also mini superette Volg, about 15 mins walk from where we stayed. We did our grocery shopping at these 2 places. We had our breakfast at home before heading out with our prepared lunch. In the evening, a few days we prepared dinner or ate out locally.
Getting Around
Faulensee Tourist office and Boat Hire is just a stone throw away from the chalet. Very helpful to plan your stay.
Mobile Data
Sunrise 7-day prepaid SIM for US$20 (CHF 19.90)
Planning
Plan your route and hiking trails. All destinations on their websites have hiking maps. Also, tourists info offices are very helpful and have hike maps.
Things we Packed - Lightweight waterproof travel backpack.
Hiking boots - If you plan to take the cable-car and not hike down, you can get away with sports shoes. But I highly recommend hiking boots because there are some gravelly and uneven parts of the trail, so you need ankle support. Plus, when you walk through the caves, it can be wet so good traction is totally necessary.
Hiking Clothing - We got away with light hiking tops and pants/shorts. Although we did pack some warmers which we didn't get to use much.
Lightweight Waterproof / Windbreaker Jacket – In these high altitudes clouds can roll in any time, bringing moisture or just coldness. A windbreaker waterproof jacket is a good idea.
Water bottle – Bring your bottle as you can refill at the numerous natural spring fountains. Mountain spring waters are so refreshing and pure.
Hiking Poles – We didn't bring any but they would have helped tremendously on some sections of trails.
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