Hi all - September 2018 we (my husband and I) are traveling to Belgium for a 5 night bike trip. We have an additional 7 nights and really 7 days to spend somewhere. I need help deciding where to go. September 6-13 (flying home on the 14th) .
We spent mid September in Bellagio, Italy in 2017 and I loved the sunny days and cool evenings
We are heading to Provence in May 2018 (luck of the draw for vacations in 2018) and Croatia in May 2019
We like to hike, walk, bike and generally be outdoors
We've been to Paris twice and I don't think we'd head back to Italy since we've been there a couples times
On our list so far is the
Lake District in England
Bergen
Switzerland (maybe Montreux + Murren)
So pretty scattered...and represents my thoughts at this point - ugh! I love reading everyone's comments and ideas so any and all thoughts and advice are welcome!
Posted by
Seattle
4637 posts
Can't decide for you but from your list I would choose Switzerland. I like mountains and scenery. I consider Switzerland and Norway most scenic countries in Europe. Norway is harder to get to and even more expensive than Switzerland.
Posted by
Forest Grove, OR
11357 posts
Switzerland and most definitely the Lauterbrunnen Valley. You can stay in Lauterbrunnen or Muerren depending. It will be easy to fill a week with hiking and biking in the area. We've stayed from 4 nights to 11 nights at a stretch over the course of 4 trips and never run out of things to do outdoors. The hiking/walking is terrific We've had great weather in September, too.
From my research, Montreux does not compare. If you want a second venue in SW, consider Lausanne for a city or Zermatt for more mountains.
Posted by
11205 posts
Look at Grindelwald. You feel like you can touch the Eiger. Great train connections too.
Posted by
Camano Island, WA, usa
1452 posts
Check with UK Bike Clubs for more choices. I think the Lake District has too many Tour Buses in the way because is one of the Day Trippers Destinations. They do have good Vistas if you hike up away from the Hotel Districts. The Cotswolds is also more busy but I think that it lends itself to Biking better. What about the Peak District National Park? I found it more intriguing geologically.
Posted by
OP
Sunriver
1321 posts
Thanks all! Switzerland is near to my heart owning two Bernese Mountain Dogs. Montreux region is on the radar only for the wine tasting region but all of your suggestions sound great. Our friend in England mentioned that he liked the Peak District so we will definitely check out that region. Since the Lake District was just designated a UNESCO site it might be even more crowded. Thanks.
Posted by
New York, NY
4008 posts
Look at the websites of cycling and hiking tour companies to see what their itineraries are. They might give you ideas especially in terms of timing.