We will be driving from Venice to Gimmelwald (Switzerland) during part of our trip in the end of July and would like to spend the night somewhere in between. (Possibly around Lugano, but we're not locked into that.) In some ways, we'd like to have the flexibility to decide where to stay as we go that day. Looking for advice on whether we definitely should have a reservation or if we can "wing it." We'll have reservations for most nights of our trip. Any suggestions on nice areas to stay would also be great. Thanks!
Posted by
victoria, Canada
11507 posts
If you are just wanting a place to sleep in transit, they I wouldn't worry about reservations. We ( my dad and I) have travelled between Paris and Zermatt in late July early August with no reservations, we just look for a place off the highway in the afternoon, usaully around 2 or 3.. There are many chain type places that are meant for those in transit so aren't booked up solid with vactaioners for a week at at time.They have been small, basic but always clean. No character though, think Motel Six. Be careful to make sure the room has a bathroom, ( if that matters to you) as some chains promote share toilets. In a cute little town or city , you will have to go to the outskirts, but hey, you have a car.
My dad and stepmother are going to France this July, they have made no reservations, other then arranged a few nights here and there with friends and relatives( dad is french) ,, they never do , and they always find somewhere. Trick is , start early in day, by 5 or 6 it gets trickier
Posted by
Elk Grove, CA, USA
6898 posts
Don't expect to drive to Gimmelwald. No tourist cars permitted there. However, you can drive to a large parking lot at the Stechelberg gondola station that is just below Gimmelwald and about 3-4 miles beyond Lauterbrunnen. You then take the gondola up to Gimmelwald (and Muerren and the Shilthorn).
Posted by
OP
Manitowoc, WI, USA
7 posts
I should have specified that we're really driving to the parking lot you mentioned instead of to Gimmelwald. It looks like it will be an interesting area. We're staying at Esther's. Have you stayed there? Any favorite hikes?
Posted by
OP
Manitowoc, WI, USA
7 posts
Thanks for the ideas on finding a place a little earlier in the day rather than waiting. Good to know that even in July we should be able to get something if we want to keep the flexibility for that night. Thanks!
Posted by
Elk Grove, CA, USA
6898 posts
Deb, CLICK HERE for a list of hikes around Gimmelwald.