Oh, Switzerland — Here We Come!

Oh, Switzerland — Here We Come!

This year marked a decisive moment for us. With my son stepping into his final year of school next year, we knew academics would soon take precedence over vacations. This, therefore, had to be the trip — one that would linger in our memories for years, knowing the next adventure would only come two summers later.

Switzerland had long sat on my wife’s travel wish list. During our brief stint in the UK, we had journeyed through Italy and France, yet somehow, Switzerland had eluded us. Friends often cautioned us about its high costs, and we weighed our options carefully. New Zealand and Japan were also strong contenders. But by the first week of June, after weeks of debate, we decided that our Swiss sojourn would finally take shape in September — perfectly timed with my son’s school break.

Then came the next big question: Should we opt for a packaged tour or craft the journey ourselves? I recalled a friend in the UK once mentioning that Switzerland was exceptionally tourist-friendly, the kind of place one could explore confidently without a guide. That sealed it. I began devouring travel blogs, piecing together a ten-day itinerary. To be sure my plan was practical, I turned to travel forums and online communities for feedback. Their insights were invaluable, from hidden gems and local cuisines to commute tips and photo-worthy detours. Since we were using the Swiss Travel Pass, I focused on hotels close to train stations, and by mid-June, the bookings were done, flights and five hotels neatly slotted into our plan.

Preparing for Switzerland was an adventure in itself. One must pack for every season, sunshine, drizzle, chill, and even snow. The months from June to August were a blur of joyful anticipation, applying for visas, gathering hiking shoes, winter jackets, scarves, gloves, and the essential stash of travel documents. Our visa applications were submitted in August, and by early September, we had them in hand. The dream was officially alive.

As an amateur photographer, I had relied on my trusty Nikon D90 for over a decade. But lately, I had shifted to my phone for convenience. For this trip, though, I wanted to rekindle my love for photography. I visited one of Bangalore’s best camera stores, conversed with fellow enthusiasts, and tested models ranging from Canon’s R6, R8, R10 to Nikon’s Z50, Z5, and Z5 II. My Nikon bias persisted, familiarity breeds comfort, after all. Though the Z5 II was tempting, its weight made me rethink my choice. I ultimately settled on the Nikon Z50 II, compact, mirrorless, and perfect for my creative ambitions.

September crept up swiftly, bringing a flurry of final preparations, my son’s exams in the first week, tying up work deliverables, and ensuring all travel checklists were complete. The weekend before departure, we caught up with close friends over lunch, and I reflected on how, despite inviting many to join, we were setting off as a family of three. Being strict vegetarians, we packed our staples ready to eat food, theplas, khakras, and namkeens. A day before departure, we collected our forex, finalized our Swiss Travel Passes, and were ready to take flight.

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Day 1 — 22 Sept: Zurich, Lindt Home of Chocolate & the Old Town

And so, it began. The long-awaited day arrived, 22 September. Our flight was scheduled for 4:45 a.m., so we woke early, loaded our luggage, and headed to Bangalore’s sparkling Terminal 2 around 2 a.m. The check-in and security processes were seamless, and soon we were lounging comfortably, sipping coffee and letting the excitement settle in.

We flew Emirates with a short layover in Dubai. The airport was its usual spectacle, bustling travelers, glowing duty-free aisles, and the hum of languages from across the world. Soon, we boarded our connecting flight to Zurich, eager and restless. A minor delay, a sick passenger needed to be deboarded which pushed our departure back by an hour, yet we landed in Zurich only fifteen minutes past schedule, around 1:20 p.m. CET.

Zurich Airport greeted us with a charming surprise, While connecting to the main terminal aboard a train, a holographic Heidi a fictional character from Johanna Spyri’s beloved tale welcomed us. It was a delightful prelude to Swiss culture and its mountain charm. Immigration was swift, baggage collection smooth, and soon we were boarding Bus 731 to Kloten. Our hotel, Allegra Lodge, was just a short stroll from the stop. After check-in and a quick refresh, we headed to Kloten station to board a train to Kilchberg, to arrive at the Lindt Home of Chocolate.

While museum walk tickets were sold out, the virtual tour was available. We eagerly joined in, followed by indulgent sampling of rare Lindt editions unavailable in retail stores. The sprawling Lindt store was a paradise of cocoa temptations, and we left with bags full of sweet souvenirs. At the museum café, we savored their signature hot chocolate, rich, velvety, and unforgettable.

