Professional Documents
Culture Documents
www.backpacker.ch
Breakfast / Halfboard included
Price per bed in dormitory
Wheelchair accessibility
Price per double room
Washing facilities
Kitchen facilities
Number of beds
WLAN available
Internet station
BUDGET ACCOMMODATION SWITZERLAND
Lockers
in CHF
in CHF
Place Name Street Phone web / mail
! Arosa Downtown Backpackers Arosa (closed April 18th – June 19th) Seewaldstrasse 081 377 13 97 www.downtown-arosa.ch 59.– 144.– B W 150
@ Aurigeno Baracca Backpacker (closed after Oct 31st) SB Al runch cavalign 079 207 15 54 www.baracca-backpacker.ch 31.–* 75.–* K L W 13
# Basel Basel St. Alban Youth Hostel HI St. Alban – Kirchrain 10 061 272 05 72 basel@youthhostel.ch from 41.10 *** from 131.20 *** B L W I W X 234
$ Bern Bern Backpackers / Hotel Glocke SB Rathausgasse 75 031 311 37 71 www.bernbackpackers.ch from 34.– from 86.– K L W I W 71
$ Bern Bern Youth Hostel HI Weihergasse 4 031 326 11 11 bern@youthhostel.ch from 36.35 *** from 91.70 *** B W I W X 180
$ Bern Hotel Landhaus Altenbergstrasse 4 031 348 03 05 www.albertfrida.ch 38.–** from 120.– B K L I W 32
$ Bern Hotel Pension Marthahaus Wyttenbachstrasse 22a 031 332 41 35 www.marthahaus.ch 45.– from 100.– B K L I W 70
% Braunwald Adrenalin Backpackers Hostel SB im Dorfkern 079 347 29 05 www.adrenalin.gl 35.–*/** from 96.– B K L I W 60
^ Cabbiolo-Lostallo Humanità Backpacker’s SB alla villa 091 830 14 81 www.humanita.ch 27.– from 80.– K L W I 23
& Château-d’Oex Château-d’Oex Youth Hostel (for closing times see page 22) HI Route des Monnaires 67 026 924 64 04 chateau.d.oex@youthhostel.ch from 36.–*** from 94.–*** B W I 50
* Churwalden The Lodge (closed April 15th – May 28th) SB Hauptstrasse 150 076 345 62 92 www.snowmotions.com 31.– 86.– W W 15
( Dachsen at Rhine Falls Dachsen Youth Hostel HI Schloss Laufen at Rhinefalls 052 659 61 52 dachsen@youthhostel.ch from 28.50 *** – B 83
BL Davos Dorf Davos Youthpalace HI Horlaubenstrasse 27 081 410 19 20 davos@youthhostel.ch from 52.40 *** from 144.80 *** HB L I W X 235
BM Disentis Cucagna Hostel SB Via Alpsu 19 081 929 55 55 www.cucagnahostel.ch 32.70 85.40 W I W 50
BN Geneva City Hostel Geneva SB 2, rue Ferrier 022 901 15 00 www.cityhostel.ch 32.– 87.– K L W I W 98
BO Gimmelwald Mountain Hostel SB Niedere Matte 033 855 17 04 www.mountainhostel.com 26.– – K W I W 50
BP Grindelwald Downtown Lodge (closed Apr 11th – May 21st) SB Dorfzentrum 033 828 77 30 www.downtown-lodge.ch from 36.– from 82.– B K L W I W X 290
BP Grindelwald Grindelwald Youth Hostel (closed Apr 12th – May 12th) HI die Weid 12, Terrassenweg 033 853 10 09 grindelwald@youthhostel.ch from 36.30 *** from 90.60 *** B L W I 131
BP Grindelwald Naturfreundehaus (closed April 11th – May 13th + after Oct 10th) Terrassenweg 033 853 13 33 www.nfh.ch/grindelwald 39.– 88.– B K L W I W 65
BQ Gryon Chalet Martin SB Rue du Villars 079 724 63 74 www.gryon.com from 25.– from 70.– K W I W 32
BR Interlaken Backpackers Villa Sonnenhof SB Alpenstrasse 16 033 826 71 71 www.villa.ch 37.– 98.– B K L W I W X 180
BR Interlaken Balmer’s Herberge SB Hauptstrasse 23 033 822 19 61 www.balmers.com 27.- 74.- B K L W I W 250
BR Interlaken Happy Inn Lodge SB Rosenstrasse 17 033 822 32 25 www.happy-inn.com 22.– / 24.– from 52.– K L I W 70
BR Interlaken River Lodge (closed after Oct 11th) SB Brienzstrasse 24 033 822 44 24 www.riverlodge.ch from 29.– from 92.– K L W I W 72
BR Interlaken-Bönigen Interlaken-Bönigen Youth Hostel (closed after Oct 25th) HI Aareweg 21 033 822 43 53 boenigen@youthhostel.ch from 32.50 *** – B K L W I 150
BR Interlaken-Unterseen The lazy Falken Backpackerhotel SB Spielmatte 8 033 822 30 43 www.lazyfalken.ch from 30.– from 120.– B K L W I W 50
* = bed-sheets not included ** = no breakfast included *** = surcharge CHF 6.– / night for non HI members (families CHF 12.– / night) s = no dormitory available (single rooms only) (w) = women only
MAP OF SWITZERLAND
Mulhouse
GERMANY Überlingen
Ravensburg
Schaffhausen
Neuhausen 31 Konstanz Kempten
Lure Waldshut- Dachsen
Friedrichshafen
Belfort Kreuzlingen B
Tiengen
9
34 od
en
Vesoul Stein am Rhein se Lindau
e
Rhein Romanshorn
Basel Eglisau Frauenfeld Weinfelden
Rheinfelden Winterthur Arbon
Aare
Montbéliard 3 Bregenz
Binningen Liestal
Baden Wil Bischoffszell St. Margarethen
Zell
Porrentruy Zürich
35
Aarau St. Gallen
42
Uster Gossau
Delémont Lenzburg
Olten Le
ch
Aarburg Uetliberg Küsnacht Wattwil Herisau
Besançon Moutier Appenzell
Zofingen Affoltern Feldkirch
Stäfa Rapperswil
Muri Ebnat-
LIECHTENSTEIN
Zürichsee
Solothurn Wädenswil
Grenchen Langenthal Kappel
Zug Schaan
FRANCE
Sursee Buchs
Biel Herzogen-
Weesen
30
Einsiedeln
La Chaux-
Nidau 25
Bieler
See
Lyss buchsee
Affoltern
Willisau
23
Walchwil
Steinen
Unterterzen
Flums
Sar-
gans
Vaduz
AUSTRIA
de-Fonds Burgdorf Lucerne Glarus
Weggis
32 Schwyz Bad Ragaz Samnaun
Neuchâtel Mt. Rigi Brunnen
Vierwald-
5Braunwald
Landquart
Murtensee Bern Worb Langnau Mt. Pilatus stätter See Linthal
Nauders
Neuenburger 4 Stans Altdorf Steinibach Sent
ein
ITALY Varese
Como
Lecco
St. Vincent
Aosta
Bergamo
Monza
Breakfast / Halfboard included
Price per bed in dormitory
Wheelchair accessibility
Price per double room
Washing facilities
Kitchen facilities
Number of beds
WLAN available
Internet station
BUDGET ACCOMMODATION SWITZERLAND
Lockers
in CHF
in CHF
Place Name Street Phone web / mail
BS Klosters Klosters Youth Hostel (closed Apr 7th – Jun 18th and after Oct 19th) HI “Soldanella”, Talstrasse 73 081 422 13 16 klosters@youthhostel.ch from 38.50 *** from 89.–*** B I 94
BT Kreuzlingen Kreuzlingen Youth Hostel HI Promenadenstrasse 7 071 688 26 63 kreuzlingen@youthhostel.ch from 30.70 *** from 72.40 *** B I X 93
BU Laax-Cons Backpacker Deluxe Hotel Capricorn (closed Apr 18th – May 29th) SB Via Cons 405 081 921 21 20 www.caprilounge.ch 28.–* from 90.– L W I W 54
CL Lausanne Lausanne Guesthouse & Backpacker SB Ch. des Epinettes 4 021 601 80 00 www.lausanne-guesthouse.ch 36.–* 105.– K L W I W X 80
CL Lausanne Lausanne Youth Hostel "Jeunotel" HI Ch. du Bois-de-Vaux 36 021 626 02 22 lausanne@youthhostel.ch from 38.10 *** from 98.20 *** B W I X 320
CM Lauterbrunnen Valley Hostel SB Fuhren 033 855 20 08 www.valleyhostel.ch from 28.– from 66.– K W I W 70
CN Locarno Locarno Youth Hostel HI Via B. Varenna 18 091 756 15 00 locarno@youthhostel.ch from 40.25 *** from 85.50 *** B L W I W X 198
CO Lucerne Backpackers Lucerne SB Alpenquai 42 041 360 04 20 www.backpackerslucerne.ch 32.– 72.– / 78.– K L W I W 78
CO Lucerne Lion Lodge Luzern SB Zürichstrasse 57 041 410 01 44 www.lionlodge.ch 33.90 / 35.90 75.80 / 93.80 K L W I W 82
CO Lucerne Lucerne Youth Hostel HI Sedelstrasse 12 041 420 88 00 luzern@youthhostel.ch from 35.90 *** from 91.80 *** B L W I 194
CP Montreux Montreux Youth Hostel HI Passage de l’Auberge 8 021 963 49 34 montreux@youthhostel.ch from 33.50 *** from 96.–*** B L I X 112
CQ Nidau b. Biel Lago Lodge SB Uferweg 5 032 331 37 32 www.lagolodge.ch 30.– 84.– K L W I W X 88
CR Pontresina Pontresina Youth Hostel HI “Cuntschett”, Via da la Staziun 46 081 842 72 23 pontresina@youthhostel.ch from 38.–*** from 124.–*** B W I 130
CS Saanen Saanen-Gstaad Youth Hostel (for closing times see page 22) HI Spitzhornweg 25 033 744 13 43 saanen@youthhostel.ch from 38.30 *** from 92.60 *** B W I 72
CT Saas Fee Touristenlager Lukas Imseng (closed May 5th – 15th) 027 958 12 58 info@hotel-imseng.ch from 35.–* from 110.– B L W X 21
CU Santa Maria in Müstair Sta. Maria i.M. Youth Hostel (cl. before Jun 4th and after Oct 17th) HI Chasa Plaz 081 858 56 61 sta.maria@youthhostel.ch from 35.80 *** from 101.60 *** B K W 54
DL Schaan-Vaduz Schaan-Vaduz Youth Hostel (closed after Oct 25th) HI Untere Rüttigasse 6 +4232325022 schaan@youthhostel.ch from 33.10 *** from 84.20 *** B L W I X 110
DM Schaffhausen Schaffhausen Youth Hostel HI Randenstrasse 65 052 625 88 00 schaffhausen@youthhostel.ch from 29.50 *** from 69.–*** B I 93
DN Schwyz Hirschen backpackers.hotel.pub SB Hinterdorfstrasse 14 041 811 12 76 www.hirschen-schwyz.ch 29.–*/32.–* from 92.– /124.– K L W I W 35 35
DO Scuol Scuol Youth Hostel (closed Apr 6th – Jun 10th and after Oct 10th) HI Prà da faira 081 862 31 31 scuol@youthhostel.ch from 36.50 *** from 121.–*** B I W X 164
DP Stein am Rhein Stein am Rhein Youth Hostel HI Hemishoferstrasse 87 052 741 12 55 stein@youthhostel.ch from 29.50 *** from 72.–*** B I 82
DQ St. Gallen St. Gallen Youth Hostel HI Jüchstrasse 25 071 245 47 77 st.gallen@youthhostel.ch from 31.80 *** from 89.60 *** B L W I 87
DR St. Moritz Randolins Backpackers SB Via Curtins 2 081 830 83 83 www.randolins-backpackers.ch 48.– / 58.– 96.– / 116.– B L W I W 86
DR St. Moritz-Bad St. Moritz Bad Youth Hostel (closed Apr 12th – Jul 11th and after Oct 19th) HI Via Surpunt 60 081 836 61 11 st.moritz@youthhostel.ch from 54.50 *** from 129.–*** HB L W I W 220
DS St. Moritz-Celerina Hotel “Alte Brauerei” Via Maistra 60 081 832 18 74 www.alte-brauerei.ch 46.– * 130.– B W I W 260
DT Valbella Valbella Youth Hostel (closed Apr 6th – Jun 18th and after Oct 18th) HI Voa Sartons 41 081 384 12 08 valbella@youthhostel.ch from 38.90 *** from 211.80 *** B L I X 136
DU Vevey Riviera Lodge SB Place du Marché 5 021 923 80 40 www.rivieralodge.ch from 32.– from 88.– K L W I W 60
EL Yverdon-les-Bains Gite du Passant Rue du Parc 14 024 425 12 33 info@gite-du-passant.ch 31.– 77.– B K W W X 82
EM Zermatt Matterhorn Hostel Schluhmattstrasse 32 027 968 19 19 info@matterhornhostel.com from 34.–* from 88.–* L I W 56
EM Zermatt Zermatt Youth Hostel HI Staldenweg 5 027 967 23 20 zermatt@youthhostel.ch from 51.10 *** from 136.20 *** HB L W I 174
EN Zurich City Backpacker / Hotel Biber SB Niederdorfstrasse 5 044 251 90 15 www.city-backpacker.ch from 35.–* from 110.– K L W I W 65
EN Zurich Hotel Foyer Hottingen Hottingerstr. 31/Cäcilienstr. 10 044 256 19 19 www.hotel-foyer-hottingen.ch 42.50 (w) 125.– B K L W W X 74
EN Zurich Zurich Youth Hostel HI Mutschellenstrasse 114 043 399 78 00 zuerich@youthhostel.ch from 42.–*** from 127.–*** B L W I W X 281
* = bed-sheets not included ** = no breakfast included *** = surcharge CHF 6.– / night for non HI members (families CHF 12.– / night) s = no dormitory available (single rooms only) (w) = women only
© copyright by Swiss Backpacker News, Am Bach 7, 5502 Hunzenschwil – Switzerland. All information is subject to change. No copying without permission of the publisher.
SB = «Swiss Backpackers». personal attention at r eception. These hostels are HI = «Hostelling International». All have to pay a surcharge of CHF 6.– per night
All hostels marked with «SB» independently owned and operated. Their standards, hostels marked with «HI» are members (families CHF12.– / night).
are members of the Swiss Back- provisions and methods of management may vary of the Swiss Youth Hostel Association. The cheapest way to become a member is to
packers association and comply with minimum accordingly. All offer dormitories as well as a choice The brand stands for the role as a low-cost provider register in your country before you depart.
standards such as self catering kitchen and/or of smaller rooms. No membership is required. that values high quality and promotes socially www.youthhostel.ch
reasonably priced restaurant, 24 hour access and www.swissbackpackers.ch responsible and green tourism. Non-HI members
You can find the whole list with direct links under www.backpacker.ch We hope you’ll enjoy your visit to Switzerland!
CONTENTS
2 Budget Accommodation in Switzerland 15 Central Switzerland – Swiss Knife Valley 27 Valais 42 Northeastern Switzerland & Liechtenstein
4 Travel Know-How 17 National Events 28 Bernese Oberland – Some Highlights 44 Grison
5 List of Discounts (transport) 18 Lake Geneva Region – Lausanne 32 Bernese Oberland – Grindelwald 48 Ticino
6 Zurich 20 Lake Geneva Region – Vevey & Montreux 34 Competition 49 Incoming / Outgoing (European Hostels)
11 Braunwald 22 Lake Geneva Region – Some Highlights 36 Bernese Oberland – Interlaken 50 Factory Visits
12 Central Switzerland – Lucerne 23 Biel-Bienne 38 Bern
14 Central Switzerland – Some Highlights 24 Geneva 40 Basel
Swiss travel know-how…
…and all you need to know about Switzerland
national directory information see www.
directories.ch or call 1811 or 1818.
Post: Postcards and letters (if under 20 gr
weight) within Europe CHF 1.20 (priority
1.30), overseas CHF 1.40 (priority 1.80).
Tipping: Tips are included on all hotel/hostel
and restaurant bills. It is neither necessary
nor expected to give an extra tip. Tip when
the service is nice and friendly.
Water: Tap water is fine to drink nearly
everywhere. Some fountains carry the sign
“Kein Trinkwasser” or “eau non potable.”
This means no drinking water!
Weather, Clothes and Climate: The climate
is moderate with no excessive heat, cold or
humidity. March to May, October & Novem-
ber the daytime temperatures range from
5 to 15 degrees (Celsius), from June to Sep-
tember from 18 – 30 degrees. Depending on
the altitude, the temperature range may
vary!
Work: Switzerland is known as a country
with a restrictive policy regarding foreign
labor. And if you get caught working ille-
gally you can be fined and deported.
accommodation
Swiss Backpackers (www.swissbackpackers.
ch): a group of independent hostels uniting
A hiker on tour … In the background the Matterhorn (4,478 m)
the Swiss Backpacker Hostels have dormito-
ries as well as private rooms, all conveying
Switzerland was founded over 700 years European Union: Switzerland is not a a friendly and international atmosphere
ago (1291). Today 26 politically sovereign member of the European Union (EU). plus self catering kitchen and/or reason-
cantons make up the modern federation Health Insurance: As there is no state ably priced restaurant. Almost all of their
of Switzerland. medical health service in Switzerland, and addresses are listed on page 2 + 3 (marked
as medical treatment must be paid for, it with SB) and under ›››www.backpacker.ch
is advisable to take out insurance against Swiss Youth Hostel Association (www.
personal accident and illness. youthhostel.ch): is affiliated with the Hos-
general information Internet / E-mail: Most hostels offer inter- telling International network HI. The cheap-
Currency: Swiss Franc “Franken/franc”, net access and even WLAN, and in most est way to become a member is to register
CHF 1. – = 100 cents “Rappen/centimes”. towns and cities you’ll find at least one in your country before you depart. As a non-
Exchange rate (fixed on Feb 19th 2010): Internet café; see “Practical Information” HI member you have to pay a surcharge of
CHF 1.– corresponds to 0.68 Euros / 0.92 US$. of each section.
$ save money
Cinema: In the German part of Switzer-
land, cinemas nearly always show films in
Lockers: Almost every railway station has
lockers where you can leave your baggage.
