Hello all,
I am planning a solo first trip to the Bernese Oberland during the second half of September. I am a 70 year old female in good shape and have been researching the forum for information but could use some specific advice for my situation.
I love European festivals and am very keen on seeing an Alpabzug/Alpabfahrt and/or Chästeilet-- cows, cowbells, costumes, Alpenhorns and cheese! I am comparing what's available, what is potentially available and where to stay to make it easy enough to participate. (Along with all the other trip variables.) It looks like there are several possibilities in the last two weekends of September, but I don't necessarily want to spend two weeks plus in the one location, Wengen. Here is what I have found. Please comment on any and all!
September 18, 2026 Justistal Chästeilet: looks great, authentic not touristy, seems to include a cow parade. However, it takes place in a secluded valley, definitely not quick and easy to get there. Has anyone been? Where did you travel from and how long did it take? Was it worth it? (I am not an early riser.) I could stay in Beatenberg, but that could be dicey if they don't run a shuttle. And then I'm in the wrong place for the next events.
September 19-20 Potential Alpabfahrt in Wengen and also in Lauterbrunnen. Would be very convenient but dates and times are not announced very far in advance. Maybe you just have to hang around and be lucky?
September 26 Big cow parade Entlebuch Schüpfheim Great or too big and commercial? Looks to be easily accessible from Luzern but not so much in Wengen.
September 27 Wengen Chästeilet No cows, just cheese. On Rick Steves calendar. Is this worth being in town for? (Note I already booked a room at Alpenrose, my first choice hotel, not available on earlier dates.)
Along with all this, I am trying to decide how much time to spend in the BO. Eleven days to put myself in the way of all the festivals seems a bit much.
Thanks in advance for your recommendations!