Later, we took the train into Zurich’s Old Town, strolling through cobbled lanes past the iconic twin towers of Grossmünster and the elegant Fraumünster. A leisurely walk along Bahnhofstrasse rounded off the evening. As dusk settled, we made our way back to our hotel, tired but deeply content, closing our first day in Switzerland with hearts full of joy and the taste of chocolate still lingering.

        

                   

 

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Day 2 — 23 September: Rhine Falls & Lucerne’s Timeless Charm

We woke up to a crisp Swiss morning, refreshed and eager for the day ahead. After a hearty breakfast, we dropped our luggage at the hotel’s storage room and set out toward Kloten station. Our destination for the morning, Schloss Laufen am Rheinfall, home to Europe’s largest and most powerful waterfall.

The train journey took a little over an hour, meandering past lush meadows and quiet hamlets before revealing the thunderous majesty of the Rhine Falls. Spanning roughly 150 meters in width and cascading from a height of 23 meters, the falls are a spectacle of nature’s raw power. Yet, beyond the roaring waters, what captivated us most was the stunning azure hue of the river, tranquil yet alive, shimmering under the soft September sun.

We took a boat across the Rhine to board another that ventured daringly close to the falls. The experience was exhilarating, the deafening rush of water, the cool mist brushing our faces, and the sheer force of nature on full display. Multiple viewing decks offered different perspectives, each as mesmerizing as the next. On either side of the falls stood two charming castles, Laufen Castle and Schlössli Wörth, both offering splendid vantage points over this natural wonder.

After soaking in the views, we paused at a quaint little church nearby, its calm interior a perfect counterpoint to the roar of the Rhine outside. By midday, we made our way back to Zurich, collected our bags, and headed to Zurich HB to catch a train to our next destination, the storybook city of Lucerne.

Lucerne is one of those places that words can scarcely do justice. The moment we stepped out of the station, we were greeted by the grand Torbogen Luzern, the city’s iconic arch standing regally against the backdrop of Lake Lucerne. With our luggage in tow, we hopped onto a bus to reach our hotel, Hotel De La Paix. Though a heritage property, its location in the very heart of the city made it a perfect base for our explorations.

By late afternoon, we set out to explore the charming Chapel Street, lined with boutique chocolate stores, souvenir shops, and elegant watch galleries. From the famed Bucherer to Rolex and IWC Schaffhausen, every display window sparkled with timeless craftsmanship, an ode to Swiss precision and artistry.

Next, we decided to experience Lucerne from its most poetic vantage point, the water. We walked to the SBB counter and discovered that Swiss Travel Pass holders could enjoy complimentary boat rides. We however chose a more expensive, the MS Saphir, a sleek panoramic yacht that gracefully cruised across the lake’s glassy expanse. As the boat glided over the tranquil waters, we listened using an audio guide to fascinating anecdotes about Lucerne’s history, tales of royalty who once graced its shores, and of artists like Richard Wagner, whose legacy remains entwined with the city. The distant silhouettes of Mount Rigi and Mount Pilatus framed the horizon, lending an ethereal touch to the golden evening light.

Upon returning, we visited the Chapel Bridge (Kapellbrücke), a symbol of Lucerne and a marvel of medieval architecture. Originally built in the 13th century, the wooden bridge had partially succumbed to a devastating fire in August 1993, only to rise anew by April 1994. The interior still bears remnants of centuries-old paintings that narrate Lucerne’s storied past.

As twilight descended, we took a quiet walk to the Lion Monument, a moving tribute to the Swiss Guards who perished during the French Revolution. Carved into a sandstone rock face, the dying lion exudes a silent grace and melancholy that leaves every visitor deeply touched.

We ended the evening with a simple dinner before retiring for the night, hearts full and minds brimming with the day’s unforgettable impressions — the roar of the Rhine, the calm of the lake, and the timeless charm of Lucerne. 

  

 

  

 

  

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Day 3 — 24 September: Serendipity, Chocolate, and Soaring Skies! (Lucerne - Interlaken - Grindelwald)

After a restful night in Lucerne, we woke up excited for the day ahead, our plan was to visit the magnificent Mount Titlis. But as every traveler soon learns, Switzerland often has its own agenda when it comes to weather. The skies can change moods in a matter of minutes, and this morning was no exception. Low clouds and persistent drizzle made our much-awaited trip to Titlis impossible.