Supersaver tickets give you big dis- their original language (e.g. a film marked Population / Languages: Switzerland has
counts on selected train journeys. It’s E/f/d means spoken in English with subtitles a population of about 7.5 million. The na-
worth buying early as there are only a in French and German). Cheaper admis- tional languages of Switzerland are Swiss-
limited number of supersavers for each sion on Mondays! There are many open-air German (north, central and east), French
train. Supersaver tickets are only avail- cinemas during July and August. (west), Italian (south) and Rhaeto-Romanic
able during a special offer period. You Democracy: The Swiss vote, a few times (south-east).
can only buy supersaver tickets online each year, on local, cantonal and federal Phoning: Most public phones accept cards
at the SBB Ticket Shop ›››www.rail.ch issues like public building, raising taxes, only (no coins). Taxcards are sold at post
› Travel › Ticket Shop › Supersaver tickets (spe- and environmental and international offices, at all “kiosks” (small shops where
cial conditions), as an online ticket that you participation. you find newspapers, cigarettes and
print yourself print@home. This is a great Emergency phone numbers: 117 Police, sweets), at train and petrol stations, and
Fondue fun at a mountain restaurant
deal, make use of it! 144 Ambulance, 118 Fire Brigade. at most hostels. For national and inter-
SWISS TRAVEL KNOW-HOW 5
CHF 6.– per night (families CHF 12.– per toes and mixed pickles); Rösti (German- 195.– respectively CHF 260.– and up. Swiss and Zurich you can borrow bikes free of
night). Their most important addresses are Swiss dish: grated fried potatoes, some- Flexi Pass (3 days up to 6 days within a charge! For more information about this
listed on page 2 + 3 (marked with HI) and times with egg, with sausage, onions or month), 3 days for CHF 249.– and up. great deal see the pages about each par-
under ›››www.backpacker.ch bacon). Swiss Half Fare Card, 1-month half-fare ticular city. Walking / Hiking: Switzerland,
Hostels: There are many more hostels all card for CHF 99.– (with this card you pay with its well-kept paths and trails, is an
around Switzerland, some of them also only 50% of the normal fare!). For a second ideal country for hiking! Maps of trails are
listed at ›››www.backpacker.ch. Another person or more, passes are available at 15% available from local tourist offices. You’ll
affordable hotel group is Etap Hotels
transport reduction. Kids under 16 travel for free with find some hiking tips inside this news
›››www.etaphotel.com. Public Transport: Cities and towns have the Swiss Travel System Family Card. The paper!
excellent transportation networks. Buy tickets can be ordered online or by phone Guided Tours: Do you want to experience
your ticket from a ticket machine, which at 00800 100 200 23 (foc). In Switzerland, Switzerland on a personally guided tour?
you’ll find at almost every stop. For dis- Swiss Passes are available at major rail- Swizzbuzz offer adventurous activities in
food counts, check the list below! way stations. Swiss Pass holders not only Switzerland with a flexible service for
Restaurants: The variety of food served is Railway System: You will appreciate Swit- get unlimited access to the train, bus and backpackers off the beaten track for local
wide, from traditional to international zerland’s extensive railway system. It is boat network, but also get a generous culture and alternative activities – and
cuisine. Most Migros and Coop super- relaxing and comfortable and will allow discount on most mountain transport (see unlike an ordinary Swiss bus tour you
markets have cheap restaurants and, of you to fully enjoy the scenery. Normal transport discount list below) and free have the option to get off and stay longer
course, you’ll also find McDonald’s. In the point-to-point tickets and reservations can admission to practically all of Switzer in any place. For information see ›››www.
cities check out the wide range of take-out be purchased at every railway station. land’s world class museums and exhibi- swizzbuzz.ch or call 076 245 99 82.
stands, for example, turkish kebab, falafel Seat reservations are only required on spe- tions! ›››www.swisstravelsystem.ch/en
or just simple pizza and burgers. cial scenic trains like the Glacier Express, Post Buses: The Swiss post buses are ideal Rough Guide is the best travel source
Supermarkets: There are plenty of super- the Bernina Express, etc. For all train in- if you want to travel off the beaten path. for your trip through Switzerland.
markets like Coop and Migros where you formation, call 0900 300 300 (CHF 1.19 per With some of the post buses you can cross ›››www.roughguides.co.uk
can stock up on your provisions. min.) or see ›››www.rail.ch alpine passes. The Swiss Passes (see above)
Traditional Swiss Dishes: Traditional and Train Tickets: Single train tickets are all valid on post buses (surcharge on
regional dishes play an important role in $ are expensive, so if you’re frequently some mountain routes)! ›››www.postbus.ch
homepages:
www.myswitzerland.com/en
the Swiss diet. The ones most widely known using the train in Switzerland, “Swiss Tra- Bicycles: Cycling is very popular in Switzer- www.backpacker.ch
are: cheese fondue (a blend of melted cheese vel System” offers a wide range of tickets land. You’ll find well-marked cycling routes www. swisstravelsystem.ch/en
served up in a big stoneware pot into which to cut costs. The rates for 1 person are: throughout, particularly in the urban
bread or hot potatoes are dipped); Raclette Swiss Youth Pass and Swiss Pass (valid areas. Bicycles can be rented at most rail-
(melted slices of cheese with boiled pota- 4, 8, 15, 22 days or 1 month), 4 days for CHF way stations. In the cities of Bern, Geneva All information is subject to change. ‹‹‹
Swiss Federal Railway free free free 50% free Lucerne city transport (VBL) – – free – free
The Swiss POST bus lines – – free 2.) 50% free 2.) Lucerne – Stans – Engelberg
Geneva city transport (TPG) – – free – free Lucerne – Brünig – Interlaken Ost free free free 50% free
Lake Geneva steamers (CGN) free 50% free 50% free Lake Lucerne steamers (SGV) free 50% free 50% free
Montreux – Zweisimmen (MOB) free free free 50% free Mount Pilatus (PB) 30% 30% 50% 50% 50%
Montreux – Glion – Rochers-de-Naye free 50% 50% 3.) 50% 50% Mount Rigi Railways (RB) 50% 50% free 50% free
Lake Neuchâtel / Morat steamers free – free 50% free Stanserhorn (SthB) 50% 50% 50% 50% 50%
Lake Biel / Bienne steamers (BSG) free 50% free 50% free Mount Titlis (BET) 50% – 50% 50% 50%
BLS (Bern – Lötschberg – Simplon) free free free 50% free Centovalli train (Locarno – Domodossola) free free free 50% free
Bern city transport (Bernmobil) – – free – free Lugano city transport (TPL) – – free – free
Lake Thun and Brienz steamers free 50% free 50% free Lugano – Ponte Tresa (Caslano) – – free 50% free
Interlaken – Lauterbrunnen / Grindelwald 25% – free 50% free Lake Lugano steamers (SNL) – – free 50% 50%
Kleine Scheidegg – Jungfraujoch 25% – 25% 50% 50% Rhätische Bahn (RhB) free free free 50% free
Wilderswil – Schynige Platte (SPB) – – 50% 50% 50% Glacier Express
Lauterbrunnen – Wengen (WAB) 25% – free 50% free St.Moritz – Chur – Disentis (RhB) free free free 50% free
Wengen – Kleine Scheidegg – Grindelwald 25% – 25% 50% 50% Disentis – Brig – Zermatt (MGB) 25% 50% 4.) free 50% free
Grindelwald Grund – Männlichen 25% – 50% 50% 50% Zurich city transport system (VBZ) – – free – free
Lauterbrunnen – Mürren (BLM) 25% – free 50% free Lake Zurich steamers (ZSG) free 50% free 50% free
Stechelberg – Mürren (LSMS) 25% – free 50% free Lake Constance steamers 35 – 50% – free 50% free
Mürren – Schilthorn (LSMS) – – 50% 50% 50% Braunwaldbahn (BRSB) – – free 50% free
Brienz – Rothorn (BRB) – – 50% 50% 50%
Zermatt – Gornergrat (GGB-ggb) 25% 50% 4.) 50% 50% 50% 1.) On transfer days the Swiss Card offers 2.) On selected postal bus lines (e.g. Alpine © by Swiss Backpacker News, Am Bach 7,
the same advantages as the Swiss Pass, passes), the supplement “Alpine Ticket” 5502 Hunzenschwil / Switzerland. All infor-
Brig – Visp – Zermatt (MGB) 25% 50% 4.) free 50% free BUT is not valid on urban transportation is mandatory mation is subject to change. No copying
Zermatt Bergbahnen (ZBAG) – – 50% 50% 50% systems 3.) Montreux – Glion – Caux free without permission of the publishers.
4.) Reduction only for InterRail YOUTH-Pass
Saas Fee – Mittelallalin (LSF) – – 50% 50% 50%
6 ZURICH
Z
pharmacy, shopping, fast food, dentist and urich is beautiful! You could easily spend weeks here. Situated at the north end of tiaplatz until Limmatplatz and enjoy this
medical station “Permanence”, open Lake Zurich and just 15 minutes away from the international airport. The lake, busy, international, big-town feeling (red
7 am – 23 pm (next to the pharmacy). Taxi a river and the distant peaks of the Alps make the city a perfect combination of light district). Lots of second hand shops
Zurich (toll-free at 0800 822 222). Launder- natural beauty, cosmopolitan charm and urban buzz. Exploring on foot is the best way and international take-out food (tasty and
ette Lea’s Waschhaus at Sihlfeldstrasse 88, of getting to know the attractive old town, divided by the Limmat River, or the famous cheap).
or Express Wäscherei at Winterthurer- Bahnhofstrasse 6 and the lake promenade, as well as the Langstrasse area with its West of Limmatplatz the former industrial
strasse 62. @ Internet café at Shop Ville very international ambience (also red light district), or the trendy quarter of Zurich West quarter has changed into a very trendy
(inside the train station) or at your hostel with its new bars and the impressive architectural space called the Schiffbau. The city quarter now called Zurich West. Here you’ll
(guests only). Public transportation (city): silhouette is dominated by the striking towers and spires of three churches – the Gross- find lots of new bars, restaurants and clubs
1-hour ticket CHF 4.–; 24-hour ticket CHF münster church 7; St. Peter’s church , which boasts Europe’s largest clock face (8.7 m and the huge complex called Schiffbau
8.–. ZurichCARD: The ZurichCARD costs or 28.5 ft in diameter); and the Fraumünster church 8, greatly admired for its precious (with drama stages, jazz clubs and more).
CHF 19.– (valid for 24 hours) or CHF 38.– stained glass windows by Marc Chagall. Lindenhof is a beautiful, small, park-like open To get there take tram 4 or 13 until station
(for 72 hours). It gives you unlimited train, space in the middle of the old town. Escher-Wyss-Platz.
streetcar, bus and boat travel in the area of Kunsthaus (Art Museum), Helmplatz 1.
Zurich (incl. airport, city, Uetliberg, and Zurich’s Kunsthaus is called Switzerland’s
even a short roundtrip of 1½ hours on the finest gallery. So if you visit just one art
lake), and free entrance to 39 museums
highlights museum in Switzerland, this should be
and more. Ask for it at the tourist office or 6 The Bahnhofstrasse. Zurich’s world- its stained glass windows in the chancel it! Open Wed – Fri 10 am – 8 pm, Sat, Sun
at one of the train stations! famous shopping street covers a distance by Marc Chagall and the large organ and Tue 10 am – 6 pm, (Mon closed). Entry:
Best souvenir shops in town are: 2 a of 1.4 km (0.9 miles) from the main station (5,793 pipes). Open Mon – Sat 10 am – 6 pm, permanent collection CHF 14.–, students
Teddy’s Souvenir Shop at Limmatquai 34, to the lake. Sun 11.15 am – 6 pm, worship Sun 10 am. CHF 10.–, (free with ZurichCard); on Wed
and 2b Meng Cutlery at Rennweg 31 and 7 Grossmünster church. Zurich’s most 9 Schweizerisches Landesmuseum (Swiss admission is free of charge for all visitors!
at Poststrasse 4 (get a 10% discount with famous landmark and a symbol of the city. National Museum), Museumstrasse 2. The Polyterrace. Hop on the Polybähnli
the voucher on page 7!). Climb the tower (cost CHF 4.–, students castle-like building, surrounded by the (cable car) at Central square and in two
CHF 2.–) and enjoy a terrific view! On a charming Platzspitz park, right behind the minutes you’ll be enjoying the best all-
www.zuerich.com clear day you can even see the snowcapped train station, houses the largest collection round view of the city! The area in front of
www.backpacker.ch Alps. Cathedral open daily 9 am – 6 pm, of objects relating to Swiss cultural his- the Federal Institute of Technology (ETH) is
tower Mon – Sat 9.15 am – 5 pm and Sun tory. Open Tue – Sun 10 am – 5 pm (Thu till a popular viewing point!
TR.
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12.30 – 5.30 pm. 7 pm), closed on Monday! Adm. CHF 10.–, Zurich Zoo and Masoala Rainforest.
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Federal Institute of
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ZURICH 7
$ save money The best choice of souvenirs, gifts and cutlery in town
www.teddyssouvenirshop.ch • www.mengcutlery.ch
For Swiss Army knives • bells • music boxes • cuckoo clocks • T-Shirts •
Free bikes sweatshirts • beer-steins and all kind of trendy souvenirs visit
TEDDY’S SOUVENIR SHOP. For a larger selections in
5 Bikes to borrow free of charge (daytime free, overnight Fr. 10.–)! cutlery, knives, scissors, manicure sets we
Robust city bikes are available all year round at the main railway recommend MENG Cutlery & Souvenirs
station at “Velostation Nord” (opposite track 18 at Museumstrasse
near Landesmuseum) and at “Velostation Süd” (near Sihlpost). Both
open daily 8 am – 9.30 pm. From May to October bikes are also avail-
able at Globus City (a shopping centre close to Bahnhofstrasse) and
at Stadthausquai 1, both open 9 am – 9.30 pm; at the train station
Oerlikon (in front of the Swissôtel), and at the train station Enge, both Open Monday to Saturday • all Credit cards Rennweg 31, near Bahnhofstrasse • Phone 044 211 18 48
open 10 am – 9.30 pm. Bikes can be picked up with presentation of Phone 044 261 22 89 • Fax 044 251 34 07 Poststrasse 4, near Paradeplatz • Phone 044 211 23 67
a valid form of ID and a deposit of CHF 20.–. Zurich’s best summer
deal; make use of it!
10% Backpacker Discount
with this advertisement
8 ZURICH
$ save money
A visit to Zürich does not have to be expensive. Also for those on a tight budget the city with the world’s highest quality
of life is full of surprises and many of its offers are even free of charge:
Bikes
Bikes can be borrowed free of charge (for details about this great
deal see page 7).
Museums
Some museums, whether at the university, the ETH (the Swiss Insti-
tute of Technology), the Central Library or the Museum of Anthropol-
ogy, are both full of fascinating insights and free of charge too.
kitchen tion
t e r n e t sta
in an
free wl Sfr. 35.-
i to r i e s from
dorm rooms
va t e
p r i
f t h e o ld town
eart o
in the h fe
nigths otnlsiwiss
discouknnives
army
w a l k i ng from
ZürichCARD. n.
8 mi in station
Your ticket to the whole of Zürich. the ma ore...
ch m
So much enjoyment for so little money. With ZürichCARD – Zürich will be
and mu
yours to discover:
n Free travel on trains, buses, trams, boats and cable cars
n Free admission to 39 museums
n Free welcome drink in 17 restaurants
n Boat trip on Lake Zürich and the river Limmat
n 50% reduction on the stroll through the Old Town
n Free admission to hip clubs
n Various other reductions
Niederdorfstrasse 5
Put Zürich into your back pocket right now – 24 hours for 19 francs; 72 hours CH-8001 Zürich
for 38 francs. Switzerland
0 15
4 251 9
www.zuerichcard.ch
e: 00 41 (0)4
Phon nline:
book o kpacker.ch
The ZürichCARD is available at Zürich Airport, the Tourist Service at Zürich Main
Railway Station, at VBZ Ticket Offices, Lake Zürich Navigation Company at Bürkli-
ity-bac
platz, as well as at train stations and at selected hotels in Zürich and the region.
www.c
practical information
www.braunwald.ch
www.myswitzerland.com
budget accommodation
An ideal destination for backpackers and sport freaks
Adrenalin Backpackers Hostel (079 347 29
05), situated in the middle of the village
B
centre, just 2 minutes from the mountain raunwald (1,256 m) is a car-free Or how about a trottinett-ride? Trottinetts Or how about the panorama hike? Starts
station of the funicular. ›››www.adrenalin.gl vacation resort located in the (scooter) can be rented at the gondola and ends at Grotzenbüel (1,559 m), season
southernmost region of the Glarner- station Grotzenbüel. from June to October, walking time is about
land (easy to reach within just approx. 90 The alpine route connecting Braunwald 3 hours. An easy hike with spectacular
min from Zurich). It’s located on a slightly to the deep blue Lake Oberblegi and down panoramic views. With some nice moun-
sloped sun terrace, high above the Linth to Schwanden leads hikers through the tain restaurants on the way and, if you are
Valley at 1,256 meters. Braunwald is weird rock formations of the moranes of lucky, you can even see marmots.
surrounded by a fantastic panorama of the Glaernisch Range. Rushing mountain Fishing is possible at the beautiful deep
mountains, with the peak of Tödi a real streams and beautiful alpine flowers round blue Oberblegi lake high above Braunwald.
eye-catcher. The beautiful panorama of the off the picture. Walking time is about 4 h 45 A permit costs CHF 30.– per day, CHF 110.–
Glarner Alps is within clear view and ap- min (altitude difference 280 m ascent and per week.
pears just a step away. Braunwald is far 910 m descent, condition intermediate to Or are you a passionate chess player?
from both traffic and a hectic lifestyle. This difficult), season from June to October, start At Hotel Bellevue you’ll find open-air chess.
is a place to turn your back on the crowds ing point is Braunwald; from Schwanden Car-free does not mean party-free. The
and head for the wilderness. Braunwald return by train to Linthal / Braunwald. Adrenalin Backpackers is not only a hostel,
offers every essential ingredient for an Another great hike is the roundtrip from a restaurant and a bar, but also a party
eventful outing or an unforgettable holiday Braunwald to the Chnügrat. On the way place where you’re sure to get in contact
off the beaten track. you’ll spy the grandiose scenery of the with locals.
Glarner Alps. The glacier-covered Tödi And if it rains? No worries, the Adrenalin
mountain range, considered the local land- Backpackers offers video games, pool, darts,
mark, is especially impressive. Walking tabletop football, air-hockey, and Internet.
The beautiful Alps appear just a step away
time is about 4 h 45 min (altitude differ- And the friendly people from the tourist
highlights ence 680 m ascent/descent, condition in office will also help you with ideas and
The car-free holiday resort of Braunwald termediate to difficult), season from June information.
o ffers hiking, biking, climbing, horse- to October, starting point and destination
riding, paragliding and a few special is Braunwald. ‹‹‹
highlights.
The climbing installation is a major high-
light. The limestone cliffs of the silver-gray
Eggstock Mountains towering high above
Braunwald have long been a well-kept
secret among mountain climbers. And
because climbing in full view of the snow-
capped Glarner Mountains is a wonderful
experience, even beginners can enjoy these
routes and conquer the Eggstock Moun-
tains. The climbing installations may only
be used if you wear a climber’s harness
and a helmet (these can be rented). braunwald is far from both traffic and a hectic
Biking is especially popular in Braunwald
lifestyle. this is a place to turn your back on
(bike rental is possible). You’ll find well-
marked bike routes and at the tourist office the crowds and enjoy pure nature. interested?
Climbing in Braunwald is a major highlight
you can buy a biker’s map.
