Destinations to visit during summers. Places that make your heart go ‘wow’!
Switzerland is such a beautiful country. It can be explored in any season, but summer is special. The greenery and blue skies enchant the landscape. Here are a few places that I strongly recommend for your family weekend get-aways.
Gstaad-Saanen-Laueenensee
An Alpine region with chalet villages, this is a wonderful area to indulge in the mountain experience. Saanen is especially pretty and is famous for its calm and crowd-free feel and, among Indians, for some of those DDLJ spots.
My recent visit here was extraordinary. Upon entering this town by car, you can stop at the parking area from where you get a panoramic view of the village. This is a quiet and small village which has few spots to visit, like the Bahnhof (the DDLJ ‘palat’ bridge, which also has the board with the star couple on it).
A walk around the town takes an hour. Couple it with a visit to the Lauenensee for a perfect day trip.
Lauenensee is a small set of lakes. Around 15 mins drive from Saanen, it has perfect picnic/grill spots.
Mürren
This is one of my favourites – a vehicle-free town with North-facing trails to hike. Take a gondola to get here and experience a wonderful stay at a Chalet-styled bed and breakfast. An early morning hike will give you a wonderful view of the Schilthorn mountain range.
Murten
A medieval town with a beautiful lake, Murten is situated on the language border between French and German. The town has a lovely lakeside promenade and offers a wide range of water sports, cultural activities and other excursions. Watch the sunset over the lake and the magnificent views of Mont Vully and the Jura.
Caumasee
Lake Cauma is known as ‘Jewel of Flims’ and lies in the Graubunden area. A blue lake surrounded by tall coniferous trees and some fantastic views makes it very attractive. Shallow waters, nice beach and walking trails are fantastic.
Gurten bei Bern
A 45-minute hike up Wabern bei Bern gives you a fantastic view of Bern city. It is apt for families with small kids as a funicular takes you up and there is plenty of entertainment for kids on the hill. The Rodelbahn/Solarbob adds for the fun factor. There are walking trails around too and green lawns to grill and relax.
Areuse Gorge
A wonderful hike along the river near Neuchatel holds a treasure of dramatic narrow walking trails and picnic spots. One can hike all the way from Noiraigue to the famous stone bridge – the Areuse gorge. For young families, there is a short stroller-friendly walk of 2 km along the river, which takes you to the gorge directly. Car parking is available near the Maison de Nature.
Vallorbe
Image courtesy: GI
Vallorbe caves located in the Jura mountains are a day visit with family. Visit the famous and impressively illuminated stalactites, stalagmites and limestone columns. The Cathedral, at over 30 m high, is a natural theatre for a sound and light show. The visit concludes with the Fairy Treasure Trove, an amazing collection of 250 minerals from all over the world.
Enjoy the summer in Switzerland and stay safe!
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