For a brief moment, disappointment crept in. To be so close and yet unable to go felt almost cruel. But then, spontaneity took over, the kind that often leads to the best travel stories. On a whim, I checked the cost of rescheduling our return flights by a day, and to my surprise, it was entirely doable. Within minutes, we booked an additional night in Lucerne, effectively extending our holiday. It was a small victory, the sort of decision that feels impulsive yet perfectly right in the moment.

With the morning now wide open, we chose to wander Lucerne without an agenda. We strolled through cobbled lanes, visited the elegant Jesuit Church with its striking Baroque interiors, and paused at cozy cafés to sip hot coffee while watching the world go by. The highlight, however, was our visit to Läderach (https://laderach.com/eu-en/), the famed Swiss chocolatier.

I’ve always had a deep affection for dark chocolate, and stepping into Läderach felt like entering a dream. The air was thick with the aroma of cocoa, and my inner child was instantly awakened, curious, impatient, and utterly captivated. We bought a small bag of assorted pieces, found a seat at the nearby square, and savored each bite slowly. Around us, a street performer blew giant bubbles that floated lazily in the breeze, catching the light in iridescent hues. It was a simple, perfect moment, the kind that lingers quietly in memory long after the trip ends.

By noon, it was time to bid adieu to Lucerne. We collected our bags and boarded the panoramic train to Interlaken. The journey itself was pure theatre, winding past emerald valleys, wooden chalets perched on hillsides, and pristine lakes glinting like mirrors under soft sunlight. Every frame looked like a painting come alive.

We reached Interlaken by early afternoon. Paragliding had been on our must-do list, and although the weather remained moody, the skies looked marginally promising. I called Paragliding GmbH Interlaken, who said they had a few open slots at 3:30 p.m. They warned us, though, that last-minute cancellations were possible if the weather turned. Hopeful, we decided to take our chances.

We arrived before 3 p.m. and waited eagerly. At 3:25, the staff announced that conditions were favorable, we were on! Excitement replaced uncertainty as we signed the waivers, swapped shoes, locked away our bags, and boarded the van to Beatenberg, our take-off point. Along the way, our guides briefed us on safety measures, what to do, what not to do, and most importantly, how to run toward the edge without hesitation.

Each of us was paired with a tandem pilot. Mine was Tom, calm, composed, and reassuring. My wife and son were also matched with their own pilots. As we reached the launch site, we trekked down a narrow, muddy trail for about ten minutes until we arrived at a wide clearing overlooking the valley. The view was breathtaking, both beautiful and terrifying. One by one, the pilots prepared their gear, the colorful parachutes unfurling like giant wings against the backdrop of the Alps.

I chose to go last. Watching my wife and son take off, first tentative steps, then a graceful leap into the sky, it was surreal. And then, just as it was my turn, the clouds began to drizzle. We waited. A few minutes later, the rain eased. Tom nodded, implying it was time. We ran, faster and faster, the parachute tugging hard behind us. Suddenly, my feet were no longer on the ground. The world tilted, and in an instant, we were airborne.

What followed was beyond words. The wind carried us effortlessly over Interlaken, the twin lakes Thun and Brienz shimmering below. The mountains stretched endlessly, their peaks brushing against drifting clouds. In the distance, sunlight pierced through, scattering rays of gold that lit up the valleys in a soft, almost divine glow.

While most flights last between 10 to 20 minutes, my parachute seemed blessed with favorable winds. We glided for nearly 35 minutes, suspended in that perfect stillness between heaven and earth. It was exhilarating, humbling, and profoundly peaceful all at once.

The landing was smooth, and as my feet touched the ground again, I felt a rush of gratitude, for the moment, for the courage, and for the gift of seeing the world from a different perspective, quite literally.

As evening descended, we returned to the train station and boarded our short train ride to Grindelwald. Our hotel, Derby Swiss Quality Hotel, was conveniently located right beside the station, a cozy Alpine retreat with postcard views of the surrounding peaks. That night, we dined on traditional Swiss fondue, a delightful first for my family. The warm, creamy indulgence paired perfectly with the chill of the mountain air, marking a perfect close to one of the most unforgettable days of our journey.

                     

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Day 4 — 25 September: Lauterbrunnen, Interlaken & Harder Kulm

We awoke to an unexpected delight, the clouds that had shrouded the mountains since our arrival had finally begun to lift. From our hotel balcony, faint outlines of the peaks emerged, veiled in a soft morning haze. Excited, I quickly checked the weather apps; Grindelwald First was on our agenda for the day. However, the live cameras at the summit told a different story, dense fog, poor visibility, and uncertain conditions. A quick consultation with the hotel staff confirmed our doubts: it wasn’t the best day to head up the peak.