12 CENTRAL SWITZERLAND – LUCERNE
practical information
L
Wäscherei” at Löwengraben 14; @ Inter- ucerne is unique, you’ll love it! Centrally located, just an hour south of Zurich and a variety of live animals can be seen in
net station at Café Parterre, Mythenstr. 7; Basel, it offers an incredible panorama. Lucerne lies at the western end of Lake aquariums and terrariums. Kasernenplatz
in downtown Lucerne everyone can access Lucerne (Vierwaldstättersee) which is the geographical and spiritual heart of Swit- 6 (next to Spreuerbrücke), open Tue – Sun
Wireless LAN, just connect with Luzern. zerland. The city, as well, features the world-famous medieval Chapel Bridge (Kapell 10 am – 5 pm, closed on Mondays, admis-
WLAN and surf! brücke), connecting the old part of town to the new. The over 660-year-old wooden-cove- sion CHF 6.– / students CHF 5.–.
red bridge partially burnt down in 1993 but has been restored to its original condition. The Swiss Transport Museum (Ver
www.luzern.org You’ll be charmed by Lucerne’s misty lake, by the snow-capped mountains rising above, kehrshaus) is the biggest and best museum
www.centralswitzerland.ch and the many possibilities for excursions you have from here. in Lucerne! And Europe’s largest and most
www.backpacker.ch diversified transport museum also includes
a giant-screen IMAX cinema. Lidostrasse 5
highlights is 2 km east of the center. You can take
6 Chapel Bridge. The world-famous 12.–, students CHF 9.50, with guest card a boat or bus no 6, 8 or 24 from Lucerne
budget accommodation 660-year-old bridge, which burnt down CHF 10.–. station to the “Verkehrshaus-Lido” stop, or
3 Backpackers Lucerne, Alpenquai 42 (041 in August 1993 and was reconstructed six 9 The Bourbaki Panorama, an 1100-sq else it’s a pleasant twenty-minute lakeside
360 04 20) ›››www.backpackerslucerne.ch; months later, true to the original. See the metre circular painting, is one of the world’s stroll. Open daily 10 am – 6 pm, admission
4 Lion Lodge Luzern, Zürichstrasse 57 (041 paintings of the Swiss and local city his- few panorama paintings still in existence. CHF 27.– (museum only); CHF 18.– (IMAX
410 01 44) ›››www.lionlodge.ch; Lucerne tory inside the covered bridge. The scene is brought to life with recorded only); or buy a combi-ticket (museum and
Youth Hostel, Sedelstr. 12 (041 420 88 00) 7 Lion of Lucerne (Löwendenkmal). “The commentary (in English). At Löwenplatz 11. IMAX) for CHF 37.–.
(take bus no 18 from the train station and Dying Lion of Lucerne” figures among those Open Mon 1 – 6 pm, Tue – Sun 9 am – 6 pm, Musegg Wall. A part of the rampart
get off at the stop “Jugendherberge”, takes monuments known all around the world. admission CHF 8.– / students CHF 7.–. built in 1386; almost entirely intact. Three
18 minutes) ›››www.youthhostel.ch/luzern; Globetrotter Mark Twain described the Collection and Picasso Donation Rosen towers are open to the public: Schirmer,
5 Hotel Alpha, Pilatusstrasse 66 (041 240 Lion of Lucerne as “the saddest and most gart. The most recent museum in Lucerne. Zyt and Männli. The oldest city clock, built
42 80) ›››www.hotelalpha.ch; Etap Hotel moving piece of rock in the world”. Denk- It owes its importance to two unique groups in 1535, is on the Zyt tower. This clock is
Luzern, Kellerstrasse 4-8 (041 367 80 00) malstrasse (Bus no. 1 to Maihof, get off at of works by Paul Klee and Pablo Picasso. privileged to chime every hour one minute
›››www.etaphotel.com Löwenplatz). Open daily 10 am – 6 pm, admission CHF before all the other city clocks.
8 Glacier Gardens (Gletschergarten). 18.–, students CHF 16.–. P ilatusstrasse 10. N KKL (Culture and Convention Center
The real history
&
of the Swiss glaciers; a Nature Museum (Natur-Museum) A per-
Gletschergarten Lucerne). The KKL (at Europaplatz, next
place not to be missed. Next to the Lion of manent biological exhibition shows flora to the station) is the work of the Parisian
TR.
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Monument
F LU H
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Lucerne. Daily 9 am – 6 pm, admission CHF BE RG
and fauna from Central Switzerland, and architect Jean Nouvel. It houses one of
M AT T
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all is to explore the beautiful Lake Lucerne.
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Tel. 041.240.42.80
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info@hotelalpha.ch
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CENTRAL SWITZERLAND – LUCERNE 13
your hostel
Etap Hotel -
Sleep well at the best Price
BE SMART. STAY SMART.
360° Switzerland
… ON LUCERNE’S DOORSTEP: MT. PILATUS –
YOUR MOUNTAIN ADVENTURE!
PILATUS-BAHNEN
Schlossweg 1 · 6010 Kriens/Luzern · Switzerland
Tel +41 (0)41 329 11 11 · Fax +41 (0)41 329 11 12
E-Mail: info@pilatus.ch · Internet: www.pilatus.ch
Hikers on the ‘Swiss Path’ on the shores of Lake Uri
CENTRAL SWITZERLAND – swiss knive valley 15
practical information
S
www.swissknifevalley.ch wiss Knife Valley, the Schwyzerland region, is located on the border of Lake Lucerne railway station). At the tourist office you’ll
www.centralswitzerland.ch next to the Swiss Alps. Here, Switzerland was actually founded on the 1st of August, get good biking- or hiking-maps.
www.brunnentourismus.ch 1291, through the so-called “Rütli”-meadow. And here, the original Swiss Army Central Switzerland is a highlight for para
www.backpacker.ch Knife comes from, hence the title “Swiss Knife Valley”. The area comprising Schwyz, gliders; you may depart from almost all the
Brunnen, Seewen, Morschach, and much more offers you many highlights. And there are famous peaks around the Lake of Lucerne.
beautiful mountains and lakes in the area ready to be explored. Schwyz is the capital of And you also have the opportunity to take
budget accommodation the canton and has backpacker accommodation! off on a tandem paragliding flight, cour-
Hirschen Backpackers Hotel Pub Schwyz, tesy of the local adventure operator “touch
same place as Hirschen Pub, Hinterdorf- and go”. They arrange tandem paraglid-
str. 14, (041 811 12 76). Hop aboard any
highlights ing flights (no flying experience is neces-
bus (direction Schwyz Post), get off at sta- Schwyz is a small but characterful town d irectly across the cliffs of Seelisberg, sary) 041 820 54 31, ›››www.paragliding.ch.
tion “Schwyz Post” – just follow the sign with plenty of history, and it’s the capi- with the Uri-Rotstock and Titlis behind, Or how about kayaking, rafting, a husky
for Hirschen. ›››www.hirschen-schwyz. tal of its canton. And Schwyz is only 50 the length of the Urnersee in the south, trip or a guided bike tour? All this and a lot
ch; for accommodation in Brunnen ask at train-minutes from Zurich and 40 minutes and the length of Lake Lucerne in the east. more is on offer as well in the region. Book
the tourist office (there are budget priced from Lucerne! The town is best known for Brunnen basks at the head of a wind tun- at your hostel or visit the local tourist office.
rooms in some hotels as well as some being the repository of the ancient docu- nel which draws the warm “Föhn” wind
B&Bs). ments (dating from 1291) embodying the north from the Mediterranean, frequently
history of the Confederation, on display in turning the Urnersee choppy and stormy.
entertainment, fun & parties
the Bundesbriefarchiv at Bahnhofstrasse The easiest excursion from Brunnen is to Schwyz
20 (closed on Monday). On a terrace above the Urniberg peak nearby, with stunning • Hirschen Pub (same place as Hirschen
the central Hauptplatz square there is the views both on the way up in the tiny Backpacker, Hinterdorfstr. 14), nice pub
large parish church of St. Martin (with an cable-car and from the summit itself (with where tourists get in touch with locals.
ornate interior). The Rathaus, sitting on a restaurant). By cable car or funicular Here you’ll find lots of games, Internet-
the square itself, has a façade decorated you can travel up to the car-free village access and an idyllic garden.
with frescoes painted in 1891. A little of Stoos and even higher up to the sum- • Tübli (Schützenstr. 15) is a cosy little
northwest lies the Ital-Reding Haus, an mit of the Fronalpstock (view of 5 lakes!). bar, over 100 foreign beers! Meet locals!
early seventeenth-century manor house ›››www.brunnentourismus.ch • Mystery-Bar (Reichsstr. 8), recently
set in its own garden and with a magnifi- A good reason for coming to this particular reopened as sports-bar and lounge.
cent interior (closed on Monday). Across the part of Central Switzerland is to explore • Gleis 2 (Bahnhofstrasse 133, Seewen) is
garden – and in the same complex – is the the beautiful Lake Lucerne and its fjiord- a stylish music-bar with DJ-corner.
ancient Haus Bethlehem, one of the oldest like finger, the Lake Uri. A cruise in an • Nelson Pub (Bahnhofstrasse 127,
wooden houses in the country (dating back over 100-year-old and beautifully restored Seewen) is a good place for playing
to 1287)! steamboat is a must! In Brunnen there are table soccer and darts.
At the “Schaukäserei Schwyzerland” (at also plenty of water sports on the lakes,
Milchstrasse 5, just a 2-minute walk from including swimming, waterskiing, sailing Brunnen
Schwyz train station) you can produce and windsurfing. • Mezcalito (Axenstrasse 9, next to the
your own Swiss cheese or just watch the Brunnen is also where Switzerland’s most lake) is a nice bar; they serve wonderful
cheese production! (for details see page 50). famous hiking path the “Swiss Path” ends mexican food.
Opposite the Mythencenter shop- (read more about it on page 14). • Quai 2 (Waldstätterquai 2), right next
ping complex at Schmiedgasse 57 is to the lake, includes a travel agency as
Victorinox, the manufacturer of the origi- well.
nal Swiss Army Knife. You can not visit the Around Schwyz and Brunnen you’ll find • Badhüsli (Axenstrasse, next to the lake)
factory here, but in its on-site shop they sell dozens of amazing hiking opportunities. is a nice wine pub.
the complete range of pocket multitools at Or you can discover the region on wheels. • Brunner Hof-Bar (Gersaustrasse 3) is a
discount prices (open Mon – Fri 7.30 am – Whether you choose a demanding route place in typical Swiss decoration where
noon & 1.15 – 6 pm, Sat 8 am – 3 pm). with a racing bike, a challenging trail for a you can meet the locals.
work-out with a mountain bike or a com- • Schilf Restaurant and Bar (Gersauer-
Brunnen village is dramatically located. fortable bike tour, the region has a route strasse 85) offers beautiful views of the
Paddle steamer
Vistas from its jetty are stupendous – for every type of biker (rent your bike at the lake. ‹‹‹
Victorinox is the world leader of pocket multitools and
the largest employer in the Swiss Knife Valley. Who
does not know these great pocket knives and multitools,
this symbol for quality and multi-functionality? They are
give aways of US presidents in the white house and
successfully probed with expeditions from the north
pole to Mount Everest. Victorinox accompanies people
through life. And has for 125 years. Some say: “It’s a
friend not just a knife”!
Win a Victorinox multitool!
(See competition on page 34)
Victorinox, Schmiedgasse 57, CH– 6438 Ibach-Schwyz, Phone 0041 (0)41 81 81 211, Fax 0041 (0)41 81 81 511, www.victorinox.com, e-mail: info@victorinox.ch
NATIONAL EVENTS, FESTIVALS AND CONCERTS 17
All information is subject to change. For latest details, other happenings, line-up, reservation or prices, call Ticket Corner 0848 800 800 ›››www.ticketcorner.com,
or Starticket 0900 325 325 ›››www.starticket.ch; there as well you have the p ossibility to order tickets (where needed).
18 LAKE GENEVA REGION – LAUSANNE
L
@ Internet at Quanta virtual fun space, ausanne resides on the hillside between Lake Geneva below and the woods above, av. de Sévelin 36. 1,700m2 of indoor wooden
pl. de la Gare 4; Espace St-François, pl. surrounded by meadowland and vineyards, facing the Alps. Lausanne was officially facilities: half pipe, mini ramps, bowl
St.François 12; Coin-web.com inside the named the Olympic Capital in June 1994, a unique and prestigious title awarded (400 m2), street course, climbing wall. Open
train station, and at the hostels (for by the International Olympic Committee, headquartered in Lausanne since 1915. Popu- from Tuesday to Sunday. Equipment rental
guests). Wireless Internet access is avail- lar with students, Lausanne features numerous private schools and one of the country’s possible. For more information check out
able at Flon, Palud, Riponne, St-François, largest university campuses, comprising the Federal Institute of Technology (EPFL) and ›››www.fievre.ch. From the train station
Montbenon, Navigation, Port. the University of Lausanne. Lausanne has more to offer young people than most Swiss take the metro to “Flon”, from “Flon” take
cities: nightlife, bars, bistros, discos… many museums and collections stage more than the metro (M1) and get off at the first stop
www.lausanne-tourisme.ch 50 exhibitions a year, from dinosaurs to contemporary art. (Vigie).
www.lake-geneva-region.ch Boat trips. Lake Geneva is not only a place
www.backpacker.ch for sport, leisure and excursions, the stately
highlights white boats of the CGN will also take you
Via the 160 covered steps of the Escaliers Olympic movement up to today. This symbol to Geneva, Vevey, Montreux, Morges, Rolle,
$ du Marché (or by other routes) you reach
the old town. The peaceful, historic atmo-
of the union of sports and culture is a uni-
verse filled with history and emotion. Open
Nyon, Evian (in France) and many other
ports in Switzerland and France! The boats
The Lausanne Transport Card gives you sphere of the old town is an invitation to daily 9 am – 6 pm. Admission CHF 15.–, stu- call regularly at Ouchy. So on your way
free and unrestricted access to all public linger. L’hôtel de ville and place du Palud dents CHF 10.–. ›››www.museum.olympic.org from Lausanne i.e. to Geneva or Vevey (or
transport services in the city (bus, train, are nice places to take pictures of. 6 Collection de l’Art Brut at av. des Ber- vice versa), you can easily take a boat in-
metro). You’ll get this card at your hostel. It And you should not miss seeing Lau gières 11, a special exhibition, which you stead of a train and enjoy a relaxing time
is valid for the duration of the reservation, sanne’s magnificent cathedral 9 from shouldn’t miss. Open Tue – Sun 11 am – 6 pm on this beautiful lake!
including the arrival and departure days! the 12th century, with its four towers and (during July and August also open on Mon).
105 stained-glass windows. Inaugurated Admission CHF 10.–, students CHF 5.–. Free There’s much more to be explored in the
AN
AV. DU LÉM
X- P O N T S
in 2003, the new organ is the only one of entry every first Sat of the month! beautiful Lake Geneva Region (read more
HO
budget accommodation
M B LANDES
C H . D E S F A V E RGE S
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its kind in the world by virtue of its design 7 Musée de l’Elysée at Avenue de l’Elysée about it on the following pages).
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Lausanne-guesthouse & backpacker, and its dimensions (nearly 7,000 pipes); 18, an impressive photo collection. Open
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Epinettes 4 (021 601 80 00) ›››www.lausanne- concerts are held there regularly. Tue – Sun 11 am – 6 pm (Mon closed).
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LAKE GENEVA REGION – LAUSANNE 19
Montreux
Vevey
Lausanne
20 LAKE GENEVA REGION – VEVEY & MONTREUX
practical information
V
Place du marché 5. evey and Montreux are the main resorts of the so-called Swiss Riviera. The name Hugo, Dostoïevski etc… Follow their trail
describes the stretch of Lake Geneva roughly between Lausanne and Villeneuve through the vineyards or along the lake-
www.montreux-vevey.com and is one of the sunniest places in the country! Many writers, musicians and side and discover a part of their lives (at
www.lake-geneva-region.ch artists such as Charles Chaplin, Freddy Mercury (their statues are located on the lake Riviera Lodge you get free flyers with
www.backpacker.ch shore), Igor Stravinsky, Ernest Hemingway, Lord Byron and many others chose this place maps and stories about these artists!).
for the beauty of the landscape. The two charming resorts of Vevey and Montreux work
closely together. Vevey has a cosy historical downtown, esplanades, a shopping mall and Montreux
many nice cafés, which offer the traveller a warm feeling. Montreux, 5 km from Vevey, Chillon Castle at Montreux – one of Swit-
budget accommodation is more touristically oriented, but the promenade on the lakeside, with the nearby Castle zerland’s most beautiful sites! This extra
Vevey: Riviera Lodge, Place du Marché 5, of Chillon, is a must! ordinary fort was built on a rock set in
(021 923 80 40) (300 m from the train station a lovely scenic location on the shore of
on the lake side in a charming renovated the lake. Chillon is an exceptional com-
19th century town house) ›››www.rivier-
highlights bination of castle and fortress. There are
alodge.ch Vevey Vevey and dominated by its white château. magnificent collections of antique furni-
Montreux: Montreux Youth Hostel, Pas- The old streets east of Grand Place and the In this romantic setting, the Swiss Museum ture, pewter and weapons. The towers
sage de l’Auberge 8, (021 963 49 34) (30 mi- lakeside promenade are worth exploring. of Games invites you to actively discover and ramparts offer a wonderful view of
nutes on foot along the lake shore, or take Vevey also has a 15th century church games from around the world and through- the lake and mountains. Cruise on Lake
train no S1 from the railway station to (St.Martin’s, up the hill behind the station) out the ages. Have fun! Open daily except Geneva on a steamboat and discover the
Montreux-Territet (takes only 2 min.), from and several museums: Monday, from 11 am – 5.30 pm. Admission Chillon Castle you’ve perhaps seen on pic-
there it’s 2 min. walking distance ›››www. Swiss Camera Museum, Ruelle des Anciens- CHF 8.–, students CHF 4.–. tures many times but never in reality. The
youthhostel.ch/montreux Fossés 6. This museum shows you the his- Vevey Historical Museum, Rue du Château castle, called “Château de Chillon”, was
tory of photography, from the camera 2. This museum (founded in 1897) is housed made legendary by the poem “The Prisoner
$
obscura to numerical images. The his- in a beautiful 16th century building dating of Chillon”, written by Lord Byron in 1816.
tory of photography, its inventors and its from the Bernese occupation. Its collections Open daily April – Sep 9 am – 6 pm, in Oct
save money
techniques, is recounted by an amazing of objects, paintings and documents bring 9.30 am – 5 pm. Admission CHF 12.–, stu-
If you stay at least one night in a hotel/hostel collection of cameras, dating from the the region's past back to life. Open Tue – Sat dents 10.– (50% discount with the “Riviera
in Vevey/Montreux you’ll get the “Riviera very invention of photography to the pres- 11 am – 5 pm. Admission is free of charge. Card”).
Card”, which entitles you to travel free of ent day, and enhanced with audio-visual Sir Charles Chaplin, The immortal screen
charge on the Vevey/Montreux bus network and interactive presentations. Open daily comedian, spent the last 25 years of his life TIP!
plus a 50% reduction on castle of Chillon, except Monday 11 am – 5.30 pm. Admission at the Manoir de Ban above Vevey. Chaplin,
the local mountain trains and funiculars, and CHF 8.–, students CHF 6.–. his wife and children, moved to Vevey in Taste a unique chocolate fondue
museums. A great offer! The Alimentarium at Quai Perdonnet is a 1953. The whole family quickly settled in at the Riviera Lodge, Vevey. An ori-
museum of food. Internationally renowned, to their adopted town and became part of ginal recipe with melted chocolate and
View over the so-called Swiss Riviera it takes a scientific and ethnological look at the local life. Sir Charles and his wife Lady fresh fruit to dip in. (fondue with fresh
the food of the past and the present. Open Oona are buried in the Corsier s/Vevey fruits CHF 13.– per person, minimum 2
daily except Monday 10 am – 6 pm. Admis- cemetery. His memorial statue can be seen people). “I can resist everything except
sion CHF 10.–, students CHF 8.–. on the Vevey lakeshore. temptation”, Oscar Wilde said once…
The Swiss Museum of Games (Musée Montreux-Vevey has always been a favorite Or have you ever tried chocolate in com-
Suisse du Jeu), Rue du Château 11, La Tour- place for artists – not only Charlie Chap- bination with wine? You’ll be surprised
de Peilz. The colourful port village of La lin, but also Freddie Mercury, David Bowie, how wonderful this tastes!… (book it at
Tour-de Peilz is situated between the lake Le Corbusier, Jean-Jacques Rousseau, Riviera Lodge; costs CHF 17.–)
and the old town, just about 1 km east of Henri Nestlé, Barbara Hendricks, Victor
LAKE GENEVA REGION – VEVEY & MONTREUX 21
events
June 21st – Aug 15th Open-air cinema at Place Scanavin Vevey
July 2nd – 17th Montreux Jazz Festival. Blues, jazz and gospel at the world
famous festival. For information and tickets call (0848 86 84 84)
or check out ›››www.montreuxjazz.com
July & Aug Every Saturday morning Vevey’s Market Square turns into a
magical summer market
August 1st Swiss National Day – party and fireworks everywhere!
