Swiss Backpacker News Budget Travel Guide Free Copy Spring / Summer / Fall 2011

Swiss Backpacker News Budget Travel Guide Free copy Spring / Summer / Fall 2011

accommodation how to save money highlights events excursion tips competition

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City Tours Mountain Excursions Swiss Traditions We show you the Best

Phone +41-(0)44-710 50 50 • info@switzerland-tours.ch • www.switzerland-tours.ch • www.titlis.ch BUDGET ACCOMMODATION SWITZERLAND Price per bed in dormitory in CHF Price per double room in CHF B reakfast / Halfboard included K itchen facilities L ockers W ashing facilities I nternet station W LAN available W heelchair accessibility Number of beds Place Name Street Phone web / mail

1 Aurigeno Baracca Backpacker (closed April 1st – 22nd) SB Al runch cavalign 1 079 207 15 54 www.baracca-backpacker.ch 31.– * 75.– * K L W 13 2 Basel Basel St. Alban Youth Hostel HI St. Alban – Kirchrain 10 061 272 05 72 [email protected] from 41.80 *** from 133.60 *** B L W I W X 234 3 Bern Bern Backpackers / Hotel Glocke SB Rathausgasse 75 031 311 37 71 www.bernbackpackers.ch from 35.– from 92.– K L W I W 71 3 Bern Bern Youth Hostel HI Weihergasse 4 031 326 11 11 [email protected] from 36.90 *** from 92.80 *** B W I W X 183 3 Bern Hotel Landhaus Altenbergstrasse 4 031 348 03 05 [email protected] 38.– ** from 120.– B K L I W 32 4 Braunwald Adrenalin Backpackers Hostel SB im Dorfkern 079 347 29 05 www.adrenalin.gl 35.– */** from 96.– B K L I W 60 5 Cabbiolo Humanità Backpacker’s SB alla villa 091 830 14 81 www.humanita.ch 30.– from 80.– K L W I 23 6 Château-d’Oex Château-d’Oex Youth Hostel (for closing times see page 22) HI Route des Monnaires 67 026 924 64 04 [email protected] from 36.50 *** from 95.– *** B W I W 50 7 Dachsen at Rhine Falls Dachsen Youth Hostel (Closed after Oct 30th) HI Schloss Laufen am Rheinfall 052 659 61 52 [email protected] from 28.50 *** – B 91 8 Davos Dorf Davos Youthpalace HI Horlaubenstrasse 27 081 410 19 20 [email protected] from 52.90 *** from 145.80 *** HB L I W X 235 9 Geneva City Hostel Geneva SB 2, rue Ferrier 022 901 15 00 www.cityhostel.ch 32.– 88.– K L W I W 98 0 Gimmelwald Mountain Hostel SB Niedere Matte 033 855 17 04 www.mountainhostel.com 28.– – K W I W 50 - Grindelwald Downtown Lodge (closed April 25th – June 9th) SB Dorfzentrum 033 828 77 30 www.downtown-lodge.ch from 38.– from 90.– B K L W I W X 290 - Grindelwald Grindelwald Youth Hostel (closed April 10th – May 12th and after Oct 23rd ) HI Geissstutzstrasse 12 033 853 10 09 [email protected] from 36.70 *** from 95.40 *** B L W I W 135 - Grindelwald Naturfreundehaus (closed April 10th – May 14th) Terrassenweg 18 033 853 13 33 www.nfh.ch/grindelwald 41.– 92.– B B L W I W 65 = Gryon Chalet Martin SB Rue du Villars 079 724 63 74 www.gryon.com from 25.– from 70.– K W I W 32 q Interlaken Backpackers Villa Sonnenhof SB Alpenstrasse 16 033 826 71 71 www.villa.ch from 35.– from 98.– B K L W I W X 190 q Interlaken Balmer’s Herberge SB Hauptstrasse 23 033 822 19 61 www.balmers.com from 27.– from 74.– B K L W I W 250 q Interlaken Happy Inn Lodge SB Rosenstrasse 17 033 822 32 25 www.happy-inn.com 22.– / 24.– from 52.– K L I W 70 q Interlaken River Lodge (closed after Oct 9th) SB Brienzstr. 24 033 822 44 24 www.riverlodge.ch from 29.50 from 93.– K L W I W 72 q Interlaken-Bönigen Interlaken-Bönigen Youth Hostel (closed April 1st – 7th and after Oct 23rd) HI Aareweg 21 033 822 43 53 [email protected] from 32.50 *** – B K L W I W 150 w Kandersteg Kandersteg International Scout Centre Wagetiweg 033 675 82 82 www.kisc.ch 23.– 70.– K L W I W X 351 e Klosters Klosters Youth Hostel (closed April 10th – June 10th and after Oct 23rd) HI “Soldanella”, Talstrasse 73 081 422 13 16 [email protected] from 39.– *** from 90.– *** B I W 92 r Kreuzlingen Kreuzlingen Youth Hostel HI Promenadenstrasse 7 071 688 26 63 [email protected] from 31.20 *** from 73.40 *** B I W X 93 t Laax-Cons Backpacker Deluxe Hotel Capricorn (closed May 1st – 31st) SB Via Cons 405 081 921 21 20 www.caprilounge.ch 29.– * from 98.– W I W 54 y Lausanne Lausanne Guesthouse & Backpacker SB Ch. des Epinettes 4 021 601 80 00 www.lausanne-guesthouse.ch 36.40 * 106.– K L W I W X 80 y Lausanne Lausanne Youth Hostel “Jeunotel” HI Ch. du Bois-de-Vaux 36 021 626 02 22 [email protected] from 39.10 *** from 100.20 *** B W I W X 312

* = bed-sheets not included ** = no breakfast included *** = surcharge CHF 6.– / night for non HI members (families CHF 12.– / night) (w) = women only

MAP OF SWITZERLAND

GERMANY Ravensburg Mulhouse Schaffhausen Überlingen Kempten Neuhausenf Konstanz Friedrichshafen Lure Belfort Waldshut- Dachsen Kreuzlingen Tiengen Bo 7 j de Stein am Rhein r ns Vesoul ee Lindau Rhein Romanshorn Eglisau Frauenfeld Weinfelden

Basel e

Rheinfelden r Arbon

a Winterthur Montbéliard 2 A Bregenz Binningen Liestal Baden St. Margarethen Zell Wil Bischoffszell Porrentruy Zürich k Aarau St. Gallen v Uster Gossau Delémont Lenzburg h Olten ec Aarburg Uetliberg Küsnacht Wattwil Herisau L Besançon Moutier Appenzell Zofingen Affoltern Feldkirch Stäfa Rapperswil Solothurn Muri Zürichsee Ebnat- Grenchen Langenthal Richterswil Kappel LIECHTENSTEIN Zug \ Schaan Sursee Buchs Weesen d FRANCE Biel Herzogen- Einsiedeln Vaduz Nidau[ Lyss buchsee Willisau Walchwil Sar- La Chaux- Bieler Affoltern Unterterzen gans AUSTRIA See o Steinen Flums de-Fonds Burgdorf Lucerne Glarus ▲ Schwyz Samnaun Weggis Mt. Rigi g Bad Ragaz Neuchâtel ▲ Brunnen 4 Murtensee Langnau Mt. Pilatus Vierwald- Braunwald Landquart Nauders Bern Worb stätter See Linthal

n Neuenburger Stans Altdorf i 3 Steinibach e Sent Murten h See Payerne R Klosters Belp Sarnen e n Münsingen Flims Domat/ Chur Scuol n Ems Davos Vulpera hI Brigels Schwarzenburg Engelberg t 8 Yverdon-x Fribourg Brienz Arosa Guarda les-Bains ▲ Mt. Titlis Trun Laax-Cons Susch Thun Brienzer Ilanz 'Lenzerheide Zernez See Meiringen Disentis Valbella Orbe Pont-la-Ville Thuner See Merligen Iseltwald Moudon q Tiefencastel Vallorbe Spiez Interlaken Grindelwald Müstair Boltigen Vals s - Andermatt Frutigen Splügen n Moléson- u In Crissier Zweisimmen Lauterbrunnen Wengen Olivone Samedan Lausanne sur-Gruières Gletsch Airolo Celerina Morges y Saanen Adelboden Mürren Jungfrau St. Moritz ] Château-d’Oex w ▲ ; z Faido Pontresina Rolle Vevey a Gstaad Kandersteg 0 Niederwald l r See p 6 nfe Montreux Lenk Gimmelwald Maloja Sils-Maria Nyon Ge Madesino Villeneuve Leukerbad Bettmeralp Bignasco Evian Leysin Biasca Thonon Aigle Montana = Crans Rhône Brig Cabbiolo Chiavenna Poschiavo Maggia Gryon Sierre Visp 5 Brusio Sion Aurigeno Geneva Monthey 1 Bellinzona Sondrio Locarno Edolo Grächen i 9 Ascona Verbier Saas Fee Lago di Martigny Domodossola Como Cluses Lago Lugano Orsières Dixence c Maggiore Menaggio 0 45 km Annecy Zermatt ▲ Verbania Lago di Chamonix Matterhorn Vico Lecco St-Gervais Stresa Morcote ITALY Varese Lecco Como St. Vincent Aosta

Bergamo Monza BUDGET ACCOMMODATIONSWITZERLAND 14 12 11 6 5 You canfindthewholelistwithdirect linksunderwww.backpacker.ch We yourvisittoSwitzerland! hopeyou’llenjoy reasonably pricedrestaurant, 24houraccessand kitchenand/or standards suchasselfcatering andcomplywithminimum packers association © copyrightbySwissBackpackerNews, Am Bach7, 5502Hunzenschwil–Switzerland. issubjecttochange.All information Nocopyingwithoutpermissionofthepublisher. CONTENTS v v v c c x z ' ; l k j h g f d s a \ ] [ p o o o i u 4 2 Central Switzerland–SomeHighlights Central Switzerland–Lucerne Braunwald Zurich List ofDiscounts(transport) Travel Know-How Budget inSwitzerland Accommodation Zurich Zurich Zurich Zermatt Zermatt Yverdon-les-Bains Vevey Valbella St. Moritz-Celerina St. Moritz-Bad St. Gallen Stein amRhein Scuol Schwyz Schaffhausen Schaan-Vaduz Santa MariainMüstair Saanen Richterswil Pontresina Nidau b. Biel Montreux Lucerne Lucerne Lucerne Locarno Lauterbrunnen Place are membersoftheSwissBack- All hostelsmarkedwith“SB” SB = “Swiss Backpackers”. Zurich YouthHostel Hotel Hottingen Biber Backpacker /Hotel City YouthZermatt Hostel Hostel Matterhorn Gite duPassant Riviera Lodge Valbella YouthHostel Brauerei”Hotel “Alte St. MoritzBad Youth Hostel St. Gallen Youth Hostel Stein amRhein Youth Hostel Scuol YouthHostel Hirschen backpackers.hotel.pub Schaffhausen YouthHostel “Belair” Schaan-Vaduz YouthHostel Sta. Mariai.M. Youth Hostel Saanen-Gstaad YouthHostel YouthRichterswil Hostel Pontresina YouthHostel Lodge Lago Montreux YouthHostel Lucerne YouthHostel Lion LodgeLuzern Backpackers Lucerne Locarno YouthHostel Valley Hostel Name (closed 3rd–June7thandafterOct23rd) April (closed 3rd–June10thandafterOct23rd) April (closed 26th–June3rdandafterOct23rd) April (closed afterOct23rd) (closed beforeMay31standafterOct16th) (for closing 31) timesseepage (closed afterOct30th) personal attention at at personal attention www.swissbackpackers.ch of smallerrooms. Nomembershipisrequired. accordingly. All offerdormitoriesaswellachoice mayvary provisions andmethodsofmanagement andoperated.independently owned Their standards, 24 Geneva 23 Biel-Bienne 22 20 18 17 15 Lake GenevaRegion–SomeHighlights Lake GenevaRegion– Vevey &Montreux Lake GenevaRegion–Lausanne National Events Central Switzerland–SwissKnife Valley reception. These hostelsare SB SB SB SB SB SB SB HI HI HI HI HI HI HI HI HI HI HI HI HI HI HI HI Niederdorfstrasse 5 Place duMarché5 Hinterdorfstrasse 14 Uferweg 5 Zürichstrasse 57 Alpenquai 42 Fuhren Chalet Rüblihorn, Spitzhornweg25 “Cuntschett”, Via delaStaziun46 Voa Sartons41 Prà dafaira Randenstrasse 65 Under Rüttigass6 Chasa Plaz Mutschellenstrasse 114 10 31 /Cäcilienstr.Hottingerstr. Staldenweg 5 32 Schluhmattstrasse Rue duParc 14 Via Maistra60 Via Surpunt60 Jüchstrasse 25 Hemishoferstrasse 87 Hornstrasse 5 Passage del'Auberge8 AmRotsee, Sedelstrasse12 Via B. Varenna 18 Street * =bed-sheetsnotincluded socially valueshighqualityand cost providerthat Association. The brandstandsfortheroleasalow- 40 Basel 38 Bern 36 34 Competition 32 28 27 Zermatt 044 2519015 021 9238040 041 8111276 032 3313732 041 4100144 041 3600420 033 8552008 081 3841208 081 86231 052 6258800 00423 2325022 081 8585661 043 3997800 044 25619 027 9672320 027 96819 024 4251233 081 8321874 081 8366111 071 2454777 052 7411255 044 7862188 021 9634934 041 4208800 091 7561500 033 7441343 081 8427223 Phone Bernese Oberland–Interlaken Bernese Oberland–Grindelwald Bernese Oberland–SomeHighlights responsible andgreentourism. members oftheSwiss Youth Hostel All HI = “Hostelling International” ** =nobreakfastincluded hostels markedwith“HI”are www.city-backpacker.ch www.rivieralodge.ch www.hirschen-schwyz.ch www.lagolodge.ch www.lionlodge.ch www.backpackerslucerne.ch www.valleyhostel.ch web /mail [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] www.hotelhottingen.ch [email protected] www.matterhornhostel.com [email protected] www.alte-brauerei.ch [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] *** =surchargeCHF6.– promotes 29.– */32.– 30.– 33.90 /35.90 32.– 42.50 (w) 33.– 46.– * from from from from from from from from from from from from from from from from from from from from 39.50*** 36.–* 51.10*** 36.– 32.– 39.40*** 51.–*** 32.30*** 30.05*** 37.–*** 30.05*** 33.60*** 22.30*** 38.80*** 36.–*** 55.50*** 34.–*** 36.40*** 41.25*** 28.– / night fornonHImembers(familiesCHF12.– www.youthhostel.ch beforeyoudepart.register inyourcountry wayto The cheapest CHF 6.–pernight topayasurchargeof Non-HI membershave

50 49 48 Ticino 44 Grison 42 Price per bed in dormitory in CHF Factory Visits Incoming /Outgoing Northeastern Switzerland&Liechtenstein 92.– /124.– 84.– 75.80 /93.80 74.– /80.– 125.– /165.– 77.– 130.– from from from from from from from from from from from from from from from from from from from 66.– /76.– 138.–*** 112.– 136.20*** 92.– 88.– 117.80*** 130.–*** 90.60*** 73.10*** 122.–*** 70.10*** 85.20*** 80.60*** 93.60*** 94.–*** 159.–*** 97.–*** 92.80*** 87.50***

(families CHF12.– Price per double room

become amemberisto in CHF HB HB B B B B B B B B B B B B B B B B B Breakfast / Halfboard included | K K K K K K K K K K Your Photo Your Kitchen facilities /

L L L L L L L L L L L L L L L L L night) / Lockers night). W W W W W W W W W W W W W W W W W W W W Washing facilities I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I (w) =womenonly Internet station W W W W W W W W W W W W W W W W W W W W W W W W W W W WLAN available X X X X X X X X X X X X X x Wheelchair accessibility 200 281 140 164 110 130 112 194 200 174 306 88 35 82 78 65 60 70 56 87 92 93 74 74 82 54 80 Number of beds Swiss travel know-how… …and all you need to know about Switzerland

Water: Tap water is fine to drink nearly everywhere. Some fountains carry the sign “Kein Trinkwasser” or “eau non potable.” This means no drinking water! Weather, Clothes and Climate: The climate is moderate with no excessive heat, cold or humidity. March to May, October & November the daytime temperatures range from 5 to 15 degrees (Celsius), from June to September from 18 – 30 degrees. Depending on the altitude, the temperature range may vary! Work: Switzerland is known as a country with a restrictive policy regarding foreign labor. And if you get caught working ille- gally you can be fined and deported.

accommodation

Swiss Backpackers (www.swissbackpackers. ch): a group of independent hostels uniting the Swiss Backpacker Hostels have dormitories as well as private rooms, all conveying a friendly and international atmosphere plus self catering kitchen and/or reasonably priced restaurant. Most of their addresses are listed on page 2 + 3 (marked Switzerland was founded over 700 years medical treatment must be paid for, it is with SB) and under ›››www.backpacker.ch ago (1291). Today 26 politically sovereign advisable to take out insurance against Swiss Youth Hostel Association (www. cantons make up the modern federation personal accident and illness. youthhostel.ch) is affiliated with the Hostel- of Switzerland. Internet / E-mail: Most hostels offer inter- ling International network HI. The cheapest net access and even WLAN, and in most way to become a member is to register in towns and cities you’ll find at least one your country before you depart. As a non- general information Internet café; see “Practical Information” HI member you have to pay a surcharge of each section. of CHF 6.– per night (families CHF 12.–). Currency: Swiss Franc “Franken/franc”, Lockers: Almost every railway station has Their most important addresses are listed CHF 1. – = 100 cents “Rappen/centimes”. lockers where you can leave your baggage. on page 2 + 3 (marked with HI) and under Exchange rate (fixed on February 18th Population / Languages: Switzerland has a ›››www.backpacker.ch 2011): CHF 1.– corresponds to 0.77 Euros / population of about 7.5 million. The Hostels: There are many more hostels all 1.05 US$. nation al languages of Switzerland are around Switzerland, some of them also Cinema: In the German part of Switzerland, Swiss-German (north, central and east), listed at ›››www.backpacker.ch. Another cinemas nearly always show films in their French (west), Italian (south) and Rhaeto- affordable hotel group is Etap Hotels original language (e.g. a film marked E/f/d Romanic (south-east). ›››www.etaphotel.com means spoken in English with subtitles in Phoning: Most public phones accept cards French and German). Cheaper admission only (no coins). Taxcards are sold at post on Mondays! There are many open-air cin- offices, at all “kiosks” (small shops where food emas during July and August. you find newspapers, cigarettes and sweets), Democracy: The Swiss vote, a few times at train and petrol stations, and at most hos- Restaurants: The variety of food served each year, on local, cantonal and federal tels. For national and international direc- is wide, from traditional to international issues like public building, raising taxes, tory information see www.directories.ch cuisine. Most Migros and Coop supermar and environmental and international par- or call 1811 or 1818. kets have cheap restaurants and, of course, ticipation. Post: Postcards and letters (if under 20 gr you’ll also find McDonald’s. In the cities Emergency phone numbers: 117 Police, weight) within Europe CHF 1.20 (priority check out the wide range of take-out stands, 144 Ambulance, 118 Fire Brigade. 1.30), overseas CHF 1.40 (priority 1.80). for example, turkish kebab, falafel or just European Union: Switzerland is not a Tipping: Tips are included on all hotel/ hos- simple pizza and burgers. member of the European Union (EU). tel and restaurant bills. It is neither neces- Supermarkets: There are plenty of super- Health Insurance: As there is no state medi- sary nor expected to give an extra tip. Tip markets like Coop and Migros where you cal health service in Switzerland, and as when the service is nice and friendly. can stock up on your provisions. SWISS TRAVEL KNOW-HOW 5

Traditional Swiss Dishes: Traditional and Train Tickets: Single train tickets are all valid on post buses (surcharge on Swiss bus tour you have the option to get regional dishes play an important role $ are expensive, so if you’re frequently some mountain routes)! ›››www.postbus.ch off and stay longer in any place. For infor- in the Swiss diet. The ones most widely using the train in Switzerland, “Swiss Travel Bicycles: Cycling is very popular in Swit- mation see ›››www.swizzbuzz.ch or call known are: cheese fondue (a blend of System” offers a wide range of tickets to zerland. You’ll find well-marked cycling 076 245 99 82. melted cheese served up in a big stoneware cut costs. The rates for 1 person are: Swiss routes throughout, particularly in the pot into which bread or hot potatoes are Youth Pass and Swiss Pass (valid 4, 8, 15, urban areas. Bicycles can be rented at Rough Guide is the best travel source dipped); Raclette (melted slices of cheese 22 days or 1 month), 4 days for CHF 200.– most railway stations. In the cities of Bern, for your trip through Switzerland. with boiled potatoes and mixed pickles); respectively CHF 266.– and up. Swiss Flexi Geneva, Lausanne and Zurich you can ›››www.roughguides.co.uk Rösti (German-Swiss dish: grated, fried Pass (3 days up to 6 days within a month), borrow bikes free of charge! For more in- potatoes, sometimes with egg, sausage, 3 days for CHF 254.– and up. formation about this great deal check the homepages: onions or bacon). Swiss Half Fare Card, 1-month half-fare pages of each particular city. www.myswitzerland.com/en card for CHF 110.– (with this card you pay Walking / Hiking: Switzerland, with its www.backpacker.ch only 50% of the normal fare). For a sec- well-kept paths and trails, is an ideal coun- www. swisstravelsystem.ch/en transport ond person or more, passes are available try for hiking! Maps of trails are available at 15% reduction. Kids under 16 travel for from local tourist offices. You’ll find some Public Transport: Cities and towns have free with the Swiss Travel System Family hiking tips inside this newspaper! $ save money excellent transportation networks. Buy your Card. The tickets can be ordered online Guided tours / excursions: Best of Switzer ticket from a ticket machine, which you’ll or by phone at 00800 100 200 23 (foc). In land Tours is a Swiss company with pro- Supersaver tickets give you big discounts find at almost every stop. For discounts, Switzerland, Swiss Passes are available at fessional multilingual guides, focusing all on selected train journeys. It’s worth buying check the list below! major railway stations. Swiss Pass holders their efforts on showing you the best of the early as there are only a limited number of Railway System: You will appreciate Swit- not only get unlimited access to the train, marvellous Swiss mountains, landscapes Supersavers for each train. Supersaver zerland’s extensive railway system. It is bus and boat network, but also a generous and other places of interest (i.e. Mount tickets are only available during a spe- relaxing and comfortable and will allow discount on most mountain transport (see Titlis or Mount Pilatus, the cities of Zurich cial offer period. You can only buy them you to fully enjoy the scenery. Normal point- transport discount list below) and free or Lucerne). For information / booking ask online at the SBB Ticket Shop ›››www.rail.ch to-point tickets and reservations can be admission to practically all of Switzer- at your hostel, at the tourist office or see ›› Travel ›› Ticket Shop ›› Super saver tickets purchased at every railway station. Seat land’s world class museums and exhibi- ›››www.switzerland-tours.ch (special conditions), that you print yourself reservations are only required on special tions! ›››www.swisstravelsystem.ch/en The other Swiss company, Swizzbuzz, of- (print@home). This is a great deal; make scenic trains like the Glacier Express, the Post Buses: The Swiss post buses are ideal fer adventurous activities in Switzerland use of it! Bernina Express, etc. For all train informa- if you want to travel off the beaten path. with a flexible service for backpackers off tion, call 0900 300 300 (CHF 1.19 per min.) With some of the post buses you can cross the beaten track for local culture and alter- or see ›››www.rail.ch alpine passes. The Swiss Passes (see above) native activities – and unlike an ordinary All information is subject to change. ‹‹‹

Public Transport – List of Discounts With the following tickets you get a discount or can travel for free (your ticket must be valid on the day of travel). $

Means of transport Eurail Inter Rail Swiss Pass / Swiss General Means of transport Eurail Inter Rail Swiss Pass / Swiss General Swiss Flexi Half Fare Season Swiss Flexi Half Fare Season Pass / Swiss Card / Swiss Ticket Pass / Swiss Card / Swiss Ticket Youth Pass Card 1.) (GA / AG) Youth Pass Card 1.) (GA / AG)

Swiss Federal Railway (SBB/CFF/FFS) free free free 50% free Saas Fee – Mittelallalin (LSF) – – 50% 50% 50% The Swiss POST bus lines – – free 2.) 50% free 2.) Lucerne city transport (VBL) – – free – free Geneva city transport (TPG) – – free – free Lucerne – Stans – Engelberg Lake Geneva steamers (CGN) free 50% free 50% free Lucerne – Meiringen – Interlaken Ost free free free 50% free Montreux – Zweisimmen (MOB) free free free 50% free Lake Lucerne steamers (SGV) free 50% free 50% free Montreux – Glion – Rochers-de-Naye – 50% 50% 3.) 50% 50% 3.) Mount Pilatus (PB) 30% 30% 50% 50% 50% Lake Neuchâtel / Morat steamers free – free 50% free Mount Rigi Railways (RB) 50% 50% free 50% free Lake Biel / Bienne steamers (BSG) free 50% free 50% free Stanserhorn (SthB) 50% 50% 50% 50% 50% BLS AG (Bern – Lötschberg – Simplon) free free free 50% free Mount Titlis (BET) 50% – 50% 50% 50% Bern city transport (Bernmobil) – – free – free Centovalli train (Locarno – Domodossola) free free free 50% free Lake Thun and Brienz steamers free 50% free 50% free Lugano city transport (TPL) – – free – free Interlaken – Lauterbrunnen / Grindelwald 25% – free 50% free Lugano – Ponte Tresa (Caslano) – – free 50% free Kleine Scheidegg – Jungfraujoch 25% – 25% 50% 50% Lake Lugano steamers (SNL) – – free 50% 50% Wilderswil – Schynige Platte (SPB) 25% – 50% 50% 50% Rhätische Bahn (RhB) free free free 50% free Lauterbrunnen – Wengen (WAB) 25% – free 50% free Glacier Express Wengen – Kleine Scheidegg – Grindelwald 25% – 25% 50% 50% St.Moritz – Chur – Disentis (RhB) free free free 50% free Grindelwald Grund – Männlichen 25% – 50% 50% 50% Disentis – Brig – Zermatt (MGB) 25% 50% 4.) free 50% free Lauterbrunnen – Mürren (BLM) 25% – free 50% free Zurich city transport system (VBZ) – – free – free Stechelberg – Mürren (LSMS) 25% – free 50% free Lake Zurich steamers (ZSG) free 50% free 50% free Mürren – Schilthorn (LSMS) 25% – 50% 50% 50% Lake Constance steamers 35 – 50% – free 50% free Brienz – Rothorn (BRB) – – 50% 50% 50% Braunwaldbahn (BRSB) – – free 50% free Zermatt – Gornergrat (GGB-ggb) 25% 50% 4.) 50% 50% 50% 1.) On transfer days the Swiss Card offers the 3.) Montreux – Glion – Caux free © by Swiss Backpacker News, Brig – Visp – Zermatt (MGB-bvz) same advantages as the Swiss Pass, BUT is 4.) Reduction only for InterRail YOUTH-Pass Am Bach 7, 5502 Hunzenschwil / Switzerland. Brig – Göschenen/Disentis (MGB-FO) 25% 50% 4.) free 50% free not valid on urban transportation systems All information is subject to change. 2.) On selected postal bus lines (e.g. Alpine passes), No copying without permission of the Zermatt Bergbahnen (ZBAG) – – 50% 50% 50% the supplement “Alpine Ticket” is mandatory publishers. 6 zurich

practical information per’s paradise and at night an exciting centre of entertainment. - Augustinergasse. One of Zurich’s most beautiful streets. This quaint, old street is How to get there: lined with numerous 14th – 18th century Zurich has an interna- houses with ornate bay windows. tional airport from where the city can be = Lindenhof. An oasis of peace in the heart reached within only 15 minutes. Direct of the city offering a magnificent view of train services link Zurich Airport with the the old town. It’s also the place for passion- main station 1 (dep. every 10 –15 min ate chess players (open-air). from 05.02 am until 00.17 am). The huge q St. Peter’s church. Zurich’s oldest church. main station houses the i tourist office Since 1534, it holds the record for the 1 (044 215 40 00, free hotel reservations, largest church clock face in Europe (8.7 m ›››www.zuerich.com, open Mon – Sat 8 am – diameter). Open Mon – Fri 8 am – 6 pm, Sat 8.30 pm, Sun 8.30 am – 6.30 pm); foreign 10 am – 4 pm, Sun 11 am – 5 pm (worship currency exchange, Western Union, public Sun 10 am). Shopping spree at Augustinergasse phones, bicycle rental, lockers, supermarket w Langstrasse. Walk down from Helvetia (Migros, open daily), restaurants, travel platz until Limmatplatz and enjoy this busy, agency, rest rooms, showers, pharmacy, urich is beautiful! You could easily spend weeks here. Situated at the north end of international, big-town feeling (red light shopping, fast food, dentist and medical Lake Zurich and just 15 minutes away from the international airport. The lake, district). Lots of second hand shops and in- station “Permanence”, open 7 am – 23 pm Z a river and the distant peaks of the Alps make the city a perfect combination of ternational take-out food (tasty and cheap). (next to the pharmacy). Taxi Zurich (toll- natural beauty, cosmopolitan charm and urban buzz. Exploring on foot is the best way West of Limmatplatz the former industrial free at 0800 822 222). @ Internet café at of getting to know the attractive old town, divided by the Limmat River, or the famous quarter has changed into a very trendy Shop Ville (inside the train station) or at Bahnhofstrasse 6 and the lake promenade, as well as the Langstrasse w area with its area now called Zurich West. Here you’ll your hostel (guests only). Public transpor- very international ambience (also red light district), or the trendy quarter of Zurich West find lots of new bars, restaurants and tation (city): 1-hour ticket CHF 4.10; 24- with its new bars, Viadukt shopping/market hall and the impressive architectural space clubs and the huge complex called Schiff- hour ticket CHF 8.20. ZurichCARD: The Zu- called the Schiffbau. The city silhouette is dominated by the striking towers and spires bau (with drama stages, jazz clubs and richCARD costs CHF 20.– (valid for 24 hours) of three churches – the Grossmünster church 7; St. Peter’s church q, which boasts more) and the Viadukt shopping/market or CHF 40.– (for 72 hours). It gives you un- Europe’s largest clock face (8.7 m or 28.5 ft in diameter); and the Fraumünster church 8, hall, Zurich’s new shopping area inside limited train, streetcar, bus and boat travel greatly admired for its precious stained glass windows by Marc Chagall. Lindenhof = is an old railway bridge. To get there take in the area of Zurich (incl. airport, city, Uetli a beautiful, small, park-like open space in the middle of the old town. tram 4 or 13 until stop Escher-Wyss-Platz berg, and even a short roundtrip of 1½ hours or Dammweg. on the lake), and free entrance to all mu- e Kunsthaus (Art Museum), Helmplatz 1. seums in Zurich and more. Ask for it at the highlights Zurich’s Kunsthaus is called Switzerland’s tourist office or at one of the train stations! finest gallery. So if you visit just one art 6 The Bahnhofstrasse. Zurich’s world- by Marc Chagall and the large organ (5,793 museum in Switzerland, this should be Best souvenir shops in town are: 2a famous shopping street covers a distance pipes). Open daily 10 am – 6 pm (worship it! Open Wed – Fri 10 am – 8 pm, Sat, Sun Teddy’s Souvenir Shop at Limmatquai 34, of 1.4 km (0.9 miles) from the main station Sun 10 am). and Tue 10 am – 6 pm, (Mon closed). Entry: and 2b Meng Cutlery at Rennweg 31 and to the lake. 9 Schweizerisches Landesmuseum (Swiss permanent collection CHF 14.–, students at Poststrasse 4 (get a 10% discount with 7 Grossmünster Church. Zurich’s most National Museum), Museumstrasse 2. The CHF 10.–, (free with ZurichCard); on Wed the voucher on the next page!). famous landmark and a symbol of the city. castle-like building, surrounded by the admission is free of charge for all visitors! Climb the tower (cost CHF 4.–, students charming Platzspitz park, right behind the r Polyterrace. Hop on the Polybähnli www.zuerich.com CHF 2.–) and enjoy a terrific view! On a train station, houses the largest collection (cable car) at Central square and in two www.backpacker.ch clear day you can even see the snowcapped of objects relating to Swiss cultural his- minutes you’ll be enjoying the best all- Alps. Church open daily 10 am – 6 pm, tory. Open Tue – Sun 10 am – 5 pm (Thu till round view of the city! The area in front of budget accommodation tower Mon – Sat 10.15 am – 5 pm and Sun 7 pm), closed on Monday! Adm. CHF 10.–, the Federal Institute of Technology (ETH) is 12.30 – 5.30 pm. students CHF 8.–. a popular viewing point! .