Undeterred, we rechecked the forecasts for nearby destinations and found that Lauterbrunnen also on our list, promised clear skies and sunshine. Without hesitation, we changed course. We hopped on a train to Interlaken and switched to another that wound its way into the valley of Lauterbrunnen.

What awaited us there was nothing short of magical. Lauterbrunnen felt like it had been lifted straight out of a fairy tale, a tranquil alpine village cradled between towering cliffs, with seventy-two waterfalls cascading from the mountainsides like silver ribbons. The most magnificent of them all, Staubbach Falls, plunged gracefully from a height of nearly 300 meters, its mist dancing in the sunlight. Even if one tried, it was impossible to miss its ethereal beauty. Around it, smaller waterfalls trickled down mossy rocks, completing a scene so idyllic it almost seemed painted.

We spent the morning strolling through the village past the charming church, its spire standing proudly against the mountains; along the neatly kept cemetery that seemed more like a garden of remembrance; and across meadows glowing in shades of emerald and gold. Every turn of the path offered a postcard-perfect view the kind that makes you pause, breathe deeply, and simply marvel at nature’s perfection.

After soaking in the serenity, we made our way to the bus stop to visit the Trümmelbach Falls. While waiting, I wandered into a quaint wooden chalet with a little outdoor café and picked up a portion of French fries, crisp, golden, and somehow perfect for the alpine air. We ate by the roadside, watching the valley unfold around us.

The bus dropped us at a narrow lane lined with tall trees, from where we walked up to the entrance of Trümmelbach Falls. Unlike any other, this glacier-fed waterfall thunders within the mountain, a network of ten cascades hidden inside a cavern, accessed through tunnels, stairways, and a funicular lift. The sheer power of the water echoing through the stone chambers was awe-inspiring, each cascade a roaring symphony of nature’s might. The icy spray on our faces and the vibrating ground beneath our feet made it an experience beyond words.

After descending from the mountain’s depths, we caught a train toward Lake Brienz. The contrast was striking, from the roaring waterfalls to the mirror-like calm of the turquoise lake. We sat by the shore, letting the silence wash over us, the gentle ripples glistening under the afternoon sun.

Our final stop for the day was Harder Kulm, Interlaken’s famous viewpoint. The funicular ride to the summit was thrilling, ascending steeply through thick forests before revealing a breathtaking panorama the twin lakes Brienz and Thun shimmering below, and in the distance, the majestic trio of Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau mountains standing tall against the sky. From the viewing platform, the world seemed perfectly still, a masterpiece painted in blues, greens, and silvers.

As dusk approached, we lingered a while longer, reluctant to leave the view behind. Eventually, we descended by funicular and made our way back to Grindelwald, our hearts full of gratitude for yet another day of unforgettable beauty in the Swiss Alps. We enjoyed a nice meal of Alpermagronen - an Alpine macaroni pasta with white sauce, diced potatoes, fried onions accompanied with an apple sauce.

   

 

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Day 5 — 26 September: Grindelwald First & Souvenir Strolls in Grindelwald Town

This was our last opportunity to visit Grindelwald First, and the day began with a mix of hope and apprehension. The weather forecast showed little promise, overcast skies and the likelihood of fog later in the morning. But when I stepped out onto the balcony, the view told a slightly different story: patches of blue had begun to peek through the gray. It was clear we had a narrow window before the clouds rolled back in.

Without wasting a moment, we hurried through breakfast and made our way to the Firstbahn terminal. The air was crisp as we boarded the gondola, our tickets including an activity pass for later in the day. As the cable car ascended, the village below grew smaller and the horizon wider, until snow-dusted peaks surrounded us in a panoramic embrace.

At the summit, the view was breathtaking, a tableau of white and green, where the mountains seemed close enough to touch. We walked along the Tissot Cliff Walk, an exhilarating pathway built along the edge of the cliffs, offering sweeping views of the valley below. A few photographs later, we turned toward the trailhead leading to Bachalpsee, a serene alpine lake often called “the pearl of the Alps.”