Aug 20th – 22nd Street artists festival Vevey. This popular annual lakeside festival
attracts talented performers from Switzerland and abroad
Montreux Jardin Doret – Vevey, Bains des Hommes – Rochers-de-Naye, with its floral alpine gar-
• Paradise Pub (at Grand Rue 58) has billiards, games and more. la Tour de Peilz, Bain des Dames – la Tour den, is a great one-day tour. You may walk
• Live music and DJs at NED (rue du Marché 19). de Peilz, La Becque – la Tour de Peilz, La up to the top (2,042 m / 6,700 ft., approx.
• Mayfair Café is a music and lounge bar (Grand Rue 52). Grotte – Corseaux (they are all near Vevey); 3 1/2 hrs for good hikers), or take the scenic
• White Horse is a nice pub (Grand Rue 28). and Plage de Chillon – Veytaux, Port MOB railway, or the cogwheel train to “les
• Opus café (rue du Marché 23), a cafe and restaurant. du Basset – Clarens, La Maladaire (near Pléiades”, 1,300 m of breathtaking views of
• Le Casino Barrière of Montreux (rue du Théâtre 9) rolls out the red carpet to welcome Montreux). the lake. ‹‹‹
you (free introduction to games, live music every Fri & Sat).
and scenic splendour of the Vaud Riviera, feel like celebrating the first of August off
where they composed, produced and Pully? Or are you interested in visiting the matterhorn region
recorded some of the biggest hits in their Olympic Museum in Lausanne? Do you
online booking :
repertoire. A stroll along the shores of Lake want to admire the “jet d’eau” in Geneva’s
Geneva will bring you to Freddie Mercury’s harbour? These are only a few proposals.
statue. It is up to you to make the most of them! taste the best
The hilly surroundings of the Vevey- chocolate fondue
Montreux area offer a good range of easy at riviera lodge !
hikes. There is a huge choice for everyone’s
activities taste and ability, from footpaths through
Vevey and Montreux are the capitals the mountains, vineyards, fields and
of the Lavaux winegrowing region, a forests, to the many flowered walks along
UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Lavaux the shores of Lake Geneva. Ask at the tour-
vineyard terraces stretch for about 30 km ist office for the “Hiking Map”.
along the south-facing northern shores of For swimming and sunbathing in an idyllic
Lake Geneva from the Chillon castle to the setting, you’ll find quiet pebble beaches
eastern outskirts of Lausanne. The steep, and green parkland all along the Riviera.
narrow stone walled terraces cover the Enjoy a relaxing afternoon while splashing
lower slopes of the mountain-side between in the invigorating waters of Lake Geneva.
the villages and the lake’s edge; above are There are about 20 natural beaches and
forests and pasture and across the lake, access to them is free. Some suggestions:
22 LAKE GENEVA REGION – SOME HIGHLIGHTS
T
he Lake Geneva Region is often called “a cocktail of Switzerland” and whatever Château-d-Oex offers everything the heart between Château-d’Oex and Saanen take
your interests, it offers a remarkable range of leisure and pleasure activities for of a sportsman could desire. A variety only 16 minutes.
both body and soul. Here you'll find peaceful lakes bordered by palm trees, the roll- of mountain tours, river-rafting on the i Tourist offices: Promenade 41 in Gstaad
ing wooded hills of the Jura, the delightful green landscapes of the northern part and the Saane river (from Saanen to Château- (033 748 81 81).
snowy summits of the Alps with the majestic glacier of Les Diablerets. Some enthusiasts d’Oex), kayaking, canyoning, hydrospeed, Budget accommodation: Saanen-Gstaad
even manage to ski on both snow and water on the same day! The Lake Geneva Region paragliding (landing area right next to the Youth Hostel in Saanen, Chalet Rüblihorn,
offers you a vast choice of sporting, cultural and leisure activities. For hikers and bikers, Youth Hostel), mountain bike course with Spitzhornweg 25 (033 744 13 43, closed
scenic routes and trails extend across the entire region. A range of holiday activities. permanent time-recording and a number April 13th – May 12th, May 17th – 20th,
›››www.lake-geneva-region.ch of other MTB routes. May 26th – June 17th and after Oct 25th)
Also worth a visit is “Le Grand Chalet” in ›››www.youthhostel.ch/saanen
Rossinière, a chalet dating from 1754 with
113 windows (trains to Rossinière take 6 Yverdon-les-Bains
some highlights minutes). Just 20 train-minutes from Lausanne on
But actually Château-d’Oex is best known the southern tip of Lake Neuchâtel, lies the
Villars-Gryon and Les Diablerets (tandem flights), just ask at the reception. for all its hot air. When the Swiss Bertrand attractive thermal capital of the French-
Situated on a natural sun terrace at 1,300 Les Diablerets is located at the foot of an Piccard and the Briton Brian Jones made speaking part of Switzerland, Yverdon-
metres, Villars-Gryon commands a fine Alpine massif capped by one of the most les-Bains. This beautiful spa town can
view of Mont-Blanc and the Alps. More beautiful glaciers in Switzerland. Cross- look back on 15 centuries of health-giving
than 300 km of marked hiking trails country-skiing on a glacier at 3,000 metres hospitality. The spa thermal center at
and 150 km of all-terrain bicycle trails is possible in summer! And do not miss Avenue des Bains 22 (with thermal pools,
allow you to discover the beauty of the visiting the summit restaurant, designed jacuzzis and bubble and massage jets) is
area. Three high-altitude lakes and nu- by celebrated Swiss architect Mario Botta. open daily 8 am – 10 pm (Sun until 8 pm),
merous alpine farms (serving breakfast It has a fantastic terrace! admission costs CHF 19.–. Or you may pre-
cooked on wood fires and demonstrating How to get there: By rail from Lausanne to fer to visit the dreamy world of the “House
cheese making) offer a unique experience. Villars-Gryon (via Aigle or via Bex, takes of Elsewhere” (La Maison d’Ailleurs), mu-
At Chalet Martin in Gryon you can also approx. 1h 15); to Les Diablerets via Aigle seum of science fiction (the only one of its
A Narcissus field high above Chateau-d'Oex
book rock climbing and even paragliding (1h 20). kind in Europe) at Place Pestalozzi 14, open
their record-breaking 45,000 km round-the- Wed – Fri 2 – 6 pm, Sat & Sun 11 am – 6 pm,
world balloon flight in 1999, the takeoff admission costs CHF 9.–, students 7.–. For
point and centre of the whole operation culture and history explore the 13th cen-
was here. Every January the town hosts tury castle and its museum.
this arguably most beautiful sports event How to get there: Yverdon-les-Bains is
in the Swiss calendar, the annual Hot-Air easily accessible by rail (approx. 20 min-
Ballooning Week, when nearly 100 colourful utes from Lausanne or 36 minutes from
giants catch the thermals to float peace- Biel – about).
ably over the hills and valleys round about. i Tourist office: at Av. de la Gare 2 (024 423
How to get to Château-d’Oex: Hourly train 61 01), ›››www. yverdonlesbains-tourisme.ch
from Montreux (takes 1 hour). Budget accommodation: Gîte du Passant,
i Tourist offices: La Place (026 924 25 25) Parc 14 (024 425 12 33) ›››www.gite-du-
›››www.myswitzerland.com passant.ch
Budget accommodation: Château-d’Oex
Youth Hostel, Route des Monnaires 67, All about the cities of Lausanne, Vevey
(026 924 64 04, closed April 6th – May 12th, and Montreux see page 18 –21; All about
May 17th – 20th, May 25th – June 17th Biel see next page.
and after Oct 18th) ›››www.youthhostel.
ch/chateau.d.oex ‹‹‹
biel 23
B
@ Internet station at Lago Lodge. Another iel – or Bienne, in French – located between Bern in the south and Basel in the everywhere!
tourist office is at Zentralstrasse 60 (032 north, offers great experiences in a small region. The city of Biel borders Lake Biel Aug 20th & 21st Royal Arena Festival
329 84 86). and is the only city in Switzerland where there are two official languages: German (hip-hop festival) in Orpund (10 minutes
and French. Even the streets are marked in both languages in this charming city. In Biel by bus from Biel)
www.biel-seeland.net lies the cradle of the Swiss watchmaking industry. Trademarks such as Swatch, Omega, Aug 27th – 29th “Altstadtchilbi”, large
www.watchvally.ch Rolex, Tissot and many others, are closely associated with this city. It has a small but fair in the old town of Biel
www.backpacker.ch beautiful historic centre, with a gothic church (15th century) and its many fountains Sep 24th – 29th Circus “Knie” at Exo Park
decorated with flowers. The Port of Biel is the starting point for scenic river and lake
cruises, which can take you to St.Peter’s Island and the Neuchâtel and Murten Lakes (the
three lakes are linked by two canals and there are countless ways of criss-crossing them).
entertainment, fun & parties
budget accommodation The region is a paradise of possibilities as far as the eye can see and offers lots of outdoor • T he Lago Lodge is not only a back-
Lago Lodge, Uferweg 5 in Nidau (032 331 activities. With a wide selection of routes to choose from, Biel also makes the ideal start- packer but also has a nice restaurant
37 32) the only Swiss hostel with a micro ing point for beautiful cycling tours. – taste their beer! They have their own
beer brewery. A 7-min. walk from the micro brewery and bistro.
main station, the Lodge is located behind • T he St. Gervais (Untergasse 11 in the old
“Strandboden” – a public beach just a
highlights town) is where the alternative people
few hundred meters from the main sta- The main attractions are strolling in the island as his refuge in 1765, later calling it meet (restaurant and concerts).
tion (direction lake) ›››www.lagolodge.ch old town, dropping in on a couple of small the happiest time of his life. The best way • Blue Note Club (T. Wyttenbachstrasse 2),
(For more accommodations/campsites ask museums and taking a boat ride on the to get to the island is by boat from Biel live jazz, funk and blues on Friday, disco
at the tourist office). lake or the river. One of the best boat trips (approx. 50 minutes), which calls at several on Saturday, dance night on Thursday
in the region is the river trip up the Aare lakeside villages en route. and much more.
from Biel to Solothurn, which takes about Just 28 train minutes from Biel, you can • E njoy your beer at Pooc (about 80
two and a half hours and passes a stork visit the Papiliorama. In this garden different beers) or at Baramundo (both
colony at Altreu on the way. (housed in an amphitheater which mea- are near Guisan-Platz).
Biel is a small city that’s easy to get around sures 40 metres in diameter and 14 metres • Doors 72 (Aarbergstrasse 72, behind the
in. Cycling is a good means to explore some at its maximum height) at all times around train station) is an alternative culture
of the very beautiful places around the city. a thousand butterflies flutter around in and youth center.
There are lots of cycling tours; a nice one is an enchanting and colourful ballet. Open •R estaurant du Commerce (Untergasse 25)
from Biel to Murten (distance 36 km, travel daily 9 am – 6 pm; admission CHF 17.–, is a small bar in the old town (no meals).
time 3 to 4 hours). Bicycle rentals at the students 14.–; there are hourly trains from • B-Lounge (Unterer Quai 23) serves good
train station or directly at Lago Lodge. Ask Biel to the train stop Kerzers Papiliorama coffee and it’s also a nice place to have
at the hostel or the tourist office for a good (you need to change the train in Lyss). a beer or a drink in the evening.
cycling map. Northeast of Biel is the beautiful “Tauben- • Restaurant Kreuz (Hauptstr. 33, Nidau)
Or do you like inline skating? This is as loch Gorge” (dove’s gorge)! Take bus no. good food and concerts on weekends.
well a good means to explore the city and 1, 2 or 3N (direction Eisbahn) until station • Coupole Biel (Silbergasse, opposite the
its surroundings. There’s also a skatepark Taubenloch. There’s a well-engineered path congress center) is a very alternative
(at Aarbergstr. 72, just two minutes from running through the dark and craggy defile place, mainly for people between 15 –30
the Biel train station). But you need to for about 2,5 km, and entry is free (there’s years old.
bring your own skates. a donations box near the entrance). For ad- • Bien Bar (Dufourplatz / Bahnhofstrasse),
St.Peter’s Island is a nature reserve well- venture operators running canyoning trips lovely people, famous for local products.
loved and much visited. The political in the gorge and for other latest adventure • DUO (Kontrollstrasse 26), Fri hip-hop
Using the extensive Swiss biking network
theorist Jean-Jacques Rousseau chose this opportunities, ask at Lago Lodge! and Sat House music. ‹‹‹
G
i Tourist office at rue de Mont-Blanc 18 eneva is truly an international city that belongs not so much to Switzerland as L Water Fountain (Jet d’eau). The famous
(022 909 70 70), currency exchange at Rue to the whole world! Dozens of international organisations are based here, two of Geneva fountain is known around the
Mont Blanc 21. Along place Mont Blanc which are the United Nations’ European headquarters and the International Com- world as a symbol of Geneva (Quai Gustav-
you’ll find many shops and fast-food restau- mittee of the Red Cross. It’s a progressive crossroads of people and civilizations, enjoying Ador). The fountain shoots 500 liters (132
rants; English bookshop as well as second- a privileged situation in the heart of Europe. No wonder, then, that this central position gallons) of water per second, as high as 450
hand books bought and sold at rue Sismondi has made Geneva a cosmopolitan city where organisations, firms, businesses and banks feet in the air. A good place from which to
5. @ Internet at Open Vidéo, Rue des Alpes from all over the world rub shoulders. Geneva stretches along both banks of Lake Geneva take a picture of Geneva (the fountain is
19, Charly’s Multimedia Check Point, rue de in a magnificent harbor. And it is also a city of parks and promenades, offering a bit of not activated in case of strong winds).
Fribourg 7 and at your hostels (guests only). rural rescue in the otherwise urban environment. M International Red Cross and Red
Bus terminal at Place Dorcière. Crescent museum Geneva. Geneva is the
birthplace of the International Red Cross
www.geneva-tourism.ch
highlights and Red Crescent movement. Close to the
www.ville-ge.ch Genev’roule is a bike-rental or- and the lake. Underneath the cathedral International Red Cross Committee (ICRC),
$
P
www.backpacker.ch ganisation, from which you can rent there is one of Europe’s largest subterra- on 17 Avenue de la Paix, there is a very
bicycles all year long and borrow for free nean archeological sites. Open Mon – Sat impressive museum. Its collection entreats
in summer (from April 26th – October 31st). 9.30 am – 6.30 pm, Sun noon – 6.30 pm its visitors to weigh their own contribu-
$ save money
The stations at Place de Montbrillant 17 (just
behind the train station) and Ruelle des
(June – September); Mon – Sat 10 am –
5.30 pm, Sun noon – 5.30 pm (Oct – May).
tion to mankind’s efforts to relieve suffer-
ing; to keep alive the flame of hope and
All visitors staying overnight in Geneva Templiers 4 are open daily from 8 am – 9 pm Entrance to the towers CHF 4.–. take to heart the maxim: “Each of us is
can benefit from the Geneva Transport (free bikes and rental available). The sta- 8 Institute and Museum Voltaire, rue responsible to others for everything”. In
Card, with no additional cost (enables you tions at Place du Rhône (next to the river), des Délices 25. The life and work of Vol- 1999, a new area was opened presenting
the use of the entire public transportation Bains des Pâquis (lake shore) and at Plaine taire in the 18th century. Located in the the movement’s contemporary activities.
network without restriction (bus, train and de Plainpalais (near the skatepark) are mansion owned by the philosopher from Allow around 2 hours to see this museum.
boat), with validity for the entire duration open daily 9 am – 7 pm. Deposit required: 1755 – 1765. Free entrance, open Mon – Sat There’s a nice restaurant inside, along
of your stay including the departure day)! CHF 20.– plus you must show your pass- 2 – 5 pm, Sun closed. with a museum-shop and multimedia area
port or ID card. 9 Russian Church. A jewel of Byzantine (Café Dunant). Open daily (except Tuesday)
7 Saint Peter’s Cathedral. The central art, with an interior richly decorated with 10 am – 5 pm, admission CHF 10.–, students
budget accommodation point of Geneva’s old town. One-hundred- icons. Rue Rodolphe-Toepffer 3. Open for 5.–. ›››www.micr.org
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Geneva 25
the visitors’ entrance of the United Nations nently on display. In addition, three times a the following train. Costs CHF 7.– (one- with the Arve River, a lush and seemingly
building). year temporary exhibitions are organised. way 4.–). untouched landscape unfolds. If you are in
N The United Nations Geneva. The United Open Tue – Fri from noon to 6 pm (every Discover Geneva on foot or by boat Geneva between April and October, note
Nations Office Geneva (UNOG) is the larg- first Wed of the month till 9 pm), Sat & Sun Geneva has many wonderful parks and the point of departure: Pont de l’Ile, quai
est and most active center for conference 11 am – 6 pm, closed on Monday. Admis- gardens that invite you to spend a nice day des Moulins. There, a Geneva “Mouette”
diplomacy in the world and the site of sion CHF 8.–, students 6.–. Free admission strolling through peaceful nature. There will take you on a picturesque cruise of
many historic negotiations. It is also the every first Sunday of the month! ›››www. are approx. 75,000 trees and 40,000 rose two and a half hours to the Verbois dam
second largest United Nations office af- mamco.ch. bushes, which make Geneva Switzerland’s and back. Keep your camera and binocu-
ter the New York headquarters. The UN How to get there: Buses no 1, 4, 44 stop at rose capital. The Botanical Garden, a large lars within easy reach for the sights are
office in Geneva is based at the Palais des école de Médecine, trams 12 and 16 stop at wooded area with comfortable footpath, really worth it! Not only are the landscapes
Nations, which was built in 1936 as the Rond-Point de Plainpalais, or tram 13 stops is a haven of peace near the right bank of stunning, the high cliffs which give way
headquarters for the League of Nations. at Cirque. the lake, with gorgeous seasonal flower to vast stretches of fields when approach-
The United Nations offer tours on which arrangements. It contains several tropical ing the dam offering fine views of the Alps
you can familiarise yourself with the only Self-guide walk tour. The tourist office (at greenhouses, one of which is in the shape and the Jura mountains, but an incredible
truly universal organisation ever formed. Rue du Mont-Blanc 18) proposes you to stroll of a dome, a park with deer, flamingoes, variety of fauna can be observed during
One-hour guided tours trace the history of through 2,000 years of Geneva’s history aviaries and ponds; close to the UN-build- the entire cruise. Costs CHF 25.–, duration
the United Nations, covering current activ- independently and at your own pace. The ing. Bus no. 4, 44 or 18. Parc de la Bâtie. 2 h 45.
ities and future projects. Daily tours from tour includes 25 points of interest and lasts With the Park de la Bâtie as a starting point,
April – October 10 am – noon and 2 – 4 pm; approximately two and a half hours. You you can hike along the beautiful Rhône Val- Mont Salève. The Salève (which peaks at
July and August 10 am – 5 pm. Admission may buy the audio guide MP3 style, which ley – a wildlife preservation area. Bus 4 1,380 meters), located in nearby France,
CHF 10.– / students CHF 8.–. costs CHF 15.– and is available in English, to Bel-Air and then walk along the river offers a unique view of Geneva, the lake,
How to get there: Buses 5, 11, 14 to Place French and German language. If you speak Rhône (west). the Alps and the Mont Blanc. It’s a kingdom
des Nations; or V, Z to Ariana; or 8, 18, F to Italian, Spanish, Russian, Chinese, Japanese, for lovers of nature and a favorite venue
Appia. (It is not possible to enter the United Korean, or Arabic you can hire a discman, Geneva’s boat companies do a wide range for climbers, mountain bikers, paraglid-
Nations building by the main entrance in which costs CHF 10.– plus a deposit of CHF of cruises, i.e. cruises for one hour, for one ers and delta wingers. Bear in mind that
place des Nations. The visitors’ entrance is 50.–, to be refunded when returning the day, or evening and lunch cruises; the Salève is across the French border, so if you
at Pregny Gate 14, av. de la Paix, opposite player. Both (audio guide MP3 style and choice is yours. Board one of its sixteen ships need a visa (either to get into France or to
the Red Cross headquarters). discman) are available at the tourist office (8 paddle wheelers including 5 steamers get back to Switzerland), you should give it
O Museum of Modern and Contemporary on Mon 10 am – 6 pm; Tue – Sat 9 am – 6 pm. and 8 propeller vessels) and discover count- a miss! Bus no 8 brings you to Veyrier, from
Art, MAMCO (Musée d’Art Moderne et less beautiful sights in a congenial atmo- where it’s a short walk to the Salève cable-
Contemporain, MAMCO), 10 rue des Vieux Excursion by mini-train. The unique sphere. The different cruises start from car. There’s a panoramic restaurant on top.
