Swiss/Austrian Alps trip late Nov to early Dec
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Hi there,
I was so upset reading previous posts about the Alps being “somewhat closed and lacklustre” in November. I have an 18 day window (and my only time for vacation) and was hoping to really get in some hiking, city walking/touring, and mostly a snowboard/outdoorsy/reset and recharge trip surrounded by mountains during that time. I have strongly re-considered changing locations and maybe adding Switzerland, Austria, and Italy into a different trip based off some of the previous posts, so was writing to ask advice on a few areas and some “early snow mountains/glacier areas” I have been researching.
I am an avid backpacker and normally fly through cities and countries over short duration trips (all that current job will allow) but really wanted to take the time to see the Alps a bit more with Switzerland more likely on the tail end of my trip (Nov 19-Dec 6). I guess it’s best to just list areas that I have researched and get your professional opinion on them. I have traveled to Switzerland previously spending 3 nights in Zurich (which I absolutely loved) but wanted to explore more on te nature and small village feel this trip.
So here goes (and apologies ahead of time for the long post):
1- From the forum it’s looking like Lucerne is a great choice, in addition to Lake Thun, and Jungfrau
2- I am curious about Interlaken and surrounding places: Lungern (which I heard is between Interlaken and Lucerne), Lago Ritom and the funicular from Piotta, Oberhofen Castle, and Grindelwald
3-For “early snowboarding” I was told to check out: Saas Fee, Zermatt, Glacier 3000, Les Diablerets, Gstaad, Titlis glacier, Engelberg, Vorab at Laax, Diavolezza glacier in the Engadin Valley,Pontresina, St. Moritz, and Klein near the Matterhorn
4- I was also curious if there was a time duration recommended for acclimatization to the altitude for the ability to really be active and not suffer from altitude sickness. At this time of year, what is the highest peak/trail elevation that is hikable/and for snowboarding, and/or cog railway touring or cable car viewing? I live in a very low elevation area currently and would like to altitude train if possible prior to my trip if necessary.
5- Do Eurail passes work or allow for discounts on the Swiss Rail passes as well?
I know this forum is on the Swiss alps, but if you also have any information on the Austrian side of things it would be helpful as well! Thank You for taking time to read this it is greatly appreciated.
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