We began the hike with enthusiasm, but within minutes, the weather changed dramatically. A thick fog swept in, veiling the peaks and obscuring the path ahead. Visibility dropped to mere meters, and the air grew damp and cold. Reluctantly, we turned back, comforted by the thought that mountain moods are part of the Swiss experience, unpredictable, humbling, and magnificent in their own way.

Back at the summit, four adventure options awaited: the First Glider, First Flyer, Mountain Cart, and Trotti Bike. Owing to weather conditions, only the latter two were operating. The lines for the mountain carts were long, with many tourists hoping to salvage the day’s experience. We opted instead for the Trotti Bike, a choice that would turn out to be serendipitous.

Helmets on and spirits high, we set off down the mountain. The ride was nothing short of magical. The winding path stretched ahead like a ribbon, weaving through meadows of emerald green. The only sounds were the gentle whoosh of the breeze, the soft hum of the tires on the path, and the melodic clinking of cowbells echoing across the valley. Herds of cows grazed peacefully on rolling slopes, framed by wooden chalets and bursts of alpine flowers.

The descent, nearly six to seven kilometers long, felt meditative, a moment of pure connection with nature. Even now, when I close my eyes, I can still hear the gentle chorus of those cowbells, carrying me back to that mountainside serenity. It remains one of the most memorable experiences of our trip.

After returning our bikes at the terminal, we decided to explore Pfingstegg, another nearby mountain attraction featuring a toboggan run. Unfortunately, it was closed due to poor weather. My son, a spirited fourteen-year-old, was visibly disappointed, the kind of teenage sulk only a missed thrill can bring. We reassured him that there would be another chance, and indeed, that story unfolded later in our journey.

The afternoon mellowed into a leisurely exploration of Grindelwald town. We wandered through charming streets lined with wooden chalets, their balconies bursting with geraniums in shades of red and pink. The scent of mountain air mixed with the faint aroma of chocolate wafting from cafés.

Craving comfort food, we found an Indian restaurant tucked away on a quiet lane and indulged in a spicy, hearty meal — the familiar flavors a delightful contrast to the alpine surroundings. The rest of the evening was spent meandering through souvenir shops, carefully choosing keepsakes for family and friends back home.

As the day drew to a close, the clouds once again rolled over the mountains, wrapping Grindelwald in a soft gray blanket. We returned to our hotel, tired yet content, our hearts full from a day that had started with uncertainty and ended with quiet, unexpected joy.

 

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Day 6 — 27 September: Montreux, Gruyère and Broc

The day began before dawn with our 6:20 a.m. train from Grindelwald to Montreux, a scenic three-hour journey that took us from the towering Alps to the serene lakeside beauty of western Switzerland. Upon reaching Montreux, we quickly checked in our luggage at the beautiful Hotel Mona, admired its charming setting, and hurried back to the station to catch our connection to the medieval town of Gruyère.

Our first stop was the La Maison de Gruyère, the famed cheese factory. We made it just in time to witness the last cheese production run of the day. The experience was an engaging, multisensory delight beginning with the aromas of the alpine shrubs, flowers, and seeds that make up the cows’ diet, each subtly influencing the cheese’s flavor. We learned fascinating details: each cow consumes over 100 kilograms of fresh produce daily, yields about 25 liters of milk, and it takes 400 liters of milk to produce a single 35-kilogram wheel of Gruyère cheese. We sampled cheeses of varying ages, each richer and more complex than the last.

Our next destination was the Maison Cailler Chocolate Factory in nearby Broc. We arrived just before 2 p.m., only to find that all guided tour slots were booked until 4 p.m. My son, eager not to miss this after our earlier visit to the Lindt Museum, looked disappointed. As we were waiting in the café, a kind staff member named James approached us. After hearing us out and that we had tickets for the 4 pm slot, he smiled and graciously allowed us to join an earlier session. To our delight, he greeted us in Hindi as he handed us our audio guides, such a warm and unexpected gesture!

The tour began with a fascinating walk through the history of chocolate, from its ancient Mayan roots to its transformation into the luxurious Swiss confection we know today. We then observed the live production of Cailler’s famous chocolate bars before entering the tasting room, a true chocolate lover’s paradise. From silky pralines to nutty giandujas and rich truffles, we indulged in every variety. My wife, amused by my enthusiasm, asked if I was done tasting; I laughed and told her I was still having “lunch.”

