Wengen, Top of Europe

We took a train from Lauterbrunnen to Wengan and took another tram up. At the top of the tram we shared the Royal Walk with just a few people. Then we made the flat hike to Klein Sheidegg where we randomly decided to do the super touristy thing and visit the Top of Europe.

It has all the markings of a tourist trap. Masses of people. Signs to take your picture in front of, Lindt Chocolate store, watch stores and gift shops galore. We walked around with the masses following the designated tour path until we got outside and found the signs for a trail to hike up to a hut. Even though the trail was somewhat groomed, the soft, sinking snow and steep incline made the mile journey a strenuous hike with most turning back. We were rewarded with walks along cracking glaciers, views of ice crevices, glaciers and peaks, and finally a mountain hut. We had a delicious Swiss version of Mac and cheese and some local schnapps.

Back at the Top of Europe we ventured to the the ice caves which are built into the glacier. It was a nice long slippery tour where you can see permanent ice sculptures. Bryce even slipped and fell sending his phone across the ice. People helped up the iPhone before they helped him.

The next day we left the best camp site we could ever imagine and set out to visit the lakeside town of Thun. We took a ferry from Spiez to Thun. It is a neat old town with lots of history. The old town was deserted. It’s an eerie experience being alone in a medieval town with nobody else. Unfortunately, it was far too hot and humid to enjoy. We made a mad dash back to the breezy boat. We then made our return trip to Wengen, this time for our hotel stay. Our last night in the Berner-Oberland region.