Bernese Oberland Destination Guide

Overview of Bernese Oberland Recognised for the impressive triple-peaks of Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau (the Ogre, Monk and Maiden), the magnificent Bernese Oberland region is a major tourist area with resorts boasting world-class winter and summer activities. It also features one of the most popular tourist excursions in Switzerland, the breathtaking cog railway to the Jungfrau Plateau. From there, one of the highest railway stations in the world, visitors can enjoy staggering views and ice caverns within the glacier. The Bernese Oberland is the most magnificent of the Alpine regions, a concentration of the very best of Swiss scenery, with towering snow-capped mountains, glaciers, pristine lakes and waterfalls, meadows of edelweiss, pastures echoing with the tinkle of cowbells, and typical wooden chalets with geranium-filled window boxes. The gateway to the Bernese Oberland is the popular resort of Interlaken, which is also the main transport hub of the region. An extensive network of roads, mountain railways, funiculars, cable cars and hiking trails link it to the other popular resorts in the area, including the scenic ski village of Wengen, and Grindelwald, the most established skiing and hiking centre in the region. The Oberland's most glamorous resort and the place for glittering socialites to be seen is the chic town of Gstaad, popular more for its high society than for its skiing.

Key Facts

Language: The four official languages are Swiss German, French, Italian and Romansch. Most people know at least three languages, including English. Passport/Visa: The borderless region known as the Schengen area includes the following countries: Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, The Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, and as of December 2008, Switzerland. All these countries issue a standard Schengen visa that has a multiple entry option that allows the holder to travel freely within the borders of all. It is highly recommended that travellers' passports have at least six months' validity remaining after the intended date of departure from their travel destination. Immigration officials often apply different rules to those stated by travel agents and official sources. Currency: The official currency is the Swiss Franc (CHF), divided into 100 rappen (German) or centimes (French). Although not part of the EU, many prices are nonetheless indicated in Euros and some merchants may accept Euros. Credit cards are widely accepted and ATMs are widespread; many are equipped with the Cirrus or Maestro system. Banks offer the best exchange rates, but it is also possible to exchange money at major hotels, main train stations and airports. Banks are open Monday to Friday. Electricity: Electrical current in Switzerland is 230 volts, 50Hz. Plugs are of the linear, rounded three-pin type, but rounded two-pin plugs will fit the outlet.

Travel guide by wordtravels.com © Globe Media Ltd. By its very nature much of the information in this travel guide is subject to change at short notice and travellers are urged to verify information on which they're relying with the relevant authorities. Travmarket cannot accept any responsibility for any loss or inconvenience to any person as a result of information contained above. Event details can change. Please check with the organizers that an event is happening before making travel arrangements. We cannot accept any responsibility for any loss or inconvenience to any person as a result of information contained above.

