Taking Mom to Switz. for her first time abroad! How does this itin sound?

Very good point -- you reminded me...

In the Lauterbrunnen area, here is another resource to find lodging (plus, maps of the area, weather info, etc... for the Schilthorn/Jungfrau portion of the Bernese Oberland is elsewhere on this website): http://www.mylauterbrunnen.com/en.cfm/unterkunft/

Interlaken at the bottom of the mountain is a fine choice as well. If you end up staying there, either due to lodging availability farther up the mountain or simply desiring more conveniences in town, I highly recommend www.sunnydays.ch/.

You mean Castle Chillon, right?

Yes, that would be CHILLON, of course. My error.

Laura, how wonderful for you to take your mom o Switzerland. I think your itinerary looks fine. All of your train trips are short. The only part I would question is the sightseeing trip into the city of Zurich. Depending on how much rest you get on the flight, you might want to head directly to Lucerne. If your hotel won't be available until later, you could relax and sightsee by the lake. This is something you can decide on once you arrive at the airport. As far as weather in Gimmelwald, others on this forum have said that the first part of April is hard to predict. I just checked for reservations at Hotel Alpina in Muerren and they have availability until they close in mid-April. I personally prefer Muerren over Gimmelwald. It's still very quaint and without cars--has a few more restaurants, etc. Gimmelwald is a short walk (or lift) away. Have a wonderful trip with your mom making lifetime memories!

I agree with Denise that Muerren is a good option if you don't stay in Gimmelwald. We've stayed in both... and plan to stay in both in the future. (Traveling with kids now, the more convenient laundrymat in Meurren is especially valued...)

In Muerren, both the http://www.alpenruh-muerren.ch/en/ and the
http://www.hoteleiger.com/ appear to be available in very early April, but be aware that the Eiger closes April 11. (It is common for pensions in the Bernese Oberland to close for a month or so after the ski season but before the summer season.)

Even with possible 'iffy' weather, don't skip the opportunity to stay in or near Gimmelwald / Muerren -- -- early morning / late evening is magical up there.

Analysis of the Itin....

Sat: Arrive Zurich. Either skip the bus tour and walk the old city center, or head on to Lucerne. Night Lucerne.

Sun: Lucerne.

Mon: Lucerne - Bernese Oberland. Night Gimmelwald/Muerren.

Tue: Gimmelwald.

Wed: Gimmelwald - Bern.

Thu: Bern w/ side trips.

Fri: Bern - Geneva via Castle Chillon.

Sat: Fly out. Very sad. :(

Looks pretty good to me. Not too rushed, but some variety.

For some info on scenic trains go to: swiss Scenic Rail. Definitely plan to do the Jungfraujoch and Piz Gloria rides while you are in Gimmelwald/Muerren.

For some info on lodging in Gimmelwald, go to: www.gimmelwald.ch/en/accommodation/stay.htm.

laurab,

Your proposed Itinerary looks reasonably good, however I'd probably make a few changes.

I agree with Denise, that you might head for Lucerne straight away, rather than the tour to "acclimate via tour bus of city". You're probably going to be tired and jet lagged, and not focusing too well so the tour might be wasted to some extent.

My impression after reading your comments, is that Muerren might be a better choice than Gimmelwald, as it's a beautifully picturesque village and has a greater choice of "facilities" such as Hotels, restaurants, etc. From there you can easily visit Gimmelwald, either via the Cable car or walking down the paved trail (about half an hour, provided no snow). You could also visit Piz Gloria, where part of the movie "On Her Majesty's Secret Service" was filmed. Hopefully it will be open at that time?

As previously mentioned, many of the Hotels close in April, so finding a Hotel or B&B that's open will be the important part. You could also have a look at Lauterbrunnen, Wengen or even Interlaken. Check the Hotel listings in the Switzerland Guidebook to find one that appeals to both of you.

It's good that you're going in "early April", as it appears the Schilthornbahn (Cable Car) is closed for maintenance from Apr. 26-Apr. 30.

Happy travels!

Thank you so much, everyone, for your time and for sharing your advice and experiences! I will be revising our itinerary to take these tips into account.

i am so grateful!
L.