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S SIHLPORTE A F S T A L S T R E R S E O G J A L zurich 7 events entertainment, fun & parties April 4th Chris de Burgh at the Hallenstadion With almost 500 bars, clubs and discos, Zurich offers entertainment to suit everyone. April 12th Angelo Branduardi at the Kongresshaus And from spring to fall, the offer additionally includes over 400 open-air restaurants April 11th Zürcher Sechseläuten – Traditional spring festival with parade at (many of them in the numerous public open-air swimming pools). Sechseläutenwiese (Bellevue square) and burning of a strawman • Zürichhorn / Seefeldquai (between Bellevue and Chinese Garden) and the Landiwiese (a symbol of father winter) at 6 pm (in Wollishofen) are ideal places to be at on a hot summer day… Chill out and have a May 5th – June 5th Circus “Knie” at Landiwiese refreshing swim in the lake! May 9th & 10th Zucchero at the Hallenstadion • Niederdorfstrasse is the place to be at night: there are lots of restaurants/bars/pubs, May 16th Sade at the Hallenstadion guaranteed party atmosphere. May 20th – 22nd Historical medieval spectacle next to Fraumünster church • Oliver Twist (Rindermarkt 6) and Nelson (Beatengasse 11) are the pubs to go to. June 6 / 7 / 24 / 25 Roger Waters The Wall at the Hallenstadion Oliver Twist is also a sports bar where you can watch international sports on TV. June 14th Katie Melua at the Hallenstadion • Restaurant Café Zähringer (at Zähringerplatz 11, not far from the City Backpacker ) June 16th – 19th Zurich Pride Festival. Numerous events and a large parade of is a good place to be and to meet people, and they serve good vegetarian food. gay and lesbians throughout the city • Cabaret Voltaire (Spiegelgasse 1). Zurich’s world famous “Dada House”. Exhibitions, July 1st – 3rd Festival Tropical Caliente. Most important Latin event in events and a café bar (closed on Monday). Switzerland. At the port Zurich Enge (along General-Guisan • Rote Fabrik (Seestrasse 395). Alternative art, restaurant, open-air bar and entertain- Strasse) ment, next to the lake. Live events: concerts, films, disco and other dance, etc. July 10th Ironman Switzerland – world class triathlon and Swiss call 044 481 91 21 for the latest information. ›››www.rotefabrik.ch championships with lots of attractions at Landiwiese • Kanzlei (Kanzleistr. 56, next to Helvetiaplatz). Nice place (disco, bar and cinema). July 14th Bon Jovi at Stadion Letzigrund ›››www.kanzlei.ch mid-July – mid-Aug Open-air cinema at Zürichhorn – with a beautiful view of the lake • Abart (Manessestr. 170, tram Nr. 13 or bus 33 until Utobrücke). Alternative club! Aug 1st Swiss National Day – fireworks everywhere! Events and concerts from alternative rock to pop. Good prices. ›››www.abart.ch Aug 13th Street Parade 2011 – world’s largest techno event with • Xtra Limmathaus (Limmatstr. 118, near Limmatplatz). Very popular place to go hundreds of thousands of participants! With the parade in the amongst the young people of Zurich. Monday/Wednesday regular disco. Admission afternoon and party all night long free. See daily press for latest concerts. ›››www.x-tra.ch Aug 18th – Sep 4th Theatre spectacle at Landiwiese – great open-air spectacle • Barfüsser (Spitalgasse 14) is Europe’s oldest gay bar! Aug 26th – 28th Niederdorf old town festival – multicultural festival in the • Paddy Reily’s (Talstrasse 82) is an Irish pub. old town (along Niederdorfstrasse): with live bands, artistic • Kaufleuten (Pelikanstrasse 18) is a club at the top end of the market (Madonna and performances, snacks and drinks Prince were once guests here). ›››www.kaufleuten.ch Sep 3rd The long night of the museums (from 7 pm). Cultural happenings • Babalu Bar (Schmidgasse 6) is a perfect starting point for a hot night out on the town. (art, lectures, special exhibitions, theatre and culinary surprises), • Jules Verne panorama bar (Uraniastrasse 9) is a bar at the observatory tower with a museums open until at least two in the morning or even until dawn view over the roofs of Zurich. Sep 8th World Class Zurich – int. athletics meeting at Letzigrund Stadium • Casablanca (Langstr. 62). Cool bar and café in the lively Langstrasse quarter. Sep 10th Status Quo at the Hallenstadion • El Lokal (Gessnerallee 11). Nice bar to hang out at in the evenings; also offering some Sep 10th – 12th Knabenschiessen – Switzerland’s biggest fun fair at Albisgüetli tapas. An array of strange and amazing things inside and a nice area with a view of Sep 23rd – 25th Freestyle.ch. Spectacular contests on snowboards, freeskis, the river outside. FMX- and BMX-bikes and skateboards, at Landiwiese • Rathaus-Café (at Limmatquai 61, directly on the Limmat river) is certainly the best spot for people-watching. Markets • Bar Offen (Lettensteg) is housed in an old Berlin S-Bahn coach in the now disused Wed Market of food and other specialities inside Zurich main station Letten station. Indoors or outdoors, sit back, relax and enjoy the special atmosphere. Tue / Fri Food and flower market at Bürkliplatz • Pier West (Lettensteg 10). A swimming pool with DJs, cool drinks and a great atmo- Thu / Sat Market of hand-crafted art at Rosenhof (next to City Backpacker) sphere in the evenings. Sat (May – Oct) Flea market at Bürkliplatz / Stadthausanlage • Primitivo (at Wasserwerkstrasse) on the banks of the River Limmat is a good place to Sat Flea market at Kanzlei (Kanzleistr. 56, next to Helvetiaplatz) be at all times of the day – to read the newspaper, sunbathe, swim, and just for fun. Sat Food and flower market at Rathausbrücke • Enge Lakeside Bathing (Mythenquai). Open-air bar at the lakeside pool offers superb For open-airs, festivals and other national events see page 17. views across the lake. Situated on pontoons floating on the lake. • Rimini-Bar (at Schanzengraben) is a popular place for relaxing after work and getting ready for a long night (open from 7:15 pm, closed when it rains). $ save money The best choice of souvenirs, gifts and cutlery in town www.teddyssouvenirshop.ch • www.mengcutlery.ch For Swiss Army knives • bells • music boxes • cuckoo clocks • T-Shirts • Free bikes sweatshirts • beer-steins and all kind of trendy souvenirs visit 5 Bikes to borrow free of charge (daytime free, overnight Fr. 10.–)! TEDDY’S SOUVENIR SHOP. For a larger selections in Robust city bikes are available all year round at the main railway cutlery, knives, scissors, manicure sets we station at “Velostation Nord” (opposite track 18 at Museumstrasse recommend MENG Cutlery & Souvenirs near Landesmuseum) and at “Velostation Süd” (near Sihlpost). Both open daily 8 am – 9.30 pm. From May to October bikes are also available at Globus City (a shopping centre close to Bahnhofstrasse) and at Stadthausquai 1, both open 9 am – 9.30 pm; at the train station Oerlikon (in front of the Swissôtel), and at the train station Enge, both open 10 am – 9.30 pm. Bikes can be picked up with presentation of Open Monday to Saturday • all Credit cards Rennweg 31, near Bahnhofstrasse • Phone 044 211 18 48 a valid form of ID and a deposit of CHF 20.–. Zurich’s best summer Phone 044 261 22 89 • Fax 044 251 34 07 Poststrasse 4, near Paradeplatz • Phone 044 211 23 67 deal; make use of it! 10% Backpacker Discount with this advertisement 8 zurich save money – do it yourself

lake is almost 40 km long and measures nearly 90 km2. The Lake Zurich fleet offers different round trips and cruises. Full time- tables are posted at the company office at Bürkliplatz, from where almost all boats depart. Even if you do not have much time in Zurich, you’ll find the right trip for yourself: a 1½ hour short roundtrip dep. daily every 30 minutes from 11 am until 7 pm (Apr & Oct until 6 pm) from Bürkliplatz, costs CHF 8.20. The cruises are free for Eurail and 50% off for Interrail holders. If you hold a ZurichCARD, the 1½ hour tour on the lake is free of charge. Get your ticket on board. ›››www.zsg.ch

Guided tours Best of Switzerland Tours is a Swiss company with professional multilingual guides, focusing all their efforts on showing you the best of the marvellous Swiss Pedal boat ride on Lake Zurich near Enge harbor mountains, landscapes and places of interest (i.e. Mount Titlis or Mount Pilatus, ZURICH ITSELF the cities of Zurich or Lucerne). For infor- Uetliberg mountain ZVV – 9 o’clock Travelcard Limmat river cruise mation/booking ask at your hostel, at the Take the S-train no 10 (leaves from track $ The 9 o’clock Travelcard (9-Uhr A Limmat river cruise affords wonderful tourist office or see ›››www.switzerland- 2 at the main station) through fields and Tagespass) entitles you to use public trans- views of Zurich’s historic buildings, bridges tours.ch forest up to the Uetliberg mountain. A 10- port within the whole canton of Zurich. and monuments. One of the best and Or do you want to experience Switzerland minute walk brings you to the top (871 m) From 9 am until shut down (no time re- most popular, trips start from the Landes- on a personally guided tour? Swizzbuzz where you can climb the tower with a strictions on weekends) you save 30% off museum (Swiss National Museum) for the offer adventurous activities in Switzerland beautiful view. From there you can hike the regular day ticket price! So if you are scenic upriver journey through the heart with a flexible service for backpackers back to the city or you can easily trek planning to make any excursions in and of the city, including a short trip on the off the beaten track for local culture and along the “Planetenweg” (planetary path) around the area, look into this option (CHF lake and the return journey down the river alternative activities – and unlike an ordi- to Felsenegg (1½ hour). From there a cable 24.–; for Swiss-Card-holders CHF 12.–). See again – or you can get off at Zürichhorn nary Swiss bus tour you have the option car will bring you down to Adliswil from also ZurichCARD (on page 6)! and have a refreshing swim in the lake! to get off and stay longer in any place. where you can get back to the city (by Boats from Landesmuseum operate from For information see ›››www.swizzbuzz.ch S-train no 4). The ZurichCARD is valid for Monday night skate event April 3rd – October 23rd. Departure every or call 076 245 99 82. this excursion up the Uetliberg. Without a The Monday night skate is open for every- 30 minutes from 10.05 am – 9.05 pm; April ZurichCARD it costs: CHF 16.40 for a 24-hr body and free of charge (but you need to and October until 6.35 pm only. Tickets ticket (this “Albistageskarte” includes all bring your own skates; they can not be cost CHF 4.10 per hour (a roundtrip lasts Zurich city public transportation, so make rented). The tour takes place every two 55 minutes!), the cruise is free of charge use of it! You can even buy it at the ticket weeks and is suitable for both beginners if you hold a Eurail ticket or a ZurichCard. $ save money machine, just dial *131). Free for Eurail- and advanced skaters. Every second Mon- holders (only for the Felsenegg cable car day in dry weather; it starts at Bürkliplatz Cruise on Lake Zurich Buy your souvenirs/gifts in Zurich and will you need to pay CHF 4.10). at 8 pm and lasts about 2 hours (15 – 22 km), Take one of the various boats/steamers and get a 10% Backpacker discount with the check ›››www.nightskate.ch enjoy a relaxing time on Lake Zurich! The advertisement on page 7.

Etap Hotel - Sleep well at the best Price Hotel Hottingen

BE SMART. STAY SMART. www.hotelhottingen.ch / [email protected] Comfortable rooms with shower/WC, TV Double and bunk bed for up to 3 persons ”All you can eat” breakfast for CHF 11.- p.p. Reception open 24/7 2 locations in the Zurich area: in the heart of the

trendy district of “Zurich West” and in Winterthur *Price per night/room excl. city tax

Etap Hotel Zürich City-West - Technoparkstrasse 2 - Tel. 044 276 20 00 Etap Hotel Winterthur - Brühlbergstrasse 7a - Tel. 052 264 84 00 Hottingerstrasse 31 / Cäcilienstrasse 10 8032 Zürich The room for 1, 2 or 3 persons from CHF 99 (Zürich) / CHF 89 (Winterthur)* 8 hotels in Switzerland and 400 in Europe - www.etaphotel.com tel. +41 44 256 19 19 Fax +41 44 256 19 00 zurich 9

$ save money

A visit to Zürich does not have to be expensive. Also for those on a tight budget the city with the world’s highest quality of life is full of surprises and many of its offers are even free of charge:

Sightseeing Best views From the impressive Grossmünster church to the famous Chagall Whether it is from the Polyterrasse at the Swiss Institute of Technology or the Linden hof: windows at the Fraumünster church, or a refreshing dip in Lake the best views of Zurich are to be had free of charge; you only have to climb the stairs Zurich: Zurich’s most beautiful sights are all free of charge. yourself ! … In Zurich you have a choice of 1,200 fountains at which to quench your thirst, free of charge. Budget lunch The Municipal Collection of Succulent Plants (at Mathenquai 88) Lots of restaurants in Zurich are of great value for your money. One especially hot tip has one of the most important collections in Europe! Open daily for those on a tight budget are the canteens of the university and ETH. 9 am – 4.30 pm, free of charge. Take bus 161 from Bürkliplatz (direction Kilchberg) or bus 165 (direction Rüschlikon), both to bus stop Sukkulenten-Sammlung. Bikes Bikes can be borrowed free of charge (for details about this great deal see page 7). Museums Some museums, whether at the university, the ETH (the Swiss Insti- tute of Technology), the Central Library or the Museum of Anthropol- ogy, are both full of fascinating insights and free of charge too.

kitchen internet station

free wlanfrom Sfr. 36.- dormitories private rooms in the heart of the old town nightlife discounts on swiss army knives 8 min. walking from

the main station ZürichCARD. and much more... So much pleasure for so little money.

n Free travel on trains, buses, trams, boats and cable cars throughout the entire city and surrounding region n Free admission to all museums in the city of Zürich Niederdorfstrasse 5 n Free admission to hip clubs CH-8001 Zürich n Various other reductions Switzerland 24 hours for CHF 20.– 72 hours for CHF 40.– Phone: 0041 (0)44 251 90 15 www.zuerichcard.ch book online:packer.ch www.city-back 10 zurich

For more about the Rhine falls, the cities of Schaffhausen, St. Gallen and other highlights (and accommodation) in Switzer- land’s northeast see pages 42 / 43.

Richterswil There are perhaps only a few people in the whole world who have heard of Richterswil. But the train link to Richterswil is ideal for people who want to get to know Zurich but would rather stay in the country than the busy city. After an exhausting day in the city you’ll find a little holiday paradise in this small town on Lake Zurich. You can go swimming, rowing, windsurfing and diving virtually outside the door here. How to get there: From Zurich’s main station take the suburban railway (S-Bahn) no 2 or 8 from Zurich to Richterswil (trains The Rhine Falls run every 30 minutes and take 27 minutes). Accommodation in Richterswil: Richter- AREA OF ZURICH swil Youth Hostel, Hornstrasse 5 (044 786 Winterthur 21 88) ›››www.youthhostel.ch/richterswil Located just 20 minutes from Zurich, Win- CityStroll takes place every Thursday from Winterthur’s coolest events are the Afro- (from Richterswil station/boat landing terthur combines the flair of a big city with 6 – 9 pm and it’s guided by two real Winter- Pfingsten (Pentacost, African food, culture stage it’s a three-minute walk along the the homely atmosphere of a small town. thurers. Costs CHF 29.– including 2 drinks and music) on June 9th – 13th and the Win- lakeside path to the youth hostel). The town has everything a bigger city can and free gift. For more information check terthurer Musikfestwochen (music festi- offer: cinemas, markets, parks, bars, discos ›››citystroll.ch and/or do not hesitate to ask val) which offers a large variety of concerts Baden and excellent museums, i.e. the Museum at the reception of the City Backpacker/ from rock to pop to jazz, mostly free, in Baden is a relaxing spa town on the river of Photography (Fotomuseum) at Grüzen- Hotel Biber in Zurich. the unique atmosphere of the old medieval Limmat, just 24 km downstream from strasse 44 + 45. A critic has called it “the Block and Tempodrom (Lagerplatz 17, just town (August 17th – 28th). Zurich. The intact, picturesque old town most beautiful museum of photography 300 m from the train station, open Mon – Sat How to get to Winterthur: From Zurich and the thermal spring baths are good rea- in Europe”! Open Tue – Sun 11 am – 6 pm 10 am – midnight; Sun 10 am – 8 pm) is main station trains to Winterthur leave sons to visit Baden (German for “bath”). Dis- (Wed to 8 pm), closed on Monday; entry Europe’s largest indoor sports park, with every 15 minutes (S-train no 12, 11, 8, or cover what fun it is to relax in the steaming CHF 9.–, students CHF 7.–; bus no. 2 (direc- 3,000 m2 of rollerpark, beach volleyball fast trains in the direction of St. Gallen and open-air thermal pools (the richest min- tion Seen) until “Fotozentrum” or 15 min- courts, racing carts, a climbing wall and Frauenfeld). eral water in Switzerland – the public pools utes on foot from the main station. much more (sports equipment can be hired). Accommodation in Winterthur: Etap are on Kurplatz). Baden also has a casino Another museum that puts most of its It’s good fun! Five minute-walk from Win- Hotel Winterthur, Brühlbergstrasse 7a (052 and, visible from all over town, a castle. visitors in awe is the Swiss Science Cen- terthur’s main station (052 204 07 00) 264 84 00) ›››www.etaphotel.com How to get there: Trains to/from Baden ter (Technorama) at Technoramastrasse 1, ›››www.kart.ch leave every 15 minutes (S-train 12 and fast which shows science and technology in an The Bäumli is Winterhur’s most popular The Rhine falls trains in the direction of Bern and Basel) easily understandable way. Open Tue – Sun vantage point. On the terrace above the The largest waterfall in Europe is 150 meters and take only 15 minutes! Just 100 m north 10 am – 5 pm (closed on Monday); entry hillside vineyards of the Goldenberg you wide and 23 meters high! It is refreshing to of the railway station Baden you’ll find the CHF 25.–, students 21.–; take bus no. 5 can enjoy the fantastic view of the entire stand on a boulder in the middle of a wa- tourist office. (main station Gate F) until “Technorama”. city and the Alps. Take bus number 10 terfall and feel the gusts of cool air rushing Unique in town is the CityStroll. Join and (direction of Oberwinterthur railway sta- towards you and see the massive amounts Rapperswil meet new friends, socialize in the pub and tion) to Bäumliweg bus stop, from here of water jetting down the Rhine fall. There The small lakefront town of Rapperswil, hear about the sixth biggest city of Swit- you’ll reach the Bäumli via the city’s lon- is a special visitor’s platform which allows called City of Roses, lies only 37 km south zerland while strolling through the streets. gest steps, measuring 425 metres. you to get as close as possible. This is a great of Zurich and is dominated by an imposing natural spectacle that you should not miss! thirteenth-century castle (with its small The nearby city of Schaffhausen is situated Poland museum). Another highlight of Rap- along the Rhein River and has a charming perswil is the longest wooden bridge in town center with many nice shops and Switzerland! Rapperswil offers wonderful restaurants. A highlight here is the fortress views, nice terrace cafés, a shaded prom- “Munot” built in the 16th century, from enade, a little marina and a delightful where you’ll have a great view! This is walled rose-garden. Schaffhausen’s trademark circular fortress How to get to Rapperswil: From Zurich (admission is free). main station trains to Rapperswil leave How to get there: From Zurich’s main sta- every 15 minutes (S-train no 5, 15, 7); or tion take a train to Winterthur and from take a boat trip one way. there take S 33 direction Schaffhausen, and get off at “Schloss Laufen am Rheinfall”. As Braunwald (1,256 m) a Eurail/Interrail-holder you travel free of Staying in Zurich and want to spend a day charge; with a ZVV 9 o’clock Travelcard or more in a car-free vacation resort off (see above) it costs CHF 24.–; the normal the beaten track? Choose Braunwald. Read fare for this ticket is CHF 31.60. ›››www. more about this beautiful destination on rhinefalls.com the next page. ‹‹‹ braunwald 11 practical information

How to get there: There are hourly trains from Zurich main station via Ziegelbrücke to Linthal with direct transfer to the funicular up to Braunwald. The funicular railway is one of the steepest in the world. The ascent from Linthal to Braunwald is 607 metres, with the maximum incline 64%. Note: Braunwald railways is free of charge with the Swiss Pass and the Swiss Flexi Pass. As you emerge from the top station, you’ll see map-boards of the village and its surroundings. To the right is the tourist office (055 653 65 65). @ Internet at Adrenalin Backpackers. www.braunwald.ch Braunwald is a great destination for sport freaks www.myswitzerland.com budget accommodation raunwald (1,256 m) is a car-free climber’s harness and a helmet (these can Or how about the panorama hike? Starts vacation resort located in the south- be rented). and ends at Grotzenbüel (1,559 m), season Adrenalin Backpackers Hostel (079 347 29 Bernmost region of the Glarnerland The alpine route connecting Braunwald from June to October, walking time is 05), situated in the middle of the village (easy to reach within just approx. 90 min to the deep blue Lake Oberblegi and down about 3 hours. An easy hike with spec- centre, just 2 minutes from the mountain from Zurich). It’s located on a slightly to Schwanden leads hikers through the tacular panoramic views. With some nice station of the funicular. ›››www.adrenalin.gl sloped sun terrace, high above the Linth weird rock formations of the moranes mountain restaurants on the way and, if Valley at 1,256 meters. Braunwald is of the Glaernisch Range. Rushing moun- you are lucky, you can even see marmots. surrounded by a fantastic panorama of tain streams and beautiful alpine flow- Fishing is possible at the beautiful deep mountains, with the peak of Tödi a real ers round off the picture. Walking time is blue Oberblegi lake high above Braunwald. eye-catcher. The beautiful panorama of the about 4 h 45 min (altitude difference 280 m A permit costs CHF 30.– per day, CHF 110.– Glarner Alps is within clear view and ap- ascent and 910 m descent, condition inter- per week. pears just a step away. Braunwald is far mediate to difficult), season from June to Or are you a passionate chess player? At from both traffic and a hectic lifestyle. This October, starting point is Braunwald; from Hotel Bellevue you’ll find open-air chess. is a place to turn your back on the crowds Schwanden return by train to Linthal/ Car-free does not mean party-free. The and head for the wilderness. Braunwald Braunwald. Adrenalin Backpackers is not only a hostel, offers every essential ingredient for an Another great hike is the roundtrip from a restaurant and a bar, but also a party eventful outing or an unforgettable holi- Braunwald to the Chnügrat. On the way place where you’re sure to get in contact day off the beaten track. you’ll spy the grandiose scenery of the with locals. Glarner Alps. The glacier-covered Tödi And if it rains? No worries, the Adrenalin highlights mountain range, considered the local Backpackers offers video games, pool, landmark, is especially impressive. Walk- darts, tabletop football and Internet. Or The car-free holiday resort of Braunwald ing time is about 4 h 45 min (altitude dif- have you ever played air-hockey? Try it at offers hiking, biking, climbing, horse-rid- ference 680 m ascent/descent, condition the Adrenalin Backpackers, it’s good fun. The beautiful Alps appear just a step away ing, paragliding and a few special high- intermediate to difficult), season from June And the friendly people from the tourist lights. to October, starting point and destination office will also help you with ideas and in- Biking is especially popular in Braunwald is Braunwald. formation. (bike rental is possible). You’ll find well- marked bike routes and at the tourist office you can buy a biker’s map. Or how about a trottinett-ride? Trottinetts (scooter) can be rented at the gondola station Grotzenbüel. The climbing installation is a major highlight. The limestone cliffs of the sil- ver-gray Eggstock Mountains towering high above Braunwald have long been a well-kept secret among mountain climbers. And because climbing in full view of the snow-capped Glarner Mountains is braunwald is far from both traffic and a hectic a wonderful experience, even beginners lifestyle. this is a place to turn your back on can enjoy these routes and conquer the Eggstock Mountains. The climbing instal- the crowds and enjoy pure nature. interested? Climbing in Braunwald is a major highlight lations may only be used if you wear a 12 central switzerland – lucerne

practical information with a variety of live animals in aquariums and terrariums. Kasernenplatz 6 (next to Spreuerbrücke), open Tue – Sun 10 am – 5 pm, closed on Mondays, admission CHF How to get there: 6.– / students CHF 5.–. Lucerne is situated on = The Swiss Transport Museum (Ver the most important route running from kehrshaus) is the biggest museum in north to south. Direct fast trains also link Lucerne! And Europe’s largest and most Lucerne to the international airports in diversified transport museum also in- Zurich (1 h 10 min.), Basel (1 h 40 min.) and cludes a giant-screen IMAX cinema. Lido Geneva (3 h). The i tourist office (041 227 strasse 5 is 2 km east of the center. You 17 17) is at Zentralstr. 5 next to the railway can take a boat or bus no 6, 8 or 24 from station 1 where you also find shopping, Lucerne station to the “Verkehrshaus-Lido” fast food, restaurants, hotel booking, lock- stop, or else it’s a pleasant twenty-minute ers, bicycle rental, rest rooms, bookstores, lakeside stroll. Open daily 10 am – 6 pm, foreign currency exchange, and the medi- admission CHF 28.– (museum only); CHF cal station “Permanence” (open 24 hrs). 19.– (IMAX only); or buy a combi-ticket 2 Post office and Swisscom center next to (museum and IMAX) for CHF 38.–. Stairs along the Reuss river the railway station; launderette, Jet Wasch, q Musegg Wall. A part of the rampart at Bruchstrasse 28 and “Altstadt-Express- built in 1386; almost entirely intact. Three Wäscherei” at Löwengraben 14; @ Internet ucerne is unique, you’ll love it! Centrally located, just an hour south of Zurich and towers are open to the public: Schirmer, station at Café Parterre, Mythenstr. 7; in Basel, it offers an incredible panorama. Lucerne lies at the western end of Lake Zyt and Männli. The oldest city clock, built downtown Lucerne everyone can access L Lucerne (Vierwaldstättersee) which is the geographical and spiritual heart of in 1535, is on the Zyt tower. This clock is Wireless LAN, just connect with Luzern. Switzerland. The city, as well, features the world-famous medieval Chapel Bridge (Kapell privileged to chime every hour one minute WLAN and surf! brücke), connecting the old part of town to the new. The over 660-year-old wooden-cov- before all the other city clocks. ered bridge partially burnt down in 1993 but has been restored to its original condition. w KKL (Culture and Convention Center www.luzern.org You’ll be charmed by Lucerne’s misty lake, by the snow-capped mountains rising above, Lucerne). The KKL (at Europaplatz, next www.centralswitzerland.ch and the many possibilities for excursions you have from here. to the station) is the work of the Parisian www.backpacker.ch architect Jean Nouvel. It houses one of the highlights finest concert halls in the world and the Museum of Art – the fourth largest in Swit- budget accommodation 6 Chapel Bridge. The world-famous 12.–, students CHF 9.50, with guest card zerland. 660-year-old bridge, which burnt down CHF 10.–. e A very good reason for coming to 3 Backpackers Lucerne, Alpenquai 42, (041 in August 1993 and was reconstructed six 9 The Bourbaki Panorama, an 1100-sq Lucerne at all is to explore the beautiful 360 04 20) ›››www.backpackerslucerne.ch; months later, true to the original. See the metre circular painting, is one of the world’s Lake Lucerne. All boats depart from the 4 Lion Lodge Luzern, Zürichstrasse 57 (041 paintings of the Swiss and local city his- few panorama paintings still in existence. quay directly outside the station. Free 410 01 44) ›››www.lionlodge.ch; Lucerne tory inside the covered bridge. The scene is brought to life with recorded with Eurail- and Swiss Pass, 50% off with Youth Hostel, Sedelstr. 12 (041 420 88 00) 7 Lion of Lucerne (Löwendenkmal). “The commentary (in English). At Löwenplatz 11. Interrail. (take bus no 18 from the train station and Dying Lion of Lucerne” figures among those Open Mon 1 – 6 pm, Tue – Sun 9 am – 6 pm, get off at the stop “Jugendherberge”, takes monuments known all around the world. admission CHF 8.– / students CHF 7.–. 18 minutes) ›››www.youthhostel.ch/luzern; Globetrotter Mark Twain described the 0 Museum Donation Rosengart. The most TIP! 5 Hotel Alpha, Pilatusstrasse 66 (041 240 Lion of Lucerne as “the saddest and most recent museum in Lucerne. It owes its im- 42 80) ›››www.hotelalpha.ch; Etap Hotel moving piece of rock in the world”. Denk- portance to two unique groups of works by Mount Pilatus. An excursion to Luzern, Kellerstrasse 4-8 (041 367 80 00) malstrasse (Bus no. 1 to Maihof, get off at Pablo Picasso and Paul Klee. At Pilatus- mount Pilatus (2,132 m / 7,000 ft) ›››www.etaphotel.com Löwenplatz). strasse 10; open daily 10 am – 6 pm, admis- is an absolute must if you stay in Lucerne! 8 Glacier Gardens (Gletschergarten). The sion CHF 18.–, students CHF 16.–. For details and more about Central Swit- & - real history of the Swiss glaciers; a place MuseumGletschergarten of Nature (Natur-Museum) A zerland see page 14. . R Z T Ü S F Lion

F G L L R U R not to be missed. Next to the Lion of permanentU biological exhibition shows . Monument E H I

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S BRA M B M B TR A LÖWEN- IED S U G S E W A ÜHL T R. R S R L E S R E MAT TS G RG TR F S TR S BE T PL. Ö T FS T 8 T E O A W . R S R 9 R G IH M T . ÜL N A H E S N SSE RAI S N E TRA TR ATT S U . ERS LEM L S TR D IL Visit Switzerland’s first andL only MÜH E F F- S N ENSW U H O T OF LI LIG EGE R H I AD TE R. A E N ST G TST R HOTEL ALPHA RAS EI EMAT T- S D SE S ÜHL A AD S S M L T E ZIN G ST M P S GENT . K A E ORS glass labyrinthLIBRÜCKE at the GlasiARL Her- E Rothen- T RA IS T T N SSE TRA S TR. SS . Allenwindenturm SS A ST R S E R ER ‡ ‡ T burgerhaus Hofkirche KAR M Pulverturm T R Re T IR ‡ ‡ SE ‡ Ö . u H ‡ ‡ S A Lucerne ss C ‡ P T GS S ‡ TRA ‡ ‡ F S S ‡ S ‡ E S = S N G R giswil. A walk through thisEN Tworld of glass ‡ G E S E I S S MA LI ‡ SE Dächliturm T T R A T L U S TS I ‡ R D EN T M . HA L RA ‡ SE AI SS CH ‡ S LQU E Zeitturm ‡ Schirmerturm A TIONA www.hotelalpha.ch S ‡ R S NA DA ST E created by light, sound andMM the play of ‡ N E S ‡ I H B TR ‡ E I A Wachtturm ‡ ST O A A SS ‡ all N F U S E E W E S FQ ‡ T T L Luegislandturm ‡ ‡ R HO S ‡ City E R R T A - ‡ H E R T ‡q . IZ illusion is an impressiveA S experience. TheU T ‡ E S E T A ‡ E HW O ‡ SS C M E ‡ TRA S

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A L I ‡ G R E A IT E Ü ‡ E N D EL S T R H Ä G R ‡ US B ‡ M N R Männliturm SCHWANEN- feel at home entrance fee is CHF 5.–; slippers and S ‡ BRÜ G E T G S PLATZ R LIG SE S . Nölliturm A RAS A SS ST G E SAT A CY IS U S N G KAPELL- St T T G gloves for the walk are available at the O KA GRABE E PLATZ in the middle of town B R EN W Peterskapelle A LI H -Q LÖW N UA . I LIG S B A SS E cash register. S MÜHLEN- RÖ M. E E E L S ORN B T R PLATZ M. K CK R 1- to 4-bedded rooms, A IN Ü S Ü S WE R E SPREUER- B C

6 K Historisches L Vierwaldstättersee BRÜCKE L R E How to get there: Hergiswil is only 10 . DE E Museum U P GG A - E - E K K up from Sfr. 48.– pp/n PF SS IST C

E Ü R EU Wasserturm e GI G R PLATZ minutes by train from Lucerne. At the R A BAHNHOF B S B SSE RA S NHOFS TRA B E . BAH SE w R LT R Congress UC T

A I S Glasi Hergiswil you can also visit a great R H D Centre ST S E Jesuitenkirche R T N R R Rittersche T . A H A H 2 Z H O Pilatusstr. 66 S S Ü SE Palace E S I F A N E - T S Station exhibition on art glass production, with R E D R . W E T S S I E S N R R S N N T G E S C E . A S T R R B M R A U R. E H T .

