Summary
Our first voyage of the year took us to the enchanting lakes and snow-clad Alps of Switzerland, specifically to Interlaken, with subsequent visits to several remarkable locations in Valais (details to follow in other articles).
Upon arriving at Interlaken via Zurich (with a train journey from there), we checked into our accommodation and spent the evening indulging in fondue (a considerable amount) while strategizing our upcoming days in Switzerland.
The next morning, we resolved to visit Jungfraujoch—a stunning location perched high in the mountains, which, to be candid, I was not completely aware of its offerings until we began planning.
Having observed its photographs over the years, I envisioned a structure nestled amongst the mountains resembling something from a fantastical movie (perhaps even reminiscent of a James Bond setting). While researching, I discovered that Jungfraujoch is the highest point accessible by train in Europe (notably much higher than Machu Picchu) and boasts some breathtaking views.
To reach the Jungfraujoch from Interlaken, one boards the train from Interlaken West, transitions to Interlaken Ost, then Lauterbrunnen, followed by Kleine Scheidegg before finally arriving at Jungfraujoch. It sounds exhausting; however, the experience could not be more seamless!
For starters, train schedules are remarkably punctual (almost down to the second!), and the transitions involve merely walking across the same platform to the next train. I recall my trepidation about the journey and was pleasantly surprised at how astonishingly straightforward it was.
After this expedition, I was thoroughly invigorated for the remaining train journeys we had planned in Switzerland—the system here is remarkably efficient!
Departing from Interlaken, we encountered rain, which transitioned to snow as we ascended into the mountains. This snow crafted a magical atmosphere as we climbed, reminiscent of a venture to visit Santa for tea and scones, a sight that understandably stirred my excitement.
There remain numerous activities to undertake here, and even on a snowy day, visitors can explore the exhibition, venture outside into the snow, or visit the Ice Palace, all of which we experienced.
After returning to Interlaken, we enjoyed a rich lunch at Crystal’s restaurant in Jungfraujoch before heading back to our hotel to drop off some belongings. Subsequently, we ventured to the Funky Chocolate Club to engage in the delightful process of crafting our own Swiss chocolate.
We commenced our experience with a delightful chocolate tasting (an ideal way to begin!). We sampled everything from the chocolate nips (after the cocoa is harvested, dried, and roasted) to various dark chocolates (100% first, exceptionally robust and bitter), advancing through to the milk chocolate (my personal favorite) and white chocolate.
Once the chocolate activity concluded, fully designed and packaged for friends back home (*Hahaha! “For friends” – what a fib! Lloyd consumed at least one bar that very evening! Although I may have indulged in one as well… 😉 To be fair, some of it did return home for our friends), we explored the sights of Interlaken.
We later strolled through the historic sections of the city, immersing ourselves in its charming little streets, all set against the magnificent backdrop of the alpine mountains, complemented by a stunning sunset lighting up the sky.