Grenadiers. This extraordinary museum mini-train functions with solar energy Quai du Mont-Blanc and/or Jardin Anglais. You can do the trip to the summit and back
was built in an old factory. Opened in 1994, and starts daily from 10.15 am every 45 Or be your own captain. At Quai Gustave- in a couple of easy hours.
it is a prestigious museum which exposes minutes to sunset at Jardin Anglais (Eng- Ador electric boats and pedalboats can be
on its surface of 4,000 m2 a vast collection lish Garden), a quiet ride along the quays rented. For information about the beautiful Lake
of European and American art covering and parks (duration 30 minutes); it’s pos- Geneva Region see pages 18 – 23.
the last four decades. 1000 works of art sible to stop and visit the parks and the Rhône River Cruise. The Rhône may not
are owned by the museum, 300 are perma- rose garden and then to continue with be the Amazon but once past its junction
w w w. c i t y h o s t e l . c h
... your hostel in Geneva
City Hostel Geneva · 2 rue Ferrier · CH-1202 Genève · tel. +41 (0)22 901 15 00 · info@cityhostel.ch
26 geneva
EXPERIENCE
HUMANITARIAN ACTION !
T
he Valais (Wallis in German) is in short a landscape of opposites; of steep rock faces Save money and travel in the after- ›››www.hotel-imseng.ch
and soaring alps; of German and French; of northern and Mediterranean flair. It $ noon with an ”afternoon ticket“!
is a region of 4,000-metre peaks – first of all the world famous majestic Matter- Enjoy the wonderful afternoon atmosphere
horn – the twelve largest glaciers, and a multitude of alpine passes. Fully twenty percent at the viewing points in the Matterhorn
events
of the canton is covered by glaciers! The dryness and sunshine of the valley are ideal glacier paradise (departure 1.30 – 3 pm April 13th – 17th Zermatt unplugged
winegrowing conditions. The canton’s uncountable vineyard owners produce some of the CHF 72.–), the Schwarzsee paradise (dep. (with Lionel Richie, Billy Idol, Stefan
finest wine in the country! And in every village you’ll find a traditional Valaisian-style 2.30 – 3.30 pm CHF 37.50) or the Rothorn Eicher, Jason Mraz and many more)
restaurant, serving up the traditional Swiss speciality raclette (melted slices of cheese paradise (dep. 2.30 – 3.30 pm CHF 51.–). June 27th Alpine Farmers Festival at
with boiled potatoes and mixed pickles). How to get to Zermatt: take the mountain Triftalp above Saas-Fee. Witness a cow-
train Visp-Zermatt (hourly connections); it fight, a living tradition at Triftalp
takes 65 minutes and is a scenic trip! There July 10th Zermatt Marathon. A marathon
are hourly train connections to Visp from with an altitude difference of over 1,400 m;
some highlights Bern (55 min), from Lausanne (1 h 32 min), a challenge for any racer!
Zermatt (1,620 m / 5 ,320 feet), situated the terribly dramatic first ascent to the from Zurich (2 h) and from Geneva (2 h July 8th – 11th International Alpine Music
just in front of the majestic Matterhorn present day (admission CHF 10.–, students 16 min). Festival in Saas-Fee
(4,478 m / 14,463 ft), is one of the world’s 8.–, and it’s free of charge if you hold a The tourist office is next to the train sta- July 25th Täschalp Race and Alp Festival,
most famous mountain resorts. The idyllic Swiss Pass (see page 5). tion (027 966 81 00), ›››www.zermatt.ch Zermatt
village in the heart of the Alps has become Zermatt and its surroundings offer tons of Budget accommodation: Zermatt Youth August 1st Swiss National Day –
one of Switzerland’s most renowned moun- great outdoor activities and hiking possi- Hostel, Staldenweg 5 (027 967 23 20) ›››www. fireworks and celebrations everywhere!
tain resorts. There are no petrol-driven cars bilities the whole year round. And Zermatt youthhostel.ch/zermatt; Matterhorn Hos- August 8th Folklore Festival Zermatt.
allowed in Zermatt! Horse-drawn car- has many spectacular mountain railways. tel, Schluhmattstrasse 32 (027 968 19 19) More than 40 groups with 1,200 partici-
riages, as well as electric cars, are the only Gornergat (3,130 m / 10,134 ft) is one of them. ›››www.matterhornhostel.com pants will take part in this huge parade
means of transport. From the top, you will enjoy an exciting August 14th Matterhorn Eagle Cup
view of Monte Rosa. Klein Matternhorn, at Saas-Fee (1,800 m), this beautifully scenic Zermatt. Golf tournament at over 2,500 m
3,820 m / 12,338 ft, is the highest station you village set in an amphitheatre of glaciers, above sea level
can go. By the way, the famous Matterhorn lies in the next-door valley to Zermatt. It August 15th Cowfight Saas-Fee (on the
has an altitude of 4,478 m (14,463 ft). Check might sometimes be overlooked, mostly triftalp) with mess, music, food and
out Europe’s highest glacier grotto at Klein because it doesn’t have any train access. drinks
Matterhorn, including an informative ex- However, were it not for the Matterhorn August 21st and 22nd International Mat-
hibition. next door, the array of peaks around Saas- terhorn Race Zermatt. The course starts in
In Zermatt summer skiing is possi- Fee would take centre-stage on any Alpine Zermatt (1,605 m) and ends at Schwarzsee
ble! Enjoy 20 kilometres of piste on itinary. The totally traffic-free glacier town (2,585 m), covering a distance of 12.49 km
The biggest ice pavilion in the world
Zermatt's Theodul glacier. Carve and relax Saas-Fee is one of four linked villages lying ‹‹‹
together with national alpine ski teams in one of the most scenically beautiful and
from all over Europe, with the Matterhorn diverse valleys in the Valais and is sur-
You should not miss visiting the oldest always in sight. Skiing and snowboarding rounded by 13 4,000-metre peaks (the other
part of the village, with houses and barns the whole year round, with 365 days of three villages are Saas-Balen, Saas-Grund
which are 200 – 250 years old, the original snow – you can only find this in Zermatt. and Saas-Almagell). The Saas Valley has a
main street, etc. On a rainy day visit the As the highest altitude, largest and most wide variety of summer activities: sum-
Matterhorn Museum (at Bahnhofplatz 57). efficiently developed snow sport location mer skiing and snowboarding, mountain-
The museum tells the exciting story of the in the Alps, Zermatt offers an absolute biking, mini-golf, trekking on horseback,
Cowfights are a living tradition in the Valais
Matterhorn – from its origins in Africa and snow guarantee. scooters, to name but a few (ask at the
Eiger Mönch Jungfraujoch –
Top of Europe
Grindelwald
Grindelwald –
2 Kleine Scheidegg
Grindelwald-First I
6
Lauterbrunnen
Schynige Platte 8
Böningen
5
Interlaken
1
The beautiful Bernese Oberland is an ideal lar sightseeing through large observation long, there is also an “Afternoon Ticket”, movie which was filmed here in late 1968).
destination for backpackers, adventurers windows hewn from solid Alpine rock; and costs the same as the “Good morning Ticket” Piz Gloria turns around its axis in 50 min-
and sport freaks. Some of the best scenery then the arrival on the Jungfraujoch, in if you start from Kleine Scheidegg not utes, allowing a breathtaking view! The
in the whole of Switzerland can be found the heart of a glorious glacier world on the before 3.30 pm. ›››www.jungfraubahn.ch Schilthorn is reached by a series of cable-
in the Jungfrau region. The many spec- very roof of Europe! There are lots of attrac- cars from the the valley floor at Stechel-
tacular spots will be sure to get even the tions on the Jungfraujoch, i.e. the ice pal- 4 Schilthorn (2,970 m / 9,744 ft) berg, via Gimmelwald and Mürren, on a
most stubborn “couch potato” out into ace, the plateau with hikes in the eternal The Schilthorn is not as high as the Jung- breathtaking ride up to Birg and then the
the fresh air! ›››www.berneroberland.ch; snow, summer ski & snowboard park, and fraujoch, but a trip up to this summit is Schilthorn summit. The Mürren-Schilthorn
›››www.myjungfrau.ch more. Don’t miss this tour; it’s wonderful! just as memorable. The Schilthorn summit area is a magnificent hiking region! The
How to get to the Jungfraujoch: there are offers the best view of Eiger, Mönch and rich variety of alpine flora, combined with
two routes to the top, either from Grindel- Jungfrau and on more than 200 other sum- breathtaking views of snow-covered Alps,
wald or from Lauterbrunnen via Wengen mits! The view from the exposed terrace dominated by the Eiger, Mönch and Jung-
(or go up one way and down the other!). on the top is dramatic! You can enjoy the frau, guarantee you an absolutely unfor-
Both train routes terminate at Kleine Schei- exceptional views and sip cocktails in the gettable outing. Ask at the tourist office for
degg, where you must change for the final revolving Piz Gloria summit restaurant, the detailed hiking map.
some highlights pull at Jungfraujoch. featured in the James Bond film “On Her How to get to the Schilthorn: take a bus
All about Interlaken, the number one An adult round-trip fare costs CHF Majesty’s Secret Service” (in the Tourist from Lauterbrunnen to Stechelberg (takes
$
1
resort for adventure and fun, see page 36. 181.80. But there are cheaper fares: orama you can watch extracts of this 007 16 minutes). From Stechelberg the cable-car
2 For Grindelwald, the glacier village in if you hold one of the “Swiss Passes” you
the Bernese Oberland, see page 32. get free travel from Interlaken to Grindel-
wald or Wengen, a 25% discount on the
3 Jungfraujoch – Top of Europe connecting ticket to Kleine Scheidegg and
(3,454 m / 11,333 ft) from there up to Jungfraujoch (for more
The trip to Jungfraujoch (UNESCO World about the “Swiss Passes” see page 5)!
Natural Heritage) by railway is an unfor- Another chance to save money is the “Good
gettable experience with a 100% guaran- Morning Ticket”, valid (from May 1st until
tee of snow all year round!! Jungfraujoch October 31st) if you travel up on the first
is the highest railway station in Europe! train of the day (departs at 6.35 am from
From Kleine Scheidegg (2,061 m at the foot Interlaken Ost / 6.59 from Lauterbrunnen /
of the notorious Eiger North Wall) the Jung- 7.15 from Grindelwald / 7.25 from Grindel
frau Railway first climbs to the station wald Grund), and leave the summit by noon
at Eigergletscher (Eiger glacier). The trip (12.30 the latest). Then this whole trip costs
continues through the Eiger tunnel to the CHF 140.– if you start from Interlaken Ost,
stations at Eigerwand and Eismeer (with a or CHF 130.– if you start from Lauterbrunnen
The Schilthorn cable car in front of the Muerrenbach Falls near Lauterbrunnen
five minute stop at each). Enjoy spectacu- or Grindelwald. Or if you prefer to sleep
Schilthorn
Bernese Oberland – Some
BERNESE OBERLAND – SOME HIGHLIGHTS
highlights 29
7 Gimmelwald
Gstaad
brings you via Gimmelwald and Mürren to walk along the lake (takes 20 minutes). great base for nature-lovers wishing to How to get to Lauterbrunnen: there are di
the Schilthorn (takes 32 minutes). i Bönigen at Seestrasse 6, (033 822 29 58) explore the surrounding region in leisure. rect trains from Interlaken Ost (takes 20 min).
A return ticket from Stechelberg costs ›››www.boenigen.ch i Lauterbrunnen tourist information right
$ CHF 91.80. But there are cheaper Budget Accommodation: Interlaken-
It’s where amazing mountain railways
begin their climb through some of Europe’s opposite the train station, 033 856 85 68
fares: if you hold one of the “Swiss Passes” Bönigen Youth Hostel, Aareweg 21, 033 822 most stunning scenery (Jungfraujoch – ›››www.mylauterbrunnen.com
you get free passage from Stechelberg to 43 53 (closed after Oct 25th) ›››www.youth- Top of Europe and the Schilthorn). At the Budget Accommodation: Valley Hostel, Fuh
Mürren and a 50% discount on the connect- hostel.ch/boenigen southern end of the main street there’s the ren, 033 855 20 08, ›››www.valleyhostel.ch
ing ticket from Mürren to the Schilthorn (for sparkling Staubbach Waterfall. And from
more about the “Swiss Passes” see page 5)! 6 Lauterbrunnen (796 m / 2,648 ft) the train station the public bus brings you
›››www.schilthorn.ch The valley that runs directly south from to the spectacular Trümmelbach Water-
Interlaken leads first to Lauterbrunnen. falls. You reach the starting point to these
5 Bönigen Lauterbrunnen lies in an impressive gla- impressive waterfalls via stairs or a lift
The village of Bönigen is situated on Lake ciated valley between gigantic rock walls and walk to the various 10 stages (open
Brienz, a short 12 minute bus ride from and summits. 72 waterfalls plummet over daily from April to November). From the
I nterlaken. The village, with its quaint the walls down to the valley. The Lauter- top, above the falls, trails from Mettlenalp
chalets and meadows along the lake, is an brunnen Valley comprises one of the larg- connect to paths leading to Wengen. In
ideal starting point for excursions through- est nature-protected areas in Switzerland. summertime, Lauterbrunnen offers many
out the lake and mountain regions of the The friendly Lauterbrunnen village is a possibilities for hiking and biking, leading
Bernese Oberland and the Jungfrau Region. to the “most beautiful spots on earth”! 7 Gimmelwald (1,367 m / 4,169 ft)
An extensive net of hiking and walking High above the “Valley of Waterfalls” lies Tiny car-free Gimmelwald nestles on a
paths and trails invites you to explore the the Winteregg, with its popular mountain sunny terrace and the arrival is already
area. Bönigen is also called «the village of restaurant. Winteregg is easy to reach spectacular – a cable car takes you high
wood-carved houses». Numerous build- from Grütschalp by train or by a 30-min- over the rocks to Gimmelwald. The small
ings featuring lavish carvings and paint- ute walk along a panoramic path (you farming hamlet of 140 inhabitants is a hik-
ings, dating from 1549 and representing reach Grütschalp by aerial cableway from ing paradise and the ideal starting point
all building styles and eras, have been pre- Lauterbrunnen, there board the panoramic for wonderful walks and hikes in a wild,
served and are concentrated here. Besides train to Winteregg). romantic area. The footpaths start in front
swimming in the lake (there’s a nice beach Have you always wanted to know how of your hostel’s door and offer an imposing
only 200 meters from the HI youth hostel), cheese is made from milk? From June to view of the mountain scenery.
Bönigen also offers a heated pool (with a September there’s a guided tour to the A wonderful walk is the one from Gim-
67 m long water shoot) and boat rental is Cheese Dairy Lauterbrunnen on o ffer, melwald to the Tanzboden (dance floor).
possible as well. starting every Wednesday at 8.30 am The path takes you from Gimmelwald
How to get to Bönigen: by bus from Inter (duration 2.5 hours), costs CHF 10.–, meet- through the Sefinental Valley and then
laken Ost (takes only 12 minutes), from ing point is the tourist office (registration climbs steeply via Busenbrand to Busenalp
The Jungfrau Railway
Interlaken West (20 minutes), or you can until Tuesday 5 pm at the tourist office). (2 hours). Then a 30 minute uphill stretch,
30 BERNESE OBERLAND – SOME HIGHLIGHTS
rewarded by magnificent views from the Accommodation: Mountain Hostel Gim- holders get a 50% discount (for more about lar voyage of discovery. Crystal-clear lakes
Tanzbödeli plateau (takes approx. 3 hours melwald, Niedere Matte, 033 855 17 04, the “Swiss Passes” see page 5)! reflecting snow-capped summits and pure
in total). ›››www.mountainhostel.com alpine air. An easy hike without any uphill
Or try trout-fishing in the Sefinenlütsch- I Grindelwald-First (2,168 m) or downhill sections (1 hour 20 minutes)
ine-River – it’s good fun (get your licence 8 Schynige Platte (1,967 m) First is easily reached by aerial gondola with spectacular panoramic views is the
at the Mountain Hostel). But never forget An easy trip – and a very fine mountain from Grindelwald. The views from the top one from Grindelwald-First to the Grosse
that this sport is called fishing, not catch- excursion – is the ride up to the Schynige are among the best in the beautiful Bernese Scheidegg. Ask at the tourist office or at
ing… And if the trout do not bite, follow in Platte, from where you can survey some Oberland! Take delight in over 100 km of your hostel for the “hiking map Grindel-
the footsteps of James Bond and visit the of the best panoramic views in the entire picturesque and well-prepared summer wald-First”.