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S I B B E G S Q E N U 1 U museum, shop and show, free of charge N E S H T S C A E A A G RS L S I TR I M S S R H RA R PI O T E A S Tel. 041.240.42.80 ST Franziskaner- R LO B - GA i (see page 50). Open Mon – Fri 9 am – 6 pm, K . W N R E Z T kirche E R 3 K S I E R N N N T Z FE RA E N Ä F K E F N Y T H F H P S R [email protected] L R B I T R I R A

I R R E N Sat 9 am – 4 pm. S L U E A C S G D S S C 5 H R E S T I R H S T M S M E E R I S S S S T R A A S A RA A T T A K R R TR S A PILATUS- T S ST S Powered by Rough Guides A S T S S S T S PLATZ S - T E A S E S E R R E S E E M M V E S H A A C P H O R K A S C T A RB S A NM S U C U R U M E R U E F H B FO S E W A U AS F TT D R M R E T S S A R ST S T F TE U N R STRASSE T N E R A SS A A PIL - A S R SE S ST B S E E E E D RG SS R O U A R B R G N BS W ST S L A A R E AL I H E E S I S C T H H G AT S A T E T A R S R S L S R D B D A ÄLI S S L T TRA T A ST . Ü E E S SSE R W R R I S . E R G T N E E T E H Ü S N A S S L O G T O F MOOSS T P S TR T B TR S ASSE R E E A A A N R SS A BUNDES- S E Q

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A R E IS T R I T N . A S STR S R CLARIDEN S E A AS

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R E E S G T S N U A H E S E G A A S C TS T N U T I R R S E T IB N G S S E C CH AHORN- STRASSE L UT H O S LO IG E ß STR B R N NS S A S SE F Ü TR R AS B SE central switzerland – lucerne 13 events entertainment, fun & parties April 9th – 17th Fumetto, international comic festival • Bar 59 (Industriestrasse 5), a place to “hang around underground” while drinking April 29th – May 8th LUGA agriculture and handicraft exhibition with lots of events and partying. (at Allmend) • Concert house “Schüür” (Tribschenstrasse 1) is a concert house but also has May 7th Lucerne City Run a bar and a nice garden. Call 041 368 10 30 for today’s program. ›››www.schuur.ch June 19th Swimming in the Reuss (for everybody), from Lucerne to Sins • Mr. Pickwick (Rathausquai 6) is a good place for beer, on the riverside next to June 25th Lucerne Old Town Festival the famous Chapel Bridge. July 8th – 10th Rowing World Lucerne (on the Rotsee). World Cup final • Parterre, at Mythenstrasse 7, is an Internet-café, bar and restaurant. July 13th – Aug 21st Open-air cinema (at Alpenquai) They have the longest table in town! July 21st – Aug 7th Circus Knie at Allmend • Jazzkantine zum Graben (Grabenstrasse 8) is a place where you can listen to July 22nd – 30th Blue Balls Festival, blues session ›››www.blueballs.ch live jazz and have a drink. Aug 1st Swiss National Day, with parties everywhere • Are you looking for a disco? Try The Loft (Haldenstrasse 21). Sep 11th Lucerne Museum Night. All the museums are open until 1 am. • “Salü Café Bar” (Waldstätterstrasse 5). With French ambience, is a good place For CHF 20.– you get free entrance (from 6 pm) to all museums to stay at. and free bus travel • Jet Club (Pilatusstr. 29) at Hotel Astoria; dance club open every night! Sep 17th Cheese-Festival. Huge cheese market in the old town Hotel Astoria has a bar too, the “Penthouse”, not cheap but with a beautiful view Oct 1st – 16th Lucerne autumn fair at Inseli Busparkplatz (right behind the of Lucerne’s mountains. train station) Oct 30th Lucerne Marathon

Markets $ save money Tue, Fri & Sat Fish market in the old town (Unter der Egg) Tue & Sat Fruit, vegetable and flower market along Rathausquai, The LucerneCard gives you unlimited travel on public transportation in the city, a 50% Unter der Egg, and Bahnhofstrasse discount on admission to most of Lucerne’s museums and more. Costs CHF 19.– (24 hours), Sat Flea market along Untere Burgerstrasse / Reussteg (May – Oct) CHF 27.– (48 hours), CHF 33.– (72 hours). The LucerneCard is available at the tourist office First Wed monthly Handicraft market at Bahnhofstrasse / Jesuitenplatz and at the railway station. ‹‹‹

backpackers lucerne alpenquai 42 ch – 6005 lucerne

phone: ++41 (0) 41 360 04 20 > 42 for fax wave.ch www.backpackerslucerne.ch

your hostel The Lake Lucerne Navigation Company Your fleet of paddle steamers in the Alpine world

Discover the William Tell country, the • attractive combinations: boat and green hills, the mountain scenery and the mountain railways majestic fjords, with a cruise on the lake! • free for Eurail and Swiss Pass, 50% off • all year round, departures every hour for Interrail

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Etap Hotel - Sleep well at the best Price

BE SMART. STAY SMART.

Comfortable rooms with shower/WC, TV Double and bunk bed for up to 3 persons ”All you can eat” breakfast for CHF 11.- p.p. Reception open 24/7 takes a load off your shoulder Just 10 minutes walking distance to the train

station and to the city center *Price per night/room excl. city tax

€ dorm (4 beds / bunk): 32 chf / 25.6 ppn Etap Hotel Luzern - Kellerstrasse 4-8 - Tel. 041 367 80 00 double (2 beds / bunk): 37 chf / 29.6 € ppn The room for 1, 2 or 3 persons from CHF 89* double (2 normal beds): 40 chf / 32.0 € ppn 8 hotels in Switzerland and 400 in Europe - www.etaphotel.com 14 central switzerland – some highlights some excursions and hiking tips Here you’ll find 10 exercise trails through forest, each with 6 to 11 stations in varying degrees of difficulty. And Pilatus also offers Switzerland’s longest summer toboggan Mount Pilatus – run – 1,350 metres (begins at Fräkmüntegg The Dragon Mountain of Lucerne at 1,415 metres altitude; open in summer An excursion to Mount Pilatus (2,132 m / from May 1st until October 23rd, in dry 7,000 ft), the giant mountain looming weather only, costs CHF 8.–). near Lucerne, is an absolute must. There It’s also possible to arrange a fascinating is hardly another mountain in Switzer- tandem paragliding flight from Mount land surrounded by so many legends; most Pilatus. Enjoy a bird’s eye view of Lucerne notably the dragons, which have lived and then land at the cable car station in there from time immemorial, are a sub- Kriens. The altitude difference is 1,600 m, ject of tales and speculation. The best way flying time is 30 – 60 minutes (depends to become acquainted with the Dragon on prevailing weather conditions ), costs Mountain is the “Golden Roundtrip” CHF 290.– and no flying experience is nec- (½ - or 1-day tour), with modern, soundless essary! Call 041 820 54 31 or check out panoramic gondolas – a most spectacular ›››www.paragliding.ch aerial tramway and the steepest railway How to get the there: Take bus no. 1 from in the world (48 degrees). Note: as a “Swiss the Lucerne train station to Kriens (bus Pass” holder you get a 50% discount! stop: Linde/Pilatus; takes 16 minutes). Pan- Pilatus is also ideal for walking and hik- oramic gondolas and an aerial tram will ing. And it’s also a particularly popular take you to the top. Get down to Alpnachs- climbing region, offering a range of routes tad by cog railway (open May – November). The world’s steepest cog-wheel railway leads up to the top of Mount Pilatus in all degrees of difficulty. An additional You can then either take the train (15 min.) highlight in the summer program is the or a boat (75 min.) to get back to Lucerne. “Pilatus Seilpark”, Central Switzerland’s This so-called “Golden Roundtrip” can also The Swiss Path – The most long. You can hike on the Swiss Path and largest rope park (daily open from May be done in the reverse direction! ›››www. famous hiking path of Switzerland whenever you feel like it you can enjoy a 1st until October 23rd, costs CHF 27.–). pilatus.ch, ›››www.luzern.org Visit the “Rütli” meadow, where Switzer- boat trip (costs CHF 41.– or 26.– if you hold land was founded on the 1st of August 1291 a Swiss Half Fare card). and have a short or long walk around the How to get there: As the path surrounds panoramic mountains in the very heart of the Urnersee (the lake which belongs MOUNTAIN RAILWAYS · HOTELS · CONGRESSES Switzerland. together with Lake Lucerne), you are able THE WORLD’S STEEPEST COGWHEEL RAILWAY The long distance Swiss Path is almost to enter it by boat from Lucerne, Brunnen, 35 km, walkable in two days of roughly six Morschach, Sisikon, Flüelen or any station hours each, or easily dividable into smaller adjoining the path. ›››www.brunnentouris- chunks. Tourist offices around the region mus.ch, ›››www.lakelucerne.ch. (As well as stock English guides of the route! This very by boat you can reach the hiking path by Swiss hiking path is great fun for every- train on any previously mentioned station one! There’s a special day trip ticket called adjoining the path. Easy connections from “Weg der Schweiz day pass”. This day trip Lucerne, Brunnen, Schwyz, Zurich). ticket enables you to use the boat all day ‹‹‹

360° Switzerland

…ON LUCERNE’S DOORSTEP: MT. PILATUS – YOUR MOUNTAIN ADVENTURE!

PILATUS-BAHNEN Schlossweg 1 · 6010 Kriens/Luzern · Switzerland Tel +41 (0)41 329 11 11 · Fax +41 (0)41 329 11 12 E-Mail: [email protected] · Internet: www.pilatus.ch View from Pilatus Kulm over the Bernese Alps central switzerland – swiss kniFe valley 15

practical information

How to get there: ½-hourly trains to Schwyz from Zurich, Lucerne, Lugano and Basel; Regular bus connection between Brunnen, Morschach, Seewen, and Schwyz. i Tourist office in Schwyz at Bahnhof strasse 4 (041 810 19 91); in Brunnen at Bahnhofstrasse 15 (041 825 00 40). @ Inter net station in Schwyz at Hirschen Pub (Hinterdorfstr. 14, 041 811 12 76) and at Millennium (Bistro and Bar at Herrengasse 15, 041 810 40 00). In Brunnen you’ll find Internet access at the tourist office.

www.swissknifevalley.ch www.centralswitzerland.ch www.brunnentourismus.ch www.backpacker.ch

budget accommodation Hirschen Backpackers Hotel Pub Schwyz, same place as Hirschen Pub, Hinterdorf- Hikers on the “Swiss Path” high above the shores of lake Uri str. 14, (041 811 12 76). Hop aboard any bus (direction Schwyz Post), get off at station “Schwyz Post” – just follow the sign wiss Knife Valley, the Schwyzerland region, is located on the border of Lake Lucerne A good reason for coming to this particular for Hirschen. ›››www.hirschen-schwyz.ch; next to the Swiss Alps. Here, Switzerland was actually founded on the 1st of August, part of Central Switzerland is to explore for accommodation in Brunnen ask at the S1291, through the so-called “Rütli”-meadow. And here, the original Swiss Army the beautiful Lake Lucerne and its fjiord- tourist office (there are budget priced rooms Knife comes from, hence the title “Swiss Knife Valley”. The area comprising Schwyz, like finger, the Lake Uri. A cruise in an in some hotels as well as some B&Bs). Brunnen, Seewen, Morschach, and much more offers you many highlights. And there are over 100-year-old and beautifully restored beautiful mountains and lakes in the area ready to be explored. Schwyz is the capital of steamboat is a must! In Brunnen there are entertainment, fun & parties the canton and has backpacker accommodation! also plenty of water sports on the lakes, including swimming, waterskiing, sailing, Schwyz highlights windsurfing and diving. • Hirschen Pub (same place as Hirschen Brunnen is also where Switzerland’s most Backpacker, Hinterdorfstr. 14), nice pub Schwyz is a small but characterful town Opposite the Mythencenter shop- famous hiking path the “Swiss Path” ends where tourists get in touch with locals. with plenty of history, and it’s the capi- ping complex at Schmiedgasse 57 is (read more about it on page 14). Here you’ll find lots of games, Internet- tal of its canton. And Schwyz is only 50 Victorinox, the manufacturer of the origi- access and an idyllic garden. train-minutes from Zurich and 40 minutes nal Swiss Army Knife. You can not visit Around Schwyz and Brunnen you’ll find • Tübli (Schützenstr. 15) is a cosy little bar, from Lucerne! The town is best known for the factory here, but in its on-site shop they dozens of amazing hiking opportunities. with over 100 foreign beers! Meet locals! being the repository of the ancient docu- sell the complete range of pocket multitools Or you can discover the region on wheels. • Mystery-Bar (Reichsstr. 8) is a sports-bar ments (dating from 1291) embodying the at discount prices (open Mon – Fri 7.30 am Whether you choose a demanding route and lounge. history of the Confederation, on display in – noon & 1.15 – 6 pm, Sat 8 am – 3 pm). with a racing bike, a challenging trail for a • Gleis 2 (Bahnhofstrasse 131, Seewen) the Bundesbriefarchiv at Bahnhofstrasse work-out with a mountain bike or a com- is a stylish music-bar with DJ-corner. 20 (closed on Monday). On a terrace above Brunnen village is dramatically located. fortable bike tour, the region has a route • Nelson Pub (Bahnhofstrasse 127, the central Hauptplatz square there is the Vistas from its jetty are stupendous – for every type of biker (rent your bike at Seewen) is a good place for playing table large parish church of St. Martin (with an directly across the cliffs of Seelisberg, with the railway station). At the tourist office soccer and darts. ornate interior). The Rathaus, sitting on the Uri-Rotstock and Titlis behind, the you’ll get good biking- or hiking-maps. the square itself, has a façade decorated length of the Urnersee in the south, and Central Switzerland is a highlight for para Brunnen with frescoes painted in 1891. A little the length of Lake Lucerne in the east. gliders, you may depart from almost all the • Mezcalito (Axenstrasse 9, next to the northwest lies the Ital-Reding Haus, an Brunnen basks at the head of a wind tun- famous peaks around the Lake of Lucerne. ake) is a nice bar; they serve wonderful early seventeenth-century manor house nel which draws the warm “Föhn” wind And you also have the opportunity to take mexican food. set in its own garden and with a magnifi- north from the Mediterranean, frequently off on a tandem paragliding flight, cour- • Schilf Restaurant and Bar (Gersauer- cent interior (closed on Monday). Across turning the Urnersee choppy and stormy. tesy of the local adventure operator “touch strasse 85) offers beautiful views of the the garden – and in the same complex – is The easiest excursion from Brunnen is and go”. They arrange tandem paraglid- lake. the ancient Haus Bethlehem, one of the old- to the Urniberg peak nearby, with stun- ing flights (no flying experience is neces- • Badhüsli (Axenstrasse, next to the lake) est wooden houses in the country (dating ning views both on the way up in the tiny sary) 041 820 54 31, ›››www.paragliding.ch is a nice wine pub. back to 1287)! cable-car and from the summit itself (with Or how about caving, bungy jumping, kay- • Quai 2 (Waldstätterquai 2) next to the At the “Schaukäserei Schwyzerland” (at a restaurant). By cable car or funicular aking, rafting, wreck diving or a guided lake, with a beautiful view. Milchstrasse 5, just a 2-minute walk from you can travel up to the car-free village mountain stream tour? All this and a lot • Brunner Hof-Bar (Gersaustrasse 3) is a Schwyz train station) you can produce of Stoos and even higher up to the sum- more is on offer as well in the region. Book place in typical Swiss decoration where your own Swiss cheese or just watch the mit of the Fronalpstock (view of 5 lakes!). at your hostel or visit the local tourist office. you can meet the locals. cheese production! (for details see page 50). ›››www.brunnentourismus.ch ‹‹‹ Victorinox is the world leader of pocket multitools and the largest employer in the Swiss Knife Valley. Who does not know these great pocket knives and multitools, this symbol for quality and multi-functionality? They are give aways of US presidents in the white house and successfully probed with expeditions from the north pole to Mount Everest. Victorinox accompanies people through life. And has for 125 years. Some say: “It’s a friend not just a knife”! Win a Victorinox multitool! (See competition on page 34)

Victorinox “Voyager Lite” The compact and elegant «Voyager Lite» with 23 functional and useful tools weights only 112 grams.

Victorinox “Flash” The fast memory stick “Flash” is not just storage but also a useful tool; robust and light. (USB Memory 2 GB – 64 GB)

Victorinox pocket knives and multitools are available in hardware stores, specialist shops, sport and outdoor-shops, department stores, souvenir shops, at hostels etc.

Victorinox, Schmiedgasse 57, CH – 6438 Ibach-Schwyz, Phone 0041 (0)41 81 81 211, Fax 0041 (0)41 81 81 511, www.victorinox.com, e-mail: [email protected] national events 17 Victorinox is the world leader of pocket multitools and the largest employer in the Swiss Knife Valley. Who does not know these great pocket knives and multitools, this symbol for quality and multi-functionality? They are give aways of US presidents in the white house and successfully probed with expeditions from the north pole to Mount Everest. Victorinox accompanies people through life. And has for 125 years. Some say: “It’s a friend not just a knife”! Win a Victorinox multitool! (See competition on page 34)

Victorinox “Voyager Lite” The compact and elegant «Voyager Lite» with 23 functional and useful tools weights only 112 grams. open-airs and festivals April 12th – 16th Zermatt unplugged, with Seal, Roger Hodgson (the voice of Supertramp), One Republic, David Gray and many more June 9th – 13th Afro-Pfingsten (Pentacost). African food, culture and music in Winterthur (20 min. by train from Zurich) June 9th – 11th Greenfield Festival Interlaken. International and Swiss bands present rock, punk, hip-hop and electronic sounds. The entrance ticket also entitles you to camp out at the festival site! June 24th – 26th Albani Party. Large street party in Winterthur (20 min. by train from Zurich) June 24th – 26th International Trucker & Country Festival Interlaken. Famous country stars & bands. Western village, big truck & motor-bike exhibition (at the Military Airfield) June 30th – July 3rd Open-Air St. Gallen. Biggest open-air in Switzerland, with famous international acts. Bring your own tent! Victorinox “Flash” July 1st – 3rd Caliente Zurich. Most important Latin music festival in Switzerland, indoor and The fast memory stick “Flash” outdoor is not just storage but also July 1st – 16th Montreux Jazz Festival. Jazz meets up with the blues, rock, reggae and soul. Tons a useful tool; robust and light. of free concerts on the lakeshore promenade, at Montreux Jazz Café and the Palace (USB Memory 2 GB – 64 GB) July 8th – 17th “Moon and Stars” summer festival Locarno (Piazza Grande) July 14th – 17th Gurten Festival Bern. On mount Gurten. Fantastic atmosphere, int. acts. Bring your sleeping bag and sleep outside or in the huge tent! concerts July 22nd – 30th Blue Balls Festival Luzern, blues sessions July 29th – 31st Interlatina. Interlaken will be struck with Latino fever (concerts, market April 4th Chris de Burgh, Hallenstadion, Zurich stands, dance shows and more at Stadthausplatz Interlaken-Unterseen) April 12th Angelo Branduardi, Kongresshaus, Zurich Aug 3rd – 13th International Film Festival Locarno. See the latest major productions on the May 9th & 10th Zucchero, Hallenstadion, Zurich largest screen in Europe (26m x 14m) at open-air shows in the southern setting May 16th Sade, Hallenstadion, Zurich of Piazza Grande May 16th Jovanotti, St. Jakobhalle, Basel Aug 4th – Aug 14th Geneva Festival. An immensely popular festival and a highlight of the summer May 28th Jannick Noah, Arena, Geneva season, with fun fair, entertainment, concerts and fireworks June 4th Status Quo at Aarberg Aug 11th – 13th Buskers Bern. Street musicians’ festival in the old town (15 train-minutes from Biel) Aug 13th Street parade and energy Zurich – world’s largest techno event with hundreds June 14th Zucchero, Arena, Geneva of thousands of participants! With the parade in the afternoon and party all June 14th Katie Melua, Hallenstadion, Zurich night long June 15th Katie Melua, Arena, Geneva Aug 17th – 28th Winterthur Musikfestwochen (music festival). A large variety of concerts from June 23rd Herbert Grönemeyer, Stade de Suisse, Bern rock to pop to jazz, mostly free, in the unique atmosphere of the old medieval town July 14th Bon Jovi, Stadion Letzigrund, Zurich Oct 21st – Nov 13th Avo Session Basel (some of the most famous artists from the genres of pop, soul, Sep 10th Status Quo, Hallenstadion, Zurich Victorinox pocket knives and multitools are available in rock, Latin, blues and R&B) hardware stores, specialist shops, sport and outdoor-shops, department stores, souvenir shops, at hostels etc.

Victorinox, Schmiedgasse 57, CH – 6438 Ibach-Schwyz, Phone 0041 (0)41 81 81 211, Fax 0041 (0)41 81 81 511, www.victorinox.com, e-mail: [email protected] All information is subject to change. For latest details, other happenings, line-up, reservation or prices, call Ticket Corner 0848 800 800 ›››www.ticketcorner.com, or Starticket 0900 325 325 ›››www.starticket.ch; there as well you have the possibility to order tickets (where needed). 18 lake geneva region – lausanne

practical information

How to get there: Lausanne has good connections to all major cities in Switzerland and almost hourly direct trains to France (Paris, 3h 50min.), Italy (Milan, 3h 50min.) and Germany (approx. 5 hours). 1 At the train station you’ll find the i tourist office (021 613 73 73); lockers, bicycle rental, currency exchange, rest rooms, fast food, small shops and a post office. Lausanne is beautiful but very hilly, so be prepared for some steep walks when dis- covering Lausanne on foot! The center is a few steps up from the main station at place St. François. 2 Ouchy, the port of Laus- View of the city of Lausanne anne, is a beautiful place. There is another i tourist office at Avenue de Rhodanie 2. @ Internet at Quanta virtual fun space, ausanne resides on the hillside between Lake Geneva below and the woods above, 8 Fondation de l’Hermitage at Route du pl. de la Gare 4; Fleur de Pains, Avenue surrounded by meadowland and vineyards, facing the Alps. Lausanne was officially Signal 2 is housed in a beautiful 19th- d’Ouchy 73. Wireless Internet access is Lnamed the Olympic Capital in June 1994, a unique and prestigious title awarded by century residence and is devoted to hold- available at Flon, Palud, Riponne, St-Fran- the International Olympic Committee, headquartered in Lausanne since 1915. Popular ing temporary exhibitions on the fine arts. çois, Montbenon, Navigation, Port. with students, Lausanne features numerous private schools and one of the country’s It’s surrounded by a magnificent park! largest university campuses, comprising the Federal Institute of Technology (EPFL) and Tue – Sun 10 am – 6 pm, Thu until 9 pm, www.lausanne-tourisme.ch the University of Lausanne. Lausanne has more to offer young people than most Swiss (Mon closed). Admission CHF 18.–, students www.lake-geneva-region.ch cities: nightlife, bars, bistros, discos… many museums and collections stage more than CHF 7.–. www.backpacker.ch 50 exhibitions a year, from dinosaurs to contemporary art. The one-time fishing village of Ouchy is now a prime territory for waterfront stroll- highlights ing and café-lounging. And all summer long the Ouchy waterfront hosts informal $ save money Via the 160 covered steps of the Escaliers Olympic movement up to today. This symbol music events (from techno to chamber du Marché (or by other routes) you reach of the union of sports and culture is a uni- music to African dance) just about every The Lausanne Transport Card gives you the old town. The peaceful, historic atmo- verse filled with history and emotion. Open weekend, and usually free of charge. free and unrestricted access to all public sphere of the old town is an invitation to daily 9 am – 6 pm. Admission CHF 15.–, stu- Lausanne boasts a great spectacle for transport services in the city (bus, train, linger. L’hôtel de ville and place du Palud dents CHF 10.–. ›››www.olympic.org skaters. Along the lake there are many metro). You’ll get this card at your hostel. It are nice places to take pictures of. 6 Collection de l’Art Brut at av. des Ber good places and streets for skaters; in paris valid for the duration of the reservation, And you should not miss seeing Lausanne’s gières 11, a special exhibition, which you ticular, check the Vidy area (a kilometer or including the arrival and departure days! magnificent cathedral 9 from the 12th shouldn’t miss. Open Tue – Sun 11 am – 6 pm so west of Ouchy). century, with its four towers and 105 (during July and August also open on Mon). Check out Lausanne’s Skatepark HS 36 2

N Free stained-glass windows. Inaugurated inA Admission CHF 10.–, students CHF 5.–. at av. de Sévelin 36. 1,700m of indoor

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A A T C H N C E some steep hills. D Powered by Rough Guides more about it on the following pages. lake geneva region – lausanne 19 events entertainment, fun & parties April 30th 20 kilometres of Lausanne. Open cross-country run in the city • MAD (Rue de Genève 23) is a huge disco. Various styles from rock to rave. May 5th – 8th Carnaval de Lausanne. Various events in the streets of the • Amnésia (E.-Jaques-Dalcroze 9 at Port de Vidy), big disco, various styles. city centre • Atelier Volant (Côtes de Montbenon 12), enjoy the Latino vibes there. May 13th – June 16th Luna Park (merry-go-round and much more) at Place Bellerive, • Movida (Place Chauderon 5), Latino style as well. Ouchy • Loft Club (place Bel Air 1), techno sound for young people. June 28th – July 3rd City festival with music, dance, theatre, jazz and more • D! Club (Place Central), for electronic music and jam sessions. June 30th Athletissima 2011. International athletics meeting at La Pontaise • Buzz (Rue Enning 1), all-style music, warm and electric atmosphere. Olympic Stadium • A La Bossette (place du Nord 4), nice, almost underground smoky café. mid-July – mid-Aug Open-air film screenings at Lausanne-Bellerive • Hôtel de Ville (place de la Palud 10), lovely, small bijou, organic food. Aug 1st Swiss National Day, with parties and fireworks everywhere • Château (place du Tunnel 1), homemade beer, late nights… Sep 24th Museum Night. Events and entertainment at various museums • Bleu Lézard (Rue Enning 10), different styles of music, open until late. Sunday brunch. and cultural institutions • Captain Cook (Rue Enning 2) is an English Pub. Sep 29th – Oct 12th Circus Knie at Place Bellerive in Ouchy • Le Bourg (Rue de Bourg 51), concerts, one-man-show, projections… Oct 19th – 23rd Underground film and music festival Lausanne This café-theatre invites you to come and have a drink and discover the evening’s Oct 30th Lausanne Marathon (42 km through the vineyards overlooking entertainment. Lake Geneva) • Les Brasseurs (rue Centrale 4), a beautiful micro-brewery in a décor of wood paneling and copper, dedicated to beer. Brewery specialities. Markets • Café Luna (Place de l’Europe 7), relax in its different atmosphere amid a setting Mon & Thu Food market at Boulevard de Grancy (until 1pm only) combining designer chic and cosy ambience. Wed & Sat Food market at Place de la Riponne (8 am – 2.30 pm) • Cult Club (Place Chauderon 18), R&B in a cool club. Thu Flea markets at Place Chauderon and at Place de la Riponne • Point Bar (Rue de Genève 10), aims to be Lausanne’s Little Barcelona…with house, Sun (April – Sep) Food market at Allée des Bacounis in Ouchy electro, funk and Latino music on weekends. 1st Fri monthly Craft market at Place de la Palud ‹‹‹

Montreux

Vevey

Lausanne 20 lake geneva region – vevey & montreux

practical information

How to get there. Vevey and Montreux both have a main train station: from/ to Lausanne (13 min.), from/to Geneva (1 h), from/to Interlaken (change in Zwei- simmen) with the famous mountain train “MOB Golden Pass” – free for Eurail/ Interrail-holders: a great journey which will take you across a beautiful landscape! You can easily move between Vevey and Montreux either by bus (15 min.) or by train (5 min.). Both train stations have lockers, rest rooms, bike rentals, a bank and small shops. The post offices are both near the train stations. i The tourist information offices have all the major information you’ll need: in Vevey, Grand- Place 29 (0848 86 84 84), and in Montreux, Place de l’Eurovision (0848 86 84 84). @ Internet café in Montreux Digital Planet at Avenue du Casino 49; in Vevey Internet station open to everybody at Riviera Lodge, Place du marché 5.

