Because of the 90 days limit for visiting the EU, we can only visit Switzerland sometime during May 1-11 due to time spent working in Spain. I read that "mountain resort towns such as Zermatt and Mürren are completely dead (most hotels and restaurants are closed, and the weather is iffy)." We had wanted to base ourselves for 3-4 days in the Lauterbrunnen Valley - is that a good idea? Any other suggestions to explore at this time of year?
Posted by
231 posts
May is a beautiful time of year in lower elevations. A lakeside village like Thun or Brienz should be quite pretty and warm. Most (but not ALL) higher elevation mountain trips will likely not have started summer service yet, as that in-between time is wet and muddy up above; so lifts are usually serviced/maintained then.
Have you considered French Switzerland? Like Montreux, Lausanne, Vevey, Sion? Fabulous views of the French Alps across Lake Geneva!
What are your goals? Of course, pricey Jungfraujoch is "open" all year round.
Posted by
OP
2 posts
Another Steve: we will be working for 68 days in Spain prior to our vacation time and as Americans we are limited to 90 consecutive days in the Schengen countries.
Wynoka54: These are great suggestions, thanks so much.
Posted by
20 posts
We stayed in Lauterbrunnen in April and had a great time. Not as many lifts open, but enough open for some easy hikes and great views.
Posted by
Washington DC
29661 posts
For the sake of clarity: The Schengen limit is 90 days within any 180-day period, not just 90 consecutive days.
Also, you should be sure you have good advice as to whether you need a special visa for the work you are doing in Spain. The US isn't the only country that cares about that sort of thing.
Posted by
Alsenborn, Germany
2352 posts
Late April - early May is when things start to open up, but as noted the higher elevation places are usually last, and since they also have ski season spring is maintenance time. But that's the perfect time to tour wine country, as the fruit trees will be in bloom and everything is green again.
If you have to do Switzerland I suggest taking a look at one of the scenic trains and using that. Just go until you find a place you want to get off and then, once done there get back on the next one.