Gimmelwald, Switzerland

About five years ago I was fortunate enough to spend just over five weeks traveling around Europe with three of my friends from college and one of my friends that I have known since kindergarten.  Eight countries in five weeks was a whirlwind, and although I don't plan on seeing that much in such a short period of time again, it was an incredible experience and allowed me to see many cultures, experience wonderful new things, and think about places I would like to return to some day.  Of these eight countries, the three that topped my list of places to return were Switzerland, Italy and Ireland.

Gimmelwald, Switzerland

During our time in Switzerland we stayed in Bern, the country's capital, Interlaken, a paradise for adventure seekers, and Gimmelwald, a sleepy town high in the Alps with a population of just over 100 people...it was heaven.  You can only reach Gimmelwald via gondola or hiking and there are no cars, no televisions, and no stores (other than local farmers selling local cheese) within an hour.

The only ride into town

If you ever make it to Gimmelwald, plan to stay at the Mountain Hostel.  There are only dorm rooms available, but no one would have it any other way.  Petra and Walter Brunner are very accommodating hosts and every guest staying there is down to earth and happy to be so close to heaven.  If you are fortunate enough to celebrate Swiss National Day at the Mountain Hostel, they will provide you with an authentic, traditional Swiss meal as well as a decorative red paper lantern so everyone staying at the hostel can parade around the town together to celebrate the holiday!

On our first night, we walked about an hour in the rain to Mirren which had the closest grocery store and accidentally bought what we thought was vegetable pizza which turned out to be flavorless pastry, but still, I couldn't be happier.  Days were spent relaxing, reading, playing scrabble, enjoying the handmade hot tub and sipping spiked hot chocolate...made with Swiss Chocolate of course! 

Mountain Hostel's Homemade Hot Tub

The hiking in the area is beautiful as well and options are endless whether you are seeking a full day hike with significant gains in elevation or a local stroll.  We hiked just past Sprutz Waterfall and could have gone on forever.  The views are incredible regardless of how far you hike and any route is sure to be peaceful, satisfying and a great work out!

Sprutz Waterfall

Gimmelwald is surrounded by the towering peaks of the Alps, the views are incredible regardless of where you stand, the people were extremely friendly and when you wake up in the morning (and throughout every day) you will literally be eye to eye or above the clouds hovering between the mountains and shading the towns below.  In Gimmelwald you can walk 10 minutes down the road and feel completely alone and at peace, simply surrounded by nothing but fresh mountain air, breathtaking sites and the occasional cow.

The main website for Gimmelwald provides all the information you need from directions to where to stay and where to hike.  If you are in Europe, Gimmelwald is a must see, particularly if you enjoy the outdoors, want some peace and quiet, or time to just relax and think.  In Gimmelwald, time stands still.  It is the type of place that allows you to find moments of complete solitude, when you can look at the world and think of nothing but the blessings in your life and wonder why there is ever any need to worry.

Bon Voyage!