[StephenWilli]

21 December 2016 at 9:57:55 #810467

Arriving at the end of March for 6 Nights, I had thought (without any real knowledge about the things one could see and do) to stay 2 nights each in Lucerne, Interlaken and Montreux.

Now I’m wondering if it might be better to reduce the number of stops to two or even one. If we were to eliminate one stop, which might offer the least opportunities, Lucerne, Interlaken or Montreux. And I realize the answer might be very subjective!

The answer might affect the total of days needed on our “Three Country Rail Pass”. And would the rail pass be used as part of the excursion travel once based in a town (which might require more days on the Three Country Pass), or does one just purchase the excursion at the time you are going on the excursion?

We’re older in age and are more interested in sightseeing by train, dining, and long vigorous walks rather than skiing and more strenuous activities.

Thanks for any help and suggestions.

Steve

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[Annika]

22 December 2016 at 12:39:17 #857506

Hi Steve, glad you’ve joined MySwissAlps!

I too would prefer two over three base towns for a 6 day stay. Which towns to pick is indeed a very personal and subjective choice ;-). Most first time visitors would prefer Interlaken (or another smaller town in the Bernese Oberland) and Lucerne, but Montreux is certainly interesting too. I suggest you check the links I included and compare for yourself. Your points of entrance and exit in/from Switzerland may also determine your choice; please consult the timetable to check traveling times.

As for hiking: March is a bit of a tricky season when it comes to that. It’s at the end of the winter season, meaning many of the higher trails are still inaccessible. Depending on weather conditions, some of the groomed winter/snow shoe hiking trails may not available either due to a beginning lack of snow. Train rides and scenic mountain top visits might be better alternatives.

You’re probably referring to the 3 country Eurail Select Pass. Please find all information about its validity here. For fully covered legs your pass is generally all you need. Discounted legs require you to purchase discounted tickets before boarding. You can do so at the spot.

Does this get you started?

[Slowpoke]

22 December 2016 at 14:43:14 #857507

Hi Steve –

As Annika noted, March is still winter at higher elevations.

Even at lower elevations, the weather can be unpleasant, and there my be snow around.

Luzern offers a range of activities and hikes, and I’d make sure to include it as one of two bases.

Here are some links that might be interesting:

http://www.myswissalps.com/fo rum/topic/the-swiss-path-and-southern-lake-lucerne

http://www.myswissalps.com/fo rum/topic/bls-sudrampe-trail

http://www.myswissalps.com/hi king

http://www.myswissalps.com/ab outswitzerland/nature

http://www.myswissalps.com/be sttimetovisit

Slowpoke