Montreux on the shores of Lake Geneva www.montreux-vevey.com www.lake-geneva-region.ch www.backpacker.ch evey and Montreux are the main resorts of the so-called Swiss Riviera. The name at the Manoir de Ban above Vevey. Chaplin, describes the stretch of Lake Geneva roughly between Lausanne and Villeneuve his wife and children, moved to Vevey in Vand is one of the sunniest places in the country! Many writers, musicians and 1953. The whole family quickly settled in budget accommodation artists such as Charles Chaplin, Freddy Mercury (their statues are located on the lake to their adopted town and became part shore), Igor Stravinsky, Ernest Hemingway, Lord Byron and many others chose this place of the local life. Sir Charles and his wife Vevey: Riviera Lodge, Place du Marché 5, for the beauty of the landscape. The two charming resorts of Vevey and Montreux work Lady Oona are buried in the Corsier s/Vevey (021 923 80 40) (300 m from the train sta- closely together. Vevey has a cosy historical downtown, esplanades, a shopping mall and cemetery. His memorial statue can be seen tion on the lake side in a charming reno- many nice cafés, which offer the traveller a warm feeling. Montreux, 5 km from Vevey, is on the Vevey lakeshore. vated 19th century town house) ›››www. more touristically oriented, but the promenade on the lakeside, with the nearby Castle Montreux-Vevey has always been a favorite rivieralodge.ch of Chillon, is a must! place for artists – not only Charlie Chap- Montreux: Montreux Youth Hostel, Pas- lin, but also Freddie Mercury, David Bowie, sage de l’Auberge 8, (021 963 49 34) (30 min- highlights Le Corbusier, Jean-Jacques Rousseau, Henri utes on foot along the lake shore, or take Nestlé, Barbara Hendricks, Victor Hugo, Dos- train no S1 from the railway station to Vevey toïevski etc… Follow their trail through Montreux-Territet (takes only 2 min.), from The old streets east of Grand Place and the except Monday 11 am – 5.30 pm. Admission the vineyards or along the lakeside and there it’s 2 min. walking distance ›››www. lakeside promenade are worth exploring. CHF 8.–, students CHF 6.–. discover a part of their lives (at Riviera youthhostel.ch/montreux Vevey also has a 15th century church The Swiss Museum of Games (Musée Lodge you get free flyers with maps and (St. Martin’s, up the hill behind the station) Suisse du Jeu), Rue du Château 11, La Tour- stories about these artists!). and several museums: de Peilz. The colourful port village of La Vevey Historical Museum, Rue du Châ- Tour-de Peilz is situated between the lake Montreux teau 2. This museum (founded in 1897) is and the old town, just about 1 km east of Chillon Castle at Montreux – one of Swit- housed in a beautiful 16th century build- Vevey and dominated by its white châ- zerland’s most beautiful sites! This extra TIP! ing dating from the Bernese occupation. Its teau. In this romantic setting, the Swiss ordinary fort was built on a rock set in a Taste a unique chocolate fondue collections of objects, paintings and docu- Museum of Games invites you to actively lovely scenic location on the shore of the at the Riviera Lodge, Vevey. An ments bring the region’s past back to life. discover games from around the world lake. Chillon is an exceptional combination original recipe with melted chocolate Open Tue – Sat 11 am – 5 pm. Admission is and throughout the ages. Have fun! Open of castle and fortress. There are magnificent and fresh fruit to dip in. (fondue with free of charge. daily except Monday, from 11 am – 5.30 pm. collections of antique furniture, pewter and fresh fruits CHF 13.– per person, mini- Swiss Camera Museum, Ruelle des An- Admission CHF 9.–, students CHF 6.–. weapons. The towers and ramparts offer mum 2 people). “I can resist everything ciens-Fossés 6. This museum shows you The Alimentarium at Quai Perdonnet is a a wonderful view of the lake and moun- except temptation”, Oscar Wilde said the history of photography, from the museum of food. Internationally renowned, tains. Cruise on Lake Geneva on a steam- once… camera obscura to numerical images. The it takes a scientific and ethnological look at boat and discover the Chillon Castle you’ve history of photography, its inventors and the food of the past and the present. Open perhaps seen on pictures many times but its techniques, is recounted by an amaz- Tue – Fri 10 am – 5 pm, Sat & Sun until 6 pm never in reality. The castle, called “Château ing collection of cameras, dating from the (closed on Monday). Admission CHF 12.–, de Chillon”, was made legendary by the very invention of photography to the pres- students CHF 8.–. poem “The Prisoner of Chillon”, written by ent day, and enhanced with audio-visual Sir Charles Chaplin, The immortal screen Lord Byron in 1816. Open daily April – Sep and interactive presentations. Open daily comedian, spent the last 25 years of his life 9 am – 7 pm, in Oct 9.30 am – 6 pm (latest lake geneva region – vevey & montreux 21 entrance is one hour before closing time). The hilly surroundings of the Vevey Mon events Admission CHF 12.–, students 10.–. treux area offer a good range of easy hikes. Visinand House, situated in the old town There is a huge choice for everyone’s taste June 9th – 12th Montreux Sundance Festival Montreux. Electro sound at Mon- of Montreux (Rue du Pont 32), is the oldest and ability, from footpaths through the treux Music & Convention Centre building of the area! It is the home of the mountains, vineyards, fields and forests, July 1st – 16th Montreux Jazz Festival. Details and tickets call (0848 86 84 84) or cultural centre, which includes three ex- to the many flowered walks along the check out ›››www.montreuxjazz.com hibition rooms, as well as an attic where shores of Lake Geneva. Ask at the tourist July & Aug Every Saturday morning Vevey’s Market Square turns into a classes, conferences, shows and activities office for the “Hiking Map”. magical summer market are held. The fine arts, photography and A very good reason for coming to Vevey or mid-July – mid-Aug Open-air cinema at Place Scanavin Vevey applied arts provide some themes for the Montreux is to explore the beautiful Lake July 30th – Aug 1st Oldtimer Ships Regatta (just in front of Vevey and Montreux) numerous temporary exhibitions. Open Geneva. Would you like to board a ship to Aug 1st Swiss National Day – party and fireworks everywhere! Wed – Sun 3 – 6 pm, free entrance. go shopping in Evian (France)? Do you Aug 19th – 21st Street artists festival Vevey. This popular annual lakeside festival Freddie Mercury and the group Queen feel like celebrating the first of August off attracts talented performers from Switzerland and abroad loved their frequent stays in the peace and Pully? Or are you interested in visiting the Sep 2nd – 4th Freddy Mercury Memorial Days scenic splendour of the Vaud Riviera, where Olympic Museum in Lausanne? Do you For more events ask at the tourist office! they composed, produced and recorded want to admire the “jet d’eau” in Geneva’s some of the biggest hits in their repertoire. harbour? These are only a few proposals. entertainment, fun & parties A stroll along the shores of Lake Geneva It is up to you to make the most of them! will bring you to Freddie Mercury’s statue. For swimming and sunbathing in an idyllic Vevey setting, you’ll find quiet pebble beaches • For a Latino & salsa night, go to the cocktail bar called Indigo (rue de la Madeleine 29). activities and green parkland all along the Riviera. • Rocking Chair (Av. de gilamont 60) has concerts and a dance floor. Enjoy a relaxing afternoon while splashing • Le Bout du Monde (Rue D’Italie 24) is where the locals meet. Live music. Vevey and Montreux are the capitals of the in the invigorating waters of Lake Geneva. Lavaux winegrowing region, a UNESCO There are about 20 natural beaches and Montreux World Heritage Site. The Lavaux vineyard access to them is free. Some suggestions: • Live music and DJs at NED (rue du Marché 19). terraces stretch for about 30 km along Jardin Doret – Vevey, Bains des Hommes – • Paradise Pub (at Grand Rue 58) has billiards, games and more. the south-facing northern shores of Lake la Tour de Peilz, Bain des Dames – la Tour • Mayfair House is a music and lounge bar (Grand Rue 52). Geneva from the Chillon castle to the east- de Peilz, La Becque – la Tour de Peilz, La • White Horse is a nice pub (Grand Rue 28). ern outskirts of Lausanne. The steep, nar- Grotte – Corseaux (they are all near Vevey); • Opus café (rue du Marché 23), a cafe and restaurant. row stone walled terraces cover the lower and Plage de Chillon – Veytaux, Port du • Le Casino Barrière of Montreux (rue du Théâtre 9) rolls out the red carpet to welcome slopes of the mountain-side between the vil- Basset – Clarens, La Maladaire (near Mon you (free introduction to games, live music every Fri & Sat). lages and the lake’s edge; above are forests treux). and pasture and across the lake, the high Rochers-de-Naye, with its floral alpine gar- peaks of the Alps. Discover the unique re- den, is a great one-day tour. You may walk gion and its typical villages. Easy to reach up to the top (2,042 m / 6,700 ft., approx. vevey riviera lodge with the wine train or funicular. Wine tast- 31/2 hrs for good hikers), or take the scenic place du marché 5 montreux-riviera ing in the “caveau” (wine cellar) of Riviera MOB railway, or the cogwheel train to “les ch-1800 vevey +41 21 923 80 40 Lodge has begun to spread its reputation. Pléiades”, 1,300 m of breathtaking views of home of Or visit one of the many wine cellars and the lake. Charlie Chaplin rooms with taste one or two of their specialties. ‹‹‹ and the world’s 2, 4, 6 or 8 beds first milk CHF 27.– to 48.– chocolate (€ 19.– to 32.–)

your base camp on the water front to discover lake geneva & matterhorn region :

taste the best chocolate fondue

at riviera lodge ! online booking www.rivieralodge.ch

Chillon Castle 22 lake geneva region – some highlights

day region is popular with a charming mix How to get there: By rail from Lausanne to of visitors. While the car-free chalet village Villars-Gryon (via Aigle or via Bex, takes of Gstaad attracts countless stars and star- approx. 1 h 15); to Les Diablerets via Aigle lets, the smaller neighbouring village Saa- (1 h 20). nen offers attractive options a little further i Tourist office: at Rue Centrale, Villars away from the hustle, but still close to the (024 495 32 32); at Place de la Barboleuse 11, action. There are hiking possibilities, from Gryon (024 498 00 00), at Rue de la Gare, Les short walks to high alpine tours. Or how Diablerets (024 492 00 10). www.villars.ch; about river-rafting on the Saane river ›››www.diablerets.ch; ›››www.lake-geneva- (from Saanen to Château-d’Oex), kayaking, region.ch canyoning, hydrospeed, etc. The possibili- For accommodation Chalet Martin, Rue ties are countless. du Villars (079 724 63 74) ›››www.gryon.com How to get to Saanen: Hourly trains from Montreux (takes 1 hour 15 minutes). Trains Yverdon-les-Bains between Château-d’Oex and Saanen take Just 20 train-minutes from Lausanne on only 16 minutes. the southern tip of Lake Neuchâtel lies the i Tourist offices: Promenade 41 in Gstaad attractive thermal capital of the French- (033 748 81 81) ›››www.gstaad.ch speaking part of Switzerland, Yverdon-les- Budget accommodation: Saanen-Gstaad Bains. This beautiful spa town can look Youth Hostel in Saanen, Chalet Rüblihorn, back on 15 centuries of health-giving hos- Spitzhornweg 25 (033 744 13 43, closed pitality. The spa thermal center at Avenue April 1st – 20th, April 26th – June 1st and des Bains 22 (with thermal pools, jacuzzis after Oct 23rd) ›››www.youthhostel.ch/ and bubble and massage jets) is open daily saanen 8 am – 10 pm (Sun until 8 pm), admission Yverdon-les-Bains, the castle dating back from the 13th century costs CHF 19.–. Or you may prefer to visit Villars-Gryon and Les Diablerets the dreamy world of the “House of Else- he Lake Geneva Region is often called “a cocktail of Switzerland” and whatever Situated on a natural sun terrace at 1,300 where” (La Maison d’Ailleurs), museum of your interests, it offers a remarkable range of leisure and pleasure activities for both metres, Villars-Gryon commands a fine science fiction (the only one of its kind in T body and soul. Here you'll find peaceful lakes bordered by palm trees, the rolling view of Mont-Blanc and the Alps. More Europe) at Place Pestalozzi 14, open Wed – wooded hills of the Jura, the delightful green landscapes of the northern part and the snowy than 300 km of marked hiking trails Fri 2 – 6 pm, Sat & Sun 11 am – 6 pm, summits of the Alps with the majestic glacier of Les Diablerets. Some enthusiasts even and 150 km of all-terrain bicycle trails admission costs CHF 9.–, students 7.–. For manage to ski on both snow and water on the same day! The Lake Geneva Region offers allow you to discover the beauty of the culture and history explore the 13th cen- you a vast choice of sporting, cultural and leisure activities. For hikers and bikers, scenic area. Three high-altitude lakes and nu- tury castle and its museum. routes and trails extend across the entire region. The range of holiday activities is wide. merous alpine farms (serving breakfast How to get there: Yverdon-les-Bains is ›››www.lake-geneva-region.ch cooked on wood fires and demonstrating easily accessible by rail (approx. 20 minutes cheese making) offer a unique experience. from Lausanne or 36 minutes from Biel). At Chalet Martin in Gryon you can also i Tourist office: at Av. de la Gare 2 (024 423 book rock climbing and even paragliding 61 01), ›››www.yverdonlesbainsregion.ch some highlights (tandem flights), just ask at the reception. Budget accommodation: Gîte du Passant, Les Diablerets is located at the foot of an Parc 14 (024 425 12 33) ›››www.gite-du- From Montreux the famous mountain Piccard and the Briton Brian Jones made Alpine massif capped by one of the most passant.ch train “MOB Golden Pass” (free of charge their record-breaking 45,000 km round-the- beautiful glaciers in Switzerland. Cross- for Eurail, InterRail, or Swiss-Pass holders!), world balloon flight in 1999, the takeoff country-skiing on a glacier at 3,000 metres one of the showcase journeys of Swiss rail- point and centre of the whole operation is possible in summer! And do not miss All about the cities of Lausanne, Vevey ways, which climbs northwest through was here. Every January the town hosts visiting the summit restaurant, designed and Montreux, see pages 18–21; All about the hills into Canton Bern. On this spec- this arguably most beautiful sports event by celebrated Swiss architect Mario Botta. Biel see next page. tacular route between Montreux and Zwei- in the Swiss calendar, the annual Hot-Air It has a fantastic terrace! ‹‹‹ simmern (in the Bernese Oberland) you can Ballooning Week, when nearly 100 colourful stop, for example, in Château-d’Oex and giants catch the thermals to float peace- Saanen-Gstaad. ably over the hills and valleys round about. How to get to Château-d’Oex: Hourly train Château-d’Oex from Montreux (takes 1 hour). Château-d-Oex offers everything the heart i Tourist offices: La Place 6 (026 924 25 25) of a sportsman could desire. A variety of ›››www.chateau-doex.ch mountain tours, river-rafting on the Saane Budget accommodation: Château-d’Oex river (from Saanen to Château-d’Oex), kay- Youth Hostel, Route des Monnaires 67, aking, canyoning, hydrospeed, paraglid- (026 924 64 04, closed April 1st – 20th, April ing (landing area right next to the Youth 26th – June 1st, and after Ocober 23rd). Hostel), mountain bike course with per- ›››www.youthhostel.ch/chateau.d.oex manent time-recording and a number of other MTB routes. Saanen-Gstaad Also worth a visit is “Le Grand Chalet” in The Gstaad-Saanenland holiday region Rossinière, a chalet dating from 1754, with actually belongs to the the Bernese Ober- 113 windows (trains to Rossinière take 6 land, but is closely linked with Château- minutes). d’Oex and as well within easy reach of But actually Château-d’Oex is best known Montreux (see mountain train “MOB Golden Pure relaxation at the end of a long day hiking for all its hot air. When the Swiss Bertrand Pass” above). The Gstaad-Saanenland holi- biel 23 practical information events

May 27th & 28th Stedtlifescht (summer festival) in Nidau How to get to Biel: June 3rd – 4th Stars of Sounds Festival ½ hourly trains from at the town square in Aarberg (15 train Zurich (1 hour 10 min.), Bern (26 min.), from minutes from Biel) with stars like Status Basel (1 hour 7 min.); hourly connections Quo and others from Lausanne (58 minutes) and Geneva June 16th – 18th Running Days Biel. (1 hour 27 min.). The train station hosts: European-cup of super-marathon, night- the tourist office (at Bahnhofplatz 12; 032 marathon and much more 329 84 84), lockers, bicycle rental, currency July 1st – 3rd Bieler Braderie – big summer Biel. In the old town exchange, fast food, small shops, post festival office (at Bahnhofplatz), Migros supermar- July 12th – 16th Pod’Ring – local rock ket (near train station, Bahnhofstr. 15), iel – or Bienne, in French – located between Bern in the south and Basel in the festival in the old town @ Internet at Lago Lodge. Another tourist north, offers great experiences in a small region. The city of Biel borders Lake Biel July 16th – 29th International Chess office is at Zentralstrasse 60 (032 329 84 86). Band is the only city in Switzerland where there are two official languages: German Festival at Kongresshaus and French. Even the streets are marked in both languages in this charming city. In Biel July 27th – Aug 14th Open-air cinema at www.biel-seeland.ch lies the cradle of the Swiss watchmaking industry. Trademarks such as Swatch, Omega, castle Nidau www.watchvally.ch Rolex, Tissot and many others, are closely associated with this city. It has a small but July 31st Lake Biel summer-feast. Party www.backpacker.ch beautiful historic centre, with a Gothic church (15th century) and its many fountains and big fireworks decorated with flowers. The Port of Biel is the starting point for scenic river and lake August 1st Swiss National Day – party cruises, which can take you to St.Peter’s Island and the Neuchâtel and Murten Lakes (the everywhere! budget accommodation three lakes are linked by two canals and there are countless ways of criss-crossing them). August 19th & 20th Royal Arena Festival The region is a paradise of possibilities as far as the eye can see and offers lots of outdoor (hip-hop festival) in Orpund (10 minutes Lago Lodge, Uferweg 5 in Nidau (032 activities. With a wide selection of routes to choose from, Biel also makes the ideal start- by bus from Biel) 331 37 32), the only Swiss hostel with a ing point for beautiful cycling tours. August 26th – 28th “Altstadtchilbi”, large micro beer brewery. A 7-min. walk from fair in the old town of Biel the main station, the lodge is located be- highlights September 23rd – 28th Circus “Knie” at hind “Strandboden” – a public beach just Gurzelen Parking a few hundred meters from the main sta- The main attractions are strolling in the ning through the dark and craggy defile tion (direction lake) ›››www.lagolodge.ch old town, dropping in on a couple of small for about 2.5 km, and entry is free (there’s entertainment, fun & parties (For more accommodations/campsites ask museums and taking a boat ride on the a donation box near the entrance). at the tourist office). lake or the river. One of the best boat trips For adventure operators running canyon- • The Lago Lodge is not only a backpacker in the region is the river trip up the Aare ing trips in the gorge and for other latest but also has a nice restaurant – taste from Biel to Solothurn, which takes about adventure opportunities, ask at Lago their beer! They have their own micro two and a half hours and passes a stork Lodge! brewery and bistro. colony at Altreu on the way. Just 28 train minutes from Biel, you can • St. Gervais (Untergasse 11) is where the Biel is a small city that’s easy to get around visit the Papiliorama. In this garden alternative people meet. in. Cycling is a good means to explore some (housed in an amphitheater which mea- • Enjoy your beer at Pooc (about 80 of the very beautiful places around the city. sures 40 metres in diameter and 14 metres different beers) or at Baramundo (both There are lots of cycling tours; a nice one is at its maximum height) at all times around are near Guisan-Platz). from Biel to Murten (distance 36 km, travel a thousand butterflies flutter about in • Restaurant du Commerce (Untergasse 25) time 3 to 4 hours). Bicycle rentals at the an enchanting and colourful ballet. Open is a small bar in the old town (no meals). train station or directly at Lago Lodge. Ask daily 9 am – 6 pm; admission CHF 17.–, • Coupole Biel (Silbergasse, opposite the at the hostel or the tourist office for a good students 14.–; there are hourly trains from congress center) is an alternative place. cycling map. Biel to the train stop Kerzers Papiliorama • Bien Bar (Dufourplatz / Bahnhofstrasse), Or do you like inline skating? This is as (you need to change the train in Lyss). lovely people, famous for good local well a good means to explore the city and St.Peter’s Island is a nature reserve well- products. its surroundings. There’s also a skatepark loved and much visited. The political • DUO (Kontrollstrasse 26), Fri hip-hop (at Aarbergstr. 72, just two minutes from theorist Jean-Jacques Rousseau chose this and Sat house music. the Biel train station). But you need to bring island as his refuge in 1765, later calling • Bar Hasard (Bahnhofstrasse 4), small your own skates. it the happiest time of his life. The best bar with good beer. Northeast of Biel is the beautiful “Tauben- way to get to the island is by boat from • Pizzeria Seeland (Bahnhofplatz 7), good loch Gorge” (dove’s gorge)! Take bus no. 1 or Biel (approx. 50 minutes), which calls at pizzas, fair prices. 2 (direction Eisbahn) until station Tauben several lakeside villages en route. • El Dorado (Mattenstrasse 30), alternative On the route along the Aare River loch. There’s a well-engineered path run- bar, live concerts. ‹‹‹

backpacker, bistro and brewery at lake biel uferweg 5 • 2560 nidau / biel-bienne • swit zerland • [email protected] • www.lagolodge.ch • tel +41(0)32 331 37 32 24 geneva

practical information sion owned by the philosopher from 1755 – 1765. Free entrance, open Mon – Sat 2 – 5 pm, Sun closed. 9 Russian Church. A jewel of Byzantine How to get there: art, with an interior richly decorated with From the international icons. Rue Rodolphe-Toepffer 3. Open for airport Geneva “Cointrin”, the city is reached visitors only sporadically, but it’s even within 6 minutes. There is direct-train ser- worth seeing from outside. vice every 10 – 15 min. from the early morn- 0 Espace Jean-Jacques Rousseau, with ing until late night. Geneva has good con- Public and University Library at Grand- nections to all major cities in Switzerland Rue 40. One part of this museum recalls the (33 min. to Lausanne; 1 h 41 min. to Bern; Reformation Movement and its leaders in 2 h 40 min. to Zurich and Basel). Geneva. The second part is dedicated to 1 At the railway station (Cornavin) you’ll the city’s most famous son, Jean-Jacques View from the cathedral onto the town and the lake basin with the famous water jet find public phones, Internet, shopping, Rousseau. Open daily (except Mon) 11 am – fast food, travel agency, pharmacy, bike 5.30 pm. Entrance CHF 5.– / students CHF 3.–. rental, rest rooms/showers; Migros super- eneva is truly an international city that belongs not so much to Switzerland as - Museum of Art & History. Rue Charles- market just opposite the main station. to the whole world! Dozens of international organisations are based here, two of Galland 2. This is one of the most important 2 Post office at rue de Mont-Blanc 18. Gwhich are the United Nations’ European headquarters and the International Com- museums. The collection comprises paint- i Tourist office at rue de Mont-Blanc 18 mittee of the Red Cross. It’s a progressive crossroads of people and civilizations, enjoying ings, sculptures, weapons, room interiors (022 909 70 70), currency exchange at Rue a privileged situation in the heart of Europe. No wonder, then, that this central position and archeology. Open Tue – Sun (closed on Mont Blanc 21. Along place Mont Blanc has made Geneva a cosmopolitan city where organisations, firms, businesses and banks Monday) 10 am – 6 pm. Entrance free (pay- you’ll find many souvenir shops and fast- from all over the world rub shoulders. Geneva stretches along both banks of Lake Geneva ing entrance for temporary exhibitions: food restaurants. @ Internet at Open Vidéo, in a magnificent harbor. And it is also a city of parks and promenades, offering a bit of CHF 5.–, free admission to permanent col- Route de Meyrin 8, Charly’s Multimedia rural rescue in the otherwise urban environment. lections and temporary exhibitions every Check Point, rue de Fribourg 7 and at hostels first Sunday of the month). (guests only). Bus terminal at Place Dorcière. highlights = Water Fountain (Jet d’eau). The famous Geneva fountain is known around the world www.geneva-tourism.ch $ r Genev’roule is a bike-rental or- is one of Europe’s largest subterranean ar- as a symbol of Geneva (Quai Gustav-Ador). www.ville-ge.ch ganisation, from which you can rent cheological sites. Open Mon – Sat 9.30 am – The fountain shoots 500 liters (132 gallons) www.backpacker.ch bicycles all year long and borrow for free 6.30 pm, Sun noon – 6.30 pm (June – Sep- of water per second, as high as 450 feet in in summer (from May to end of October). tember); Mon – Sat 10 am – 5.30 pm, Sun the air. A good place from which to take It’s free for a period of up to 4 hours, from noon – 5.30 pm (Oct – May). Entrance to the a picture of Geneva (the fountain is not $ save money the 5th hour on, the bikes cost CHF 2.– an towers CHF 4.–. activated in case of strong winds). hour. The stations at Place de Montbrillant An underground passageway connects the q International Red Cross and Red Cres- All visitors staying at a hotel/hostel/camp- 17 (just behind the train station) and Ruelle cathedral to its archaeological site and to cent Museum Geneva. Geneva is the birth- ground in Geneva can benefit from the des Templiers 4 are open daily from 8 am – the International Museum of the Refor- place of the International Red Cross and Geneva Transport Card, with no additional 9 pm. The stations at Place du Rhône (next mation (at Rue du Cloître 4). Located in a Red Crescent Movement. Close to the Inter- cost (enables you the use of the entire pub- to the river), Bains des Pâquis (lake shore) beautiful 18th century historic building, national Red Cross Committee (ICRC), on lic transportation network without restric- and at Plaine de Plainpalais (near the the Maison Mallet, this museum retraces 17 Avenue de la Paix, there is a very im- tion, with validity for the entire duration skatepark) are open daily 9 am – 7 pm. De- the history of the Reformation Movement pressive museum. Its collection entreats its of your stay including the departure day)! posit required: CHF 20.– plus you must initiated by John Calvin. The museum is visitors to weigh their own contribution show your passport or ID card. open Tue – Sun 10 am – 5 pm, entry costs to mankind’s efforts to relieve suffering; 7 Saint Peter’s Cathedral. The central CHF 10.– (students 7.–); combined ticket to keep alive the flame of hope and take to

point of Geneva’s old town. One-hundred- (cathedral with towers, archeological site heart the maxim: “Each of us is responsible

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Open daily (except Tuesday) 10 am – 5 pm, Grenadiers. This extraordinary museum you speak Italian, Spanish, Russian, Chi- your own captain. At Quai Gustave-Ador admission CHF 10.–, students 5.–. Note: was built in an old factory. Opened in 1994, nese, Japanese, Korean, or Arabic you can electric boats and pedal boats can be rented. the museum is closing on June 30th 2011 it is a prestigious museum which exposes hire a discman, which costs CHF 10.– plus for transformation work (reopening not on its surface of 4,000 m2 a vast collection a deposit of CHF 50.–, to be refunded when Rhône River Cruise. The Rhône may not before summer 2013). ›››www.micr.org of European and American art covering returning the player. Both the audio guide be the Amazon but once past its junction How to get there: From Cornavin railway the last four decades. 1000 works of art MP3 style and discman are available at with the Arve River, a lush and seemingly station take bus no. 8, F, Z or V and get off are owned by the museum, 300 are perma- the tourist office on Mon 10 am – 6 pm; untouched landscape unfolds. If you are in when you see the Red Cross flag (opposite nently on display. In addition, three times a Tue – Sun 9 am – 6 pm. Geneva between April and October, note the the visitors’ entrance of the United Nations year temporary exhibitions are organised. point of departure: Pont de l’Ile, quai des building). Open Tue – Fri from noon to 6 pm (every Discover Geneva on foot or by boat. Moulins. There, a Geneva “Mouette” will w The United Nations Geneva. The United first Wed of the month till 9 pm), Sat & Sun Geneva has many wonderful parks and take you on a picturesque cruise of two Nations Office Geneva (UNOG) is the larg- 11 am – 6 pm, closed on Monday. Admis- gardens that invite you to spend a nice day and a half hours to the Verbois dam and est and most active center for conference sion CHF 8.–, students 6.–. Free admission strolling through peaceful nature. There back. Keep your camera and binoculars diplomacy in the world and the site of many every first Sunday of the month! ›››www. are approx. 75,000 trees and 40,000 rose within easy reach for the sights are really historic negotiations. It is also the second mamco.ch. bushes, which make Geneva Switzerland’s worth it! Not only are the landscapes stun- largest United Nations office after the New How to get there: Buses no 1, 4, 44 stop at rose capital. The Botanical Garden, a large ning, the high cliffs which give way to vast York headquarters. The UN office in Geneva école de Médecine, trams 12 and 16 stop wooded area with comfortable footpath, stretches of fields when approaching the is based at the Palais des Nations, which at Rond-Point de Plainpalais, or tram 13 is a haven of peace near the right bank of dam offering fine views of the Alps and the was built in 1936 as the headquarters for stops at Cirque. the lake, with gorgeous seasonal flower Jura mountains, but an incredible variety the League of Nations. The United Nations arrangements. It contains several tropical of fauna can be observed during the entire offer tours on which you can familiarise Excursion by mini-train électro-solaire. greenhouses, one of which is in the shape cruise. Costs CHF 25.–, duration 2 h 45. yourself with the only truly universal or- The unique mini-train functions with solar of a dome, a park with deer, flamingoes, ganisation ever formed. One-hour guided energy and starts daily from 10.15 am aviaries and ponds; close to the UN-build- Mont Salève. The Salève (which peaks at tours trace the history of the United every 45 minutes to sunset at Jardin ing. Bus no. 4, 44 or 18. Parc de la Bâtie. 1,380 meters), located in nearby France, Nations, covering current activities and Anglais (English Garden), a quiet ride along With the Park de la Bâtie as a starting point, offers a unique view. It’s a kingdom for future projects. Daily tours from April – Oc- the quays and parks (duration 30 minutes); you can hike along the beautiful Rhône lovers of nature and a favorite venue tober 10 am – noon and 2 – 4 pm; July and it’s possible to stop and visit the parks and Valley – a wildlife preservation area. Bus for climbers, mountain bikers, paraglid- August 10 am – 5 pm. Admission CHF 10.– / the rose garden and then to continue with 4 to Bel-Air and then walk along the river ers and delta wingers. Bear in mind that students CHF 8.–. the following train. Costs CHF 8.–. Rhône (west). Salève is across the French border, so if you How to get there: Buses 5, 11, 14 to Place don’t have a visa (either to get into France des Nations; or V, Z to Ariana; or 8, 18, F to Self-guided walking tour. The tourist office Geneva’s boat companies do a wide range or to get back to Switzerland), you should Appia. (It is not possible to enter the United (at Rue du Mont-Blanc 18) proposes you to of cruises, i.e. cruises for one hour, for one give it a miss! Bus no 8 brings you to Vey- Nations building by the main entrance in stroll through 2,000 years of Geneva’s his- day, or evening and lunch cruises; the choice rier, from where it’s a short walk to the place des Nations. The visitors’ entrance is tory independently and at your own pace. is yours. Board one of its sixteen ships (8 Salève cable-car. There’s a panoramic res- at Pregny Gate 14, av. de la Paix, opposite The tour includes 25 points of interest and paddle wheelers including 5 steamers and taurant on top. You can do the trip to the the Red Cross headquarters). lasts approximately two and a half hours. 8 propeller vessels) and discover countless summit and back in a couple of easy hours. e Museum of Modern and Contempo- You may buy the audio guide MP3 style, beautiful sights in a congenial atmosphere. rary Art, MAMCO (Musée d’Art Moderne et which costs CHF 15.– and is available in The different cruises start from Quai du For information about the beautiful Lake Contemporain, MAMCO), 10 rue des Vieux English, French and German language. If Mont-Blanc and/or Jardin Anglais. Or be Geneva Region see pages 18 – 22.