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Travel to Bernese Oberland Health Notes when travelling to Switzerland Swiss medical facilities and health care are among the best in the world, but very expensive and health insurance is recommended. Immunisation certificates are only required if the traveller has been in an infected area within two weeks prior to arrival in the country. There is a reciprocal health agreement with the UK and most EU countries, whose citizens are entitled to free or low-cost emergency medical treatment on presentation of a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). Medical insurance is advised for other nationalities. Safety Notes when travelling to Switzerland Switzerland has a low crime rate compared to other European countries and is generally a safe country to travel in. However, there has been a recent increase in petty theft and visitors should be alert to pickpockets and thieves, particularly in the city centres and on public transport. Travellers should be aware of robberies on overnight trains. Customs in Switzerland Privacy and discretion are highly valued in Swiss culture, and strangers generally do not speak to each other. The Swiss are naturally reserved and conservative, and prefer structured rules to govern their daily lives. Littering is a serious social crime in Switzerland, and visitors should also make an effort to throw their recyclables in the proper receptacle. French and German-speaking Switzerland have different customs in some areas. When being introduced to someone, German-speaking Swiss will shake hands, while French-speaking locals may kiss on the cheek three times (generally left, right, left). While many Swiss speak English, it is considered polite to inquire before attempting conversation. Duty Free in Switzerland Travellers to Switzerland over 17 years do not have to pay duty on the following items: 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars or 250g tobacco; 2 litres alcohol up to 15 percent and 1 litre alcohol over 15 percent. The maximum allowance of wine is 20 litres, but duty will be payable on this quantity. VAT is liable if the total value of all goods exceed CHF 300. Restricted items include meat and meat products from selected countries. Prohibited items are absinth and anaesthetics. Doing Business in Switzerland Swiss business culture is based predominantly on merit. The Swiss are masters of building well-oiled machines. The business world reflects this and operates in a similar fashion. Efficiency and organisation are prioritised. A formal, no-nonsense approach is central to business culture in Switzerland. There is little room for humour or lack of preparation in negotiations and business meetings. While the Swiss are slightly less pedantic than their German or French counterparts, great value is attached to appearance and punctuality. Dress codes for business people in Switzerland are quite formal and conservative, particularly in the banking sector where dark suits are the norm. Sports jackets and a collared shirt and tie will suffice for businessmen while businesswomen in Switzerland should adopt corporate wear - either trousers or suit skirts are appropriate. Business and pleasure are entirely separate in the Swiss work environment. In keeping work and personal compartmentalised, Swiss businesspeople even shy away from calling their colleagues by first names, which reinforces formality and boundaries between work and play. When invited to a Swiss business associate's home, a small gift such as flowers or a box of chocolates is appropriate. In Swiss business culture those in senior positions garner a great deal of respect, but decision-making processes are often quite democratic. Switzerland is home to over 1000 multinationals and has become something of a melting pot of business customs, regional influences and etiquette. English is the corporate language in Switzerland particularly for multinationals. However, regional languages, such as French, German and Italian, are sometimes preferred in their respective areas. Swiss-German business meetings are rarely over food and are often as brief as possible with little small talk. But the Swiss-French and Swiss-Italians often meet over lunches and talk is not restricted only to business. Handshakes are common for addressing both men and women. Business hours are from 8am to 5pm on weekdays with a lunch break from 12pm to 2pm. Communication in Switzerland The international country dialling code for Switzerland is +41. Mobile phone networks operate throughout the country and wifi is widespread. Tipping in Switzerland A 15 percent service charge is normally included in all hotel, taxi, bar and restaurant bills in Switzerland, and further tipping is not necessary, but small change left over is appreciated.

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Passport/Visa Note The borderless region known as the Schengen area includes the following countries: Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, The Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, and as of December 2008, Switzerland. All these countries issue a standard Schengen visa that has a multiple entry option that allows the holder to travel freely within the borders of all. It is highly recommended that travellers' passports have at least six months' validity remaining after the intended date of departure from their travel destination. Immigration officials often apply different rules to those stated by travel agents and official sources.

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Attractions in Bernese Oberland Although intensely popular during the skiing and hiking seasons, the region is well equipped with a wide range of outdoor activities, from the slopes to scenic lake cruises, and accommodation ranging from fancy hotels to rustic lodges caters for all visitors. The transport network is efficient and extensive, integrating easy travel with many panoramic views of the stunning scenery that makes the Bernese Oberland such a celebrated sightseeing area. Travellers can take advantage of the Bernese Oberland Pass, which provides unlimited transport by bus, boat, gondola, funicular and mountain train for a period of 3, 4, 6, 8 or 10 days.

Interlaken Interlaken, meaning 'between the lakes', is the tourist capital of the Bernese Oberland. As a popular holiday spot it is superbly situated between the lakes of Thun and Brienz, offering a variety of water-based activities during summer, and access to an endless amount of winter sports in the surrounding mountains of the Bernese Alps and its valleys. Linked to numerous holiday resorts and villages by a series of mountain railways and cablecars, Interlaken has a myriad of slopes and trails in many different areas offering skiing, snowboarding and hiking, as well as connecting to the famous cog railway leading to the plateau of the Jungfrau Mountain. During winter, skiers can take advantage of the town's low prices, avoiding the in-season costs of higher altitude ski resorts. With its many fine hotels, nightlife and dining opportunities, numerous excursion possibilities and first-class transport connections, Interlaken is an ideal all-round holiday destination for both winter and summer, for skiers and non-skiers alike.

Bern According to legend, Bern was named when its founder, Berchtold, was advised to go on a hunt and to name the town after the first beast that he caught. The bear has remained the symbol of the capital city ever since. One of the most charming cities in Europe, its Old Town centre was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site for the preservation of its cobbled medieval street plan, with many fountains, towers and a massive astronomical clock. With its relaxed atmosphere, farmers' markets and friendly people, it is easy to forget that this is the Swiss capital, an important city of politicians and international meetings. And with its interesting museums, theatres, long-standing monuments and landmarks, Bern is a popular base from which to explore the mountains and lakes of the nearby Bernese Oberland.

