Switzerland: the land of milk, cheese, and jaw-dropping scenery. In the heart of the country lies the Bernese Oberland region, where happy cows wear flower crowns, the grass is impossibly green, and snowy mountain peaks create postcard-perfect backdrops. After completing the Tour du Mont Blanc, my family joined me (their first time in Europe!) for three magical days exploring this alpine wonderland.
We based ourselves in Lauterbrunnen, a quaint village straight out of a fairytale, and spent our days gondola-hopping through nearby towns like Grindelwald, Wengen, Mürren, and First. Each gondola ride felt like stepping into a new storybook setting, and the views were so stunning we kept joking, “This looks like a green screen!” The mix of charming villages, towering peaks, and peaceful alpine meadows made this area an absolute can’t-miss.
How to Explore the Bernese Oberland
The best way to fully experience this region is by grabbing a Bernese Oberland Pass, which gives you unlimited access to most public transport in the area, including gondolas, trains, buses, and even boats! While the pass isn’t cheap, it’s worth every penny. We purchased the 3-day pass using the Half Fare Card, which brought the cost down to 168 CHF per person (without the Half Fare Card, it’s 240 CHF). The pass also offers discounts on iconic excursions like Schilthornand Jungfraujoch, so it’s a great deal if you plan to explore extensively.
Highlights of Our Trip
- Lauterbrunnen: Our home base, nestled in a valley with stunning waterfalls.
- Grindelwald & Wengen: Two picturesque villages with stunning views and alpine charm.
- Mürren & First: Perfect for panoramic views and peaceful alpine trails.
- Gondola Hopping: Simply hopping from town to town was an adventure in itself, with each gondola ride revealing new landscapes.