Alps. From Wilderswil the enchantingly hiking trails suitable for every level of hik- Thrills and a great time are guar-
Wooden house in Gstaad – Saanenland old-fashioned cog railway slowly climbs ing, across flower-strewn meadows, past anteed with the First Flyer! Origi-
up the mountainside via Alp Breitlauenen fields of mountain roses or bilberry bushes. nated in the USA (where it is known as a
to the station at Schynige Platte (operates On the botanical trail from First via Lake Zip Rider) Grindelwald-First has the only
from May 22nd – October 17th). From here, Bachalp (magnificent moorland scenery one of its kind in the whole of Europe!
you have an overwhelming panoramic with typical vegetation) to Waldspitz-Bort With the First Flyer the dream of swishing
view, especially of the famous three alpine (about 2 hours 20 minutes in total), you’ll through the air becomes reality. Whizz
peaks Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau. And many find over 100 different flowers. It’s a popu- down 800 metres at speeds of up to 84 km/h
different marked trails lead out in all direc-
tions from here. The natural paradise is
also famous for its unique Botanical Alpine
Garden. The Jungfrau railways have some
special offers i.e. “Teatime Ticket”, “Guided
Moonlit Hike”, “Tandem Paragliding Schy-
nige Platte”, “Swiss National Day Party on
Schynige Platte” (on Aug 1st) and many
Schilthorn peak, one of the most exclusive more. Check out ›››www.jungfraubahn.ch
view points in the alpine world. For details A great classic alpine hike is the one from
about this dramatic mountain see “Schilt- Schynige Platte via Faulhorn to Grindel-
horn” on the former page. wald-First. This demanding trail requires
How to get to Gimmelwald: from Inter- a good basic level of fitness; hiking time is
laken Ost, take the train to Lauterbrunnen about 6 hours. Important: the last descents
and change to the bus for Stechelberg. In by First Aerial Cableway are between 5
Stechelberg take the cable car via Mür- and 6 pm according to season. You should
ren up to Gimmelwald (approx. 1 hour in not underestimate your hiking time and
total). include time for breaks!
i Gimmelwald does not have official How to get to Schynige Platte: take a train
tourist information (but ask at the Moun- from Interlaken Ost to Wilderswil (takes
tain Hostel, they do have lots of infor just 5 minutes), from where the rack-rail-
mation! Official tourist information is in way will bring you within an hour up to the
Mürren (in the same building as the Alpine Schnynige Platte top station (climbs 1,420
Sports Center) 033 856 86 86 ›››www. metres over a distance of 7.2 km through
A woman in a traditional
Lauterbrunnen festive
– view of costume falls
the Staubbach
mygimmelwald.ch some spectacular scenery!). “Swiss Passes”
BERNESE OBERLAND – SOME HIGHLIGHTS 31
and a maximum height of 45 metres above able journey to the Jungfraujoch – Top of
ground. The ride costs CHF 25.–; but there Europe. You'll meet Alpine herdsmen with
are combi-tickets: up to First by cable-car, their cattle, climbers preparing to attempt
down with the First Flyer to Schreckfeld the Eiger North Face and visitors from all
and from there back to Grindelwald, costs over the world. Most people only linger for
CHF 75.–; or save money and book the a few minutes while changing trains for
“combi-special 10” for CHF 83.– (this in- Jungfraujoch, but Kleine Scheidegg is also
cludes one night’s accommodation incl. the trailhead for a wealth of high-coun-
breakfast at the Downtown Lodge Grindel- try walks. Hikes down to Grindelwald (4
wald, the aerial gondola trip and a flight hours) or to Wengen (2 hours) are relatively
with the First Flyer. easy-going. A tougher one is the one-hour
Another attraction on First is the scooter- hike up to the Eigergletscher (Eiger glacier).
bike trip from Bort Station down to Grin- How to get to Kleine Scheidegg: there are
delwald. Such a trip costs CHF 30.– (includes two routes to Kleine Scheidegg. The one
the aerial-gondola ride from Grindelwald from Grindelwald Grund station takes 34
to Bort and the hire of scooter-bike and hel- minutes, the one from the other side of the
met (deposit of CHF 100.– or credit card!). pass takes 45 minutes if you start in Lauter
How to get to Grindelwald-First (or Bort): brunnen. “Swiss Passes” holders get a 25%
the gondola rises at the eastern edge of discount (for more about the “Swiss Passes”
Grindelwald village (from May 29th until see page 5)!
Oct 24th).
K Gstaad-Saanenland
J Grindelwald – Kleine Scheidegg (2,061 m) The Gstaad-Saanenland holiday region is
Kleine Scheidegg, the pass between Grin- popular with a charming mix of visitors.
delwald and Lauterbrunnen Valleys, lies While the car-free chalet village of Gstaad
directly beneath the towering trio of the attracts countless stars and starlets, the
Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau. From here, smaller neighbouring village Saanen of-
the Jungfrau Railway begins its remark- fers attractive options a little further away
from the hustle, but still close to the action.
Springtime. In the background the Eiger (3,970 m)
TIP! There are hiking possibilities, from short
walks to high alpine tours. An enjoyable
Adventure sports hike with panoramic views of the Saanen-
There is pure adventure in the Ber- land region starts in the historical village
nese Oberland. No other part of Switzer- of Saanen (at the train station). The route
land has more adventure in store, hence takes you past the Roti Egg and Gspan
most of the Swiss adventure companies meadows as well as the Rittmal alpine pas-
are based in Interlaken. The Interlaken- ture and ends at the Berghaus Rellerli. The
Adventure.com network offers extra cool journey back can be done either in com-
combinations of adventure activities and fort by cable-car or at exhilirating speed
overnight stays in one of their hostels, on scooters or bikeboards. Hiking time is
summer and winter. During spring (April approx. 2 hours 30 minutes; difference in Your 1st choice for Switzerland
15th until May 31st) they offer special altitude is 800 metres.
packages at sensational prices, i.e. tan- Or how about river-rafting on the Saane
dem paragliding (from CHF 180.–), and river (from Saanen to Château-d’Oex),
tandem hang-gliding (from CHF 240.–); kayaking, canyoning, hydrospeed, etc.
Tandem skydiving from over 4,000 m The possibilities are countless. Read more
(from CHF 390.–) with 45 seconds of free about about Château-d’Oex on page 22.
fall at over 100 mph; Canyoning (from How to get to Gstaad or Saanen: From
CHF 135.–) or river rafting on a powerful Interlaken it takes 2 hours and you have
mountain river (from CHF 125.–); Sum- to change in Spiez and Zweisimmen (from
mer ice-climbing down crystalline blue Gstaad to Saanen and vice versa trains take
ice cliffs (from CHF 190.–). only 4 minutes). Easy to reach from Gstaad/
There is no experience necessary and Saanen is the Lake Geneva Region (trains
all equipment is included. All the prices between Saanen and Château-d’Oex take
above include two nights in a dormitory only 16 minutes, to Montreux 1 hour and
accommodation and can be upgraded! 15 minutes. Read more about the Lake
Well, how about bungy jumping, glacier Geneva Region on page 18 – 22.
trekking, rock climbing, a scenic flight,
wakeboarding, funyak, windsurfing or
Tourist office: Promenade 41 in Gstaad
(033 748 81 81).
personally run · independent · quality assured
waterskiing? The list of things to do in Budget accommodation: Saanen-Gstaad 33 hostels in Switzerland
Interlaken is endless. Have fun and enjoy Youth Hostel in Saanen, Chalet Rüblihorn,
Check for the SB logo in the hostel list on pages 2/3
the great outdoors in and around Inter- Spitzhornweg 25 (033 744 13 43, closed
laken. April 13th – May 12th, May 17th – 20th,
You can book pure adrenaline adventure May 26th – June 17th and after Oct 25th)
right at the hostel’s desk or online on ›››www.youthhostel.ch/saanen
www.interlaken-adventure.com
‹‹‹
32 BERNESE OBERLAND – Grindelwald
practical information
www.grindelwald.ch
www.berneroberland.ch
www.backpacker.ch
$ save money
Ask for the free visitor’s card which offers
The Jungfrau Railway and the Jungfrau peak
you many reductions!
G
rindelwald is called “the glacier village in the Bernese Oberland”. In the heart of the The ascent to the Upper Glacier leads over
wonderful world of mountains, the village is surrounded by impressive “four-thou- a rather adventurous wooden staircase
budget accommodation sanders” and forms the entrance to an intact landscape that promises not only that winds its way up to the rock with over
Downtown Lodge, Dorfzentrum (033 828 recovery and relaxation but also adventure and entertainment. Grindelwald’s mountains 890 steps. A 15 minute walk from the Hotel
77 30, closed April 11th – May 21st) ›››www. are exceptional! The highest point is the peak of Moench (4,107 m above sea level), but Wetterhorn takes one to the beginning of
downtown-lodge.ch; Grindelwald Youth the most famous one, of course, is the Eiger, with its impressive north face, a mountain the climb. Admire the fantastic view at the
Hostel, die Weid 12 Terrassenweg (033 853 which is monumental in mountaineering history! There is more to see in Grindelwald foot of the glacier! Open daily from mid-
10 09, closed April 12th – May 12th) ›››www. than the world-famous panorama of the Eiger, the Mönch and the Jungfrau; beauty can May to mid-October.
youthhostel.ch/grindelwald; Naturfreunde be perceived even in a single stone, an animal, or a flower. From the upper Glacier it’s just about a 25
haus, Terrassenweg (033 853 13 33, closed minute walk to the Alpine Bird Park. This
April 11th – May 13th and after Oct 10th) small park with various alpine birds as
›››www.naturfreundehaeuser.ch/grindelwald
highlights well as an alpine garden and hut restau-
The possibilities for exploring the wonder- again! Rental of top-class down-hill bikes rant is set in idyllic surroundings 1,400 m
ful world of mountains here are endless for and gear is available at First. above sea level at the foot of Wetterhorn
both athletic and non-athletic types! Also attractive (for ambitious athletes as between Grindelwald and the Grosse Schei
TIP! Grindelwald offers hiking against the well as for leisure bikers) is the “Top Ten” degg. Open daily, entrance free of charge
Treat yourself to an exhilarating world’s most beautiful backdrop! 300 km (10 bike routes). Starting point is the tour- (restaurant open Fri – Sun until 5 pm).
ride on the First Flyer - thrills and of marked walking, hiking and mountain ist center, where you will receive a card. On a rainy day visit the sports center (Sport
great time guaranteed! Originated in the paths for you to choose from. Numerous This card contains 10 squares correspond- zentrum). There you’ll find an indoor pool,
USA (where it is known as a Zip Rider) suggestions can be found on the 1:25,000 ing to the different runs. Before setting out sauna complex, solarium, game room,
Grindelwald-First has the only one of its walking map of Grindelwald, on sale at for each new run, the corresponding field Internet, an attractive boulder room as
kind in the whole of Europe! Whizz Grindelwald Tourism. Grindelwald offers must be stamped. At the end of the run the well as Switzerland’s first indoor rope
down 800 metres at speeds of up to 84 its guests a great deal of other outdoor card is again stamped to prove completion. park, the Sport Pub and the tourist office.
km/h and a maximum height of 45 me- activities, not only biking and hiking, but Ask for the special brochure and map at the The sports center is open daily (pool closed
tres above ground. The aerial gondola to also trekking, climbing, mountaineering, tourist center. April 12th – May 28th).
First rises at the eastern edge of Grindel- tandem paragliding flights, tandem sky- The wildly-romantic Glacier Gorge, with In the village centre (opposite Hotel
wald village (May 29th – Oct 24th). Save diving, bungy jumping, canyoning, river its mills, cuts and green marble slabs, is Hirschen) there is an attractive 18-hole mini-
money and book the “combi-special 10” rafting and more. Ask at the tourist office one of nature’s masterpieces. A specially- golf course. Entry costs CHF 6.–, open daily
for CHF 83.– (this includes one night’s ac- or at your hostel. constructed wooden walkway leads from (June, September and October 1 – 6 pm and
commodation in a dorm incl. breakfast Biking downhill is pure adventure. The the hotel restaurant Gletscherschlucht over July and August 10 am – 10 pm).
at the Downtown Lodge Grindelwald, the start of two impressive downhill runs is gushing waters and through galleries and
aerial gondola trip and a flight with the near the First top station. Two runs are tunnels over 1,000 m right into the gorge.
First Flyer). See advertisement on the available to conquer the challenging ter- On either side, the partly smooth walls rise Read more about excursions to the Jung-
next page. rain down to the Schreckfeld Station, with overhead 100 meters. How to get there: 35 fraujoch, the Schilthorn or the Schynige
Read more about Grindelwald-First on an altitude difference of 200 m. Once at minutes walking distance from the village Platte and more about the beautiful
page 30. Schreckfeld, you can board the gondola center or by bus from Grindelwald Station. Bernese Oberland on pages 28 – 31 and
cableway to go back up to First and start Open daily mid-May until mid-October. 35 – 37.
BERNESE OBERLAND – Grindelwald 33
Grindelwald-First
The swiss mounTain experience
b i - Sp ec i a l 10
Com accommo
dation
The Lodge is located in the heart of Grindelwald,
only a five-minute walk from the railway station
s
• 1 night’ and First aerial gondola. Just around the corner from
kfast
incl. brea aerial
numerous restaurants, bars and shops.
www.jungfrau.ch
lw ald-First
• Grinde
The Lodge is the ideal starting point for the two
trip stunning hiking and skiing regions close to the
gondola er
t w it h First Fly Eiger, Mönch & Jungfrau.
• Fligh
New iN europe: First Flyer
CHF 830..––
8)
dorm (3–
The only one of its kind in the whole of europe! Treat yourself to Booking:
double
an exhilarating ride on the brand-new First Flyer. safely attached
to a cable, you whizz down 800 metres from First to schreckfeld with
three other «high-fliers», at the same time but in separate harnesses.
CHF 9 Downtown Lodge
CH-3818 Grindelwald
Tel. +41 (0)33 828 77 30
Fax +41 (0)33 828 77 31
reach speeds of up to 84 km/h! Thrills and a great time guaranteed! www.downtown-lodge.ch
downtown-lodge@jungfrau.ch
offer valid until 31 December 2010, excluding 6 april to 28 may and 25 october to 3 December 2010 (for maintenance work)
Swiss Backpacker News presents:
SUMMER
COMPETITION
sponsored by VICTORINOX and MAMMUT
Each month from April until October 2010
we raffle a VICTORINOX pocket multitool and
a MAMMUT sleeping bag liner – go for it!
Victorinox pocket
multitool “Voyager Lite”
The compact and elegant
“Voyager Lite” with 23 Mammut cotton
functional and useful liner “Traveller”
tools weights only 112 This cotton sleeping bag
grams and can easily be liner weights only 320 g.
accommodated in your It keeps your sleeping
checked-in luggage. bag clean and extends
the life of it – or it is the
ideal sleeping bag for
backpacking in warmer
climate.
The pocket tools “Voyager Lite” are sponsored by The sleeping bag liners “Traveller” are sponsored
VICTORINOX, the world leader in multitools. You’ll find by MAMMUT, the most famous name for Swiss
VICTORINOX knives in all good souvenir shops and quality clothing, ropes, harnesses, backpacks
special Swiss Army Knife shops (or ask at your hostel). and sleeping bags. You’ll find MAMMUT products
›››www.victorinox.com in all good sports shops. ›››www.mammut.ch
36 BERNESE OBERLAND – INTERLAKEN
I
(Rugenparkstr. 1, second floor). @ Internet nterlaken is the heart of Switzerland’s adventure activity scene, located in the center 6 pm; Mon – Fri 1 – 6 pm (during July &
stations at all Backpackers and Hostels (in of the Bernese Oberland. The closeness of the mountains and the view of the three August from 10 am); CHF 37.– (including
some, for guests only). Bahnhofstrasse/ world-famous peaks Eiger, Moench and Jungfrau (Top of Europe), equally add to the equipment and instructions).
Höheweg is the main street. Launderettes at beauty of the area. Excursions to the highest railway station in Europe, the Junfraujoch Rent a bicycle and explore the area on
Wasch und Glettstübli Steiner, Spielmatte (3,454 m / 11,333 feet), and to one of the most exclusive view points in the alpine world, your own. Many local suppliers (ask at
10, Unterseen and at Self-Service Wash and the Schilthorn peak, can easily be made from here. It is nothing extraordinary for a city your hostel) and both railway stations as
Dry Schmocker, Beatenbergstrasse 5, Un- to be situated by a river, lake or sea. But that it is, like Interlaken, between two lakes – well offer bike rental and will be happy to
terseen. Lake Thun and Lake Brienz – is practically unique. And Interlaken is the number one give you tips on making the most of your
resort in Europe for adventure and fun! At each hostel you can book outdoor activities. pedal-powered excursion. Biker’s maps are
www.interlaken.ch It is worth staying several nights here and enjoying the fabulous nature and some of the available at Interlaken’s tourist office. On
www.interlakenadventure.com adventure possibilities! hot summer days take bus no. 6 (direction
www.berneroberland.ch Thun) to the Interlaken “beach” at Neu-
www.backpacker.ch haus! Another good place for bathing is
highlights Lake Brienz, one of the cleanest lakes in
Interlaken’s main street is the long ings, and the square in front of the Amts Switzerland. But be warned, the water’s
“Höheweg” with a train station at each haus (municipal building) off Untere Gasse really cold!
$ save money
end (Interlaken Ost and Interlaken West).
And the centrepiece of the Höheweg is
is particularly picturesque. You reach
Unterseen by strolling along the Aare river.
The St-Beatus-Caves, Switzerland’s first
and only underground cave museum –
Ask at your hostel for the free visitor’s the Höhematte, where the vista opens M See how chocolate is made and try spectacular but safe. Explore this mysteri-
card which offers you many reductions! out over the green meadow towards the your hand at becoming a chocolatier! The ous maze of stalactites, stalagmites, lakes
mountains, with the unique view of the chocolate show is held daily at 5 and 6 pm and waterfalls to a depth of 3,000 metres.
Jungfrau. A wide promenade with shady at Grand Restaurant Schuh at Höheweg 56. From Interlaken by ship, car, bus – or on
trees and restaurants invites you to linger. Daily show at 5 and 6 pm, entrance fee foot along the historic pilgrims’ path (ap-
budget accommodation K Japanese Garden. This is Switzerland’s CHF 14.80 (including chocolate voucher). prox. 2 hour walk from Interlaken West
5 Backpackers Villa Sonnenhof, Alpen- first Japanese Garden (designed in 1995 by N A funicular rises from behind the Ost Sta- Station). Open March 28th – October 27th,
strasse 16 (033 826 71 71) ›››www.villa.ch; a Japanese landscape gardener). Next to tion through the woods to the Harderkulm 10.30 – 5 pm. Guided tours only! Tours
6 Balmer’s Herberge, Hauptstr. 23 (033 822 the Interlaken Hotel on Höheweg, small (1,310 m), offering vistas over the town, start every 30 minutes, duration approx.
19 61) ›››www.balmers.com; 7 Happy Inn but beautiful. both lakes and a panorama of snowy 1h, entry costs CHF 18.–, students or if you
Lodge, Rosenstr. 17 (033 822 32 25) ›››www. L Unterseen, adjoining Interlaken north peaks close enough to touch! The funicular hold a visitor’s card 16.–. It can get cold
happy-inn.com; 8 River Lodge, Brienzstr. of West station, is an atmospheric village. operates from April 24th – Oct 2nd. Because in the caves, so bring something warm to
24 (033 822 44 24) ›››www.riverlodge.ch; It houses some of the area’s oldest build- Interlaken Tourisme celebrates its 100 year wear.