Etap Hotel - SPECIAL STAY IN HEART OF OLD TOWN OF GENEVA ? Sleep well at the best Price

friendly, cozy, international BE SMART. STAY SMART. Etap Hotel Petit-Lancy Single, double and dormitory rooms for women only. Comfortable rooms with shower/WC, TV dormitory for men, families or groups Double and bunk bed for up to 3 persons Single CHF 48.00, 1 bed in double CHF 36.00 ”All you can eat” breakfast for CHF 11.- p.p. Etap Hotel Petit-Lancy 1 bed in dormitory CHF 31.00 Reception open 24/7 Tax CHF 1.50, but free Geneva Transportation card 2 locations in Geneva, close to the airport and

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w w w. c i t y h o s t e l . c h . . . y o u r h o s t e l i n G e n e v a City Hostel Geneva · 2 rue Ferrier · CH-1202 Genève · tel. +41 (0)22 901 15 00 · [email protected] 26 geneva events entertainment, fun & parties

May 14th & 15th Geneva Marathon (under the patronage of the United Nations) For listings of cinemas / theaters / concerts, get a free copy of “Geneva by night” May 21st Fête de l’Espoir (Hope Festival). Free-of-charge festival where all and / or “Geneva at hand”. artists perform on a voluntary basis (at Stade du Bout-du-Monde) In Geneva almost every corner has its café. Place du Bourgh-de-Four (in the old town), June 14th Zucchero, Arena, Geneva for instance, is lined with busy terrace cafés offering coffees, aperitif and snacks to June 17th – 19th “Bol d’Or” – Europe’s biggest lake sailing race fuel hours of reading and people-watching. July & Aug Open-air cinema by the lakeside • Quartier des Pâquis (between the main station and the lake) is, for many, “the” place July 11th Lake Parade. The not-to-be-missed rendez-vous for enthusiasts for a good night out: restaurants/pubs/bars and a lot of fun. of techno and house music • Bains des Pâquis, about 5 minutes from the fountain. A good place to listen to live Aug 1st Swiss National Day. Speeches, paper lantern parade, patriotic music, to stroll through food stalls, or for a dip in the lake. show, bonfire and fireworks • Mr. Pickwick (at rue de Lausanne 80) is, of course, a real English pub. Cheers…! Aug 4th – 14th Geneva Festival. The immensely popular festival takes place • Mulligans Irish Pub (at rue de Grenus 14) is a place to enjoy a Guinness in Irish around the lake but also within different districts in Geneva. ambience. It is the highlight of the summer season, with fun fair, • Les Brasseurs, at Place de Cornavin 20 (just across the train station), offers a cosy and entertainment, concerts and fireworks ›››www.fetesdegeneve.ch friendly atmosphere, home-made beers and culinary specialities. Aug 25th – Sep 15th Circus “Knie” at Plaine de Plainpalais • Palais Mascotte (Rue de Berne 43) has a restaurant, a bar and a disco (all in the same building). Markets • L’Usine, at place des Volontaires 4, is an alternative multicultural center that offers Tue / Fri / Sun Fruit, vegetable and craftsmen’s market at Plainpalais a rich programme of concerts, theatre, dance, film projects, as well as several bars Wed / Sat Flea market at Plainpalais and more. Wed / Sat Fruit/vegetable market at place de la Fusterie • Post Café, at rue de Berne 7, is a friendly and congenial place. Thursday Handicraft market at place de la Fusterie • Auberge de Savièse (rue des Pâquis 20), Edelweiss (Place de la Navigation 2) and Friday Book market at palace de la Fusterie Hôtel de Ville (Grand Rue 39 in the old town) are good for fondue! • Discothèque-Cabaret Garçonnière, at Rue de la Rôtisserie, is a gay club with daily shows (open until 5 am). • Tcherga Bar, at Rue de la Navigation 40 (open Wed – Sun), has live music.

For more suggestions ask at your hostel. ‹‹‹

! LAST CHANCE TO VISIT THE MUSEUM

Guestbook quote

Closing on June 30, 2011 for transformation work.

Open daily from 10am to 5pm, except Tuesday. Information: tel +41 22 748 95 25. zermatt 27

practical information

How to get there: Take the mountain train Visp-Zermatt (hourly connections); it takes 65 minutes and is a scenic trip! There are hourly train connections to Visp from Bern (55 min.), from Lausanne (1 h 32 min.), from Zurich (2 h) and from Geneva (2 h 16 min.). No access for cars (only as far as Täsch). For- eign currency exchange at the train station (travel agency Zermatt-Tours). i Next to the train station (at Bahnhofplatz 5), you’ll find the tourist information (027 966 81 00). Also by the station runs the main street, Bahnhofstrasse, along which you’ll find most of the shops, pharmacies, supermarkets (i.e. food markets Migros and Coop), etc., you’ll need. @ Internet station at Internet Corner Pöstli (Bahnhofstrasse 41), at the Country Bar at Hofmattweg 3 or at your hostel; launderette at “Waschsalon A hiker on tour… In the background the Matterhorn (4,478 m) Doli” at Hofmattstrasse 3. www.zermatt.ch ermatt (1,620 m /5,320 ft), situated just in front of the majestic Matterhorn, is one of students 8.–, and it’s free of charge if you www.backpacker.ch the world’s most famous mountain resorts. The idyllic village in the heart of the Alps hold a Swiss Pass (see page 5). Zhas become one of the most renowned mountain resorts. There are no petrol-driven Or spend some hours playing games. The cars allowed in Zermatt. Horse-drawn carriages, as well as electric cars, are the only means Country Bar at Hofmattweg 3 (Hotel Elite) of transport. Zermatt and its surroundings offer tons of great outdoor activities and hik- offers different games (tabletop football, budget accommodation ing possibilities the whole year round. Summer skiing is possible too, on the everlasting pool and more) and Internet stations. glacial snow at the foot of the Matterhorn, between 2,900 and 3,900 meters. And as an Zermatt Youth Hostel, Staldenweg 5 (027 experienced climber you can climb a few 4,000 m peaks. 967 23 20) ›››www.youthhostel.ch/zermatt; entertainment, fun & parties Matterhorn Hostel, Schluhmattstrasse 32 (027 968 19 19) ›››www.matterhornhostel.com some highlights • Broken Bar / Disco at Bahnhofstrasse 41 is Zermatt’s cult disco. You can dance on Zermatt and its surroundings offer tons at the viewing points in the Matterhorn a legendary wine barrel. of great outdoor activities and hiking glacier paradise (departure 1.30 – 3 pm, • Braun Cow Snack Bar at Bahnhof- possibilities the whole year round. And CHF 78.50, June 11th – October 16th), the strasse 41. They serve hot food from events Zermatt has many spectacular mountain Schwarzsee paradise (dep. 2.30 – 3.30 pm, 9 am – 11 pm (sandwiches, hamburgers, railways. Gornergat (3,130 m / 10,134 ft) is CHF 38.50, June 11th – October 9th) or the salads and soups). April 12th – 16th Zermatt unplugged, one of them. From the top, you will enjoy Rothorn paradise (dep. 2.30 – 3.30 pm, CHF • Schneewittchen at Steinmattstrasse with Seal, Roger Hodgson (the voice of an exciting view of Monte Rosa. Klein 52.–, June 18th – October 18th). 34 is a bar and nightclub open from Supertramp), One Republic, David Gray Matternhorn, at 3,820 m / 12,338 ft, is the For biking, rent one at the station or at a July – October. and many more highest station you can go. By the way, sport shop and get a good map from the • T-Bar “Let’s Dance” at Bahnhofstrasse July 9th Zermatt Marathon. A mara- the famous Matterhorn has an altitude tourist office. Don’t forget your camera – 28. Disco with original fittings and thon with an altitude difference of over of 4,478 m (14,463 ft). Check out Europe’s the view is breathtaking up there. furnishings (with old elements from the 1,400 m; a challenge for any racer! highest glacier grotto at Klein Matterhorn, For hiking, numerous well-marked foot- Zermatt cable cars). July 24th Täschalp Race and Alp Festival including an informative exhibition. paths and walks (nearly 400 km/250 miles) • Boîte à Chocolat at Bahnhofstrasse 7b July 29th – 31st Matterhorn Eagle Cup. In Zermatt summer skiing is possi- take you through pine-scented mountain is a bar but also has homemade Golf tournament at over 2,500 m above ble! Enjoy 20 kilometres of piste on forest, to the shores of calm alpine lakes chocolate specialities as well as a variety sea level Zermatt’s Theodul glacier. Carve and relax and to the ice-blue glaciers. Consult a map of top handmade swiss chocolate. August 1st Swiss National Day, fireworks together with national alpine ski teams before you set off! • Papperla Pub at Steinmattstrasse 34 and celebrations everywhere! from all over Europe, with the Matterhorn You should not miss visiting the oldest part is a legendary meeting point for August 14th 43rd Folklore Festival. More always in sight. Skiing and snowboard- of the village, with houses and barns which everyone in Zermatt. than 1,200 participants will take part in ing the whole year round, with 365 days are 200 – 250 years old, the original main • GramPis Pub at Bahnhofstrasse 70 this huge parade of snow – you can only find this in Zermatt. street, etc. is where people meet & eat. As the highest altitude, largest and most On a rainy day you could visit the Mat- • Sparky’s Bar and Restaurant at efficiently developed snow sport location terhorn Museum (at Bahnhofplatz 57). The Schluhmattstrasse 32. Nachos, pasta, in the Alps, Zermatt offers an absolute snow museum tells the exciting story of the Mat- thai-food, salads, soups and more. guarantee. terhorn – from its origins in Africa and the • Country Bar at Hofmattweg 3 Save money and travel in the after- terribly dramatic first ascent to the pres- (Hotel Elite) offers different games $ noon with an ”afternoon ticket“! ent day. Open daily 2 – 6 pm (July – Sep- (tabletop football, pool and more) Enjoy the wonderful afternoon atmosphere tember 11 am – 6 pm), admission CHF 10.–, and Internet stations. ‹‹‹ Eiger Mönch Jungfraujoch – Top of Europe 3

- Grindelwald Grindelwald – 2 Kleine Scheidegg Grindelwald-First 0 6 Lauterbrunnen

Schynige Platte 9

Böningen 5 Interlaken 1

The beautiful Bernese Oberland is an ideal windows hewn from solid Alpine rock; and Or if you prefer to sleep long, there is also featured in the James Bond film “On Her destination for backpackers, adventurers then the arrival on the Jungfraujoch, in a “Good Afternoon Ticket”, costs the same Majesty’s Secret Service” (in the Tourist and sport freaks. Some of the best scen- the heart of a glorious glacier world on the as the “Good morning Ticket” if you start orama you can watch extracts of this 007 ery in the whole of Switzerland can be very roof of Europe! There are lots of attrac- from Kleine Scheidegg at 3.30 pm. ›››www. movie which was filmed here in late 1968). found in the Jungfrau region. The many tions on the Jungfraujoch, i.e. the ice palace, jungfrau.ch Piz Gloria turns around its axis in 50 min- spectacular spots will be sure to get even the plateau with hikes in the eternal snow, utes, allowing a breathtaking view! The the most stubborn couch potato out into summer ski & snowboard park, and more. 4 Schilthorn (2,970 m / 9,744 ft) Schilthorn is reached by a series of cable- the fresh air! ›››www.berneroberland.ch; Don’t miss this tour; it’s wonderful! The Schilthorn is not as high as the Jung- cars from the the valley floor at Stechel- ›››www.myjungfrau.ch How to get to the Jungfraujoch: there are fraujoch, but a trip up to this summit is berg, via Gimmelwald and Mürren, on a two routes to the top, either from Grindel- just as memorable. The Schilthorn summit breathtaking ride up to Birg and then the wald or from Lauterbrunnen via Wengen (or offers the best view of Eiger, Mönch and Schilthorn summit. The Mürren-Schilthorn go up one way and down the other!). Both Jungfrau and on more than 200 other sum- area is a magnificent hiking region! The some highlights train routes terminate at Kleine Scheidegg, mits! The view from the exposed terrace rich variety of alpine flora, combined with where you must change for the final pull on the top is dramatic! You can enjoy the breathtaking views of snow-covered Alps, 1 All about Interlaken, the number one at Jungfraujoch. exceptional views and sip cocktails in the dominated by the Eiger, Mönch and Jung- resort for adventure and fun, see page 36. An adult round-trip fare costs CHF revolving Piz Gloria summit restaurant, frau, guarantee you an absolutely unfor- 2 For Grindelwald, the glacier village in $ 186.20. But there are cheaper fares: the Bernese Oberland, see page 32. if you hold one of the “Swiss Passes” you get free travel from Interlaken to Grindel- 3 Jungfraujoch – Top of Europe wald or Wengen, a 25% discount on the (3,454 m / 11,333 ft) connecting ticket to Kleine Scheidegg and The trip to Jungfraujoch (UNESCO World from there up to Jungfraujoch (for more Natural Heritage) by railway is an unfor- about the “Swiss Passes” see page 5)! gettable experience with a 100% guaran- Another chance to save money is the “Good tee of snow all year round!! Jungfraujoch Morning Ticket” valid (from May 1st un- is the highest railway station in Europe! til October 31st). With the “Good Morning From Kleine Scheidegg (2,061 m at the foot Ticket” you travel up on the first train of the of the notorious Eiger North Wall) the Jung- day (departs at 6.35 am from Interlaken Ost / frau Railway first climbs to the station 6.55 from Lauterbrunnen / 7.17 from Grin- at Eigergletscher (Eiger glacier). The trip delwald / 7.25 from Grindelwald Grund), continues through the Eiger tunnel to the and leave the summit no later than 12 noon. stations at Eigerwand and Eismeer (with Then this whole trip costs CHF 140.– if you a five minute stop at each). Enjoy spectacu- start from Interlaken Ost; or CHF 130.– if you Schilthorn cable car in front of the Muerrenbach Falls near Lauterbrunnen lar sightseeing through large observation start from Lauterbrunnen or Grindelwald. Schilthorn bernese oberland – some highlights 29 4

Kandersteg 8

7 Gimmelwald

Gstaad =

gettable outing. Ask at the tourist office for Bönigen also offers a heated pool (with a Trümmelbach Waterfalls. You reach the Lauterbrunnen, there board the panoramic the detailed hiking map. 67 m long water shoot) and boat rental is starting point to these impressive water- train to Winteregg). How to get to the Schilthorn: take a bus possible as well. falls via stairs or a lift and walk to the Do you want to know how cheese is made from Lauterbrunnen to Stechelberg (takes How to get to Bönigen: by bus from Inter various 10 stages (open daily from April from milk? From June to September there’s 16 minutes). From Stechelberg the cable-car laken Ost (takes only 12 minutes), from Inter to November). From the top, above the a guided tour to the Cheese Dairy on offer, brings you via Gimmelwald and Mürren to laken West (20 minutes), or you can walk falls, trails from Mettlenalp connect to starting every Wed. at 8.30 am (duration the Schilthorn (takes 32 minutes). along the lake (takes 20 minutes). paths leading to Wengen. In summertime, 2.5 hours), costs CHF 10.–, meeting point is A return ticket from Stechelberg costs i Bönigen at Seestrasse 6, 033 822 29 58 Lauterbrunnen offers many possibilities the tourist office (registration until Tuesday $ CHF 94.80. But there are cheaper ›››www.boenigen.ch for hiking and biking, leading to the 5 pm at the tourist office). fares: if you hold one of the “Swiss Passes” Budget Accommodation: Interlaken-Böni “most beautiful spots on earth”! How to get to Lauterbrunnen: there are di you get free passage from Stechelberg to gen Youth Hostel, Aareweg 21, 033 822 43 53 High above the “Valley of Waterfalls” lies rect trains from Interlaken Ost (takes 20 min). Mürren and a 50% discount on the connect- (closed April 1st – 7th and after Oct 23rd) Winteregg, with its popular mountain i Lauterbrunnen tourist information at ing ticket from Mürren to the Schilthorn ›››www.youthhostel.ch/boenigen restaurant. Winteregg is easy to reach Stutzli 6 (right opposite the train station), (for more about the “Swiss Passes” see from Grütschalp by train or by a 30-min- 033 856 85 68 ›››www.mylauterbrunnen.com page 5)! ›››www.schilthorn.ch 6 Lauterbrunnen (796 m / 2,648 ft) ute walk along a panoramic path (you Budget Accommodation: Valley Hostel, Fuh The valley that runs directly south from reach Grütschalp by aerial cableway from ren, 033 855 20 08, ›››www.valleyhostel.ch 5 Bönigen Interlaken leads first to Lauterbrunnen. The village of Bönigen is situated on Lake Lauterbrunnen lies in an impressive Brienz, a short 12 minute bus ride from Inter glaciated valley between gigantic rock laken. The village, with its quaint chalets walls and summits. 72 waterfalls plum- and meadows along the lake, is an ideal met over the walls down to the valley. starting point for excursions throughout The Lauterbrunnen Valley comprises one the lake and mountain regions of the Ber- of the largest nature-protected areas in nese Oberland and the Jungfrau Region. An Switzerland. The friendly Lauterbrunnen extensive net of hiking and walking paths village is a great base for nature-lovers and trails invites you to explore the area. wishing to explore the surrounding region Bönigen is also called «the village of wood- in leisure. It’s where amazing mountain carved houses». Numerous buildings fea- railways begin their climb through some turing lavish carvings and paintings, dat- of Europe’s most stunning scenery (Jung- ing from 1549 and representing all build- fraujoch – Top of Europe and the Schil- ing styles and eras, have been preserved thorn). At the southern end of the main and are concentrated here. Besides swim- street there’s the sparkling Staubbach ming in the lake (there’s a nice beach Waterfall. And from the train station the Hiking in the Bernese Oberland with Mt. Eiger and Mt. Moench in the background only 200 meters from the HI youth hostel), public bus brings you to the spectacular 30 bernese oberland – some highlights

Hiking along Lake Oeschinen (1,578 m) high above Kandersteg JUN6047 Kleine Scheidegg and the impressive Eiger North Wall

7 Gimmelwald (1,367 m / 4,169 ft) 9 Schynige Platte (1,967 m) 0 Grindelwald-First (2,168 m) Tiny car-free Gimmelwald nestles on a Alpine Sports Center) 033 856 86 86 ›››www. An easy trip – and a very fine mountain First is easily reached by aerial gondola sunny terrace and the arrival is already mygimmelwald.ch excursion – is the ride up to the Schynige from Grindelwald. The views from the top spectacular – a cable car takes you high Accommodation: Mountain Hostel Gimmel Platte, from where you can survey some are among the best in the beautiful Bernese over the rocks to Gimmelwald. The small wald, Niedere Matte, 033 855 17 04, ›››www. of the best panoramic views in the entire Oberland! Take delight in over 100 km of farming hamlet of 140 inhabitants is a hik- mountainhostel.com Alps. From Wilderswil the enchantingly picturesque and well-prepared summer ing paradise and the ideal starting point old-fashioned cog railway slowly climbs hiking trails suitable for every level of hik- for wonderful walks and hikes in a wild, 8 Kandersteg (1,200 m / 3,660 ft) up the mountainside via Alp Breitlauenen ing, across flower-strewn meadows, past romantic area. The footpaths start in front The laid-back resort of Kandersteg, at the to the station at Schynige Platte (operates fields of mountain roses or bilberry bushes. of your hostel’s door and offer an imposing entrance to the longstanding Lötschberg from May 28th – October 23rd). From here, On the botanical trail from First via Lake view of the mountain scenery. Tunnel, is a picturesque, chalet-strewn you have an overwhelming panoramic Bachalp (magnificent moorland scenery A wonderful walk is the one from Gim- village and a fine place to explore the sur- view, especially of the famous three alpine with typical vegetation) to Waldspitz-Bort melwald to the Tanzboden (dance floor). rounding area. Attractions are all rural peaks Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau. And many (about 2 hours 20 minutes in total), you’ll The path takes you from Gimmelwald and scenic. A prime hiking and recreation different marked trails lead out in all direc- find over 100 different flowers. It’s a popu- through the Sefinental Valley and then spot above the village is the dramatically tions from here. The natural paradise is lar voyage of discovery. Crystal-clear lakes climbs steeply via Busenbrand to Busenalp crag-ringed Lake Oeschinen (1,578 m), a also famous for its unique Botanical Alpine reflecting snow-capped summits and pure (2 hours). Then a 30 minute uphill stretch, small lake accessed by a chair lift (from the Garden. The Jungfrau railways have some alpine air. An easy hike without any uphill rewarded by magnificent views from the eastern edge of the village). It’s a twenty- special offers i.e. “Teatime Ticket”, “Guided or downhill sections (1 hour 20 minutes) Tanzbödeli plateau (takes approx. 3 hours minute stroll to the lake itself from the top Moonlit Hike”, “Tandem Paragliding Schy- with spectacular panoramic views is the in total). station. There are some beautiful trails in nige Platte”, “Swiss National Day Party on one from Grindelwald-First to the Grosse Or try trout-fishing in the Sefinenlütsch- the area and the walk back down to Kan- Schynige Platte” (on Aug 1st) and many Scheidegg. Ask at the tourist office or at ine-River – it’s good fun (get your licence dersteg is only about 1 hour. 5 km north of more. Check out ›››www.jungfrau.ch your hostel for the “hiking map Grindel- at the Mountain Hostel). But never forget Kandersteg (reachable by bus or on foot) A great classic alpine hike is the one from wald First”. that this sport is called fishing, not catch- lies the Blausee (blue lake) and its name- Schynige Platte via Faulhorn to Grindel- Thrills and a great time are guar- ing… And if the trout do not bite, follow in sake nature park. Blausee is famous for wald-First. This demanding trail requires anteed with the First Flyer! Origi- the footsteps of James Bond and visit the its fresh trout (there’s a nice restaurant). a good basic level of fitness; hiking time is nated in the USA (where it is known as a Schilthorn peak, one of the most exclusive There are over 500 km of hiking trails about 6 hours. Important: the last descents Zip Rider) Grindelwald-First has the only view points in the alpine world. For details around Kandersteg, the tourist office will by First Aerial Cableway are between 5 one of its kind in the whole of Europe! about this dramatic mountain see “Schilt- help with suggested routes. and 6 pm according to season. You should With the First Flyer the dream of swishing horn” on the former page. How to get to Kandersteg: there are direct not underestimate your hiking time and through the air becomes reality. Whizz How to get to Gimmelwald: from Interlaken train connections from Bern (takes 1 hour). include time for breaks! down 800 metres at speeds of up to Ost, take the train to Lauterbrunnen and From Interlaken Ost it takes 1 hour 10 min- How to get to Schynige Platte: take a train 84 km/h and a maximum height of 50 change to the bus for Stechelberg. In Stechel utes and you have to change trains in Spiez. from Interlaken Ost to Wilderswil (takes metres above ground. One ride costs berg take the cable car up to Gimmelwald i Tourist information Kandersteg is in just 5 minutes), from where the rack-rail- CHF 25.–; but there are combi-tickets: up (approx. 1 hour total). the village centre, straight ahead from the way will bring you within an hour up to the to First by cable-car, down with the First i Gimmelwald does not have official train station on the main street (Haupt- Schnynige Platte top station (climbs 1,420 Flyer to Schreckfeld and from there back tourist information (but ask at the Moun- strasse), 033 675 80 80 ›››www.kandersteg.ch metres over a distance of 7.2 km through to Grindelwald, costs CHF 75.–. tain Hostel, they do have lots of infor Budget Accommodation: Kandersteg some spectacular scenery!). “Swiss Passes” Another attraction on First is the scooter- mation! Official tourist information is International Scout Centre, Wagetiweg, holders get a 50% discount (for more about bike trip from Bort Station down to Grin- in Mürren (in the same building as the 033 675 82 82, ›››www.kisc.ch the “Swiss Passes” see page 5)! delwald. Such a trip costs CHF 30.– (includes bernese oberland – some highlights 31

the aerial-gondola ride from Grindelwald to Bort and the hire of scooter-bike and helmet (deposit of CHF 100.– or credit card!). Or book a combination of both, a ride with the First Flyer and a scooter-bike trip (on the same day); costs CHF 79.– icluding cable- car, First Flyer, scooter-bike and helmet). How to get to Grindelwald-First (or Bort): the gondola rises at the eastern edge of Grindelwald village (from May 21st until Oct 23rd). You can save money and book the “combi-special 11” for CHF 86.– (this includes one night’s accommodation incl. breakfast at the Downtown Lodge Grindel- wald, the aerial gondola trip and a flight with the First Flyer (see advertisement on page 33).

- Grindelwald – Kleine Scheidegg Schilthorn Allmendhubel, starting point of several beautiful hikes Kleine Scheidegg (2,061 m), the pass between Grindelwald and Lauterbrun- nen Valleys, lies directly beneath the North Face and visitors from all over How to get to Gstaad or Saanen: From Tourist office: Promenade 41 in Gstaad towering trio of the Eiger, Mönch and the world. Most people only linger for a Inter laken it takes 2 hours and you have (033 748 81 81). Jungfrau. From here, the Jungfrau Rail- few minutes while changing trains for to change in Spiez and Zweisimmen (from Budget accommodation: Saanen-Gstaad way begins its remarkable journey to Jungfraujoch, but Kleine Scheidegg is also Gstaad to Saanen and vice versa trains take Youth Hostel in Saanen, Chalet Rüblihorn, the Jungfraujoch – Top of Europe. You’ll the trailhead for a wealth of high-coun- only 4 minutes). Easy to reach from Gstaad/ Spitzhornweg 25 (033 744 13 43, closed April meet Alpine herdsmen with their cattle, try walks. Hikes down to Grindelwald Saanen is the Lake Geneva Region (trains 1st – 20th, April 26th – June 1st and after climbers preparing to attempt the Eiger (4 hours) or to Wengen (2 hours) are rela- between Saanen and Château-d’Oex take Oct 23rd) ›››www.youthhostel.ch/saanen tively easy-going. A tougher one is the one- only 16 minutes, to Montreux 1 hour and hour hike up to the Eigergletscher (Eiger 15 minutes). Read more about the Lake TIP! glacier). Geneva Region on page 18–22. ‹‹‹ Adventure sports How to get to Kleine Scheidegg: there are There is pure adventure in the Ber- two routes to Kleine Scheidegg. The one nese Oberland. No other part of Switzer- from Grindelwald Grund station takes 34 land has more adventure in store, hence minutes, the one from the other side of the most of the Swiss adventure companies pass takes 45 minutes if you start in Lauter are based in Interlaken. The Interlaken- brunnen. “Swiss Passes” holders get a 25% Adventure.com network offers extra cool discount (for more about the “Swiss Passes” combinations of adventure activities and see page 5)! overnight stays in one of their hostels, summer and winter. During spring (April = Gstaad-Saanenland Your 1st choice for Switzerland 15th until May 31st) and autumn (Sep 1st The Gstaad-Saanenland holiday region is until Dec 15th) they offer special pack- popular with a charming mix of visitors. ages at sensational prices, i.e. tandem While the car-free chalet village of Gstaad paragliding (from CHF 180.–), and tandem attracts countless stars and starlets, the hanggliding (from CHF 240.–); Tandem smaller neighbouring village Saanen of- skydiving from over 4,000 m (from CHF fers attractive options a little further away 390.–) with 45 seconds of freefall at over from the hustle, but still close to the action. 100 mph; Canyoning (from CHF 135.–) There are hiking possibilities, from short or river rafting on a powerful moun- walks to high alpine tours. An enjoyable tain river (from CHF 125.–); ice-climbing hike with panoramic views of the Saanen- down crystalline blue ice cliffs (from land region starts in the historical village CHF 190.–). of Saanen (at the train station). The route There is no experience necessary and takes you past the Roti Egg and Gspan all equipment is included. All the prices meadows as well as the Rittmal alpine pas- above include two nights in a dormitory ture and ends at the Berghaus Rellerli. The accommodation and can be upgraded! journey back can be done either in comfort Well, how about bungy jumping, glacier by cable-car or at exhilarating speed on personally run independent quality assured trekking, rock climbing, a scenic flight, scooters or bikeboards. Hiking time is · · wakeboarding, funyak, windsurfing or approx. 2 hours 30 minutes; difference in over 30 Hostels in Switzerland waterskiing? The list of things to do is altitude is 800 metres. Check for the SB logo in the hostel list on pages 2/3 endless. Have fun and enjoy the great Or how about river-rafting on the Saane outdoors in and around Interlaken. river (from Saanen to Château-d’Oex), kaya- You can book pure adrenaline adventure king, canyoning, hydrospeed, etc. The pos- right at the hostel’s desk or online on sibilities are countless. Read more about www.interlaken-adventure.com about Château-d’Oex on page 22. 32 bernese oberland – grindelwald

practical information

How to get there: Half-hourly connections from Interlaken East (Ost). Takes only 34 minutes! Grindelwald has several railway stations: Grindelwald Village Station, Grindelwald Grund Station (start of the Jungfraubahn), and Kleine Scheidegg Sta- tion (on the way to Jungfraujoch). i Tourist office (033 854 12 12) at the sports center (opening hours, ask at your hostel or check ›››www.grindelwald.travel @ Inter- net station at the sports center (Fun Factory 1st Floor) and at the hostels (guests only).

www.grindelwald.ch www.berneroberland.ch www.backpacker.ch

$ save money Ask for the free visitor’s card which offers you many reductions!

