We are 70 yr olds planning a 2week trip thru Switzerland. Can we bring luggage up to Ebenalp? Too old to stay in Berggasthaus Aescher? Better option available? How should we pack? Luggage on wheels or large backpacks? We are not professional hikers!
Posted by
Chesterton, IN, USA
17 posts
My mom is 65. She's in good health but not as strong as she used to be. I bought her a rolling backpack from the Rick Steves store, and gave her a copy of Rick's packing list. She'll be able to pull it anywhere that's flat and not too crowded, and though it's heavier than a bag without wheels would be, she can carry it on her back when she has to.
Posted by
Boise, ID, USA
2300 posts
I'm 67 and use a backpack suitcase. It usually weighs about 17 pounds when I leave home, getting a bit heavier as the trip goes on from all the paper souvenirs! My husband and I have traveled for as much as six weeks in Europe with only the backpacks. It's so freeing to have nothing in your hands except your map/guidebook.
Posted by
Seattle, WA
17432 posts
You are certainly not too old to stay there, as long as you are comfortable sharing your sleeping room with others. But you do not want to take wheeled luggage up there. It is a 15-minute hike down a trail from the lift ( and the same back up to catch the lift in the morning). Best to leave your luggage in a locker below and just take up a daypack with what you need for the night. You might need a sleep sack, so be sure and ask about that when you make your reservation. If you would prefer a private room and want to bring up your luggage, there is also a Gasthaus at the top, near the lift. Www.gasthasu-ebenalp.ch