Day 2 – The Alps

Aug 4

After an impressive hotel buffet breakfast (and secreted rolls w/cheese for lunch) we take the funicular up to Allendhubel and hike around the top and then down into Grimmelwald — a tiny village saved from development by declaring themselves an avalanche zone. And in true independent fashion, the residents of Grimmelwald then petitioned the government to have proper avalanche barriers installed. So, no development, no avalanches.

Snapping photos even as we walk the upper road in Murren.

And, yes cow bells are a thing here. Farmers save the prettiest bells (below) to show off their prize cows, but use every day bells when their herds are out to pasture. Different tones of the bells designate the ownership of the cows.

Then the funicular up and up to Allendhubel – this photo is of one coming down.

A beautiful day – did I mention we’re so high (2,000 meters/6,500 ft. today) that the spring wild flowers are still in bloom? Beyond the breathtaking (2) vistas, as we hike we hear cow bells ringing all around us. Truly, had to pinch myself. It’s the Alps – it’s Heidi’s stomping ground.

Tired of snow covered mountain vistas are you?

OK, we’ll hike down into Grimmelwald. Up here in the Alps, every house, window box and spare inch of ground is planted with vegetables and flowers – (perennials). I was told that the Swiss winters are so long and so harsh that the moment the ground softens – the flowers go in. Such hope and optimism … as come October, snow returns.

On the way down, we see some Eldewiess – it’s Austria’s national flower, but it grows up here too.

Grimmelwald also has an adorable “honesty shop” (see above). Filled with old dishes, some tacky souvenirs, ice creams, drinks and some very old postcards. No one is there, one just leaves the money in an unlocked box. Bought an old, dusty postcard just so I could support such an effort.

We come back up to Murren (from Grimmelwald) via the gondola (our transportation pass is proving invaluable).

Watched the para-gliders for a bit. Husband gave serious consideration the offered tandem rides, but soon came to his senses (after I physically swatted him) and will consider such an adventure once home, where we have more accessible medical facilities.

Decided to stop at a little cafe in lower Murren for a well-deserved drink. Notice the sheepskin rugs on the chairs…the temps plummet once the sun goes down.