Setting Out on a Grand Adventure

As my Swiss railway pass neared its expiration, I set out to experience some of Switzerland’s most iconic sights. With only two days left, I focused on the marvels of the Swiss Alps – the very essence of what draws tourists to this breathtaking country.

My day began before dawn, catching a train to Lausanne. An unexpected change of plans due to a technical issue led me to alter my route towards Valais, which turned out to be a fortunate twist of fate. My destination lay between the cantons of Bern and Valais: the historic Lötschberg Pass line.

The Lötschberg Pass: A Railway Enthusiast’s Dream

This railway route had long been on my bucket list. While most trains now use the faster Lötschberg Base Tunnel (opened in 2007), some regional trains still traverse the scenic old line. It’s worth noting that the pass marks the European watershed between the Mediterranean (Rhone) and the North Sea (Aare -> Rhine) – a fascinating geographical feature.

I boarded one of these regional trains, although it’s important to mention that even this “scenic” route includes a 14km tunnel. My journey, however, wasn’t just about the endpoints. I disembarked at Kandersteg, a quaint village nestled in the mountains. From there, I immediately hopped onto a cable car that whisked me 500 meters up the mountainside.

Hiking to Lake Oeschinen: A Swiss Paradise

The hike that followed was nothing short of spectacular. After a steep 20-minute climb gaining about 100 meters in altitude, I was rewarded with my first glimpse of Lake Oeschinen – one of Switzerland’s most photographed mountain lakes. The path that unfolded before me was a hiker’s dream, winding 100-400 meters above the lake, which appeared as if someone had carved a notch in the mountain and filled it with turquoise water.

The trail crossed countless tiny streams feeding the lake, each turn revealing new, perfect photo opportunities. I found myself part of an endless stream of tourists, all of us captivated by the sheer beauty of Swiss nature. It’s moments like these that remind me why Switzerland’s tourist spots, despite their popularity, rarely disappoint. The country’s natural splendor, combined with its incredible infrastructure that makes such wilderness easily accessible, creates an unparalleled experience.

Onward to Zermatt: Gateway to the Matterhorn

After a 3-hour hike (which included navigating through a herd of cows and some friendly goats), I returned to the gondola and descended to Kandersteg. From there, I completed my journey on the Lötschberg line, arriving at the shores of Lake Thun.

However, my alpine adventure was far from over. My next destination lay in the very south of Switzerland, near the Italian border. Due to recent weather events, part of the journey had to be made by replacement bus – a logistical feat that the Swiss handled with impressive efficiency, despite the challenges of transporting hundreds of international tourists with large suitcases.

First Glimpse of the Matterhorn: A Majestic Sight

My final stop? The world-famous town of Zermatt. As I stepped off the train, the tourist-oriented nature of the town was immediately apparent. Yet, nothing could prepare me for my first glimpse of the Matterhorn. As I turned a corner, I was utterly awestruck. The mountain was partially shrouded in clouds, making it even more spectacular than the countless photos I’d seen. Its majestic presence, standing out so distinctly from its surroundings, instantly made clear why people flock from all over the world to see this singular peak.

Evening in Zermatt: Chasing the Perfect Shot

After checking into my hostel and having dinner, I embarked on an evening walk around the village. My goal was to find the best viewpoint of the Matterhorn and watch as it slowly disappeared into the darkness. Although I missed the alpenglow, I stayed until nightfall, attempting some amateur astrophotography. Despite my lack of proper equipment, the results were surprisingly good – a testament to the breathtaking beauty of the Swiss night sky.

As I finally retired for the night, my mind was already racing with anticipation for the adventures that awaited me the next day. This journey through the Swiss Alps had not only showcased the country’s natural wonders but also highlighted the remarkable infrastructure that makes such experiences possible. From efficient public transport to well-maintained hiking trails and state-of-the-art cable cars, Switzerland’s commitment to accessibility and tourism is truly commendable. It’s this perfect blend of natural beauty and human ingenuity that makes Switzerland a paradise for travelers and adventure seekers alike.