The Jungfrau Railway budget accommodation rindelwald is called “the glacier village in the Bernese Oberland”. In the heart lage center or by bus from Grindelwald Sta- Downtown Lodge, Dorfzentrum (033 828 of the wonderful world of mountains, the village is surrounded by impressive tion. Open daily June until October. 77 30, closed April 25th – June 9th) ›››www. G“four-thousanders” and forms the entrance to an intact landscape that promises The ascent to the Upper Glacier leads over downtown-lodge.ch; Grindelwald Youth not only recovery and relaxation but also adventure and entertainment. Grindelwald’s a rather adventurous wooden staircase Hostel, Geissstutzstrasse 12 (033 853 10 09, mountains are exceptional! The highest point is the peak of Moench (4,107 m above sea that winds its way up to the rock with closed April 10th – May 12th and after Oct level), but the most famous one, of course, is the Eiger, with its impressive north face, over 890 steps. A 15 minute walk from the 23rd) ›››www.youthhostel.ch/grindelwald; a mountain which is monumental in mountaineering history! There is more to see in Hotel Wetterhorn takes one to the begin- Naturfreunde haus, Terrassenweg 18 (033 Grindelwald than the world-famous panorama of the Eiger, the Mönch and the Jungfrau; ning of the climb. Admire the fantastic 853 13 33, closed April 10th – May 14th) beauty can be perceived even in a single stone, an animal, or a flower. view at the foot of the glacier! Open daily ›››www.naturfreundehaeuser.ch/grindelwald from mid-May to end-October. highlights From the upper Glacier it’s just about a 25 minute walk to the Alpine Bird Park. The possibilities for exploring the wonder- cableway to go back up to First and start This small park with various alpine birds ful world of mountains here are endless for again! Rental of top-class downhill bikes as well as an alpine garden and hut restau- TIP! both athletic and non-athletic types! and gear is available at First. rant is set in idyllic surroundings 1,400 m Grindelwald offers hiking against the Also attractive (for ambitious athletes as above sea level at the foot of Wetterhorn Treat yourself to an exhilarating world’s most beautiful backdrop! 300 km well as for leisure bikers) is the “Top Ten” between Grindelwald and the Grosse Schei ride on the First Flyer – thrills and of marked walking, hiking and mountain (10 bike routes). The starting point is the degg. Open daily, entrance free of charge. great time guaranteed! Originated in the paths for you to choose from. Numerous tourist center, where you will receive a card. In the village centre (opposite Hotel Hir USA (where it is known as a Zip Rider) suggestions can be found on the 1:25,000 This card contains 10 squares correspond- schen) there is an attractive 18-hole mini- Grindelwald-First has the only one of its walking map of Grindelwald, on sale at ing to the different runs. Before setting out golf course. Entry costs CHF 7.–, open daily kind in the whole of Europe! Whizz down Grindelwald Tourism. Grindelwald offers for each new run, the corresponding field (June, September and October 1 – 6 pm and 800 metres at speeds of up to 84 km/h and its guests a great deal of other outdoor must be stamped. At the end of the run the July and August 10 am – 10 pm). a maximum height of 50 metres above activities, not only biking and hiking, but card is again stamped to prove completion. On a rainy day visit the sports center ground. The aerial gondola to First rises at also trekking, climbing, mountaineering, Ask for the special brochure and map at the (Sportzentrum). There you’ll find an indoor the eastern edge of Grindelwald village tandem paragliding flights, tandem sky- tourist center. pool, sauna complex, solarium, game room, (May 21st – Oct 23rd). Save money and diving, bungy jumping, canyoning, river The wildly-romantic Glacier Gorge, with its Internet, an attractive boulder room as well book the “combi-special 10” for CHF 86.– rafting and more. Ask at the tourist office mills, cuts and green marble slabs, is one as Switzerland’s first indoor rope park, the (this includes one night’s accommoda- or at your hostel. of nature’s masterpieces. A specially-con- Sport Pub and the tourist office. The sports tion in a dorm incl. breakfast at the Down- Biking downhill is pure adventure. The structed wooden walkway leads from the center is open daily. town Lodge Grindelwald, the aerial gon- start of two impressive downhill runs is hotel restaurant Gletscherschlucht over dola trip and a flight with the First Flyer). near the First top station. Two runs are gushing waters and through galleries and See advertisement on the next page. available to conquer the challenging ter- tunnels over 1,000 m right into the gorge. Read more about excursions to the Jung- Read more about Grindelwald-First on rain down to the Schreckfeld Station, with On either side, the partly smooth walls rise fraujoch, the Schilthorn or the Schynige page 30. an altitude difference of 200 m. Once at overhead 100 meters. How to get there: Platte and more about the beautiful Ber- Schreckfeld, you can board the gondola 35 minutes walking distance from the vil- nese Oberland on pages 28–31, 36. bernese oberland – grindelwald 33 events entertainment, fun & parties May 8th Yodeling Meeting at Engelweidli (if the weather is bad on May • Mescalero Mexican Pub and Disco (Hotel Spinne). The “in” place where you can 8th this event will take place 1 week later) dance and party until the early hours of the morning. June 5th Half-marathon. From Grindelwald (at 951 m) up to Männlichen • Sport Pub (in the Sports Centre). The sports person’s pub with an 11-metre Blue Bar, (2,216 m) food and drinks, big screen sports TV, music and darts, until late. June 20th – 25th Landart festival at Erlenpromenade (near Hotel Gletscherschlucht). • American Bar & Restaurant (Hotel Alpenblick). Best burgers outside Texas! Different nations create sculptures and creations in wildly- Pool/billiards, games, darts and a lot of sound. romantic surrounding, using nothing but natural materials • Espresso-Bar (Hotel Spinne). This is a meeting point and party place for all ages. found in the area Tourists and locals meet at the bar or out on the sun terrace. July 24th Folklore Festival. Yodeling, alphorn blowing, flag throwing, • Plaza Disco (Hotel Sunstar). It’s all about dancing until the early morning. Swiss folklore band at Männlichen (starts at 11 am) Special events and drinks. Aug 1st Swiss National Day, fireworks and celebrations everywhere • Gepsi-Bar (Hotel Eiger). A popular meeting point for locals as well. Weekly live acts Aug 14th Eiger Bike Challenge and special evenings. Aug 19th & 20th Fun Triathlon and Inferno Triathlon • Plagier-Bar (Hotel Lauberhorn). Plagierbar means bluffers-bar, open Thu, Fri and Sat. Sep 10th Jungfrau Marathon Interlaken – Kleine Scheidegg Oct 1st Country Night ‹‹‹ Oct 7th – 10th Interfolk Jungfrau region. Yodeling, alphorn blowing, flag throwing and more at Grindelwald-First, Kleine Scheidegg, Harder Kulm/Interlaken and Mürren/Winteregg

Grindelwald-First The SwiSS MounTain experience

11 The Lodge is located in the heart of Grindelwald, Combi-Special only a five-minute walk from the railway station s accommodation • 1 night’ and First aerial gondola. Just around the corner from incl. breakfast numerous restaurants, bars and shops. st aerial jungfrau.ch The Lodge is the ideal starting point for the two • Grindelwald-Fir stunning hiking and skiing regions close to the gondola trip Eiger, Mönch & Jungfrau. • Flight with First Flyer EuropE’S only zip ridEr Dorm (6–8)

The only one of its kind in the whole of Europe! Treat yourself to Booking: Double an exhilarating ride on the brand-new First Flyer. Safely attached CHF 86.– Downtown Lodge to a cable, you whizz down 800 metres from First to Schreckfeld with CH-3818 Grindelwald CHF 93.– Tel. +41 (0)33 828 77 30 three other «high-fliers», at the same time but in separate harnesses. Fax +41 (0)33 828 77 31 Reach speeds of up to 84 km/h! Thrills and a great time guaranteed! www.downtown-lodge.ch

[email protected] fun – have less – pay well sleep Offer valid until 31 December 2011, excluding 4 April to 10 June and 23 October to 9 December 2011 (for maintenance work) Swiss Backpacker News presents: Mammut subway organizer This handy organizer SUMMER in the fresh “urban climbing” design provides everything COMPETITION needed for bouldering sponsored by VICTORINOX and MAMMUT within easy reach.

Each month from April until October 2011 we raf e a VICTORINOX pocket multitool and a MAMMUT subway organizer – go for it!

Victorinox pocket multitool “Traveller Lite” The unique “Traveller Lite” combines 27 mechanical and electronic functions from existing multitools with the very latest technology.

What do you have to do? Just answer the questions below and send your answer to: [email protected] Don’t forget to write down your full name and your correct postal address! ➊ Where did you pick up the Swiss Backpacker News? ➋ What did you miss in the Swiss Backpacker News?

The pocket tools “Traveller Lite” are sponsored by The subway organizers are sponsored by VICTORINOX, the world leader in multitools. You’ll nd MAMMUT, the most famous name for Swiss VICTORINOX knives in all good souvenir shops and quality clothing, ropes, harnesses, backpacks special Swiss Army Knife shops (or ask at your hostel). and sleeping bags. You’ll nd MAMMUT products ›››www.victorinox.com in all good sports shops. ›››www.mammut.ch

36 Bernese Oberland – interlaken

practical information The funicular operates from April 22nd – Oct 23rd. On the other side of town, some 500 m south of West Station, a unique, nostalgic How to get there: funicular takes you to the top of Heimweh There are train connec- fluh – also called the top of Interlaken tions from and to Zurich Airport (takes (670 m / 2,196 ft), where you’ll be sure to 2 h 20 min.) and all major Swiss cities (i.e. enjoy a fabulous view! Near the funicu- 53 min. from Bern and 2 hours from Zurich). lar station you’ll find the Interlaken Rope Interlaken has two train stations (1 West Park, an adventure park featuring up to and 2 East [Ost]); West Station is near 7 different rope trails and more than 90 downtown. Both provide foreign exchange, different challenges, from ground level up a hotel reservation board and travel infor- to 20 meters in height. Various degrees mation (mainly for the Jungfrau region), of difficulties allow people of all ages to lockers, fast food. 3 Post office at Markt- test their agility and fitness. Professional gasse 1; i Tourist office 4 at Höheweg 37 guides will help you along. Open daily (033 826 53 00). Opposite West Station you’ll Mon – Fri 1 – 6 pm, Sat & Sun 10 am – 6 pm; Paragliders over Lake Thun find a Migros supermarket with restaurant during July & August daily open from (Rugenparkstr. 1, second floor). @ Internet 10 am – 6 pm); CHF 37.– (including equip- stations at all Backpackers and Hostels (in nterlaken is the heart of Switzerland’s adventure activity scene, located in the center ment and instructions). some, for guests only). Bahnhofstrasse/ of the Bernese Oberland. The closeness of the mountains and the view of the three On hot summer days take bus no. 6 (direc- Höheweg is the main street. Launderettes at world-famousI peaks Eiger, Moench and Jungfrau (Top of Europe), equally add to the tion Thun) to the Interlaken “beach” at Wasch und Glettstübli Steiner, Spielmatte beauty of the area. Excursions to the highest railway station in Europe, the Junfraujoch Neuhaus! Another good place for bathing 10, Unterseen and at Self-Service Wash and (3,454 m / 11,333 feet), and to one of the most exclusive view points in the alpine world, is Lake Brienz, one of the cleanest lakes in Dry Schmocker, Beatenbergstrasse 5, Un- the Schilthorn peak, can easily be made from here. It is nothing extraordinary for a city Switzerland. But be warned, the water’s terseen. to be situated by river, lake or sea. But that it is, like Interlaken, between two lakes – Lake really cold! Thun and Lake Brienz – is practically unique. And Interlaken is the number one resort Rent a bicycle and explore the area on www.interlaken.ch in Europe for adventure and fun! At each hostel you can book outdoor activities. It is your own. Many local suppliers (ask at www.interlakenadventure.com worth staying several nights here enjoying the fabulous nature and exciting adventure your hostel) and both railway stations as www.berneroberland.ch possibilities! well offer bike rental and will be happy to www.backpacker.ch give you tips on making the most of your highlights pedal-powered excursion. Biker’s maps are available at Interlaken’s tourist office. 9 Interlaken’s main street is the long “Höhe It houses some of the area’s oldest build- The St. Beatus-Caves, Switzerland’s first $ save money weg” with a train station at each end ings, and the square in front of the Amts and only underground cave museum – (Interlaken Ost and Interlaken West). And haus (municipal building) off Untere Gasse spectacular but safe. Explore this mysteri- Ask at your hostel for the free visitor’s the centrepiece of the Höheweg is the Höhe- is particularly picturesque. You reach Unter ous maze of stalactites, stalagmites, lakes card which offers you many reductions! matte, where the vista opens out over the seen by strolling along the Aare river. and waterfalls to a depth of 3,000 metres. green meadow towards the mountains, = See how chocolate is made and try your From Interlaken by ship, car, bus – or on with the unique view of the Jungfrau. A hand at becoming a chocolatier! The foot along the historic pilgrims’ path (ap- budget accommodation wide promenade with shady trees and res- chocolate show is held daily at 5 and 6 pm prox. 2 hour walk from Interlaken West taurants invites you to linger. at Grand Restaurant Schuh at Höheweg Station). Open March 27th – October 26th, 5 Backpackers Villa Sonnenhof, Alpen- 0 Japanese Garden. This is Switzerland’s 56. Daily show at 5 and 6 pm, entrance fee 9.30 – 5 pm. Guided tours only! Tours start strasse 16 (033 826 71 71) ›››www.villa.ch; first Japanese garden (designed in 1995 by CHF 14.80 (including chocolate voucher). every 30 minutes, duration approx. 1h, entry 6 Balmer’s Herberge, Hauptstr. 23 (033 a Japanese landscape gardener). Next to q A funicular rises from behind the Ost costs CHF 18.–, students or if you hold a 822 19 61) ›››www.balmers.com; 7 Happy the Interlaken Hotel on Höheweg, small Station through the woods to the Harder visitor’s card 16.–. It can get cold in the Inn Lodge, Rosenstrasse 17 (033 822 32 25) but beautiful. kulm (1,310 m), offering vistas over the caves, so bring something warm to wear! ›››www.happy-inn.com; 8 River Lodge, - Unterseen, adjoining Interlaken north town, both lakes and a panorama of Brienzstr. 24 (033 822 44 24, closed after of West Station, is an atmospheric village. snowy peaks close enough to touch! Oct 9th) ›››www.riverlodge.ch; Interlaken- BE ATE NBE TIP! RG ST RA SE S GARTENSTR AS SE Bönigen Youth Hostel, Aareweg 21, 033 OBE RE GOLDEY EN AB R Amtshaus funicular REIHOFSTRA EMG F SS E D F U A S 822 43 53 (closed April 1st – 7th and after C E Interlaken is perfectly positioned S H S E A ID G G - E R S A E P S T I S N E E U L RF UNTERSEEN M DO A BER T Oct 23rd) ›››www.youthhostel.ch/boeni- O E T as the gateway into one of the most S AS E A Sackgut STR ar UPT e campsite E HA S S T AS V

R R

EST I E A S E K Kursaal q 8 T F S N RDOR S O UNTE E R D I S RA A B gen (bus number 3 from Interlaken Ost to B beautiful regions of Switzerland. This is S T S A A S E A E H R T D K E R SS N S C TG D A RA H T Ü T ASSE R UG S S IAS O NE R R

T A E S LV F A E M H EB S PO H E S G T A E R S A S R S A E V I RA S K BL R ST S T UM adventure and E the number one resort for “Lütschinenbrücke” stop from where it’s a N N U TE E G STR . A AR A G E M S AU B B S E 4 HÖHEWEG ZLI ÖL 5-minute walk to the hostel) LH 3 i Ost fun! No other part of Switzerland has IE 0 EG SP HÖH EW Station K

ASSE L R O S 2 HO FST C BAHN S HL J T O S F E U 9 S R

R S N T E

= S R E G A IE D C T S more adventure in store than Interlaken, F S S A E R E R T N E N A A Höhematte R E T S U S R A M SE S STRAS S S O West ÜHLE A Höhematte S 1 M A AR T E R A L S P S R R L E A Station E T A T R S S S N A S A S D K S E Schloss A S N R E E hence most of the Swiss adventure com- Z T T M S A F L L L L OR N P AST RA E A F SSE O S 7 SE O S H NIE A A SE R R N NSTR LPEN ST LINDE H ASSE STR ER NALL A AS ST EE B SE O KL G E panies are based here. The beautiful Ber- J U N TW B G R E F O R E P SAN STRASS R NA UI ENERAL-G A S G U S S

S T T R UL R A nese Oberland offers tons of outdoor ac- A A S L 5 P E E S EN S S S G E T S E E S R G A S S A E S SS S E S R E A T E T A R S S R S R T S S A T S A E A S K S R R EI D SE T TR R A S N S I F tivities – on land, in the air and in or on P R G E N K L U G

R S M G L GE S DE A U E L L P Ä R N ASSE A A ORNSTR G A ROTH W H U A R E B TTENG ST U MI RABENSTR T . E PT RN S R S O A T water (you can book outdoor activities at R L

S AS FR A MATTEN S K SE S

I T E E WY R CH D ELSTR A A W SSE S

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G E SE AS each hostel!). Read more about it (and TR ES UNT EL O SSE ER O B WAL DEGGST RA DO E RF R STRA E S B SE Ö NIG 6 ST RA about the region’s natural wonders in S SE

Rugen Open-air R H Ü TIS B Woods A TRA ÜH Theatre U SSE LS P E TR T S AS S S S and around Interlaken) on page 28–33, E

T A

R G

A M R E E S TZ G L

S ER G S

E A SSE S E K and see ›››www.interlakenadventure.com

BAUMGA RTENSTR Powered by Rough Guides ASSE Bernese Oberland – interlaken 37 events entertainment, fun & parties June 9th – 11th Greenfield Open-Air. Over 40 international and Swiss bands • Brasserie 17, at Happy Inn Lodge (Rosenstr. 17), is the best party place in town for present rock, punk, hip-hop and electronic sounds. The entrance young people from all over the world! Live music – blues, rock, reggea, funk & soul, ticket also entitles you to camp out at the festival site! every Thursday night from 9 pm. Free entrance! The Brasserie is also famous for June 16th – 19th Swiss Yodeling Festival. Around 10,000 yodellers, flag throwers, its spareribs, chicken wings, baked potatoes and five different beers on tap. alphorn blowers and around 200,000 visitors are expected • Balmer’s Metro, at Balmer’s Herberge. Check out this different beat! Bar, June 16th – Sept 2nd Wilhelm Tell Open-Air Theater. Annual performance of Schiller’s nightclub, disco. play about the Swiss national hero at Tell-Spiel Areal Matten • The Hüsi Pub, at Postgasse 3 (pedestrian area), is an English-style pub with darts, (it’s German spoken, but it’s pretty obvious what the plot is) pinball and many other games. June 24th – 26th International Trucker & Country Festival. Famous country stars • RiversidE Bar, Marktgasse 59. They serve the famous Rugen beer, best Caipirinjas & bands. Western village, big truck & motor-bike exhibition in town and have chess, backgammon and lots more. (at the Military Airfield) • In Buddy’s Pub, at Hotel Splendid (Höheweg 33), you’ll find a large selection of beer. July 29th – 31st Buskers Festival in Rosenstrasse (in front of the Brasserie 17). • For disco nights check out The Caverne (at the Mattenhof resort, Hauptstrasse 36 Street artists show with acrobatics, juggling, magic and comedy, in Matten – bus no 5 from Interlaken West), or in Metrobar at the Metropole Hotel daily buskers shows from 5 pm (free entrance) (Höheweg 37), or Johnny’s Club at the Carlton Hotel (Höheweg 92). July 29th – 31st Interlatina. Interlaken will be struck with Latino fever • Positiv einfach, Centralstr. 11. Small, cozy bar. Very popular among young people. (concerts, market stands, dance shows and more at the Marktplatz) • Hooters, Höheweg 57. Where the famous Hooters girls (girls in orange hot pants) serve Aug 1st Swiss National Day celebration with a grand folklore parade American cuisine, American and European breakfast and lunch specials. through the centre (at 3 pm) and with a fireworks display • Jamming Corner (Bahnhofstrasse 1 Unterseen). For those who like Jamaican (at 10 pm at Höhematte meadow) specialities. Sep 10th International Jungfrau Marathon. Start at the Höheweg • Helvetia Sport Bar, at Bahnhofstrasse 6 in Unterseen, has snooker, pool tables, Interlaken (565 m), finish at Kleine Scheidegg (2,070 m), 42.1 km and darts. Latest re-opening, totally refurbished; light, airy and under experienced with some hills in it! An American magazine has rated this management. Enjoy! marathon as the most beautiful race course in the world! • High-Life, at Rugenparkstrasse (near West station), is a rock club with live music, Oct 7th – 10th Interfolk Jungfrau region. Yodeling, alphorn blowing, flag open daily from 10 pm until 3 am, Fri and Sat until 5 am. throwing and more at Grindelwald-First, Kleine Scheidegg, Harder Kulm/Interlaken and Mürren/Winteregg ‹‹‹

Camping TCS, Brienzstrasse 24, CH-3800 Interlaken-Ost, Phone +41 (0)33 822 44 24, [email protected] 38 bern

- practical information Museum of Fine Arts (Kunstmuseum). One of the most distinguished collections in Switzerland: Italian, Swiss and French art, i.e. Picasso, Kandinsky, Ma tisse. How to get there: Hodlerstrasse 12. Tue 10 am – 9 pm, Wed – Bern has excellent train Sun 10 am – 5 pm, closed on Mon. Admis- connections from numerous European sion CHF 7.–, students CHF 5.–. cities, incl. high-speed train links from = Einstein House at Kramgasse 49 is the Paris (France), from Hamburg/Frankfurt apartment where Einstein lived from 1903 (Germany) and from Rome/Milan (Italy). to 1905. It’s now a small museum featur- And there are departures at least hourly ing pictures which provide an insight to most destinations within Switzerland into Einstein’s years in Bern. Daily 10 am – (it takes 56 min. to Zurich, 51 min. to Basel, 5 pm, admission CHF 6.–, students CHF 1 h 41 min. to Geneva). 4.50. (the Historical Museum at Helvetia- The huge train station 1 is centrally situ- platz 5 presents a permanent exhibition ated and provides the tourist office  (031 under the name “Einstein Museum”; open 328 12 12), pharmacy, currency exchange, Tue – Sun 10 am – 5 pm; CHF 13.–, students lockers, rest room/shower, fast food, res- CHF 8.–.) On an inflatable dinghy tour through Bern taurants, shopping, bike rental, supermar- q The Rose Garden is a large park with kets, and taxis (031 371 11 11). Another a wonderful view of the old town and the tourist office 2 is next to Bärenpark (bear ern is perhaps the most immediately charming city in all of Switzerland. The river loop and has a nice restaurant (take park) where they present a multimedia country’s political and diplomatic capital has been listed as a UNESCO World bus no. 10 or walk, it’s only 5 minutes from show about the history of Bern in different BHeritage. For all its political status, it is a tiny city and the attraction of the place Bear Park). languages, every 20 minutes – the show rests in its ambience. You could spend days just café-hopping and wandering the streets The Zentrum Paul Klee is much more than a costs CHF 3.– or CHF 1.– for students or if with its arcades, street fountains and small shops. Einstein developed his special theory traditional fine arts museum. Approx. 4,000 you hold a Swiss Pass. @ Internet at Kram- of relativity here and it was from here that the famous Emmental cheese was first sent paintings, watercolors, drawings, puppets, gasse 47 (Weblane) and at your hostel (for on its way to conquer the world. sketches and other works of Paul Klee’s are guests only). on display. Take bus no 12 from the railway highlights station until “Paul Klee Zentrum”. Tue – www.berninfo.com Sun 10 am – 5 pm, Mon closed. Admission www.cityhunter.ch 2 Bear Park (Bärenpark). The bear is Highest spire in Switzerland: 344 steps CHF 18.–, students CHF 16.–. www.backpacker.ch Bern’s heraldic animal. The Bear Park houses above the entrance, 100 meters high, from Bern’s Rope Park offers you an exceptional, 4 brown bears. Open daily, entry is free of where you can enjoy an excellent view! active adventure in close touch with nature, charge. Bus 12 to station Bärengraben. Mon – Sat 10 am – 5 pm, Sun 11.30 am – with 50 platforms of various degrees of 7 House of Parliament (Bundeshaus). 5 pm, (latest entry to climb the spire is 30 min. difficulty. Open daily (April – October) budget accommodation Kappelenbrücke campsite E S Seat of Swiss government and parliament.S before closing time). Free admission to the from 10 am – 7 pm (Oct until 6 pm); admis- A A E R L S T BERN S L S D ME A N 3 R N Bern Backpackers/Hotel Glocke, Rathaus- Free guidedT tours (duration 45 min.),A Mon – cathedral, entry to the spire costs CHF 4.–. sion CHF 36.–, students CHF 31.–. From the D S T - G U WE S EN A TZ N W Ü S E H E E C T S Y 9 S gasse 75 (031 311 37 71) ›››www.bernbackS - R. Sat atF 9, 10, 11 am and at 2, 3 and 4 pm, SwissR Alpine Museum. History of the train station take tram 3 or 5 or bus 19 or S T L A RS S E A R E I E T OF A R S LH T DS XE R S S G L A T E E FE D T W H S R EN 4 C E A R packers.ch; Hotel Landhaus,O Altenberg- plus Thursdays 5, 6 and 7 pm (no tours dur- SSwiss Alps.KE Special exhibits, multimedia 28 until Thunplatz. H G S OC N E ST E E SS . A UARTIERG L Q str. 6 (031 348 03 05) ›››www.albertfrida.ch;TR ingE parliamentary sessions; then access to show, audio-visual information in 4 lan- On really sweltering days cool down in and S S O LD S R E A R F R N U A SE E T O S N S I A 5 N TR Berne Youth Hostel, Weihergasse 4 (031 Kthe public galleries only). PassportR or ID guages.S Mon 2 – 5.30 pm, Tue – Sun 10 am – on the shore of the beautiful meandering N R E IN D A E A S NR U E T R S P EIT P B D R BR E I I R L T S I A ÜC A S

N S L A W A river Aare. card required! Check-in at the latest 25 min- 5.30 pm. AdmissionR CHF 12.–, students In the popular free public bath 326 11 11) ›››www.youthhostel.ch/bern; S K G C T E K S T S E E T I R R E LORRAINE S S F S T E A - E A R S S R A w E N S E S R Marzili Etap Hotel Bern Expo, Am Guisanplatz 4 utes before the start of the tourG (security CHF 8.–. E HelvetiaplatzS A 4, cross the bridge you can float down the river S E S T AU S S E LW S R A U S S E R CH O T T S A Z S S S L R R M D TE T G T E

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M A (031 335 12 12) ›››www.etaphotel.com entrance, east side of Parliament Building)!E at Casinoplatz.F (good swimmers only). A great spot for a W H N S C R E

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E B ND M U A N ZÄ In view of the large number ofD visitorsE it 0 ZoologicalBE Gardens Dählhölzli. Attrac- self-catering barbecue is the park Eich- H R TT V I E IN Y KTORI S G W A ER STR S AS AS IN S R TR is advisable to sign up the day beforeVIK TORIARA (031 tive woodlandE setting. A unique selection holz (right next to the river – this is where A R. T S ST S S R F E LLE L A E H H G 322 85 22). of EuropeanT and exotic fauna. Open daily people from Bern spend many of their sum- E T S O E L G LS C H Unitobler building 8 SCHÜTZENM A Münster-CathedralE from 1421. A prime 8 am – 6.30 pm, CHF 10.–, students CHF 8.–. mer days). FT A K S S T C CHÄ S T Ü NZL TR R IST A EB RAS E S Botanischer S S S IN E E example of SwissT A late Gothic architecture. Take busE 19 to Tierpark. Mt. Gurten. Popular day-trip destination! SS R S . R Garten R S S $ RA O A save money L O N T N EN R L S BER T Ä R G N S E RGSTR. Panorama of the city and the Alps. Reached G L BU G L N A Kunstmuseum IE E S A LÄNGGASSE AN RLA S H R CHSTR S O 6 ASS T Bikes to borrow free of EchargeR (they H q in 25 min. by tram no. 9 to Wabern. Get off A S O S D

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K A U SS A E A LD SCH H 1 AA ÜTTE E ST N S R R to Bahnhofplatz), at Hirschengraben and B AS K up here (see events on page 17)! E S RN C RG E L ER Ö H GA SSE NÄ O S A G T EL Franz. K I E N Station GA 6 SS B 4 R Z E RU L N E I E N at Zeughausgasse, open daily from May NEU Kirche GA HALD S And when it rains? Bern’s six kilometers of N i ENG WAISENHAUS- ZE SS ASS T S AS UG HA STG U T - S HA LD PO A DT SE E PLATZ US E E T BA C H S T RAS G. GASS Z

S T- TZ S (Hirschengraben from June) until the endT 6 Käfigturm PO NYD arcades, with shops, restaurants and ca- A EG R RATHAUSGASSE G G. NY E D Rosengarte n A Rathaus S EGGBR PL S ÜCKE S GA S TS S EI Heiliggeistkirche U GK E 3 HTI A = EC BAHNHOF- MA GER 2 of October, 7.30 am – 9.30 pm (before May SE RK H Einstein E fés, are weather-proof. Window-shopping GAS TG ASS E KRAMGASSE S S . PLATZ N PITAL BÄREN- GA G S R House N N Bärengraben PLATZ ER R O Zytglogge JUN K E Z K B AT R RG PL MÜNSTERGASSE E pick up at Milchgässli only!).L A U PBikesE N are free ENBE SCHAUPLATZGASSE AMTHAUSGASSE 8 G is fun! Or visit the Hammam & Spa at S T R A S S E BUB BUNDES- Münster . CASINO- HERRENGASSE RKG N S PLATZ E E - PLATZ C N E RW of charge for 4 hours, every additional H KOCH ERGASSE MATTE B E LD Weihergasse 3 (next to the youth hostel) E S A N W Plattform U E A S E 6 L A T S CH A F B 11 F W S I I S N E A S H E AS R AS SE R R E SG 7 DGAS C I E BA S R ND S N U U S H G B hour costs CHF 1.– Deposit of CHFT 20.– and Bundeshaus K and enjoy the spirit of oriental bathing. G M A S I R . R R T EF FIN C A A R S T R A S S E E GERST R H S ASSE SS P E L - O N R passport or ID required. Bern’sR best sum- G Open daily (Tue, women only!). Or spend F BE E GASSE R E L funicular HE L I 5 L E E D E W S S B E S R S A mer deal! Ü Aare the day at Westside, the recently opened S R C A K T K A R E P T S E E S LLEN S M S R URI U STRA A SSE - A leisure and shopping complex offering a JO S R A I TRA T B SSE S N K Kunsthalle O C 9 GR E M HELVETIA- S N MA wide range of shopping varieties and the RIE NS Y C E TRASSE H Alpines PLATZ PH W G L A R Historisches E E MARZILI N Z U Museum S

S H S T A O R Museum ÜB R Bernaqua Adventure Pool & Spa with S ST T E E R L S A I S S S 0 w W . RA E T J E R T H U G T S U N S T I N R fitness (a superb oasis of relaxation and AT H S G E A G EM M E T F R L U R U - H L R A Ü O Naturhistorisches LU B V A M . Q E S R I MO

