Interlaken and the Jungfrau Region

Snow season is right around the corner, which reminds me of snow capped mountains as the background to cute little chalets at the foot of the hills. Throw in a couple of pristine crystal blue lakes and what have you got? Only one of the most picturesque, cleanest areas of Europe. Switzerland, Interlaaken specifically. Anyone with a sense of adventure will appreciate this city. From paragliding to ice climbing, you will find something for your adventurer's spirit no matter what time of year you go. The city is perfectly placed at the bottom of the Jungfrau peaks Monch and Eiger as well as right in the middle of two sparkling lakes, Lakes Thun and Brienz.

Traveler Type: This city seems to have the two extremes--young backpackers combined with senior hotel visitors. Families who want to expose their kids to adventurous activities will have no problems filling a few days here. It's a very romantic place and would be an ideal honeymoon spot, especially for couples who would like to have activities as well as relaxing outdoor time.

For Families: Mystery Park is Interlaken's answer to Walt Disney. Situated just on the outskirts of the main centre of town, it's a good spot for families to take their crew. Mysteries discovered, educational and over-priced food all in front of the backdrop of the mountains. It's obviously been placed here in this touristy spot to help drive families to the city. I didn't go there myself but can assure you it would fill a day with the wee ones.

Museums: Just look up. This village only has approximately 15,000 residents. It also happens to be perfectly placed at the bottom of Europe's highest point, Jungfrau. You won't need any art galleries or museums because most likely you will be spending most of your time outside--summer or winter.

Costs: This place is expensive. Period. Out of all the cities I have visited in Europe, the Swiss cities cost the most. Accommodation and food are more expensive than other places. Expect to pay a lot even for a hostel. Food is also quite expensive but if you get into a hostel with a kitchen, you should be able to get by. Otherwise, there is a McDonald's...

The adventure trips can be pricey, but not any more then you would pay do something spectacular at home plus you are getting the best scenic views for the experience. Make sure you budget to do something interesting. If not, there's always plastic...

Finally, you should remember that this is Switzerland and being "neutral" also means using their own currency, the Swiss Franc. The Euro is the main currency of many of the European countries however, as in the UK, the Swiss have to be different. Every Euro gives you 1.50CHF or every US dollar gives you 1.25CHF. You will find places to change your money over quite easily.

Places to Stay: You won't have trouble finding places as it is quite a touristy area, but if you going during a peak season (July August, December-February) you will want to book ahead. There is quite a nice range and although you may pay a little more in these hostels then in other cities, the accommodation is usually very clean. A great place to visit if you're coming from the likes of Spain or Italy. You may want to venture outside of Interlaken and stay in some of the smaller towns that are scattered around the Jungfrau region.

Budget::Balmers is quite well known among the partying backpackers. If you're looking to meet people, be loud and rowdy as well as combining adventure sports during the day, this is your place. Funny Farm also has a social atmosphere, although it is situated just outside of the of the centre but has a pool--perfect for lounging in the summer. The Happy Inn Lodge is the cheap, quieter alternative, with doubles available.

If you want to stay up the mountain a bit, try the Mountain Hostel in Grindelwald. It is a good location for eager skiiers and has modern rooms.

Mid-Range The Chalet Oberland is a nice middle of the road hotel. Centrally located and part of the Best Western chain, you will get the service and the cleanliness you need.

Hotel Rugenpark is another favourite among backpackers. Small and near the Interlaken West train station, you will find it a quiet alternative to the louder, larger hostels listed above.

Expensive:Want to go flashy? Book yourself into the luxurious Lindner Grand Hotel Beau Rivage Interlaken . On the main road, most of the rooms face the towering mountains. If you get high enough, you'll be sure to get a view of one of the two lakes that sit at the foot of the mountains. In Interlaken, you can't get much flashier then this place.

Best Time of Year to Go: May and June are the beginning of the summer season. The weather will be getting quite warm and is perfect for campers who want to take in all the glory of their surroundings without spending all their money on accommodation. The winter months are ideal for skiing, starting in December and through to February, however, it's probably busiest over the holiday season and if being frugal is the key, best to avoid.

Top Five Must-Dos:

Something adventurous--bungee jumping, paragliding, heli-skiing, skydiving, rafting. These are just a few of the day activities that you could try when staying in this area. There are quite a few adventure companies providing trips from Interlaken such as Alpin Raft and Alpin Center. Alternatively, head to the Balmers hostel--even if you're not staying there--as they have their own adventure booking service. You may over spend but remember this is an opportunity of a lifetime. At least you can say you spent a whack of money on seeing the top of Jungfrau from a helicopter as opposed to buying a round for the bar.
A summertime favourite would be to take a walk. There are signs posted on trails all over the region and they are actually walker-friendly. They will not only tell you the distance in miles but also how long (approximately) it will be to walk to the next city. An fairly easy day walk would be around one of the beautiful lakes at the bottom of Jungfrau, Lakes Thun and Brienz. There are a few little villages along the way.
Eat chocolate. Yes, the Belgians may have a good hold on some of the best chocolate in the world but this is Switzerland, home of the Toberlone. Grab yourself a bar, sit by a lake, a stream, a mountain and give yourself a break.
Take a train up to Jungfrau. Getting to the top, there is a spectacular view but you'll also see some beauty on your way up. The train itself runs on a modern cog wheel railway and runs along tracks that weave through the mountains. You will be swept away into a movie as you enjoy the scenic route up to the top. Plus, you'll be able to say you're at the top of Europe, while enjoying an expensive meal at the Top of Europe Glacier Restaurant. But hey, you're not only paying for the food, it's the view that will make this meal spectacular.
You may have tried it at home but you won't be able to beat the technique or the taste of fondue in Switzerland. Whether it's cheese or chocolate, it's a treat.