Waking up in the chalet that morning felt like stepping into a real life snow globe. Light snowflakes drifted lazily past the windows, coating the world outside in a soft, magical hush. The dogs, blissfully unaware of the day’s agenda, bounded through the untrodden snow at the base of the mountains, while we firmed up our plans for day 2 of a Swiss adventure, destination Grindelwald.
Our goal, a gondola ride up to a breathtaking 4,000 foot summit in the heart of the Jungfrau region. Home to the legendary “Three Sisters” the Eiger, Monch and Jungfrau mountains. The National Geographic has great information about this area. The GPS optimistically informed us it was a mere 30 mile journey. However, reality had different plans.
The drive quickly turned into an icy, hairpin-laden expedition. At one point, we followed the GPS onto a steeper route, only to find ourselves defeated by the cruel alliance of snow and ice. The car refused to climb. Backing down a slick, sloping road with brakes that were more of a suggestion than a function, it was an experience I wouldn’t recommend. After a few nerve wracking moments we found an alternate and less life threatening route.
Jungfrau Gondola : A Swiss Adventure
Finally we rolled into Grindelwald, a charming little town that looked like it belonged on the cover of a winter wonderland postcard. The main street was bustling with tourists, cozy restaurants, and boutique shops. Fun fact: Grindelwald name has roots in old German-Celtic meaning “wooded valley” which checks out because every direction you look it is surrounded by a never ending forest with the mountains creating the boundaries. The town’s cinematic fame also intrigued us; it had served as the backdrop for Star Wars III- Revenge of the Sith. In addition, Clint Eastwood’s The Eiger Sanction. Quite an accomplishment for a quiet Swiss village.
At the gondola station, we were not the only ones bringing four legged companions. The gondolas, designed to hold six people, graciously allowed us to have one all to ourselves. As we ascended, the town below shrank into a miniature model, while the mountains grew larger and more imposing. The landscape transformed, fewer trees, more jagged rock faces, and snow being whisked off ledges by the wind. Then came the jerky stop! Cue the momentary panic and awkward glances. Just how long were we going to dangle here? Long enough to appreciate the view, but not quite long enough to be completely comfortable with it.
The Summit
At the summit, we stepped into a landscape dominated by white, the snow covered ground, the foggy sky, even the surrounding peaks seemed like they belonged in an abstract painting titled Fifty Shades of White. Despite the monochrome palette the view was absolutely stunning.
The restaurant at the top shaped like a pentagon had floor to ceiling windows on each side, offering a panoramic feast for the eyes while we indulged in a literal feast. Switzerland’s answer to comfort food potatoes, cheese and a perfectly cooked egg on top called a Rosti. A mug of hot chocolate topped with a mountain of whipped cream sealed the deal.
After making our way back down we strolled through Grindelwald’s charming streets before heading back to Annecy. A brief stop in Interlaken introduced us to yet another delightful surprise. A local park where colorful parachutes dotted the sky, gracefully landing among Sunday strollers .
The day had it all, adventure, a bit of terror, stunning scenery, and the kind of memories that stick with you for a lifetime. Switzerland is a most beautiful country and a must see!
Thanks for being here,
-Soraya
Interested in reading more about the beginning of our Swiss adventure? Road Tripping Through The Swiss Alps
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