View of Eiger, Junfrau, and Monch
View of the the Swiss Alps (The Eiger, The Mönch and Jungfrau) from Murren’s cog station.
The world famous “Eiger” (elevation 3970 m = 13025 ft), “Mönch” (4099 m = 13448 ft) and “Jungfrau” (4158 m = 13642 ft) are named for the legend of the young maiden (Jungfrau) being protected by the monk (or Mönch) from the mean ogre (or Eiger). The trio make up the breathtaking mountain backdrop of the Bernese Oberland, and their glaciated faces contrast with the green, pastoral landscapes below.
“Not all those who wander are lost.” ~J.R.R. Tolkien
In the Alps, get an early start when the peaks are clear. Ride the Schilthornbahn to the top of the 10,000-foot summit of the Schilthorn. From there, hike down the trails dotted with cows and goats. Watch Rick Steve’s video on hiking in the Alps.
The hills are alive with the sound of music… Or, rather, the random symphony of cowbells ringing. Milk cows spend their summers munching the wild herbs and flowers in the high meadows, and their milk is used to make the treasured Alp cheese, or Alpkäse.
Alpine farms welcome travelers for a peek at the cheese making action and each village takes pride in its own cheese. Watch Rick Steve’s video on the cheese-making action.
© 2014 East of Eden Photography
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Eden, it’s a pleasure to connect! This tranquil scene reminds me of my parents’ surroundings in the foothills of Germany’s Alps, making me yearn to return there for another hiking adventure. We see these cows down in the village once it’s too chilly for them to remain up in the mountains. The Alpkäse is indeed tasty!
Same here!
Gimmewald was home base when exploring Bernese Oberland. Such a charming little town (population of 130). The hike down the Swiss Alps was refreshing…it’s not often that we get to appreciate nature like that.
What a lovely view. That’s one of my favorite quotes from JRR Tolkien.
The Swiss Alps look magnificent in the movies; it was an unbelievable experience to be there in person and so much fun to “wander” down the hills.