9 The lazy Falken Backpacker, Spielmatte B E AT
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The number 1 resort for adventure and fun Powered by Rough Guides BAUM GART
see ›››www.interlakenadventure.com
ENST RASS
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BERNESE OBERLAND – INTERLAKEN 37
B
rants, shopping, bike rental, supermarkets, ern is perhaps the most immediately charming city in all of Switzerland. The bus no. 10 or walk, it’s only 5 minutes from
and taxis (031 371 11 11). Another tourist country’s political and diplomatic capital has been listed as a UNESCO World Bear Park).
office 2 is next to Bärenpark (bear park) Heritage. For all its political status, it is a tiny city and the attraction of the place Bern’s Rope Park offers you an excep-
– they present a multimedia show about rests in its ambience. You could spend days just café-hopping and wandering the streets tional, active adventure in close touch
the history of Bern (in different languages, with its arcades and street fountains. Einstein developed his special theory of relativity with nature, 50 platforms, various de-
every 20 minutes – the show costs CHF 3.– here and it was from here that the famous Emmental cheese was first sent on its way to grees of difficulties. Open daily (April –
or CHF 1.– for students or if you hold a conquer the world. October) from 10 am – 7 pm (Oct un-
Swiss Pass. @ Internet at the tourist office til 6 pm); admission CHF 35.–, students
(Bahnhofplatz 10a), at Schauplatzgasse 9 CHF 30.–. From the train station take tram
(iLounge), at Kramgasse 47 (Weblane) and
highlights 3 or 5 or bus 19 or 28 until Thunplatz.
at your hostel (for guests only). 2 Bear Park (Bärenpark). The bear is where you can enjoy an excellent view! The Zentrum Paul Klee is much more than a
Bern’s heraldic animal. The Bear Park houses Mon – Sat 10 am – 5 pm, Sun 11.30 am – traditional fine arts museum. Approx. 4,000
www.berninfo.com two brown bears. Open daily, entry is free 5 pm, (latest entry to climb the spire is paintings, watercolors, drawings, puppets,
www.cityhunter.ch of charge. Bus 12 to station Bärengraben. 30 min. before closing time). Free admis- sketches and other works of Paul Klee’s are
www.backpacker.ch 7 Parliamentary Building (Bundeshaus). sion to the cathedral, entry to the spire on display. Take bus no 12 from the railway
Seat of Swiss government and parliament. costs CHF 4.–. station until “Paul Klee Zentrum”. Tue –
Free guided tours (duration 45 min.), Mon – 9 Swiss Alpine Museum. History of the Sun 10 am – 5 pm, Mon closed. Admission
budget accommodation Kappelenbrücke campsite
ALL
3 Bern Backpackers/Hotel Glocke, Rathaus- plus Thursdays 5, 6 and 7 pm (no tours dur- show, audio-visual information in 4 lan- Mt. Gurten. Popular day trip destination!
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gasse 75 (031 311 37 71) ›››www.bernback- ing parliamentary sessions; then access guages. Mon 2 – 5.30 pm, Tue – Sun 10 am – Panorama of the city and the Alps. Reached
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packers.ch; 4 Hotel Landhaus, Altenberg- LD DAX
to the public galleries only). Passport or 5.30 pm. Admission CHF 10.–, students CHF EG
in 25 min. by tram no. 9 to Wabern. Get off
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326 11 11) ›››www.youthhostel.ch/bern; (security entrance, east side of Parliament J Zoological Gardens Dählhölzli. Attrac- up here (see events on page 17)!
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6 Hotel Pension Marthahaus, Wyttenbach Building)! In view of the large number of tive woodland setting. A unique selection On really sweltering days cool down in and
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ch; Etap Hotel Bern Expo, Am Guisanplatz 4 before (031 322 85 22). 8 am – 6.30 pm,
BE CHF 10.–, students CHF 8.–. river Aare. In the popular public free bath
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Unitobler building
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(031 335 12 12) ›››www.etaphotel.com 8 Münster-Cathedral from 1421. A prime Take bus 19 to Tierpark. Marzili N you can float down the river
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example of Swiss late Gothic architecture. K Museum of Fine Arts (Kunstmuseum). (good swimmers only). A great spot for
THE
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Highest spire in Switzerland: 344 steps One of the most distinguished collec- a self-catering barbecue is the park Eich-
$
SC
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above the entrance, 100 meters high, from BR
tions in Switzerland: Italian, Swiss and holz (right next to the river – this is where
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until the end of October, 7.30 am – 9.30 pm Weihergasse 3 (next to the youth hostel)
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Bikes are free of charge forL A4U Phours, every Open daily (Tue, women only!), CHF 42.–.
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additional hour costs CHF 1.– Deposit of
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Plattform
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CHF 20.– and passport or ID required. SS E HI
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Bern’s best summer deal! Get to know the real Bern: meet
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funicular RG A S S E
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tours and day trips off the beaten track.
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Weekly Bern highlights and tour offerings
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on ›››www.meetthelocals.ch
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BERN 39
marthahaus bern
fully equipped kitchen (open 24 hours), free wireless, internet,
english movies every night, laundry facilities, free lockers,
free luggage storage, discounts on swiss army knives
Marthahaus
wyttenbachstrasse 22a, ch-3013 bern
VISIT BERN… UNESCO world heritage sight
tel. 031 332 41 35 / fax 031 333 33 86 • 6 kilometers of arcades with cafes and shops let you explore
the old town…even when it rains…
info@marthahaus.ch / www.marthahaus.ch • free bikes, free swimming pools – float down the Aare River…
• interesting bars, clubs, culture centers and cellar theatres
• Einstein house, Paul Klee museum, Münster cathedral, …
Etap Hotel Bern Expo - Am Guisanplatz 4 - Tel. 031 335 12 12 Bern Backpackers – Hotel Glocke
The room for 1, 2 or 3 persons from CHF 94 to CHF 110/night excl. city tax Rathausgasse 75, Bern 3011, Tel.: 031 311 3771
info@bernbackpackers.ch / www.bernbackpackers.ch
7 hotels in Switzerland and 400 in Europe - www.etaphotel.com
40 BASEL
practical information
www.basel.com
Basel in the old town
www.backpacker.ch
B
asel is located at the elbow of the Rhine on the borders of France and Germany. lying anchored alongside the road. Open
Its open-minded inhabitants give Basel its special character. The town has the daily 10 am – 6 pm (Wednesday till 8 pm).
$ save money
oldest university in Switzerland (1460) and houses many museums and theaters.
It has increasingly established itself as the architectural capital of the country. The
Admission CHF 25.–, students CHF 12.–,
cheaper admission (CHF 17.– / students
All visitors who stay at a Basel hotel/hostel multicultural Kleinbasel (on the right bank of the Rhine river) is the home of the alterna- CHF 8.–) on Mon 10 am – 6 pm and on Wed
receive a free Mobility Ticket valid for the tive cultural scene. The town center is located on the left side of the river. The oldest and from 5 – 8 pm.
whole stay (max. 30 days). This gives you cheapest connections between the two banks of the Rhine river are the ferries. They are 7 The Natural History Museum at Augus
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unlimited tram and bus travel without not only a tourist attraction but aHorburg-
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ever having to buy a ticket! Just great! Ask also make excursions into the neighbouring regions of Germany and France. the natural sciences. Walk through the
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2/15 to Kunstmuseum. Open Tue – Sun
budget accommodation
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Tinguely Museum), is dedicated to the life CHF 10.–. 10 am – 5 pm (closed on Monday). Admis-
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– Kirchrain 10, (061 272 05 72), ›››www. building itself was designed and executed by Riehen (take tram no 6 to Riehen Dorf) you’ll sion every first Sunday of the month.
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youthhostel.ch/basel. For more accommo- another famous Swiss, the architect Mario find an exceptional collection of work by 8 Kunstmuseum (Museum of Art) at
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dation in Basel ask at the tourist office. Botta. This museum is unlike others: here, NG
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thump. 130 meter-long building resembles a ship ST
art houses in Switzerland. Highlights are
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ums and to the zoo, free guided tours of whole world. Take tram 3/6/8/11/14/16 to
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BASEL 41
king penguins. Feeding times (Fütterun- and special events: June 12th until Octo-
gen) are fun to watch (see display by the ber 3rd 2010, Tue, Wed & Fri noon – 6 pm,
entrance). Open daily from 8 am – 6.30 pm Thu noon – 7 pm, Sat & Sun 10 am – 5 pm
(May – Aug) (until 6 pm only during Apr, (closed on Mon); CHF 14.– / students CHF 8.–.
Sep and Oct), CHF 18.– / youth under 25 If you’re halfway interested in design,
CHF 12.–; cheaper admission on Mondays you’ll love the Vitra Design Museum, one
CHF 13.– / youth under 25 CHF 9.–. of the world’s leading museums for indus-
K Basel’s impressive cathedral (called the trial furniture design and architecture.
Münster) is the landmark of the city and You’ll find the Vitra Design Museum across
worth a visit. It was built in the thirteenth the border in Germany, 10 km north of
century of red sandstone with a patterned Basel in the small town of Weil-Am-Rhein
roof and rebuilt following an earthquake (at Charles-Eames-Strasse 1). Take bus no.
in 1356. Open Mon – Fri 10 am – 5 pm, Sat 55 from Claraplatz directly to Vitra (pass-
10 am – 4 pm, Sun 11 am – 5 pm, entry is port needed!). Open Mon – Sun 10 am –
free of charge. 6 pm, Wed until 8 pm; admission Euro 8.– /
L For many people the Swiss Architecture student Euro 6.50.
Museum (Switzerland’s only museum of The Roman Town of Augusta Raurica. A
architecture), at Steinenberg 7, is a major visit to this largest open-air archaeologi-
reason for coming to Basel. The principal cal museum in north-west Switzerland is
themes are: Swiss architecture from the one of the most attractive outings around
Classical Modern period, international con- Basel. The extremely interesting open-air
temporary architecture, and the relation- complex of The Roman Town of Augusta
ship between architecture and art. Open Raurica offers over 20 places of interest,
Tue, Wed & Fri 11 am – 6 pm, Thu 11 am – including the best preserved antique the-
8.30 pm, Sat & Sun 11 am – 5 pm (closed on atre north of the Alps, a unique replica of
Mon); CHF 10.– / students CHF 6.–. a “Roman House” and the “Roman” farm
The Schaulager at Ruchfeldstr. 19 in animal park. No wonder the archaeologi-
Münchenstein (approx. 10 minutes by tram cal site is the most visited tourist attrac-
no. 11 from the Swiss railway station SBB, tion in the Baselland Canton today, and
Barfüsserplatz
direction Aesch until “Schaulager” stop) is enjoys an international reputation.
an amazing venue (designed by the lead- How to get there: Fast train from Basel
ing architects Herzog & De Meuron) and to Kaiseraugst: 10 minute walk to the “ Kaiseraugst” (summer only, call 061 639 useum open Tue – Sun 10 am – 5 pm and
M
Basel’s newest, highly-regarded cultural Roman Museum and the central points 95 07); from there a 15-minute walk to Monday 1 pm – 5 pm. You can visit most
institution (intended primarily for spe- of interest; or bus number 70 from Basel- the Roman Museum (journey time from of the sights of August Raurica free of
cialists as restorers, curators, researchers, Aeschenvorstadt to the “Augst” stop, Basel: 1½ hours). Opening hours: outdoor charge. Entry to the Roman Museum and
teachers and students). But it’s also open from there a 10-minute walk. Or by boat exhibitions and the farm animal park the Roman House costs CHF 7.–, students
to the public for occasional exhibitions from Basel-Schifflände to “Augst” or are open daily 10 am – 5 pm; the Roman CHF 5.–.
S
witzerland’s rural northeast (Ostschweiz in German) is not as mountainous as Hostel, Jüchstrasse 25 (071 245 47 77) ›››www. (15 minutes). August 21st sees a mighty
some other cantons, but compensates with lush green hills that are picture perfect. youthhostel.ch/st.gallen (from St. Gallen fireworks display staged on the riverside
Bodensee (Lake Constance) is a big draw for summer recreation, while Stein am Station, take the orange “Trogenerbähnli” (at about 9.45 pm)!
Rhein’s main square could be from a fairy tale. The Rhine falls, Europe’s largest waterfall, tram to the “Schülerhaus” stop, then 5 min- The 4 km riverside walk from Schaff-
near Schaffhausen, are a dramatic spectacle. The main urban centre, St. Gallen, is world utes on foot). hausen to the Rhine falls takes about 45
famous for its extraordinarily Baroque abbey, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. minutes. Or you could take S-train no
And Liechtenstein, the world’s fourth-smallest country (only slightly larger than Man 33 to Schloss Laufen train station (takes
hatten), offers princely perfect views from the castle above Vaduz. You’ll love this part Schaffhausen and 5 minutes and is possible from April – Oct
of Switzerland! the Rhine Falls only!). Another possibility is to take bus no
Schaffhausen is the capital of Switzer- 1 or 6 from Schaffhausen to “Neuhausen
land’s northernmost canton and is nick- Zentrum”, from where the well-signposted
named “City of Oriel Windows”. With falls are a five-minute walk away. Or
some highlights 170-odd examples of oriel windows this from Neuhausen Zentrum (Zentralstrasse)
nickname is well-earned. Schaffhausen’s you can take the so-called “Rhine Falls
St. Gallen beautiful riverside old town is crammed Express”, a nostalgic train that brings you
St. Gallen is Switzerland’s seventh largest land’s first beer bottle museum, with full of well-preserved architecture, lending to the falls (costs CHF 5.–).
city and has a busy modern centre and a 2,000 bottles from 260 different breweries the cobbled streets considerable charm. How to get there: from/to Zurich main
beautiful old town. The centerpiece is the on display (open Mon – Fri 8 am – 6.30 pm, Two of the most grandiose houses are the station trains take 40 minutes to Schaff-
impressive Baroque abbey (built from Sat 8 am – 5 pm, entry is free of charge!). Zum Ochsen house at Vorstadt 17 and the hausen (or 49 minutes via Winterthur to
1755 to 1767), declared a UNESCO World An architectural highlight in St. Gallen house Zum Ritter at Vordergasse 65, both Schloss Laufen). From/to Kreuzlingen you
Heritage Site. The interior of the church is the “stadtlounge” (city lounge), just 5 with a Gothic façade and decorated with reach Schaffhausen by train (takes 55 min-
is vast! It’s opulently painted, decorated minutes on foot from the main station. striking Renaissance frescoes. A 15-minute utes) or by boat!
with stucco works and the choir area with Built by artists it invites you to linger and
its 84 superbly carved seats and the his- pass the time. The major event in St. Gallen
torical organ is an artwork in itself. The is its three-day rock festival, Switzer-
cathedral really is glorious and should land’s biggest open-air festival (from June
not be missed! Within the same complex 25th – 27th).
of buildings as the cathedral, and just ad- Factory visits are within easy reach from
jacent to it, is the famous abbey library, St. Gallen. You can watch chocolate pro-
one of the oldest libraries in Europe (open duction at Schoggi-Land in Flawil or visit
Mon – Sat 10 am – 5 pm, Sun 10 am – 4 pm). the show cheese factory in Stein (for details
It’s famous for its stunning interior and for see “factory visits” on page 50).
its huge collection of rare and unique me- How to get there: direct trains link St. Gal-
dieval books and manuscripts. The Textile len with Zurich (65 minutes) and Chur
Museum (at Vadianstrasse 2) provides an (1 hour 35 minutes).
interesting and well-presented collection of i Tourist office: at Bahnhofplatz 1a next
St. Gallen embroidery, famous throughout to the train station (071 227 37 37) ›››www.
the whole world (open daily 10 am – 5 pm). st.gallen-bodensee.ch
St. Gallen, the baroque hall of the abbey library, labeled world cultural heritage by UNESCO
At St. Jakobstrasse 37 you’ll find Switzer- Budget accommodation: St. Gallen Youth
Northeastern Switzerland & Liechtenstein 43
Imprint Publisher: Bernd Fasching; Edition and Marketing: Maria Huber; Design/Layout: Ruedi Oetiker; Translations Consultant and Proof-Reader: Rick Dumovich. Pictures Copyright © by Swiss-Image.ch,
S witzerland Tourism, istockphoto.com, swiss-image.ch/Franck Auberson, Flughafen Zuerich AG, Zurich Tourism, Ticino Turismo, Saas-Fee Tourism, Bern Tourismus, SGV Luzern, Basel Tourismus, Interlaken Touris-
mus, Jungfrau Railways, Lausanne Tourisme, Die Post, Luzern Tourismus, St. Gallen-Bodensee Tourismus, Rhaetische Bahn, Boenigen Tourismus, Grindelwald Tourismus, Valais Tourism, Rough Guide London, Lonely
Planet Publ. Ltd Australia. Printed by Zofinger Tagblatt AG, Zofingen, Switzerland, Circulation: 55,000. The publishers/editor do not accept the responsibility for any inconvenience occuring through the use of the
information given in this publication. Copyright © by Swiss Backpacker News (SBN), Am Bach 7, 5502 Hunzenschwil/Switzerland, phone +41 (0)62 892 26 75, http://www.backpacker.ch e-mail: info@backpacker.ch.
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Deadline for the next edition (winter 2010-2011): September 17th 2010! Worldwide distribution of Swiss Backpacker News by Switzerland Tourism (Mailing House) and many others. Within Switzerland: All
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44 GRISON / GRAUBÜNDEN
Lenzerheide / Valbella
The two linked resorts of Lenzerheide and
Valbella (just 30 minutes from Chur) are
the ideal place for some chill-out time or
the challenge of hiking and biking. These
linked resorts bombard you with their
beauty. The crystal clear Heidsee invites
you for swimming, sailing and surf-
ing. There is a woodland wonderland, as
well as plenty of soaring peaks. The Par-
paner Rothorn (2,865 m) is the highest point
reached by cable car. You’ll find several
walking trails starting from the summit.
Hikers in the upper Engadine
The Lenzerheide valley is also a challeng-
ing paragliding and hang gliding area
(but only recommended for experienced
G
rison (Graubünden in German) is one of Switzerland’s biggest cantons and hosts and northshore trails. All bike routes are pilots!). And once in this region you should
many famous resorts, including the Flims-Laax-Falera, St. Moritz, Davos, Scuol numbered and marked! not miss the world’s longest toboggan
and many more. These destinations are all famous for sports, and there is a lot Another highlight is the Rhine Gorge, run (see TIP below).
to discover: 150 valleys, 615 lakes, beautiful mountain landscapes, small villages, the also named the Swiss Grand Canyon with How to get to Valbella: Hourly buses from
Swiss National Park, adventures, hiking and biking trails. Enjoy a trip through the area wildwaters class II – III ! Go rafting or learn Chur (takes 33 minutes). Bus between Val-
of Grison with the famous railways such as the Glacier Express, the Bernina Express, the kayaking within this spectacular environ- bella and Lenzerheide takes only 4 minutes.
