From Dec 10, I’ll be in Murren for 3 nights. I would like suggestion itinerary of how to spend my time in the area to get the most out of the region and get to any must-sees and hidden gems. I’ll try to go up to both peaks, weather permitting- or should I just pick one? About me- I love getting a feel for authentic, local flavor, dislike very “touristy” feeling places. Interested in sightseeing, taking photos, local arts/crafts, unique shops, not too strenuous walks (bad knees), sledding and other gentle winter activities, good food, Festive/Christmas markets or decorations. Please suggest which towns I should definitely see (eg Wegen, Lauterbrunnen, etc). All suggestions appreciated!
Posted by
Vernon, Canada
32351 posts
Three nights will provide a bit more than two days for actual touring. A trip to the Schilthorn would be an easy trip. If the weather is clear, you may want to have a meal in the revolving restaurant and enjoy the scenery. The rest of that day could be spent exploring Mürren and / or Gimmelwald. If you have a library close by, check the RS Switzerland guidebook for details on other attractions that might interest you in that area.
Posted by
OP
11 posts
Hi thanks! Yes, I purchased the book and another but I was thinking, like when ppl come to visit my city (San Francisco), or a city I’ve spent some time in before, I can suggest several amazing places that they prob won’t find in a travel guide book or tell them why I might highlight some things over others, so was looking for suggestions for that reason, not to be lazy :)
Posted by
Florida
1450 posts
While I love Murren I am not sure it fits your description. That whole region is pretty touristy. In the summer there are plenty of ways to escape crowds, but they nearly all involve hiking or walking. Since that's out, I'd spend a December day enjoying the winter scenery by visiting the Schilthorn or riding the trains and lifts to Grindlewald. Maybe you'll see some fools trying to scale the Eiger's north face.
The other day I would spend in Bern. It's an easy hour-ish away by rail and I bet they'll have lots of Christmas decorations up and great shopping areas.
Maybe instead you should spend those 3 nights in Bern and do a day-trip to the mountains?
Posted by
OP
11 posts
Thank you for the replies. We chose Murren for the views and to experience being “in” the alps- the scenery.
Will anyone comment as to if it’s reasonable to visit both Jungfraujoch and Schilthorn peaks (just to see the views and take pictures if we have a clear day) on the same day? That would free up time to wander the valley and visit Bern.
Posted by
Forest Grove, OR
11776 posts
I would say no to both peaks in one day. Since you are staying in Muerren, stick with the Schilthorn, which you can trek to and from and visit in a couple of hours.
The Jungfrau is a long trip from Muerren. If you choose to go there, you will want to leave very early (7 am or so) and will not be done with the trip (i.e., back to Lauterbrunnen) until at least 1 pm, very probably later as you might want to have a look around at Kleine Scheidegg as well. (Good spot for lunch.)
You would have time on each day — should you do one mountain on day one and the other on day 2 — to take a scenic walk. You can walk from Stechelberg to Lauterbrunnen in the valley in about 90 minutes, and also consider the Muerren to Grutschalp walk. They groom the trail so you are walking on hard pack snow. Very easy but wear sturdy boots or Gortex shoes. You can return from Grutschalp in the little train.
Posted by
Atlanta, GA
1131 posts
I didn't think Murren felt touristy at all, and we were there in peak season (mid-July). We stayed at the Hotel Alpenblick, which I highly recommend, and had a great day hiking down from the kids' playground at the top of the funicular (the 1.5 hour North Face walk in the RS guidebook). It was absolutely gorgeous. I don't know what hiking will be like in December though?