After a round of souvenir shopping at the Cailler store, we returned to Gruyères Castle. The walk up to the fortress was postcard-perfect, cobbled stone lanes lined with cafés, artisanal bakeries, and small shops, all bustling with visitors. The 13th-century castle, once a fortress and later a noble residence, offered magnificent views and a captivating glimpse into eight centuries of art, history, and legend. We wandered through its stone corridors, spacious courtyards, and manicured French gardens, taking in both the architecture and the breathtaking surroundings.

By evening, we made our way back to Montreux, where our hotel balcony greeted us with a view that seemed almost unreal, Lake Geneva shimmering below, framed by the elegant lakeside promenade, the iconic Château de Chillon, and, in the distant horizon, the snow-capped Mont Blanc. The scene was pure magic. We ended the day with a comforting Indian dinner—fresh naan and spicy curries, and returned to our room to soak in the quiet beauty of Montreux by night.

Another day of discovery, indulgence, and unforgettable Swiss charm had come to a close.

                                           

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Day 7 — 28 September: Zermatt, the Matterhorn & Château de Chillon

Today began early as we set off on a journey to Zermatt, a scenic train ride of nearly two hours and forty-five minutes. Our plan for the day was to visit the mighty Matterhorn, one of Switzerland’s most iconic peaks. Upon arrival in Zermatt, we wasted no time and boarded the Gornergrat cogwheel railway, an engineering marvel that winds its way up to the breathtaking Gornergrat viewpoint.

I was particularly excited that morning, not just for the views, but also because we were meeting a colleague and his family atop Gornergrat. They had made the early morning trek for an amazing experience: witnessing the sunrise over the Matterhorn, its snow-covered peak glowing gold in the early light and reflecting perfectly across Riffelsee Lake. By the time we reached the top, they were waiting for us so we could meet, chat, and capture a picture together, a special moment where our paths crossed high in the Alps.

We then spent time exploring the various viewpoints, taking countless photos of the stunning Matterhorn from different angles. In a fun twist, we bought a bar of Toblerone chocolate, its triangular peaks resembling the mountain itself, and used it as a prop for our photos. We also visited the souvenir store, where we picked up the famous Swiss cowbell, a perfect keepsake from our alpine adventure.

After enjoying the views, we boarded the cogwheel train again and got off near Riffelsee Lake. The lake’s calm waters mirrored the Matterhorn beautifully, creating postcard-perfect reflections. My son, thrilled by the patches of snow, couldn’t resist making snowballs and tossing them playfully at us. We found a quiet spot by the lake, unpacked our small picnic, and enjoyed a peaceful meal surrounded by nothing but snow, silence, and the grandeur of the Alps.

Later in the afternoon, we descended back to Zermatt town, strolling through its charming car-free streets lined with wooden chalets, cozy cafés, and souvenir shops. As the day drew on, we took the train back to Montreux, arriving by late afternoon, just in time to visit the magnificent Château de Chillon.

Built in the 11th century, the castle once served as a fortress and toll station for the House of Savoy. In the 16th century, it was used as a prison, famously inspiring Lord Byron’s poem “The Prisoner of Chillon.” During the 19th century, it underwent significant restoration, bringing back its medieval splendor. The grand halls, vaulted dungeons, painted chambers, and rooms once meant for nobles and ministers offered a glimpse into a bygone era of Swiss history and power.

After exploring the castle, we took a leisurely walk along Lake Geneva’s promenade, pausing often to take pictures, especially at the Freddie Mercury statue, one of Montreux’s most beloved landmarks. As twilight set in, we found a cozy Italian restaurant nearby, where we ended the day over delicious pizza and pasta. Walking back to our hotel under the soft glow of Montreux’s lakeside lights, we reflected on what had been one of the most memorable and magical days of our Swiss journey.

 

                     

                         

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Day 8 — 29 September: Mt. Titlis & Lucerne

Today unfolded at a leisurely pace as we made our way back to Lucerne. We caught a bus to Kriens, where our hotel was located, and after dropping off our bags, we set out again, this time on a train bound for Engelberg. From there, a short bus ride brought us to the Titlis Valley Station, the starting point of our ascent to the majestic Mt. Titlis.

Our journey up the mountain was layered and exciting: first, a gondola ride up to the intermediate station, followed by a spectacular revolving cable car that whisked us to the summit. The 360° rotation of the cabin offered breathtaking views of the snow-capped peaks, glaciers, and valleys, each turn revealing a new, postcard-worthy scene.