Website: http://www.berninfo.com

Glacier Express Advertised as the 'slowest express train in the world', the Glacier Express is also the most panoramic, and is a breathtaking way to experience the magnificence of the Swiss Alps. The seven and a half hour journey begins daily from Zermatt. The red mountain train crosses more than 291 bridges, winds its way through 91 tunnels and seven valleys and over the 6,670ft (2,033m) Oberalp Pass to the resort of St Moritz, in a spectacular feat of mountain engineering. The train is equipped with large windows for clear viewing and the scenery, including mountain panoramas, quaint villages and wooden chalets, forests and alpine pastures, is stunning. A dining car provides lunch and the mini-bar contains tilted wine glasses to counter the lean of the carriages along the steep mountainous route. The train can be taken in either direction, and if time is short it is possible to travel along a short section of the route, but either way it is advisable to make advance bookings as the train is very popular. There are several departures a day during summer and one a day in winter.

Telephone: +41 84 8642 442 Website: http://www.glacierexpress.ch

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Airports in Bernese Oberland Bern Airport (BRN) Bern Airport http://www.flughafenbern.ch/en Location: Bernese Oberland The airport is situated six miles (9km) southeast of Berne. Time: GMT +1 (GMT +2 between March and October). Contacts: +41 31 960 2111 Getting to the city: Trains travel regularly between the city and the airport. The white airport buses stop outside the terminal, a single ticket is CHF 15 and the journey to Bern's central train station is 20 minutes. Taxis are also available. Car rental: Car rental companies include Avis, Sixt, Europcar and Hertz. Airport Taxis: Facilities: Facilities include banks, bureaux de change, bars and restaurants, tourist information and hotel reservations, duty-free shopping and business facilities. Facilities for disabled passengers are excellent; those with special needs should contact their airline in advance. Parking: Short and long term parking options are available. Departure Tax: None.

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Currency The official currency is the Swiss Franc (CHF), divided into 100 rappen (German) or centimes (French). Although not part of the EU, many prices are nonetheless indicated in Euros and some merchants may accept Euros. Credit cards are widely accepted and ATMs are widespread; many are equipped with the Cirrus or Maestro system. Banks offer the best exchange rates, but it is also possible to exchange money at major hotels, main train stations and airports. Banks are open Monday to Friday.

Exchange rate for 1 CHF - Swiss Franc 1.01 BMD 0.91 EUR 1.01 USD 0.70 GBP 110.13 JPY 1.32 CAD Bermudan Dollar Euro U.S. Dollar U.K. Pound Sterling Japanese Yen Canadian Dollar 1.40 AUD 25.39 UAH 341.51 KZT 1,522.82 LBP 0.72 LYD 6.94 BOB Australian Dollar Ukrainian Hryvnia Kazakhstani Tenge Lebanese Pound Libyan Dinar Bolivian Boliviano 109.10 NPR 0.39 OMR 3.68 QAR 1.39 SGD 8.38 SEK 6.70 TTD Nepalese Rupee Omani Rial Qatari Rial Singapore Dollar Swedish Krona Trinidad Tobago Dollar 10.09 VEF 46.35 DOP 6.80 HRK 18.84 MXN 592.92 XOF 3.20 PGK Venezuelan Bolivar Dominican Peso Croatian Kuna Mexican Peso West African CFA Franc Papua New Guinean kina 1.01 BSD 2.14 FJD 22.90 HNL 111.78 DZD 1,204.74 MMK 11.31 BWP Bahamian Dollar Fiji Dollar Honduran Lempira Algerian Dinar Myanma Kyat Botswana Pula 3.41 PEN 701.35 CLP 483.49 AMD 24.45 CZK 20.21 MDL 125.69 ISK Peruvian Nuevo Sol Chilean Peso Armenia Dram Czech Koruna Moldova Lei Icelandic Krona 2,971.89 UZS 3.90 ILS 0.72 JOD 0.31 KWD 31.70 UYU 35.92 MUR Uzbekistan Sum Israeli New Sheqel Jordanian Dinar Kuwaiti Dinar Uruguayan Peso Mauritian Rupee 28.83 NIO 8.44 NOK 3.97 PLN 3.79 SAR 147.66 LKR 36.02 THB Nicaraguan Córdoba Norwegian Krone Polish Zloty Saudi Riyal Sri Lanka Rupee Thai Baht 3.71 AED 3.63 BRL 4.09 RON 7.86 HKD 594.26 XAF 22,728.14 VND U.A.E Dirham Brazilian Real Romanian New Leu Hong Kong Dollar Central African CFA Franc Vietnamese Dong 14.11 ARS 2.73 XCD 7.92 GTQ 9.88 MAD 0.38 BHD 1.01 PAB Argentine Peso East Caribbean Dollar Guatemalan Quetzal Moroccan Dirham Bahrain Dinar Panamanian Balboa 1.51 AZN 3,152.97 COP 69.07 KGS 282.91 HUF 7.96 TJS 13,837.40 IDR Azerbaijan Manat Colombian Peso Kyrgyzstan Som Hungarian Forint Tajikistan Ruble Indonesian Rupiah 8.98 EGP 1,204.53 KRW 5,733.35 PYG 4.21 MYR 544.83 CRC 1.48 NZD Egyptian Pound South Korean Won Paraguayan Guaraní Malaysian Ringgit Costa Rican Colón New Zealand Dollar 105.92 PKR 67.55 RUB 15.78 ZAR 2.15 TND 2.02 BBD 1.77 BGN Pakistani Rupee Russian Rouble South African Rand Tunisian Dinar Barbadian Dollar Bulgarian Lev 2.98 TRY 47.15 PHP 32.99 TWD 198.72 NGN 108.36 XPF 3.95 GHS Turkish Lira Philippine Peso New Taiwan Dollar Nigerian Naira CFP Franc Ghanaian Cedi 126.33 JMD 1.82 ANG 1.39 BND 111.80 RSD 6.65 CNY 20,122.89 BYR Jamaican Dollar Neth. Antillean Guilder Brunei Dollar Serbian Dinar Chinese Yuan Belarussian Ruble 6.73 DKK 3.47 TMT 68.02 INR

