Wandering Publicist

A visit to Switzerland is not complete without witnessing the majestic alps in Kandersteg. One of the main reasons my mom and I decided to come to Switzerland was to ride the mountain coaster slide in Kandersteg, which we first learned about from a viral YouTube video. What could be better than combining the rush of a toboggan slide with breathtaking scenery?

As I mention in my earlier post, we started our Swiss trip in Zurich. We took the train across from our hotel to Bern which transfers to the hour long ride to Kandersteg. After the two hour scenic journey, we arrived in the quaint, small town. Our hotel, Alpina, offered pickups from the train station, and although I am sure we could have managed the 15 minute walk, it was a nice perk since there aren’t too many cabs milling about.

Hotel Alpina is part of a branch of a larger hotel, which is where the reception, restaurant and bar were located. Our lodging was across the street so this wasn’t an inconvenience. Our room was simple and clean with wooden accents contributing to the cabin vibe. The one annoying thing was having the sink outside the room in the bedroom area. I resemble a Neutrogena commercial when I wash my face 😉

 

 

The coaster slide is located in an area called Oeschinen at the top of a gondola, which costs about $20 for round trip. The hotel set us up with an unlimited pass for a fraction of the price. As soon as we placed our bags in the room, we headed directly for the gondola. Giddy with anticipation, we wasted no time getting to the coaster slide.

Stepping out of the gondola station is like entering the pages of National Geographic; nature so stunning it looks unreal. After picking my jaw off the ground, we made our way to the coaster slide.

Each ride costs a few dollars but buying in bulk is a better deal than buying each ride individually. It is addicting! We indulged ourselves about 15 times! The man in charge was kind and gave us a few free rides after seeing us consistently.

The ride wasn’t as long or intense as the YouTube video portrayed. There are many twists and turns and the view is spectacular. It is a thrilling and a unique way to take in the spectacular environment. I couldn’t have been happier.

Not far from the coaster slide is the picturesque Oeschinen Lake. After the 25 minute hike, we turned the bend and my heart stopped. The teal lake, surrounded by snow capped mountains and grazing cows, took my breath away. It looks even better than the photos.

While some people dared to jump into the freezing cold water, I preferred to spend my time relaxing on a rock with the water lulling underneath and people passing by on kayaks.  I attempted to read my book, but the view kept distracting me. The sensation of the paradoxical warm sun on my face and snowy mountains above, was like nothing else I have experienced. Just thinking about that moment now makes my heart happy. It’s places like this that I hope never change.

During summertime in Kandersteg, there are typically a variety of attractions throughout the week to bring visitors. The week prior to our arrival there was a horse show and after we left, a motorcycle group was scheduled to arrive. Somehow, the week we were visiting, there was no events happening. We essentially had the town to ourselves. It was beautiful and eerie at the same time to literally see no one else walking the street. One night, we walked by a hotel that looked like it was straight out of The Shinning.  While the big tourist cities and attractions are fun, as a seasoned traveler, I think there is nothing more special than getting to experience a place in its truest form, without the touristy fanfare.

Being a horse enthusiast, my mom completed part of her bucket list; ride a horse in every country. Getting to Frutigen Pferdezentrum is a very scenic 15 minute bus ride from Kandersteg. The stable provides pickup/drop-off service from the bus stop. She enjoyed a scenic one-on-one private ride with her trail guide through quaint, quiet, very lush green villages with beautiful mountain views.

In Kandersteg, surrounded by mountains, I couldn’t help but feel a presence, as if I were being protected from the world. This small slice of Earth gives you the opportunity to disconnect from the world, and focus on YOU. Being enveloped by nature is one of the best therapies. This is a place I want my future children to know and love.

The mountain coaster may have lured me here, but the peaceful, rustic charm of this town is what will bring me back.

If you are planning a trip to Switzerland, let me know. I would be happy to help you plan!

XO,

Sarah