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Eichholz campsite bern 39 events entertainment, fun & parties

April 28th & 29th Huge flower market at Bundesplatz • Landhaus (Altenbergstrasse 4 – 6, next to Bärengraben) has a beautiful restaurant May 14th Bern Grand-Prix. Biggest running event in German speaking and serves good food! Switzerland! • Restaurant Lötschberg (Zeughausgasse 16) is a cute, modern place to be at, June 19th Swiss Frauenlauf (Women’s Race – with almost 13,000 chat the night away, try some tasty, reasonably priced Swiss food, meet locals, participants) taste local wine and listen to local DJs! ›››www.loetschberg-aoc.ch June 23rd Herbert Grönemeyer at the Stade de Suisse • Reitschule, a former riding school at Neubrückstrasse 8 (031 306 69 69) near July 14th – 17th Gurten-Festival. This open-air music festival on Mt. Gurten is the main station, is the place for alternative culture: bar, small restaurant, disco, legendary for its great atmosphere whatever the weather! concerts, parties and art. Bring your sleeping bag and sleep outside or in the huge tent! • Bierhübeli – bar/brasserie/concerts at Neubrückstrasse 43 (031 301 92 92). End-July – end-Aug Open-air cinema at Grosse Schanze (university) Check daily press for latest concerts. ›››www.bierhuebeli.ch Aug 1st Swiss National Day – party in the old town and on • Gaskessel, Sandrainstrasse 25 (031 372 49 00), has concerts, live music and discos. Mount Gurten ›››www.gaskessel.ch Aug 11th – 13th Buskers Bern. Street musicians’ festival in the old town • Dampfzentrale, Marzilistrasse 47 (031 311 63 37). Electro, jazz, funk and soul, Aug 11th – 24th Circus Knie at Allmend art exhibitions and dance performances. ›››www.dampfzentrale.ch Aug 19th – 21st Fair and fun at Bümpliz-Chilbiplatz • Shakira, Maulbeerstrasse 3, is a dance hall with a variety of Latino rhythms. • Wasserwerk, Wasserwerkgasse 5 (031 312 12 31), is a famous nightspot in Bern. Market Concerts, dance, bars, disco, after hours and a lot more fun. ›››www.wasserwerkclub.ch Tue & Sat Fruit, vegetable and flower market at Bundesplatz and at • Comeback-Bar (Rathausgasse 42) is a disco for gays, and Samurai (Aarbergergasse 35) Bärenplatz (and on Bärenplatz daily from May until October) is a hip place for gays, lesbians & heteros to party the night away. Tue, Thu & Sat Traders’ market at Waisenhausplatz (May until October) • Bar Aux Petits Fours, at Kramgasse 67, is a small gay bar. First Sat monthly Crafts market at Münsterplatz • The bar Les Amis (Rathausgasse 63) is a famous spot to prepare for your night out. First Sun monthly Flea market and brocante at Reitschule Downstairs is the cosy concert location Wohnzimmer. Third Sat monthly Flea market at Mühleplatz in the Matte (May – October) • Kairo (Dammweg 43) and Lorraine Brasserie (Quartiergasse 17) are cozy, laid back restaurants and concert locations where young and freaky people of Bern meet. • O’Bolles (Bollwerk 35) is a nice restaurant and café to hang out at and chat the night away. • Markthalle (Bubenbergplatz 9). The old market hall offers food and drinks from all over the globe. • Check out the Kornhauscafé and the Kornhauskeller, with its medieval ambience, at Kornhausplatz 18. • Art’café / Eclipse (Gurtengasse 6). Hits, party music, disco and bar. • Propeller-Bar (Aarbergergasse 30) is another disco and bar. BERN BACKPACKERS – Hotel Glocke • Turnhalle / PROGR at Speichergasse 4, – one of Bern’s hip places. Stay with us in the centre of the old town • Club Bonsoir (Aarbergergasse 33 -35). Recently opened club hosting international DJs, 8 Minutes walk from the main station. musicians and artists ›››www.bonsoir.ch we offer beds in DORMITORIES from Sfr 35.– • Liquid Club (Genfergasse 10). This modern and elegant location represents urban SINGLE ROOMS from Sfr. 74.–, DOUBLE ROOMS from Sfr. 94.– clubbing on 4 floors. ›››www.liquid-bern.ch clean, safe and comfortable, no curfew! • ISC Club (Neubrückstrasse 10). International Student Club of the University of Bern. no membership required! International DJs and party every weekend ›››www.isc-club.ch fully equipped kitchen (open 24 hours), free wireless, internet, ‹‹‹ english movies every night, laundry facilities, free lockers, free luggage storage, discounts on swiss army knives

VISIT BERN… UNESCO world heritage sight • 6 kilometers of arcades with cafes and shops let you explore the old town…even when it rains… • free bikes, free swimming pools – fl oat down the Aare River… • interesting bars, clubs, culture centers and cellar theatres • Einstein house, Paul Klee museum, Münster cathedral, … … and explore Switzerland from here! Easy day trips to Interlaken, Jungfrau top of Europe, Lucerne, Zürich, Basel, Geneva… Etap Hotel - BOOK ONLINE www.bernbackpackers.ch Sleep well at the best Price Join us on facebook!

BE SMART. STAY SMART.

Comfortable rooms with shower/WC, TV Double and bunk bed for up to 3 persons ”All you can eat” breakfast for CHF 11.- p.p. Reception open 24/7 Just 10 minutes by tram from the city center (take tram 9 to Guisanplatz) *Price per night/room excl. city tax

Bern Backpackers – Hotel Glocke Etap Hotel Bern Expo - Am Guisanplatz 4 - Tel. 031 335 12 12 Rathausgasse 75, Bern 3011, Tel.: 0041 (0)31 311 3771 The room for 1, 2 or 3 persons from CHF 89* [email protected] / www.bernbackpackers.ch 8 hotels in Switzerland and 400 in Europe - www.etaphotel.com 40 basel

practical information Open Tue – Sun 11 am – 6 pm, closed on Monday. Admission CHF15.–, students CHF 10.–. At Fondation Beyeler at Baselstr. 101 in How to get there: Riehen (take tram no 6 to Riehen Dorf) you’ll Basel has an inter- find an exceptional collection of work by national airport (the EuroAirport Basel- modern masters! The impressive, approx. Mulhouse Freiburg, from where the city 130 meter-long building resembles a ship is reached within 19 min. by bus no. 50 lying anchored alongside the road. Open which runs four times an hour) and three daily 10 am – 6 pm (Wednesday till 8 pm). train stations. 1 The Swiss railway sta- Admission CHF 25.–, students CHF 12.–, tion SBB, 2 the German station DB “Ba- cheaper admission (CHF 20.– / students discher Bahnhof” and the 3 French sta- CHF 10.–) on Mon 10 am – 6 pm and on Wed tion SNCF. Frequent, modern trains link the from 5 – 8 pm. three stations with places in Switzerland 7 The Natural History Museum at Augus and all parts of Europe. The Swiss main tinergasse 2 covers virtually all aspects of station, SBB, provides a large post office, the natural sciences. Walk through the shopping, Migros supermarket, restaurants, dinosaur hall or look at the numerous lockers, bicycle rental, rest rooms and for- fossils or bizarre, colorful minerals. You eign currency exchange. 4 Tourist offices may observe living animals in terrariums. inside the Stadtcasino (at Barfüsserplatz) Tram 6/8/11/14/16 to Schifflände or tram and inside SBB train station 1 (061 268 68 2/15 to Kunstmuseum. Open Tue – Sun 68, valid for both tourist offices). The main 10 am – 5 pm (closed on Monday). Admis- post office is in the center (Freie Strasse). sion CHF 7.–, students CHF 5.–, free admis- @ Internet station at your hostel. sion every first Sunday of the month. 8 Kunstmuseum (Museum of Art) at www.basel.com St. Alban-Graben 16 is one of the leading www.backpacker.ch art houses in Switzerland. Highlights are paintings of Van Gogh, Gaugin, Cézanne and Picasso. And the museum owns the world’s largest collection of works by the $ save money Basel’s red town hall Holbein family. Open Tue – Sun 10 am – All visitors who stay at a Basel hotel/hostel 6 pm, admission CHF 15.–, students 5.–. receive a free Mobility Ticket valid for the asel is located at the elbow of the Rhine on the borders of France and Germany. 9 The Puppenhausmuseum at Steinen-

whole stay (max. 30 days). This gives you Its open-minded inhabitants give Basel its special character. The town has the vorstadt 1 is the fascinating exhibition of unlimited tram and bus travel without oldest university in Switzerland W (1460) andR housesS many museums and theaters. teddy bears, dolls, toys, dollhouses and

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T. S S R S Park E I Z T S S T JO R R SSE W AT R Basel Bad. – Kirchrain 10, (061 272 05 72), ›››www. TR TE CHF 5.–. ERS A E S G R A ETLIN A S S H O TR S S A I L S N A A S E Station S D E R H SS ASSE E E T NN A A S R S A TR L N E E S S R E M E L S E H T LB E IE - ME R 0 U E R A youthhostel.ch/basel. For more accommo- R Basel’s zoo is laid out in a large park ASSE M C H G L R E A ST I R -RIN N R highlights I A W ERASMUSE R E ANNS SS G AS H S E A R-PLATZ R E E S OHP G ST SS dation in Basel ask at the tourist office. J IT G A RA S N C near the SBB station and has a varied R

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U T . A U N D Museum ALBA ERG S T N- ENB T BARFÜSSER Museum R VOR HL L Museum für R S Ü R TMA B A S N S DT SS A NHAR -PLATZ E 9 B T T E A A Gegenwartskunst E S INE EO NBE GR R S N S L - T - or CHF 25.– (incl. means of transport), for RG N A . A K roof and rebuilt following an earthquake A I E B Kunstmuseum LB R L SSE A C A N H - 5 Puppenhaus- T. VO R A S RS A SE E TAD IN WE S T ID F museum S ENGASSE E C IE RA H H 8 E R E 48 h CHF 27.–, and for 72 h CHF 35.–. It ST N in 1356. Open Mon – Sat 10 am – 5 pm, Sun A = U B R VO E W ND TE R AA A S E S T Theatre T T A G H A ZÜRCH R U D T ER ST E D RA S S E ASSE BER A E - T T H gives you free admission to some muse- G V S 11.30 am – 5 pm, entry is free of charge. I S A A RS O . R D R GA V E Z D E SSE EG UKT T N S S L S S G A E T W E R S R S E RA O N A G T N T A M SS EL N G L S I E G AGE W ER E N N ST NL E RA TST = I N T ERG -A EL E E E AESCHEN- N RA Swiss Architecture ums and to the zoo, free guided tours of G- B A E For many people the T . EN S S R LB ST SS VI N S E E J . A G E M AD S ST RN PLATZST AS L D A A S I O E AKOB RE E E TR L EN N U S K S T E S N I L K YF N W L S S E EG SS T A SB LBEI T R A RHO STR S- AS E A SE T EVOG S S AS TR S S S S H S T E RA - E TR S Museum the town, free ferry rides, reductions for I L AR (Switzerland’s only museum of E T N N R GS L E E RASS G I A AS T T D A RS W H S ST R I T R GERSTR TE B E S A N R N B E G E A N R A LL SS I A IS EN E E E L IN L B P S L E SE S E S A A concerts and discos, reductions in vari- K R architecture), at Steinenberg 7, is a major R 0 T G NGRA GA E E RS H G SC INE E E E E A AN NG S L ST S E E N A ous shops, a 30 % reduction on car rental CE S LGASS R reason for coming to Basel. The principal Bâle NT S GE R A SE N ALBA CENTRAL- TR S EA ERST SNCF S E A G BAHNPL. N TR H E SS S IN NS T A HAL L

i T R E G 3 M G RA TR GE EL E E A S VO W S SS NG - ST. E N GR S and reductions on boat trips and taxi U themes are: Swiss architecture from the E A N JSA B EN A U IA N K A D R E R O C T Rosenfeld C O S SSE N BS HS E B A H Z RG S - T S E T R ME E S R TR R E Park T RA S I B T N S A H RS A E RA SE R N E S S G G SP S T fares. E T S S Classical Modern period, international con- IN W G 1 E E - ARTE N E N E Ü R W H E T I N E N HÖ S R LE BI S E S S TRAS Basel SBB U A R E R S SE H Station TR . A Powered by Rough Guides temporary architecture, and the relation- ENST A H S SE ET R A G R A M basel 41

events entertainment, fun & parties April 30th – May 13th Jazz Festival Basel (at different places) • Das Schiff on Westquaistrasse 19 is a ship at dock (with a sandy beach-like deck and May 16th Jovanotti at St. Jakobhalle palm trees) with an excellent restaurant, disco and chill out music till late! May 21st – 24th Young Stage – International Circus Festival at Rosentalanlage • A place with events ranging from live music to DJs to theatre is Kaserne at June 10th – 22nd Circus “Knie” at Rosentalanlage Klybeckstrasse 1b. June 24th Sonisphere Festival at St.Jakobpark (with Iron Maiden, Alice • Brauerei Fischerstube, at Rheingasse 45, brews its own beer. Cooper, Slipknot and others) • Sky Lounge is Basel’s highest bar (31st floor), with the most spectacular toilets July 1st Sommerblues Basel. Blues festival in Kleinbasel (5 open-air stages) (a real view from the 30th floor!), at Hotel Ramada at Messeplatz. July 26th – Aug 13th S’isch im Fluss (different concerts every evening on the raft • A good place to meet people is Unternehmen Mitte at Gerbergasse 30. at Rheinbrücke) • Cargo Kultur Bar, at St.Johanns-Rheinweg 46, is a nice bar, Djs on Fri & Sat. July 31st Swiss National Day celebration, party in the city center with • Elle et Lui, at Rebgasse 39, and Cupido Bar and Lounge (next to Elle et Lui huge fireworks at Rebgasse 43) are Basel’s best gay bars. Aug 1st Swiss National Day • A nice anarchic place is Hirscheneck, at Lindenberg 23 (also close to Elle et Lui), Aug 4th – 28th Open-air cinema at Münsterplatz with live music or disco (new punk) most Fri and Sat. Brunch every Sun, Aug 16th Annual Rhine swimming event, already a tradition for Baslers and you don’t need to eat for the rest of the day! and non-Baslers • Kuppel, at Binningerstrasse 14, is like a huge igloo. Different style of music each night. Oct 21st – Nov 13th Avo Session Basel (some of the most famous artists from the • Blinde Kuh, at Dornacherstrasse 192, offers dining in utter darkness. It’s a special genres of pop, soul, rock, Latin, blues and R&B at Messe Basel) experience indeed to sit and dine in this completely dark restaurant (the people Oct 29th – Nov 13th Autumn fair (biggest and oldest kermis market in Switzerland) serving you here are blind). May book ahead. Oct 29th – Nov 6th Swiss Indoors. World’s best tennis (incl. Roger Federer) • Very good Thai food at very reasonable prices to be had at mük dam restaurant and at St.Jakobshalle take-away (Dornacherstrasse 220). • Atlantis, at Klosterberg 13, is a music temple. Club nights with DJs, live concerts, Markets food and more. Daily (except Sun) City market (food, flowers, handicraft and more) at Marktplatz Saturdays Flea markets at Petersplatz 2nd & 4th Flea market at Barfüsserplatz Wed monthly

ship between architecture and art. Open 28th, Tue, Wed & Fri 10 am – 6 pm, Thu 10 am cal museum in north-west Switzerland is to the “Augst” stop, from there a 10-minute Tue, Wed & Fri 11 am – 6 pm, Thu 11 am – – 7 pm, Sat 1 – 5 pm and Sun 10 am – 5 pm one of the most attractive outings around walk. Or by boat from Basel-Schifflände 8.30 pm, Sat & Sun 11 am – 5 pm (closed on (closed on Mon); CHF 10.– / students CHF 8.–. Basel. The extremely interesting open-air to “Augst” or “Kaiseraugst” (summer only, Mon); CHF 10.– / students CHF 6.–. If you’re halfway interested in design, you’ll complex of The Roman Town of Augusta call 061 639 95 07); from there a 15-minute The Schaulager at Ruchfeldstr. 19 in Mün love the Vitra Design Museum, one of the Raurica offers over 20 places of interest, walk to the Roman Museum (journey time chenstein (approx. 10 minutes by tram no. world’s leading museums for industrial including the best preserved antique the- from Basel: 1½ hours). Opening hours: out- 11 from the Swiss railway station SBB, di- furniture design and architecture. You’ll atre north of the Alps, a unique replica of door exhibitions and the farm animal park rection Aesch until “Schaulager” stop) is an find the Vitra Design Museum across the a “Roman house” and the “Roman” farm are open daily 10 am – 5 pm; the Roman amazing venue (designed by the leading border in Germany, 10 km north of Basel animal park. No wonder the archaeologi- Museum open Tue – Sun 10 am – 5 pm and architects Herzog & De Meuron) and Basel’s in the small town of Weil-Am-Rhein (at cal site is the most visited tourist attrac- Monday 1 pm – 5 pm. You can visit most newest, highly-regarded cultural institu- Charles-Eames-Strasse 1). Take bus no. 55 tion in the Baselland Canton today, and of the sights of August Raurica free of tion (intended primarily for specialists as from Claraplatz directly to Vitra (passport enjoys an international reputation. charge. Entry to the Roman Museum and restorers, curators, researchers, teachers needed!). Open Mon – Sun 10 am – 6 pm; How to get there: Fast train from Basel to the Roman House costs CHF 7.–, students and students). But it’s also open to the pub- admission Euro 8.– / student Euro 6.50. Kaiseraugst: 10 minute walk to the Roman CHF 5.–. lic for occasional exhibitions and special The Roman Town of Augusta Raurica. A Museum and the central points of interest; or events: in 2011 from March until August visit to this largest open-air archaeologi- bus number 70 from Basel-Aeschenvorstadt ‹‹‹

Music raft “S isch im Fluss” with view of Greater Basel 42 Northeastern Switzerland & Liechtenstein

of the enormous impact of the water. The viewpoint from Schloss (castle) Laufen is best! From Schloss Laufen (a castle overlooking the Rhine falls) a stairway leads down alongside the splashing water to the lookout platform “Känzeli”, where the roaring waters tumble inches from your nose. Starting from Schloss Laufen you can take a round trip in the Rhine falls basin or a boat ride to the rocks in its midst and climb up. A Rhine crossing costs CHF 2.– (duration 5 min.); a trip to the rock CHF 10.– (30 minutes); and a short roundtrip CHF 8.– (30 minutes). Or take the boat to Swit- zerland’s biggest adventure park. Boat ticket from Schloss Laufen costs CHF 2.–, the park is open daily from 10 am to 7 pm, entry CHF 40.–. August 20th sees a mighty fireworks display staged on the riverside (at about 9.30 pm)! The 4 km riverside walk from Schaffhausen to the Rhine falls takes about 45 minutes. Or you could take S-train no 33 to Schloss Laufen train station (takes 5 minutes and is possible from April – Oct only!). Another possibility is to take bus no St. Gallen, Abbey Library 1 or 6 from Schaffhausen to “Neuhausen Zentrum”, from where the well-signposted witzerland’s rural northeast (Ostschweiz in German) is not as mountainous as Budget accommodation: St. Gallen Youth falls are a five-minute walk away. Or from some other cantons, but compensates with lush green hills that are picture perfect. Hostel, Jüchstrasse 25 (071 245 47 77) ›››www. Neuhausen Zentrum (Zentralstrasse) you SBodensee (Lake Constance) is a big draw for summer recreation, while Stein am youthhostel.ch/st.gallen (from St. Gallen can take the so-called “Rhine Falls Express”, Rhein’s main square could be from a fairy tale. The Rhine falls, Europe’s largest waterfall, Station, take the orange “Trogenerbähnli” a nostalgic train that brings you to the near Schaffhausen, are a dramatic spectacle. The main urban centre, St. Gallen, is world tram to the “Schülerhaus” stop, then 5 min- falls (costs CHF 6.–). famous for its extraordinarily Baroque abbey, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. utes on foot). How to get there: from/to Zurich main sta- And Liechtenstein, the world’s fourth-smallest country (only slightly larger than Man tion trains take 40 minutes to Schaffhausen hatten), offers princely perfect views from the castle above Vaduz. You’ll love this part (or 49 minutes via Winterthur to Schloss of Switzerland! Schaffhausen and Laufen). From/to Kreuzlingen you reach the Rhine Falls Schaffhausen by train (takes 55 minutes) Schaffhausen is the capital of Switzer- or by boat! some highlights land’s northernmost canton and is nick- i Tourist offices: In Schaffhausen at named “City of Oriel Windows”. With 170- Herrenacker 15 (052 632 40 20); in Neu- odd examples of oriel windows this nick- hausen at Rheinfallquai (052 670 02 37). St. Gallen name is well-earned. Schaffhausen’s beau- ›››www.schaffhauserland.ch St. Gallen is Switzerland’s seventh largest At St. Jakobstrasse 37 you’ll find Switzer- tiful riverside old town is crammed full of Budget accommodation: city and has a busy modern centre and land’s first beer bottle museum, with well-preserved architecture, lending the In Schaffhausen: Schaffhausen Youth Hos- a beautiful old town. The centerpiece is 2,000 bottles from 260 different breweries cobbled streets considerable charm. Two tel “Belair”, Randenstrasse 65 (052 625 88 the impressive Baroque abbey (built from on display (open Mon – Fri 8 am – 6.30 pm, of the most grandiose houses are the Zum 00, closed after Oct 30th) ›››www.youth- 1755 to 1767), declared a UNESCO World Sat 8 am – 5 pm, entry is free of charge!). Ochsen house at Vorstadt 17 and the house hostel.ch/schaffhausen (15 minutes on foot Heritage Site. The interior of the church An architectural highlight in St. Gallen Zum Ritter at Vordergasse 65, both with a or by bus no. 3 direction Sommerwies to is vast! It’s opulently painted, decorated is the “stadtlounge” (city lounge), just Gothic façade and decorated with striking the “Wiesli” stop or by bus No. 6 direction with stucco works and the choir area 5 minutes on foot from the main station. Renaissance frescoes. A 15-minute walk Neuhausen to the “Hallenbad” stop). with its 84 superbly carved seats and Built by artists it invites you to linger from the centre brings you up to the Munot, At Schloss Laufen: Dachsen Youth Hostel, the historical organ is an artwork in it- and pass the time. The major event in a fortification atop a vine-covered hill in an annexe of Schloss Laufen, the castle self. The cathedral really is glorious and St. Gallen is its three-day rock festival, where you’ll view the town in all its mean- overlooking the Rhine falls (052 659 61 52, should not be missed! Within the same Switzerland’s biggest open-air festival dering glory. This is Schaffhausen’s trade- closed after Oct 30th) ›››www.youthhostel. complex of buildings as the cathedral, (from June 30th – July 3rd). mark circular fortress (admission free, open ch/dachsen and just adjacent to it, is the famous Factory visits are within easy reach from May – Sept 8 am – 8 pm, April and Oct 9 am – abbey library, one of the oldest librar- St. Gallen. You can watch chocolate produc- 5 pm). Schaffhausen also has a casino (at ies in Europe (open Mon – Sat 10 am – tion at Schoggi-Land in Flawil or visit the Herrenacker 7, open daily 12 noon – 3 am, Stein am Rhein 5 pm, Sun 10 am – 4 pm). It’s famous for show cheese factory in Stein (for details see Fri & Sat until 5 am). Little Stein am Rhein (just 20 km east of its stunning interior and for its huge col- “factory visits” on page 50). The very best excursion here is the short Schaffhausen) is a perfectly preserved lection of rare and unique medieval books How to get there: direct trains link St. Gal- trip westward to the Rhine falls, Europe’s medieval village. Over one million people and manuscripts. The Textile Museum (at len with Zurich (65 minutes) and Chur largest waterfalls, 150 meters wide and pay their respects to this pretty town every Vadianstrasse 2) provides an interesting (1 hour 35 minutes). 23 meters high! For a more subdued view, year, so to enjoy this beautiful village you and well-presented collection of St. Gallen i Tourist office: at Bahnhofplatz 1a next the falls on the north bank of the river are should stay overnight; it’s only after 5 pm embroidery, famous throughout the whole to the train station (071 227 37 37) ›››www. less steep and less violent. Cross the bridge and before 10 am that there’s much peace world (open from April 26th 10 am – 5 pm). st.gallen-bodensee.ch to the south side to get a true impression here. The Rathausplatz, often acclaimed as Northeastern Switzerland & Liechtenstein 43

the most picturesque square in Switzer- land, is truly the type of place postcards were invented to celebrate! And the line of facades along the south side of the whole square is dazzling! A medieval market is held every Saturday morning! There are plenty of picturesque narrow lanes and alleys to explore. A manor house at Under- stadt 18, dating from 1279, is the Museum Lindwurm (open daily 10 am – 5 pm), entry CHF 5.–, students CHF 3.–; the desk keeps English notes. Up the hill above the town, Hohenklingen castle provides a great view and a commendable restaurant! How to get there: there are half hourly trains from/to Schaffhausen (takes 24 minutes); from/to Zurich main station trains take 40 minutes to Schaffhausen. But much nicer is to travel by boat (at least six boats a day arrive at Stein am Rhein, three from Schaffhausen downriver and three from Kreuzlingen upriver). i Tourist office: at Oberstadt 3 (052 742 20 90). Budget accommodation: Stein am Rhein Youth Hostel, Hemishoferstrasse 87 (052 The Rhine Falls near Schaffhausen 741 12 55) ›››www.youthhostel.ch/stein

How to get there: to/from St. Gallen take Vaduz, the country’s capital and seat of unique flight show, costs CHF 8.– (buses Bodensee (Lake Constance) S-train no 3 (takes 55 minutes). government. Vaduz castle is not open to from Vaduz to Malbun run half-hourly and Bodensee is shared by Switzerland, Ger- To/from Schaffhausen or Stein am Rhein the public, but it’s worth the climb up take 31 minutes). many and Austria. At its southeastern you should take a boat. At least 3 boats a the hill; at the top, there are magnificent How to get there: the nearest airport to corner is Austria, focused around the town day (May – Sep) make the beautiful jour- vistas! Although Liechtenstein shares the Liechtenstein is Zurich. Regular post buses of Bregenz. The largest settlement on the ney along the Rhine river a peaceful ride! Swiss postal system, it issues its own post- run to Schaan and Vaduz from Sargans and German shore is the city of Konstanz, sepa- i Tourist office: at Sonnenstrasse 4 (071 age stamps and they are highly collect- Buchs, both of them on the main Swiss train rated from its contiguous Swiss suburb of 672 38 40). able. The small Postage Stamp Museum line between St. Gallen and Chur. There are Kreuzlingen only by an arbitrary inter- Budget accommodation: Kreuzlingen Youth (at Städle 37 in Vaduz) contains 300 frames usually at least 3 buses an hour from the national frontier. Kreuzlingen welcomes Hostel, Promenadenstrasse 7 (071 688 26 63) of national stamps issued since 1912 (open Swiss border towns of Buchs and Sargans you to a wide range of water-sports i.e. ›››www.youthhostel.ch/kreuzlingen (on the Tue – Sun 10 am – 5 pm). Schaan, the village that stop in Schaan/Vaduz. To Sargans it canoeing and kayaking as well as kayak- lake shore, 5 minutes to walk from the rail- just 3 km from Vaduz, is an ideal place to takes 55 minutes from Zurich, from Chur ing courses. The youth hostel lies in the way station “Kreuzlingen Hafen (port)”. start on hiking and cycling tours. Liech- 18 minutes, from St. Gallen 1 hour 9 min- middle of a park on the shores of the lake tenstein has some 400 km of hiking trails utes; to Buchs it takes 1 hour 10 minutes and has its own football and volleyball through Alpine scenery (ask at the tourist from Zurich, from Chur 37 minutes and facilities. But Bodensee is also an El Dorado The Principality of office for the Liechtenstein hiking map). from St. Gallen 56 minutes. for skaters and bikers: The Bodensee cycle Liechtenstein As well, skating and biking on the Rhine i Tourist office: in Vaduz at Städtle 37 path measures over 250 km in total and the The principality of Liechtenstein is the Dam are very popular. The friendly people (00423 239 63 00). combination of bicycle/ship makes it pos- world’s fourth-smallest country, only from the tourist office or at your hostel Budget accommodation in Schaffhausen: sible to go on attractive, border-crossing slightly larger than Manhatten. It does not will help you with route suggestions and Schaan-Vaduz Youth Hostel, untere Rütti- cycling tours (information and route sug- have an international airport, access from excursion tips. An exciting experience is gasse 6 (00423 23 250 22, closed after Oct gestions are available at the tourist office). Switzerland is by local bus. But don’t make a visit in the Galina falconry in Malbun. 23rd) ›››www.youthhostel.ch/schaan (from There are dozens of excursion cruises all the mistake of thinking you’ve arrived in Never again will you get as close to eagles, Sargans or Buchs take the post bus and get round the lake during summer season and Switzerland, even though the Swiss Franc hawks, falcons and eagle-owls. From May off at “Mühleholz” stop, from there it’s just as a Swiss Pass or Swiss Youth Pass holder is legal currency and all travel documents until Oct (only in good weather) daily at 5 minutes to walk). you even travel free of charge along the are valid! Liechtenstein even has its own 3 pm (except on Mondays), a professional Swiss shore! royal family, who live in the castle above falconer and his birds of prey put on a ‹‹‹