Danish Krone New Turkmenistan Manat Indian Rupee

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Gstaad Overview

Gstaad, known for its high society, luxury hotels, fine dining and expensive boutiques, is the Bernese Oberland's most glamorous ski resort and the place for glittering socialites to be seen. Gstaad has been the favoured holiday destination of the rich and famous for years, entertaining the likes of Roger Moore, Paris Hilton, Elle Macpherson and Tina Turner, among others. The picturesque village is traditional in style with delightful alpine chalets, a pedestrian-only centre and spectacular scenery, and lies at the centre of the Gstaad Super Ski Region, one of the largest ski areas in Europe. With lush mountain scenery, miles of hiking trails, beautiful weather and good-quality hotels, Gstaad is also a great place to spend a few days in summer.

Shopping in Gstaad

Gstaad's main shopping street is Hauptstrasse, with a large selection of stores and boutiques offering wares from the latest fashions and exclusive sporting goods to jewellery and pastry shops, catering mainly for the wealthy.

Dining in Gstaad

Visitors to Gstaad are spoiled for choice when it comes to restaurants. A large number of establishments have been awarded with Gault Milau points for outstanding cuisine, such as Restaurant Le Grill at the Palace, while about 70 others offer everything from traditional specialities to Asian, Italian, fish and grills.

Activities in Gstaad

After skiing many people gravitate to one of the bars at Dorfstrasse for a beer or cocktail. The GreenGo bar and nightclub at the Palace Hotel is the place to be seen and is the centre of Gstaad's nightlife with two bars and a massive dance floor. There also a restaurant and nightclub at The Chesery Club. Richi's Pub is a popular meeting spot for locals, an English pub with a large TV screen for sporting events. The more elegant Rialto bar also hosts live music in winter.

Things to be aware of in Gstaad

Gstaad has a reputation for being an exclusive ski destination and is expensive even by Swiss standards. The skiing might be a disappointment for expert skiers, and snow coverage is unreliable due to the relatively low altitude.

Skiing in Gstaad

There is excellent skiing and snowboarding for beginners and intermediates in and around the Gstaad town centre, but for more challenging runs it is best to make use of the Gstaad Super Ski Region pass, which is valid for about 155 miles (250km) of prepared runs spread over six different ski areas. The pass provides access to the ski areas of Château d'Oex, Rougemont, Saanen, Schönried, Saanenmöser, Zweisimmen, Lauenen and Gsteig, which are all accessible by train. Intermediate skiers are the most spoilt for choice with a huge variety of blue and red runs available near Gstaad, while the Diablerets glacier has snow most of the year and some challenging skiing and snowboarding for the advanced, as well as heli-skiing. Advanced skiers will also find off-piste possibilities in the Saanenmöser and Schönried area. There is an excellent ski school in Gstaad, and many others in the Gstaad region.

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