Engadin Express and the Palm Express. (Check the discount list on page 5 for validity of ment… Flims also has a Via Ferrata, an i Tourist offices: at Voa principala 68 in
your ticket). adventourus high alpine trail up to the Lenzerheide (081 385 11 20) ›››www.lenzer
Flimserstein… a perspiring trail worth heide.com
every step… Different packages can be Budget accommodation: Valbella Youth
booked online or ask at your hostel or at Hostel, Voa Sartons 41, Valbella (081 384 12
some highlights the tourist office; the friendly people there 08, closed April 6th – June 18th and after
will love to help you with lots of tips, book- Oct 18th) ›››www.youthhostel.ch/valbella
Chur is the capital of Grison and only 1 in Cauma-Lake or in Lake Laax, hiking, ings, bike rental etc.!
hour and 15 train minutes from Zurich mountain and downhill biking, skate- How to get to Flims / Laax: Hourly public
(there are 2 direct trains per hour). All vil- boarding, climbing, etc. An extensive buses to Flims/Laax from Chur (approx. TIP!
lages and holiday destinations described regional network of over 250 km of sign- 35 min). Once in Lenzerheide / Valbella / Chur
below are reached by train or post bus posted hiking trails await you here. Plenty i Tourist offices: The main office is in walden you should not miss the
from Chur. of trails winding their way through the Flims at Via Nova 62 (081 920 92 00) ›››www. world’s longest toboggan run at the Alp
forest. Alternatively, take a chairlift up to flims.com Pradaschier (an aerial cable car from
the broad, level plateau atop the Cassons Budget accommodation: Churwalden brings you up there in
Flims, Laax, Falera (Surselva) Grat, where there is a pleasant three-hour Laax: Backpacker Deluxe Hotel Capricorn, 7 minutes). The bob run winds round 31
The linked sports resorts of Flims-Laax- circular walk offering alpine panoramas. Via Cons 405, Laax (081 921 21 20, closed April bends, descending 480 m over 3,100 m
Falera are within easy reach of Chur (just In Laax all kinds of mountain bikers are 18th – May 29th) ›››www.caprilounge.ch down into the valley. Starting at the mid-
18 km west on a hillside above the Rhine). very welcome and can find their specific way station (mountain restaurant), the
Over the last few winters, Laax (1,020 infrastructures. Over 300 km of signposted run takes between seven and ten minutes
m) has become a mecca for snowboarders mountain-bike routes are provided and at Disentis / Mustér down to the valley station in Churwalden.
but has as well, in summer, a lot to offer. the tourist office you can get a special bike- Some say that Disentis (a little more than a The bob run is open in both summer and
The summer guests can choose from dif- guide and a mountain bike map. Besides train-hour west of Chur and Laax) is Swit- winter, and lighting means it can even be
ferent experiences, ranging from active huge freeride and cross country areas Laax zerland as it used to be. The local dialect open at night.
relaxation to thrilling adventure – bathing provides you with serious downhill, bmx here is Romansh, an ancient Latin language
GRISON / GRAUBÜNDEN 45
How to get to St.Moritz and Celerina: from How to get to Pontresina: the hourly trains i Tourist offices: at Stradun (beside the facing situation the weather is often mild
Chur with the Rhaetien Railway up to from Chur take 2 hours and you have to post office; 081 861 22 22) ›››www.scuol.ch here. The Val Müstair really is perfect for
St.Moritz (appr. 2hrs). There are stops in change in Samedan. From St. Moritz it’s Budget accommodation: Scuol Youth Hos- hikers and bikers, with the help of clearly-
Celerina and St.Moritz. just 10 minutes by train (or 18 minutes by tel, Prà da faira, Scuol (081 862 31 31, closed signposted paths, hikers can easily find
i Tourist offices: in St. Moritz at Via Mais- bus). April 6th – June 10th and after Oct 10th) their way around the valley.
tra 12 (081 837 33 33) ›››www.stmoritz.ch; i Tourist office: at Kongresszentrum ›››www.youthhostel.ch/scuol How to get to Santa Maria: the hourly
in Celerina at Plaza da la Staziun 18 (081 Rondo (081 838 83 00) ›››www.pontresina.ch trains from Chur to Zernez take 1 h 45 min-
830 00 11) ›››www.celerina.ch Budget accommodation: Pontresina Youth Sta. Maria Val Müstair utes and you have to change in Saglians.
Budget accommodation: Hostel, “Cuntschett”, Via da la Staziun 46 Between the upper and the lower Engadine From Zernez to Santa Maria the bus takes
In St. Moritz: St. Moritz Bad Youth Hostel, (081 842 72 23). The hostel is next to the lies Zernez from where the main road goes 1 hour.
Via Surpunt 60 (081 836 61 11, closed April railway and bus station. ›››www.youthhos- over the Ofen Pass (2,149 m) into the idyllic i Tourist office: at the main road (081 858
12th – July 11th and after October 19th) tel.ch/pontresina Val Müstair and leads then into Italy. This 57 27) ›››www.val-muestair.ch
›››www.youthhostel.ch/st.moritz; Rando- route is covered by postal bus (six to nine Budget accommodation: Santa Maria in
lins Backpackers, Via Curtins 2 (081 830 83 Spread-out Scuol (1,250 m) is the main departures a day). Santa Maria is the main Müstair Youth Hostel, Chasa Plaz, (081 858
83) ›››www.randolins-backpackers.ch resort in the Lower Engadine. It’s a health village of the Val Müstair and has a nice 56 61, closed until June 4th and after Oct
spa, and there are around 25 mineral springs Gothic church. Due to the valleys south 17th) ›››www.youthhostel.ch/sta.maria
In the “Bogn Engiadina Scuol” in the vicinity. The main draw is the mod-
ern Bogn Engiadina complex at Stradun
(open 8 am – 9.45 pm, admission CHF 25.–).
events
Lower Scuol is well worth a wander; it has April 15th – 18th Swiss Snow Happening Arosa
some incredibly quaint Engadine dwell- Championships for winter sports instructors
ings and cobbled squares. June 18th – 20th Trailfox Laax
Scuol offers tons of hiking and biking pos- Hundreds of free-ride bikers are drawn to the exceptional rallying,
sibilities. And from here you can visit the the feel of the great outdoors and the legendary riders’ party.
Swiss National Park! The headquarters July 2nd – 4th Windsurfing and kitesurfing regatta, Lake Silvaplana
of the Swiss National Park is in Zernez (30 (near St. Moritz)
minutes by train from Scuol). The park July 9th – 11th 16th British classic car meeting St. Moritz
In Celerina: Hotel “Alte Brauerei”, Via Mais- comprises 169 sq meters of woodland and July 10th Summer celebration Klosters. Culinary delights and music
tra 60 (081 832 18 74) ›››www.alte-brauerei.ch mountains where flora and fauna flourish sessions at Silvrettapark
Just 10 train-minutes southeasterly from in a stringently protected natural environ- July 16th – 23rd 6th International Sculptor Symposium Davos-Dorf
St. Moritz at the mouth of the Val Bernina ment. July 21st Street Festival Lenzerheide
(Bernina valley) lies Pontresina. Check out Another very pleasant excursion is the August 1st Swiss wrestling competition with traditional entertainment
the pentagonal Moorish tower and the Sta one to Guarda. Guarda (just 15 minutes Starts at 10 am at Davos-Clavadel
Maria Chapel, with frescoes dating from by train from Scuol-Tarasp), is a village of August 1st Swiss National Day, with parties and fireworks everywhere
the 13th and 15th centuries. Hiking trails national importance, one of the best pre- Aug 7th Bike-Race Churwalden
wend in all directions from Alp Languard served in the Engadine, and has expansive Sep 9th – 12th Classic Car Race Arosa
to the east of Pontresina (the chair lift to views! (From the train station to the village Oct 2nd & 3rd Avalanche Trophy Flims
the summit runs from the end of May to it’s about 30 minutes by steep footpath – or More than 400 bikers tumble down the trails
mid-October). In the same building as the you can take a bus) Oct 2nd – 10th 37th Flims International Alpine Hot-Air Ballooning Week
tourist office is the mountaineering school How to get to Scuol: Hourly trains from Over 20 teams in their colorful hot-air balloons
which is the largest in Switzerland. Chur to Scuol-Tarasp (takes 2 hrs). (with opportunities to have a ride) ‹‹‹
Schaffhausen
Dachsen
Kreuzlingen
Stein am
Rhein
Basel Romanshorn Rorschach
Baden -See
St.Gallen
Mariastein Brugg
Fällanden
Delémont Zurich
Zofingen Rapperswil
Beinwil -Jona
Le Bémont Schaan
Solothurn am See
Zug Richterswil -Vaduz
Filzbach
Lucerne Gersau
Berne Seelisberg
Langnau i.E. Scuol
Avenches Klosters
Engelberg
Fribourg Davos
Bönigen Brienz Sta.Maria
Leissigen Valbella
Sils i.D.
Grindelwald
Château Hospental Pontresina
-d‘Oex Saanen
-Gstaad St.Moritz
Lausanne
Montreux
Fiesch
Geneva
Bellinzona
Sion
Locarno
Zermatt Lugano
Figino
Swiss Youth Hostels, Schaffhauserstrasse 14, CH–8042 Zurich. Phone +41(0)44 360 14 14.
Fax +41(0)44 360 14 60. E–mail: contact@youthhostel.ch. Internet: www.youthhostel.ch
church, an impressive ochre vision float- Ascona is worth a day trip! It is situated
ing above the town. The twenty-minute near the delta of the Maggia river, on the
walk up is atmospheric in itself, or you shores of a splendid and sunny bay. Ascona
could take the funicular from just west has grown a large pedestrian zone – traffic
of the main train station. ›››www.ascona- free – in its historical center. The village is
locarno.com known as a center for arts, and the back-
How to get there: Half hourly trains from streets are filled with art galleries and craft
Bellinzona (takes 20 minutes). shops. ›››www.ascona-locarno.com
i Tourist information at Largo Zorzi 1, How to get there: about 10 minutes by bus
in the same building as the casino (091 791 from Locarno.
00 91). i Tourist information at Piazza S. Pietro,
Budget accommodation: Locarno Youth Casa Serodine (0914 791 00 91). Stay over-
Hostel, Via B. Varenna 18 (091 756 15 00) night in Locarno!
›››www.youthhostel.ch/locarno, a 20-min
ute walk, or take bus no 31/36 direc- The Brissago Islands. A visit to the botan-
tion Ascona/Losone as far as the “Cinque ical gardens on the Islands of Brissago is a
Internationales Filmfestival Locarno
Vie” stop, or take the Centovalli Railway must for anyone staying in the region. A
to “St. Antonio” stop; Casa DaVinci, Via beautiful one or half-day trip! A boat brings
T
icino is the only Swiss canton in which the official language is Italian. The mix of B. Rusca 6 (091 751 30 64) ›››www.casa- you from every destination around Lake
Swiss tradition and Italian lifestyle gives this part of Switzerland a unique charac- davinci.ch, near Piazza Grande in the old Maggiore to this beautiful island, home to
ter. Ticino has a mild climate, as spring arrives earlier and autumn lingers longer town. fantastic flowers only seen in subtropical
than in the rest of Switzerland. Ticino‘s flora is typical for the coexistence of plants of both areas.
Alpine and Mediterranean origin. And Ticino has two lakes, both shared with Italy: Lake The Maggia Valley, north of Locarno, is a
Lugano and Lake Maggiore. In summer sailing, windsurfing, canoeing and swimming in valley of natural beauty. This valley alone
the lakes and rivers are highly popular. And if you want la dolce vita, search no more – it offers 700 km of hiking paths and it is the
is waiting for you in the numerous sub-tropical parks and gardens here. ideal place to go to on hot summer days, so
events
don’t forget your swimsuit! Ponte Brolla The people in Ticino are famous for their
(4.5 km from Locarno) is a good starting open-air parties in summer. Just keep your
point for the Maggia Valley. From there eyes open and you’ll run into a party!
you can walk along the Maggia river, or May 14th – 16th Huge antique market in
some highlights straight to the delta, which has a beauti- Locarno (old town)
ful, real sand beach! In the valley there is May 19th – June 20th Open air cinema at
BELLINZONA a lovely backpacker accommodation off Castelgrande Bellinzona
Bellinzona is the capital of the canton i Tourist information at Palazzo Civico the beaten path in a little village called May 21st – 24th International Street
T icino. It’s set in a valley of lush mountains, in Bellinzona (091 825 21 31). Aurigeno, the Baracca Backpackers. Take Artists Festival Ascona
and stands at the southern side of two im- Budget accommodation: Humanità Back- bus no. 10 from Locarno to Ronchini. There, June 24th – July 4th New Orleans and
portant Alpine passes, San Bernardino and packer’s in Cabbiolo / Lostallo (091 830 14 81) cross the river on foot (takes you about Classic Jazz Festival, Ascona
St Gotthard. Bellinzona is a city of castles. ›››www.humanita.ch; (for accommodation 15 min. – it’s well marked). Baracca Back- July 7th – 17th “Moon and Stars” summer
Its grand trio of castles – Castelgrande in Bellinzona check ›››www.youthhostel.ch packers has only 13 beds, so call ahead! festival Locarno (Piazza Grande)
(from around the 6th century and the or ask at the tourist office). ›››www.ascona-locarno.com July 15th – 17th Blues Festival Bellinzona
city’s largest), Montebello and Sasso Cor- How to get there: (See above). (at Piazza Governo)
baro – were together declared a UNESCO THE LAKE MAGGIORE AREA Budget accommodation: Baracca Backpack- August 1st Swiss National Day. Fireworks
World Heritage Site in 2000. Locarno is a small town situated on the ers in Aurigeno (079 207 15 54, closed after and parties everywhere
north end of Lake Maggiore. It’s easy Oct 31st) ›››www.baracca-backpacker.ch August 4th – 14th International Film
Everyone passes through Bellinzona as it’s indeed to lose one’s heart to this pictur- Festival Locarno. Meet the stars there (and
on the train route connecting Locarno and esque little town. One of the most attrac- Ascona is Locarno’s smaller twin on the don’t forget to book your accommodation
Lugano, and on the Zurich-Milan route. But tive spots is the Piazza Grande and right opposite side of the delta of the Maggiore. ahead!)
Post buses also head north-east through behind it lies the old part of town, “la città It’s often called the “Pearl of Lake Maggiore”. ‹‹‹
the Misox (Mesolcina valley) to Chur (Gri- vecchia.” Built in the Middle Ages, it holds
son). Cabbiolo (just a 45-minute bus ride great architectural and cultural treasures.
from Bellinzona) lies peacefully among the Open-air concerts, disco-nights on lake
majestic mountains of the southern Alps cruises and beach parties are but some of
Hotel
and has nice backpacker accommodation,
with a waterfall for swimming in a great
natural environment. Due to its central lo-
the offers geared to please a backpacker. It
is free to swim in various convenient spots
around the lake. During the International
Casa DaVinci
cation, it is an ideal starting point for for- Film Festival (August 4th – 14th) the town
Looking for a nice place in the heart
ays to the rugged mountainous north, as will be crowded and accommodation is
of the beautiful old town in Locarno?
well as to the milder, culturally diversified difficult to find!
Located in a old historical house,
south. ›››www.ticino.ch Locarno is also the starting point for a wide
How to get there: Bellinzona has regular range of activities: whether sailing on Lake
free WLAN, bikes to rent, reasonable
train connections from Italy (coming from Maggiore or energetic mountain bike excur- prices for private rooms. Ideal situated
Milan) and all over Switzerland: from sions. And the valleys of Ticino offer sev- to start for all the activities in southern
Zurich (2 h 15 min), from Lucerne (2 h), eral hundred kilometres of hiking paths. part of Switzerland!
Bern (3 h 20 min) and Geneva (5 h). From For the adventurous, there is action such as
Bellinzona to Cabbiolo it’s just 45 minutes bungee jumping or canyoning. Most strik- www.casa-davinci.ch
Via B. Rusca 6 / Via della Motta 9, 6600 Locarno
by bus. ing of all Locarno’s sights is the Francis-
Phone 091 751 30 64
can Santuario della Madonna del Sasso
INCOMING / OUTGOING 49
EUROPEAN HOSTELS
surrounding countries
This list is intended to guide our readers during their trip before arriving and after
leaving Switzerland. Our aim is to help you decide which destination to choose
next. All hostels listed below provide a clean, secure and friendly atmosphere with
no membership required.
GERMANY AUSTRIA
Berlin Vienna
Heart of Gold Hostel Berlin Odyssee Globetrotter Hostel Hostel Ruthensteiner
Johannisstrasse 11 Gruenberger Str. 23 Robert Hamerlinggasse 24
10117 Berlin 10243 Berlin 1150 Vienna
Phone +49 (0) 30 29 00 33 00 Phone +49 (0) 30 29 00 00 81 Phone +43 (1) 89 34 202
Fax +49 (0) 30 29 04 47 17 Fax +49 (0) 30 29 00 33 11 or 8932796
bridge@heartofgold-hostel.de odyssee@globetrotterhostel.de info@hostelruthensteiner.com
www.heartofgold-hostel.de www.globetrotterhostel.de www.hostelruthensteiner.com
Number of beds: 180 Number of beds: 84 Number of beds: 98
Price of dormitories from € 11 Price of dormitories from € 10 Price of dormitories from € 15
CHEESE MAKING
La Maison du Gruyère Daily 9 am – 7 pm (Jun – Sep) Cheese making between 9–11 am and 4 min. train trip from Bulle. The Gruyère
phone 026 921 84 00 Daily 9 am – 6 pm (Oct – May) 12:30 – 2:30 pm (depending on season). region is great for hiking and biking!
1663 Pringy / Gruyères Admission (includes small tasting) Restaurant and shop. Exhibition “Gruyere, a
www.lamaisondugruyere.ch CHF 7.– / students CHF 6.– journey to the heart of the senses”.
Different events on weekends and in 2010
because of the 10th birthday of La Maison
du Gruyères!
Schaukäserei Benedictus Monastery Daily Mon – Sat 9 am – 6.30 pm / Watch cheese production daily From Engelberg village it’s just a few
phone 041 638 08 88 Sun 9 am – 5 pm (9.30 am – 4 pm) and eat some at the bistro. minutes’ walk.
6390 Engelberg Admission free Shop, with souvenirs and cheese.
www.schaukaeserei-engelberg.ch
Schaukäserei Schwyzerland Tue – Sat 9 am – 5 pm Cheese production, shop and restaurant. 30 min. from Lucerne or 54 min. from
phone 041 819 82 82 Admission free Zurich. Get off at Schwyz train station
Milchstrasse, 6423 Seewen / Schwyz (2 min walk).
www.milchstrasse.ch
Appenzeller Schaukäserei Cheese production daily 8.30 am – 5.30 pm Daily cheese production; slide / audio 15 min. bus ride from St. Gallen (direction
phone 071 368 50 70 (restaurant and shop daily information, restaurant with great choice of Herisau). Alight at the post office in Stein.
Dorf 711, 9063 Stein /AR 8.30 am – 6.30 pm). Admission free Appenzeller cheese.
www.showcheese.ch
BAKED GOODS
Ringli Land Mon – Fri 8.30 am – 6 pm, Sat 8.30 am – 4 pm Watch the production of traditional “Willisau Hourly train from Lucerne (takes 40 min.)
phone 041 970 10 22 (on Sat, shop only), closed on Sun. Ringlis” and delicious waffle specialities,
Menznauerstrasse 20, 6130 Willisau Admission free and buy some in the shop.
www.hug-luzern.ch
Chnusper Land Mon – Fri 8.30 am – 6 pm, Sat 8.30 am – 4 pm Watch the production of cookies, snacks 2 trains per hour from Lucerne
phone 041 499 75 04 (on Sat, shop only), closed on Sun. and pastries. In the shop you’ll find tons of (takes approx. 10 min.)
Hellbühlstrasse, 6102 Malters Admission free baked goods.
www.hug-luzern.ch
L A M A I S O N
DU GRUYERE
DEMONSTRATION CHEESE-DAIRY
For further information about our products and our sales points please go to
www.swisstravelsystem.ch
Dorm bed starts CHF 36.– | Double starts CHF 105.– 1
Epinettes 4, CH-1007 Lausanne, Tel. +41 21 601 8000, Fax +41 21 601 8001
Le logo
www.lausanne-guesthouse.ch Label de qualité
Niveau I
Label de qualité
Niveau II
Label de qualité
Niveau III
BALMER’S
BA
LM
ER
Interlaken, Switzerland
’S
H ERBE
RGE
Carmen Fabienne
Balmer Balmer
The Four seasons holiday resort of Switzerland,
Balmer’s is the No. 1 Hostel in Interlaken. With
the popular Metro Bar and Biergarten. Dormitories
from € 18, Private rooms from € 20, and Guest House
Apartments available from € 30 (pp).
Check-out our
new website www.balmers.com | ph +41 (0)33 822 1961
| mail@balmers.com