Feel your inner zen at Swiss land

Europe was always a dream destination for me all my life. The descriptions and depictions of Europe in the books I read and the movies I watched made it all the more enticing for me. The various countries and their unique cultures attracted me. Thanks to my dad S. Thyagarajan, this dream-come-true vacation was made possible for both my daughter and I. 

We visited nine countries in total! Although a little clichéd, my most favourite place was Switzerland. This central European country is known for its spectacular mountain scenery, sparkling lakes and folklore traditions. We stayed at Engelberg (mountain of angels), a village resort. True to its name, it was an amazing place to stay at. The view from our hotel room was that of snow-clad mountain peaks on one side and a vast expanse of greenery interspersed with lakes on the other. 

The two places that stand out the most in my memory are Rhine Falls and Harder Kulm. Rhine Falls — Europe’s most powerful falls — are located on the High Rhine on the border between the cantons of Schaffhausen and Zurich in northern Switzerland. The Rhine Falls were formed approximately 14,000 to 17,000 years ago, by erosion-resistant rocks narrowing the riverbed.

The funicular trip is a mini adventure by itself

I was awe-struck by the thundering beauty and the historical facts related to it. The roar and the sight of the falls bring the zen feeling in us. In spite of its sheer power, it brings about a sense of serenity. Like the words of author Mary Shelley: it was indeed the ‘clear heavens through its glittering ever-moving veil’.

At 1322 m above sea level, Interlaken’s (a town in central Switzerland)  local mountain, the Harder Kulm offers the best views of Interlaken as well as Eiger, Monch and Jungfrau. The short journey of 10 minutes by cable car (otherwise called the funicular) from Interlaken to the Harder Kulm, is well worth the trip and is a mini adventure by itself. You can enjoy the magnificent Swiss scenery from the two-lake bridge there, with a Swiss Fondue lunch! I was in a gastronomic heaven when we had it. It was one of the best meals I had in the entire trip.

I got to know some quaint traditions of Switzerland during my trip. One of the interesting things I came across was a pole tied with white and red ribbons outside some houses. When asked we were told that it was how the birth of a baby is announced to the neighbours. This meant the neighbours were invited for tea and a short visit with the new-born. Isn’t it adorable?

Harder Kulm

The locals are cheerful and helpful bunch. Though in this part of Switzerland where we stayed, life was at a slow pace. The days were short and people were laid-back and very friendly.

If you are a planning for a trip, carry a lot of winter clothing and cold creams for the skin. Though the best time to visit is between April to October, you can experience the Swiss winters during January and February.

(As told to Merin James)