Mt. Titlis is currently undergoing major development, with a new tower and facilities expected to be unveiled in 2029. Despite the ongoing construction, the experience was nothing short of mesmerizing. We walked across the Titlis Cliff Walk, Europe’s highest suspension bridge, feeling the cool mountain breeze and the thrill of being suspended above the icy expanse below.

Next, we ventured into the glacier ice cave, a glittering tunnel of blue ice filled with intricate ice sculptures. The real adrenaline rush, however, came from the Ice Flyer—a chairlift suspended high above the glacier that glides between snow-covered peaks. The sensation of floating between mountains with panoramic views all around was unforgettable.

Later that afternoon, after descending back to Engelberg and returning to Lucerne, we spent some relaxed time wandering around the city center. We visited several watch boutiques, comparing prices with those back home in India, and admired the intricate craftsmanship for which Swiss watchmaking is famous. As the evening settled, we took a peaceful stroll by Lake Lucerne, soaking in the calm reflections of the city lights dancing on the water.

We returned to our hotel in Kriens for a quiet evening, enjoying a simple, comforting dinner of ready-to-eat Indian meals we had thoughtfully packed from home. Another day well spent at Mt Titlis.

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Day 9 — 30 September: Fräkigaudi Toboggan at Mount Pilatus & Return to Zurich

This morning, we set off from Kriens on a short journey to the base of Mount Pilatus. Our plan wasn’t to reach the summit this time, but to explore something a little different, and special. We boarded the gondola that carried us up the mountain to Fräkmüntegg, a midpoint station surrounded by lush alpine greenery and crisp mountain air.

What my son didn’t know was that we had a surprise waiting for him, an adventure at the Fräkigaudi Summer Toboggan Run, the longest of its kind in Switzerland. He had assumed we were heading to the summit of Pilatus, completely unaware that another kind of thrill awaited him. The moment we arrived and he realized what was in store, his excitement was boundless.

He eagerly queued up ahead of us, his face glowing with anticipation, and was the first to race down the mountain track. My wife followed soon after, her laughter echoing down the slope. The toboggan ride turned out to be an exhilarating experience, racing down winding alpine curves at speeds reaching up to 40 km/h, with a simple hydraulic brake to control the descent. The blend of speed, mountain air, and laughter made it a moment to remember.

After the ride, we spent some time hiking around Fräkmüntegg, soaking in the panoramic views of the valley below and the gentle hum of cowbells in the distance. The serenity of the mountain, mixed with the day’s excitement, made for a perfect balance.

By afternoon, we descended back to Kriens and made our way to Lucerne, where we visited the renowned Swiss Museum of Transport. My son was thoroughly captivated as we explored its expansive galleries showcasing the evolution of railways, roadways, aviation, and maritime travel. Among the many highlights were the impressive recreation of the Gotthard Base Tunnel, immersive aircraft exhibits, the thrill of sitting inside a Formula 1 Red Bull car, and the excitement of piloting a J18 Hornet flight simulator.

After an engaging afternoon at the museum, we collected our belongings and boarded a train to Zurich. For our final night in Switzerland, we checked into the Courtyard by Marriott near Oerlikon, a modern and comfortable hotel conveniently located just a short walk from the train station.

As evening descended, we wandered through the streets of Oerlikon, taking in the lively yet relaxed city vibe. We rounded off our wonderful trip with a dinner at a popular local pizzeria, where the aroma of freshly baked pizza filled the air and laughter came easily.

 

           

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Day 10 — 1 October: Zurich Old Town & Farewell

This morning, we chose to spend our final hours in Switzerland at an unhurried pace, wandering leisurely through Zurich’s charming Old Town. We revisited the two magnificent churches—Fraumünster and Grossmünster—their spires standing gracefully against the crisp autumn sky. Later, we found a quiet spot by Lake Zurich, where we sat watching the gentle ripples of the water and the steady rhythm of life unfolding around us, the trams gliding by, people chatting by the promenade, and the serene hum of the city bidding us a fond farewell.

Returning to Oerlikon, we stopped by Coop to pick up a few last-minute souvenirs and, of course, more Swiss chocolates to take home. After a simple lunch, we made our way to Zurich Airport. As we connected to our terminal, a familiar face appeared, the holographic Heidi, once again greeting us warmly and wishing us farewell.

This holiday has been truly special and unforgettable. My wife and son’s enthusiasm and support, especially through our early morning train journeys, made it all possible. Each day was an adventure, each place a memory etched forever in our hearts.

Signing off — Sujan