IMPRINT Publisher: Bernd Fasching; Edition and Marketing: Maria Huber; Design/Layout: Ruedi Oetiker; Translations Consultant and Proof-Reader: Rick Dumovich. Pictures Copyright © by Switzerland Tourism; Swiss-Image.ch / Christof Sonderegger / Christian Perret / Gian Marco Castelberg & Maurice Haas / Stephan Engler / S. Boegli / Lucia Degonda / Samuel Mizrachi / Beat Mueller / Christoph Schuerpf / Roland Gerth / David Willen / Toni Mohr / Thomas Andenmatten / Marcus Gyger / Markus Zimmermann / David Willen / Walter Storto / Jost von Allmen / Martin Ruetschi / Giancarlo Cattaneo / Andrea Badrutt; istockphoto.com; Flughafen Zuerich AG; ENGADIN St. Moritz; Toggenburg Tourismus; Lausanne Tourisme; Samnaun Tourismus; Braunwald Tourismus; Zürichsee Tourismus; Montreux-Vevey Tourisme; Pilatus Railway; St. Gallen-Bodensee Tourismus; Thurgau Tourismus; Jungfraubahnen; Jungfrau Railways; Basel Tourismus; Die Post/Switzerland; Ferienregion Heidiland; Rough Guide London; Lonely Planet Publ. Ltd Australia. Printed by Zofinger Tagblatt AG, Zofingen, Switzerland, Circulation: 45,000. The publishers/editor do not accept the responsibility for any inconvenience occuring through the useoftheinforma- tion given in this publication. Copyright © by Swiss Backpacker News (SBN), Am Bach 7, 5502 Hunzenschwil/Switzerland, phone +41 (0)62 892 26 75, http://www.backpacker.ch e-mail: [email protected]. Ad prices 2011: 1/ 1-page CHF 4,630.–/4,380.–; 1/ 2-page CHF 2,360.–/2,350.–; 1/ 4-page CHF 1,480.–/1,210.–; 1/ 8-page CHF 870.–/660.–; broadside small CHF 985.–/820.–, large CHF 1,710.–/1,430.– (VAT not included). Deadline for the next edition (winter 2011-2012): September 16th 2011! Worldwide distribution of Swiss Backpacker News by Switzerland Tourism (Mailing House) and many others. Within Switzerland: All major tourist offices, Switzerland Tourism, Swiss Backpackers, Swiss Youth Hostels and many other budget hostels, mailings and more. More information on the upcoming edition is available from the editorial staff of Swiss Backpacker News, phone +41 (0)62 892 26 75 or e-mail [email protected] 44 grison

linked resorts bombard you with their beauty. The crystal clear Heidsee invites you for swimming, sailing and surfing. The Heidsee lake is a dream for anyone seeking action or wanting to relax. The lido, with its many attractions, is on the left shore of the lake, whilst the right shore is a nature reserve. There is a woodland wonderland, as well as plenty of soaring peaks. The Par- paner Rothorn (2,865 m) is the highest point reached by cable car. You’ll find several walking trails starting from the summit. The Lenzerheide valley is also a challenging paragliding and hang-gliding area (but only recommended for experienced pilots!). And once in this region you should not miss the world’s longest toboggan run (see TIP below). How to get to Valbella: Hourly buses from Chur (takes 33 minutes). Bus between Val- bella and Lenzerheide takes only 4 minutes. i Tourist office: at Voa principala 68 in Lenzerheide (081 385 11 20) ›››www.lenzer heide.com Budget accommodation: Valbella Youth A via ferrata, or fixed-rope climb, is located at the southern entrance to the village of Pontresina Hostel, Voa Sartons 41, Valbella (081 384 12 08, closed April 3rd – June 10th and after rison (Graubünden in German) is one of Switzerland’s biggest cantons and hosts station). There are two jumping ramps Oct 23rd) ›››www.youthhostel.ch/valbella many famous resorts, including the Flims-Laax-Falera, St. Moritz, Davos, Scuol and to ensure a soft, safe landing there is Gand many more. These destinations are all famous for sports, and there is a lot an airbag in place. Video cameras have to discover: 150 valleys, 615 lakes, beautiful mountain landscapes, small villages, the been installed here as well. Every jump TIP! Swiss National Park, adventures, hiking and biking trails. Enjoy a trip through the area is recorded and then shown on the gi- Once in Lenzerheide / Valbella you of Grison with the famous railways such as the Glacier Express, the Bernina Express, the ant video screen. This means that those should not miss the world’s lon- Engadin Express and the Palm Express. (Check the discount list on page 5 for validity of taking part can then analyse their time in gest toboggan run at the Alp Pradaschier your ticket). the air and monitor their landing on the (an aerial cable car from Churwalden spot. And even friends and fans at home brings you up there in 7 minutes, buses can also take part because all videos are between Valbella and Churwalden take some highlights available at www.swatch.com 9 minutes). The bob run winds round 31 Another highlight is the Rhine Gorge, also bends, descending 480 m over 3,100 m named the Swiss Grand Canyon, with down into the valley. Starting at the mid- Chur is the capital of Grison and only circular walk offering alpine panoramas. wildwaters class II – III ! Go rafting or learn way station (mountain restaurant), the 1 hour and 15 train minutes from Zurich In Laax all kinds of mountain bikers are kayaking within this spectacular environ- run takes between seven and ten minutes (there are 2 direct trains per hour). All vil- very welcome and can find their specific ment… Flims also has a Via Ferrata, an down to the valley station in Churwalden. lages and holiday destinations described infrastructures. Over 300 km of signposted adventourus high alpine trail up to the The bob run is open in both summer and below are reached by train or post bus mountain-bike routes are provided and at Flimserstein… a perspiring trail worth winter, and lighting means it can even be from Chur. the tourist office you can get a special bike- every step… Different packages can be done at night. guide and a mountain bike map. Besides booked online or ask at your hostel or at huge freeride and cross country areas the tourist office; the friendly people there Flims, Laax, Falera (Surselva) Laax provides you with serious downhill, will love to help you with lots of tips, book- Davos The linked sports resorts of Flims-Laax- bmx and northshore trails. All bike routes ings, bike rental etc.! Davos, located in the heart of the Alps at Falera are within easy reach of Chur (just are numbered and marked! Bikes can be How to get to Flims / Laax: Hourly pub- an altitude of 1,560 m, is famous for its 18 km west on a hillside above the Rhine). rented at Backpacker Deluxe Hotel Capri- lic buses to Flims/Laax from Chur (approx. toothpaste-fresh air and the World Eco- Over the last few winters, Laax (1,020 m) corn and at other places. 35 min). nomic Forum (held in the last week of has become a mecca for snowboarders If you want to try out new tricks, refine i Tourist offices: in Laax at Via Princi- January each year). Davos is a 4 km-long but has as well, in summer, a lot to offer. your style or just enjoy being up in the pale 91 (081 920 81 81), in Flims at Via Nova strip beside a train line and a river. It com- The summer guests can choose from dif- air – it’s all possible with the Big Airbag at 62 (081 920 92 00), ›››www.flims.com prises two contiguous areas, each with a ferent experiences, ranging from active the Bikepark Flims (next door to the base Budget accommodation: Backpacker train station: Davos-Platz and Davos-Dorf. relaxation to thrilling adventure – bath- Deluxe Hotel Capricorn, Via Cons 405, Surrounded on all sides by idyllic coun- ing in Cauma-Lake or in Lake Laax, hik- Laax (081 921 21 20, closed May 1st – 31st) tryside and breathtaking mountain scen- ing, mountain and downhill biking, skate- ›››www.caprilounge.ch ery is Davos, Europe’s highest town. In boarding, climbing, etc. An extensive summer, the opportunities for hiking and regional network of over 250 km of sign- mountain-biking are excellent! Different posted hiking trails await you here; plenty Lenzerheide / Valbella mountain railways take you to 700 km of trails winding their way through the The two linked resorts of Lenzerheide and of mountain trails and hiking paths. The forest. Alternatively, take a chair lift up to Valbella (just 30 minutes from Chur) are offers are suitable for everyone, from un- the broad, level plateau atop the Cassons the ideal places for some chill-out time or hurried walkers and sporty, gregarious Hiking in the Flims-Laax region Grat, where there is a pleasant three-hour the challenge of hiking and biking. These hikers to ambitious alpinists. grison 45

How to get to Davos: from Chur it takes approx. 1½ h. There are hourly trains and you have to change in Landquart. Or if you’re coming from Klosters, it takes 26 minutes (hourly trains). i Tourist offices: at Talstrasse 41 in Davos- Platz and at Bahnhofstrasse 8 in Davos-Dorf (081 415 21 21) ›››www.davos.ch Budget accommodation: Davos Youth palace, Horlaubenstrasse 27, Davos-Dorf (081 410 19 20) (with the local bus from Davos-Dorf as far as the Schiabach stop). ›››www.youthhostel.ch/davos

$ save money A great offer is the “Davos Klosters Inclu- sive-Card”! You get it if you stay at least one night in a Davos or/and Klostershotel/ hostel and as a holder of this card you can make use of countless services and rec- reational opportunities completely free of charge: you can travel free on all the cable cars that are in operation and, for Hikers in the Diavolezza cable car (near St. Moritz) example, go skating on the ice track, enjoy a free ride on the tin toboggan, or visit the Alpinum Schatzalp and make the most of you’re coming from Davos, it takes 26 min- than an almost unlimited amount of possi- St.Moritz (appr. 2 hrs). There are stops in the very varied active summer program. utes (hourly trains). bilities for individual hikes, St. Moritz and Celerina and St.Moritz. i Tourist office: at Alte Bahnhofstrasse 6 Celerina offer guided glacier and mountain i Tourist offices: in St. Moritz at Via Mais- (081 410 20 20) ›››www.davos.ch tours as well as excursions centering on tra 12 (081 837 33 33) ›››www.stmoritz.ch; Klosters Budget accommodation: Klosters Youth various topics (geology, botany…) during in Celerina at Plaza da la Staziun 18 (081 Only about 9 km northeast of Davos lies Hostel, “Soldanella” Talstrasse 73, (081 422 the summer season. One of the best round- 830 00 11) ›››www.celerina.ch Klosters. In winter Britain’s royals love 13 16, closed April 10th – June 10th and trip summer walks starts from Muottas Budget accommodation: this ski resort because of its charm. Where after Oct 23rd), (a 10-minute walk from In St. Moritz: St. Moritz Bad Youth Hostel, Davos has traffic, bright lights and street Klosters station). ›››www.youthhostel.ch/ Via Surpunt 60 (081 836 61 11) ›››www. bustle, Klosters has peace and quiet and klosters youthhostel.ch/st.moritz a village atmosphere. Hikers will find In Celerina: Hotel “Alte Brauerei”, Via Mais- routes of varying degrees of difficulty sit- tra 60 (081 832 18 74) ›››www.alte-brauerei.ch uated around Klosters. And the Madrisa Engadine Valley Just 10 train-minutes southeasterly from adventure park, with its climbing facili- The Engadine Valley is traditionally St. Moritz at the mouth of the Val Bernina ties, promises an adrenaline surge. The Romansh-speaking, although almost (Bernina valley) lies Pontresina. Check out region is recognized as one of the most everyone also speaks German. The valley is the pentagonal Moorish tower and the Sta attractive mountain biking destinations divided into two sections, the Lower Enga- Maria Chapel, with frescoes dating from A mountain climber in the Upper Engadine in Graubünden. The new sign posts on dine (Unterengadin) and the Upper Engadine the 13th and 15th centuries. Hiking trails the Davos Klosters mountain bike trails (Oberengadin). The main resorts in the Up- Muragl (8,177 ft). For maps and further hik- wend in all directions from Alp Languard deliver information that provides for a per Engadine are St. Moritz and Celerina. ing suggestions ask at your hostel or at the to the east of Pontresina (the chair lift to spectacular experience for all skill levels, St. Moritz is where the jet set come to play tourist office. the summit runs from the end of May to from amateur to the highly skilled cyclist. and pose. Celerina (just 2 km – a half-hour The nearby Silvaplana (40 train-minutes mid-October). In the same building as the An absolute must for all mountain biking walk – east of St. Moritz) is a little further from St. Moritz) is known for its wind- tourist office is the mountaineering school addicts is the 10,000 meter elevation fre- away from the hustle but still close to the surfing and kitesurfing. The favourable which is the largest in Switzerland. Pon- eride tour which takes advantage of the action. There are tons of activities on offer Maloja wind has turned the Lake of Silva- tresina also provides ideal conditions for five cable railways of Davos Klosters to get here in St. Moritz and Celerina. Many cable plana into a Mecca for this sport (plenty of inline skaters. The high valley is suitable you to the top of the mountains. cars give access to mountain peaks with information at www.kitesailing.ch and at for high-altitude training of all types, and How to get to Klosters: from Chur it takes an altitude of more than 10,000 ft, and to www.engadinwind.ch). the wonderful backdrop is an inspiration approx. 1 hour. There are hourly trains and numerous vantage points, opening onto How to get to St.Moritz and Celerina: from for all, making it easier to run and glide. you have to change in Landquart. Or if breath-taking panoramic views. Other Chur with the Rhaetien Railway up to Inline skates can be hired from Fähndrich 46 grison

Bikers in the village of Guarda (near Scuol)

Sport in Pontresina (Via Maistra). In addi- Budget accommodation: Pontresina Youth i Tourist office: at Stradun (beside the south facing situation the weather is often tion, biking here is very attractive. Moun- Hostel, “Cuntschett”, Via da la Staziun 46 post office; 081 861 22 22) ›››www.scuol.ch mild here. The Val Müstair really is per- tain bikers and cyclists find more than (081 842 72 23, closed April 26th – June Budget accommodation: Scuol Youth Hos- fect for hikers and bikers, with the help of 400 km of mountain bike trails and cycling 3rd and after Oct 23rd). The hostel is next tel, Prà da faira (081 862 31 31, closed April clearly-signposted paths, hikers can easily paths. Whether negotiating a steep single to the railway and bus station. ›››www. 3rd – June 7th and after Oct 23rd) ›››www. find their way around the valley. trail or a winding pass, adventure and fun youthhostel.ch/pontresina youthhostel.ch/scuol How to get to Santa Maria: the hourly are guaranteed on easy-going outings along trains from Chur to Zernez take 1 h 45 min- the side valleys, or on thrilling descents Spread-out Scuol (1,250 m) is the main utes and you have to change in Saglians. from the mountain. Even electro bikes resort in the Lower Engadine. It’s a health Sta. Maria Val Müstair From Zernez to Santa Maria the bus takes can be rented here (at Flying Cycles, Via spa, and there are around 25 mineral springs Between the upper and the lower Engadine 1 hour. Cuntschett 1 or at Camping Plauns, Plauns in the vicinity. The main draw is the mod- lies Zernez from where the main road goes i Tourist office: at the main road, (081 13). With an electro bike you enjoy the ex- ern Bogn Engiadina complex at Stradun over the Ofen Pass (2,149 m) into the idyl- 858 57 27) ›››www.val-muestair.ch cursion twice as much! Thanks to the in- (open 8 am – 9.45 pm, admission CHF 25.–). lic Val Müstair and leads then into Italy. Budget accommodation: Santa Maria in tegrated, virtually noiseless electric motor, Lower Scuol is well worth a wander; it has This route is covered by postal bus (six to Müstair Youth Hostel, Chasa Plaz, (081 858 the “manpower” is doubled when cycling some incredibly quaint Engadine dwell- nine departures a day). Santa Maria is the 56 61, closed until May 31st and after Oct – you can experience the Engadine with ings and cobbled squares. main village of the Val Müstair and has 16th) ›››www.youthhostel.ch/sta.maria half the effort and twice the enjoyment! Scuol offers tons of hiking and biking pos- a nice Gothic church. Due to the valley’s How to get to Pontresina: the hourly trains sibilities. And from here you can visit the from Chur take 2 hours and you have to Swiss National Park! The headquarters events change in Samedan. From St. Moritz it’s of the Swiss National Park is in Zernez (30 just 10 minutes by train (or 18 minutes minutes by train from Scuol). The park June 13th & 17th Start into the summer season Davos by bus). comprises 169 sq meters of woodland and Folk-music concerts at the Vaillant Arena (hockey stadium) i Tourist office: at Kongresszentrum mountains where flora and fauna flourish June 24th – 26th Dakine Trailfox Laax Rondo, Via Maistra 133, (081 838 83 00) in a stringently protected natural environ- Hundreds of free-ride bikers are drawn to the exceptional rally, ›››www.pontresina.ch ment. It’s possible to bike around the Na- the feel of the great outdoors and the legendary riders‘ party. tional Park. At the tourist office you can July 8th – 10th 18th British classic car meeting St. Moritz book a four day National Park bike-tour July 12th – 14th Windsurfing and kitesurfing Regatta Lake Silvaplana (incl. 4 nights of accommodation, trans- (near St. Moritz) port of luggage and bike map). This tour July 16th Engadin Festival Silvaplana (near St. Moritz) means nothing but pure nature. Hard Yodeling concert at Restaurant Murtèl (starts 6.30 pm) climbs, tricky single-trails and daring July 20th Street Festival Lenzerheide downhills make this tour a biking delight. July 22nd – Aug 6th Open-air cinema at Kurpark Davos Another very pleasant excursion is the Aug 6th Swiss wrestling Davos. Swiss wrestling and popular folk music one to Guarda. Guarda (just 15 minutes at Davos-Sertig (starts at 8.30 am) by train from Scuol-Tarasp), is a village of Aug 1st Swiss National Day, with parties and fireworks everywhere national importance, one of the best pre- Aug 19th – 21st New Orleans Jazz Festival Celerina served in the Engadine, and has expansive Oct 7th – 9th Maxi-Avalanche Trophy Flims views! (From the train station to the vil- More than 400 bikers tumble down the trails lage it’s about 30 minutes by steep foot- Oct 1st – 9th 38th Flims International Alpine Hot-Air Ballooning Week. path – or you can take a bus). Over 20 teams in their colorful hot-air balloons (with opportunities How to get to Scuol: Hourly trains from to have a ride!). Chur to Scuol-Tarasp (takes 2 hrs). ‹‹‹ A Room without phone.

that can’t afford everyone.

Swiss Youth www.youthhostel.ch, +41(0)44 360 14 14 Hostel. That’s it. 48 ticino

Santuario della Madonna del Sasso church, giore”. Ascona is worth a day trip! It is an impressive ochre vision floating above situated near the delta of the Maggia river, the town. The twenty-minute walk up is on the shores of a splendid and sunny bay. atmospheric in itself, or you could take the Ascona has developed a large pedestrian funicular from just west of the main train zone – traffic free – in its historical center. station. ›››www.ascona-locarno.com The village is known as a center for arts, How to get there: Half hourly trains from and the backstreets are filled with art Bellinzona (takes 20 minutes). galleries and craft shops. ›››www.ascona- i Tourist information at Largo Zorzi 1, locarno.com in the same building as the casino (091 791 How to get there: about 10 minutes by bus 00 91). from Locarno. Budget accommodation: Locarno Youth i Tourist information at Via Collegio 8 Hostel, Via B. Varenna 18 (091 756 15 (091 791 00 91). Stay overnight in Locarno! 00) ›››www.youthhostel.ch/locarno, it’s a 20-minute walk, or take bus no 31/36 The Brissago Islands. A visit to the botan- direction Ascona/Losone as far as the ical gardens on the Islands of Brissago is a Locarno, Piazza Grande “Cinque Vie” stop, or take the Centovalli must for anyone staying in the region. A Railway to “St. Antonio” stop; Casa DaVinci, beautiful one or half-day trip! A boat brings icino is the only Swiss canton in which the official language is Italian. The mix of Via B. Rusca 6 (091 751 30 64), www.casa- you from every destination around Lake Swiss tradition and Italian lifestyle gives this part of Switzerland a unique charac- davinci.ch, near Piazza Grande in the old Maggiore to this beautiful island, home to Tter. Ticino has a mild climate, as spring arrives earlier and autumn lingers longer town. fantastic flowers only seen in subtropical than in the rest of Switzerland. Ticino‘s flora is typical for the coexistence of plants of areas. both Alpine and Mediterranean origin. And Ticino has two lakes, both shared with Italy: The Maggia Valley, north of Locarno, is a Lake Lugano and Lake Maggiore. In summer sailing, windsurfing, canoeing and swim- valley of natural beauty. This valley alone ming in the lakes and rivers are highly popular. And if you want la dolce vita, search no offers 700 km of hiking paths and it is the events more – it is waiting for you in the numerous sub-tropical parks and gardens. ideal place to go to on hot summer days, so don’t forget your swimsuit! Ponte Brolla The people in Ticino are famous for their (4.5 km from Locarno) is a good starting open-air parties in summer. Just keep your point for the Maggia Valley. From there eyes open and you’ll run into a party! some highlights you can walk along the Maggia river, or June 3rd – 5th Huge antique market in straight to the delta, which has a beauti- Locarno (old town) ful, real sand beach! In the valley there is June 23rd – July 6th New Orleans and BELLINZONA a lovely backpacker accommodation off Classic Jazz Festival, Ascona Bellinzona is the capital of the canton to Cabbiolo it’s just 45 minutes by bus. the beaten path in a little village called July 8th – 17th “Moon and Stars” summer Ticino. It’s set in a valley of lush mountains, i Tourist information at Palazzo Civico in Aurigeno, the Baracca Backpackers. Take festival Locarno (Piazza Grande) and stands at the southern side of two im- Bellinzona (091 825 21 31) ›››www.ticino.ch bus no. 10 from Locarno to Ronchini. There, July 14th – 16th Blues Festival Bellinzona portant Alpine passes, San Bernardino and Budget accommodation: Humanità Back- cross the river on foot (takes you about (at Piazza Governo) St Gotthard. Bellinzona is a city of castles. Its packer’s in Cabbiolo / Lostallo (091 830 14 81) 15 min. – it’s well marked). Baracca Back- July 21st – 23rd Summer Nights Dream grand trio of castles – Castelgrande (from ›››www.humanita.ch; (for accommodation packers has only 13 beds, so call ahead! Locarno. Summer festival with a huge around the 6th century and the city’s larg- in Bellinzona check ›››www.youthhostel.ch ›››www.ascona-locarno.com fireworks display at 10:45 pm on Saturday est), Montebello and Sasso Corbaro – were or ask at the tourist office). How to get there: (See above). August 1st Swiss National Day. Fireworks together declared a UNESCO World Heri- Budget accommodation: Baracca Backpack- and parties everywhere tage Site in 2000. THE LAKE MAGGIORE AREA ers in Aurigeno (079 207 15 54, closed April August 3th – 13th International Locarno is a small town situated on the 1st – 22nd) ›››www.baracca-backpacker.ch Film Festival Locarno. Meet the stars Everyone passes through Bellinzona as it’s north end of Lake Maggiore. It’s easy indeed there (and don’t forget to book your on the train route connecting Locarno and to lose one’s heart to this picturesque little Ascona is Locarno’s smaller twin on the accommodation ahead!) Lugano, and on the Zurich-Milan route. But town. One of the most attractive spots is opposite side of the delta of the Maggiore. Post buses also head north-east through the the Piazza Grande and right behind it It’s often called the “Pearl of Lake Mag- ‹‹‹ Misox (Mesolcina valley) to Chur (Grison). lies the old part of town, “la città vecchia.” Cabbiolo (just a 45-minute bus ride from Built in the Middle Ages, it holds great ar- Bellinzona) lies peacefully among the ma- chitectural and cultural treasures. Open- jestic mountains of the southern Alps and air concerts, disco-nights on lake cruises Hotel has nice backpacker accommodation, with and beach parties are but some of the a waterfall for swimming in a great natu- offers geared to please a backpacker. It is Casa DaVinci ral environment. Due to its central location, free to swim in various convenient spots it is an ideal starting point for forays to around the lake. During the International Looking for a nice place in the heart the rugged mountainous north, as well as Film Festival (August 3rd – 13th) the town of the beautiful old town in Locarno? to the milder, culturally diversified south. will be crowded and accommodation is Located in a old historical house, And the Humanità Backpacker’s also of- difficult to find! free WLAN, bikes to rent, reasonable fers lot’s of different activities and courses; Locarno is also the starting point for a wide for details check their website www. range of activities: whether sailing on Lake prices for private rooms. Ideal situated humanita.ch Maggiore or energetic mountain bike excur- to start for all the activities in southern How to get there: Bellinzona has regular sions. And the valleys of Ticino offer sev- part of Switzerland! train connections from Italy (coming from eral hundred kilometres of hiking paths. Milan) and all over Switzerland: from Zurich For the adventurous, there is action such as www.casa-davinci.ch Via B. Rusca 6 / Via della Motta 9, 6600 Locarno (2 h 15 min), from Lucerne (2 h), Bern (3 h bungee jumping or canyoning. Most strik- Phone 091 751 30 64 20 min) and Geneva (5 h). From Bellinzona ing of all Locarno’s sights is the Franciscan 49 incoming / outgoing

Vienna / Austria Hostel Ruthensteiner Our aim is to help you decide Robert Hamerlinggasse 24, 1150 Vienna, Do you want to be part of this No problem. Send an email: which destination to choose Phone +43 (1) 89 34 202 or 8932796 incoming / outgoing page? Swiss Backpacker News next. The hostel Ruthensteiner [email protected] Do you operate a hostel in one phone +41 (0) 62 892 26 75 is the perfect place to stay www.hostelruthensteiner.com of Switzerland’s surrounding [email protected] after or before visiting Number of beds: 99 countries? www.backpacker.ch Switzerland. Price of dormitories from € 12 – 19

Have you taken photos on your trip through Switzerland? Send it to us – and we may publish it in one of the next Swiss Backpacker News! Everyone who sends us a photo will take part in the competition (see page 34)! … a beautiful landscape you’ve seen Send us your photo of … …

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Send us your photo to [email protected] … a moment when you have tested your limits … 50 FACTORY VISITS

TYPE OF TRADE OPENING HOURS THINGS TO KNOW WHERE CHOCOLATE MAKING Maestrani Schoggi-Land Mon – Fri 9 am – 12 noon and 2 – 6 pm, Watch chocolate production from the Flawil is just a 14 min. train ride from phone 071 228 38 88 Sat 9 am – 12 noon (Sun closed). 80 m-long visitor’s gallery. They also have a St.Gallen (or 1 h from Zürich); from Flawil Toggenburgerstr. 41, 9230 Flawil Admission free. Guided tours for individuals shop, video terminals and a history corner. station take bus no 850.72 or 850.71. www.maestrani.ch every Wed at 2 pm, CHF 7.– Chocolat Alprose SA Mon – Fri 9 am – 5.30 pm Admission CHF 3.–. Factory visit Mon – Fri 20 min. train ride from Lugano (orange train phone 091 611 88 88 Sat – Sun 9 am – 4.30 pm only, daily show in diff. languages. direction Ponte Tresa, get off at Caslano). Via Rompada 36, 6987 Caslano-Lugano (Sat, Sun only exhibition) www.alprose.ch

CHEESE MAKING La Maison du Gruyère Daily 9 am – 7 pm (Jun – Sep) Cheese making between 9 – 11 am and 4 min. train trip from Bulle. The Gruyère phone 026 921 84 00 Daily 9 am – 6 pm (Oct – May) 12.30 – 2.30 pm (depending on season). region is great for hiking and biking! 1663 Pringy / Gruyères Admission (includes small tasting) Restaurant and shop. Exhibition “Gruyere, a www.lamaisondugruyere.ch CHF 7.– / students CHF 6.– journey to the heart of the senses”. Different events on weekends. Schaukäserei Benedictus Monastery Daily Mon – Sat 9 am – 6 pm / Sun Watch cheese production daily From Engelberg village it’s just a few phone 041 638 08 88 9 am – 5 pm (9.30 am – 4 pm) and eat some at the bistro. minutes’ walk. 6390 Engelberg Admission free Shop, with souvenirs and cheese. www.schaukaeserei-engelberg.ch Schaukäserei Schwyzerland Tue – Sat 9 am – 5 pm Cheese production, shop and restaurant. 30 min. from Lucerne or 54 min. from phone 041 819 82 82 Admission free Zurich. Get off at Schwyz train station Milchstrasse, 6423 Seewen / Schwyz (2 min walk). www.milchstrasse.ch Appenzeller Schaukäserei Cheese production daily 8.30 am – 5.30 pm Daily cheese production; slide / audio 15 min. bus ride from St.Gallen (direction phone 071 368 50 70 (restaurant and shop daily 8.30 am – 6.30 pm) information, restaurant with great choice of Herisau). Alight at the post office in Stein. Dorf 711, 9063 Stein / AR Admission free Appenzeller cheese. www.showcheese.ch

BAKED GOODS Ringli Land Mon – Fri 8.30 am – 6 pm, Sat 8.30 am – 4 pm Watch the production of traditional “Willisau Hourly train from Lucerne (takes 40 min.) phone 041 970 10 22 (on Sat, shop only), closed on Sun. Ringlis” and delicious waffle specialities, Menznauerstrasse 20, 6130 Willisau Admission free and buy some in the shop. www.hug-luzern.ch Chnusper Land Mon – Fri 8.30 am – 6 pm, Sat 8.30 am – 4 pm Watch the production of cookies, snacks 2 trains per hour from Lucerne phone 041 499 75 04 (on Sat shop only), closed on Sun. and pastries. In the shop you’ll find tons of (takes approx. 10 min.) Hellbühlstrasse, 6102 Malters Admission free baked goods. www.hug-luzern.ch

GLASS ART MAKING Hergiswiler Glas AG Mon – Fri 9 am – 6 pm, Sat 9 am – 4 pm. Great exhibition on art glass production, Only 10 min. by train from Lucerne phone 041 632 32 32 Closed on Sun. with museum, shop, and show. Here you’ll (or 1¼ hrs. by boat – a great one-day tour!). Seestrasse 12, 6052 Hergiswil Admission free also find Switzerland’s first and only glass www.glasi.ch labyrinth (entry 5.–).

Welcome to... LA MAISON DU GRUYERE DEMONSTRATION CHEESE-DAIRY

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LA MAISON DU GRUYÈRE CH-1663 Pringy-Gruyères Tél. ++41 (0)26/921 84 00 www.lamaisondugruyere.ch www.gruyere.com

Cheeses from Switzerland. Switzerland. Naturally. www.switzerland-cheese.com Never forget your Swiss Pass. swisstravelsystem.com The formula to discover Switzerland in all its variety: the Swiss Travel System. A system ticking like a Swiss clockwork. Trains, whenever you are on the go. Buses to take you farther. Boats to make you enjoy the beauty of the lakes. And spectacular mountain railways to bring you to the very top. Have it all with one ticket, the Swiss Pass. Save some extra money when you are under 26, when you travel in pairs or with your family. The Swiss Pass is available at most railway stations in Switzerland. BLS train near Frutigen, Bernese Oberland Dorm bed starts CHF 36.40 | Double starts CHF 106.– 1 Laundry | Kitchen | Garden with BBQ | WiFi | Laundry | Kitchen | Garden with BBQ | WiFi | Le label de qualité pour le Free Lausanne Transport Card | Olympic Museumtourisme Packages suisse Manuel pour le Corporate Design

Le label de qualité pour le tourisme suisse est une distinction décernée aux établissements et organisations touristiques qui satisfont aux exigences déﬁ nies par l’organisme responsable. Le label de qualité est une marque protégée de l’organisme responsable du programme «Label de qualité pour le tourisme suisse» et ne peut être utilisé qu’avec son auto- Lausanne GuestHouse & Backpackerrisation expresse. Les directives mentionnées ci-après s’appliquent toujours à tous les logos (niveaux I à III ).

Epinettes 4, CH-1007 Lausanne, Tel. +41 21 601 8000, FaxLe +41 logo 21 601 8001

Label de qualité Label de qualité Label de qualité www.lausanne-guesthouse.ch Niveau I Niveau II Niveau III

«In the heart of the Lake Geneva Region» View over the city and the lake Standard double room View from your balcony Garden Terrace

BA LM ER’

BALMER’S S H

Interlaken, Switzerland ER

BER

Carmen Fabienne Balmer Balmer The Four seasons holiday resort of Switzerland, Balmer’s is the No. 1 Hostel in Interlaken. With the popular Metro Bar and Biergarten. Dormitories from € 18, Private rooms from € 20, and Guest House Apartments available from € 30 (pp).

The hostel is open 24 hours, 365 days a year!! New 2010 !!! - Motel Tents - cheap & chic

Check-out our | ph +41 (0)33 822 1961 new website www.balmers.com | [email protected]