travel in switzerland Archives - Have Sippy Will Travel

Switzerland – Fun Family Travel at an Affordable Price

August 21, 2013 by Samantha 6 Comments

Switzerland is a wonderful place to take the family on holiday. With majestic mountains that are constantly in view, lovely lakes, and train rides that are visually stunning as you tcrusie through the country en route to your destination, you and your family are in for a treat as soon as you set foot in this friendly and hospitable country.

Switzerland is also an affordable option for Americans wanting to travel in Europe, with family friendly options such as the Swiss Pass to make saving money easier as you traverse. It offers unlimited travel on the Swiss Travel System, which includes trains, boats, buses, local urban transportation systems, and free entry to over 450 museums. You also get free WiFi, and access to the Fast Baggage service, which provides same-day luggage delivery between 46 cities in Switzerland. (According to the Switzerland Tourism Department)

One must see spot in the country is Mt. Pilatus, a 7,000-foot mountaintop that you reach via train, aerial cable way, gondola, and the worlds steepest cogwheel rail. If you decide to take the “Golden Round Trip”, you and your family can see some of the best scenery in Switzerland all in one day. From the boat tour beginning in Lake Lucerne, which you ride in comfort either in the inside or outside of the boat on crystal clear waters with mountains surrounding you. Some passengers may choose to get off at one of several stops, such as restaurants or the Swiss Museum of Transport (the most popular museum in Switzerland). You will take the boat to Aspnachstad (which is the aforementioned steepest cog in the world) and then to Pilatus Klum’s peak, at nearly 7,000 feet above sea level, viewing amazing sights and scenery all along the way.

The cog up to the top is both exhilarating and a little frightening- it is very, very steep, and those lovely views will make some hold onto their seat a little tighter. From the top, one can view more then 70- peaks and five lakes. You can also visit several restaurants, spend some time at one of Mt. Piliatus’ adventure parks, go tobogganing or head over to the rope park. These are weather permitting. These are in operation from May to November.

If you head back to Lucerne, stop by Chapel Bridge. The most photographed place in Switzerland, and for good reason. This old bridge and tower spans the river, the ceiling and beams of which have paintings dating back to the 1300’s. Chapel Bridge has become somewhat of a symbol for Lucerne, and something you don’t want to miss. If you would like to indulge in a traditional Swiss meal while you are in the area, the Fondue House is just a few blocks away. You can enjoy traditional cheese fondue with a variety of foods to dip in it, as well as a chocolate fondue with fruit to dip for dessert. This was a cozy spot in a convenient location to experience a local favorite dish.
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Ballenberg, a Unique Attraction in the Swiss Mountains

August 5, 2013 by Samantha 6 Comments

When you think of Switzerland, one of the first things you may think of is mountains. The views from them (and of them) are lovely, and your time spent amongst them will be firmly planted in your mind for the rest of your days. Photos do not do justice the lovely scenery and warm people you will encounter when traveling through Switzerland.

One of my favorite spots that I visited on a recent trip to Switzerland was Ballenburg, an open air museum in Brienz. There you can walk through the past, through history, as you tour the various buildings and gardens that represent over 100 years of Swiss history from all over the country.

You will find over one hundred buildings, ranging from century old to more recent, from all over Switzerland, as well as “250 farmyard animals, traditional, old-time gardens and fields, demonstrations of local crafts and many special events create a vivid impression of rural life in days gone by.” (says Ballenburg.ch) Your children will delight in exploring, as well as taking part in crafting, creating, and interacting with farm animals. There is also a house devoted to historical wooden toys- some of which some of us may remember playing with. No iPads here, but your 5 year old can play with a top or stilts for what may be their first time- watch their eyes light up at these simple treasures, and you will both be lost in time shortly.

Not only is it beautiful to just walk around Ballenburg, but the homes themselves are lovely and beautifully (and painstakingly) restored and preserved. Open since 1978 and after 10 years of hard work to open the doors and secure land, money, and security, the museum opened with only 16 buildings. Adding many more since, based on the preservation and education of Swiss heritage, science, and history for all generations, most of Switzerland is represented here.
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Wordless Wednesdays – Travel In Switzerland

July 16, 2013 by Samantha 1 Comment

The Best Tourist Spots in Switzerland

June 29, 2013 by Samantha 3 Comments

Switzerland is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, revered for it pristine beauty. Switzerland is a favorite destination for all kinds of tourists, be it families or couples on honeymoon. Europe is always occupies a special place amongst visitors, but it is only here you will come across mountain villages, world class hotels, and of course, the Alps. There are plenty of attractions in this city, but there are some spots which are simply mind-blowing and should be visited. Let us have a look at the some of the must see tourist’s spots in Switzerland.

1) The Chillon Castle

The Chillon Castle is the most easily recognizable castle in Switzerland. It is located on the shores of Lake Geneva and comprises of 100 buildings. The castle, which dates back to 11th century, was the former residence of the savoy nobility. There are three courtyards and four large halls all of which offer breathtaking vies of Lake Geneva.

2) Grindelwald

This lesser known village is very beautiful. It has many hills and is famous for winter sports. The best time to come here is during the winter, as one can participate in snow sports. Though, [Read more…]

Filed Under: travel Tagged With: best spots to see in switzerland, The Best Tourist Spots in Switzerland, tours in switzerland, travel, travel in switzerland