ENCHANTING INTERLAKEN
The practical name “ between lakes ” downplays the extraordinary natural beauty of the land that spans Lake Thun and Lake Brienz . Dominated by giant alps named Jungfrau , Mönch and Eiger , the Bernese Oberland region has an extensive network of hiking routes accessible by cable car and mountain railway . Keep an eye out for glacial waterfalls , groups of paragliders or the elusive marmot along your high-altitude walk . Ferry boats and paddle steamers navigate both lakes year-round , giving guests a leisurely cruise past stately homes lining the shoreline . For a unique excursion , try a raclette rafting experience one evening . While the lights of Interlaken slowly extinguish , guests float on a guided raft , snuggle under warm blankets and partake in a feast of toasted cheese served over boiled potatoes along with a glass of dry white wine .
The village of Zermatt at the base of the Matterhorn is a popular excursion from Interlaken . Board a cogwheel train for a ride to the summit of the 10,000-foot Gornergrat peak , purported to have one of the best viewpoints in the Alps . Pay a visit to the Matterhorn Museum where a historian will recount stories of early attempts to conquer the massif . Zermatt is a gourmet stronghold with numerous restaurants lauded by Gault Millau or Michelin offering local ingredients expertly prepared , often served on a sunny terrace facing incredible mountain vistas .
Glacier Express through the Swiss Countryside
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