1. Explore Lauterbrunnen and Murren

Murren is the most beautiful place we have ever visited. Every view feels like you’re living in a fairytale – and if unicorns did exist, they would exist right here. Pure, untouched magic! But getting here, is not easy. I recommend an early start to beat the traffic and to manage a parking space! We only had one day to explore Lauterbrunnen, and we decided to drive straight to the parking lot of Stechelberg LSMS and took the gondola from Stechelberg to Gimmelwald and then transferred onto the gondola from Grimmelward to Murren. When we arrived around 8am, there was already a que to go up. Be prepared for lines, especially if you’re travelling during peak season. We were there around the end of September and it was still fairly busy. Once we arrived in the village, we stopped for a coffee and pastry before meandering through the town and climbing up the mountain for a wee hike. If we had more time, we would definitely plan to stay in the area and pursue a grander hike! But the trails around the town offer spectacular views of snowy mountain tops, swiss villages, wildflowers, and cows. Everything you imagine Switzerland to be in more is bundled perfectly in Murren.

2. Drive the Furka Pass – if you dare!

We had zero intentions of taking this drive, and frankly, we didn’t even know it existed. But, Google had other plans when we punched Ennetburgen to Zermatt into our maps. We were well into our drive before I noticed the elevation climbing and switchbacks forming. Zigzagging ninety degree turns, cliffs without guardrails, tailgating car racing enthusiasts, and the most stunning, jaw-dropping views I’ve ever seen – numerous times I white knuckled the door handle as I peered over the cliff outside my window, and screamed at Jay to slow down. If we were going to go, I guess driving off a cliff in the Swiss Alps would be story-worthy. It felt like we were climbing Mount Everest on a whim without a plan or lifeline. It was the most epic and exhilarating day of our lives. We promised ourselves that we would be on the road back to our lodging before nightfall because there was no way we’d be safe driving this road in darkness. Zermat proved to be incredible and we indeed didn’t give ourselves enough time to explore and get on the road home before sunset. We watched the daylight fade away as we traversed across the Swiss Alps, and snow start to fall. We made it home, white knuckled, exhausted, and with tales to tell. If your a James Bond fan, the Furka Pass appeared in the legendary 1964 film, Goldfinger. Also, to note, the Furka Pass is only open from early June to late October.

3. Take a dip in Lake Lucerne and explore the town

Taking a dip in Lake Lucerne is like cold plunging into a magical spring that cleanses all your worries away. After being out exploring all day we always managed to make our way down to the lake, along with all the locals in our little town, for a happy hour dip. It was gloriously refreshing. Swimming in a glacier fed lake amongst the mountains should be on everyone’s bucket list! And add Lake Tahoe and Lake Louise to that list too! And while you’re in the Lake Lucerne area, take a day trip to Lucerne. It’s a busy little city on the edge of the water with the most picturesque covered walking bridge across the river. Explore the streets, walk the bridge, and go to Rathaus Brauerei for lunch – you won’t regret it!

4. Stoos

If you’re looking for a day hike that it isn’t too far from Lake Lucerne, Stoos is your calling. We were only planning to go for the view points, but we ended up walking the entire ridge trail. I did do a quick search on tips and tricks for getting around Stoos, and one blog shared to do the trail in reverse to avoid the crowds. It was the best advice we ever received! So, I’ll pass along the wisdom to you – once you take the funicular up to the village, walk right and follow the signs to the Sesselbahn Fronalpstock chairlift. You’ll board the first chair from Stoos to Mettlen, and then disembark and walk to the next chairlift right beside it, Mettlen to Fronalpstock. This lift will take you to a stunning viewpoint of Lake Lucerne and will connect you to the Ridge Trail. follow the signs to the left and make your way along the trail. We started early and were one of the first ones up the mountain, so the trail was quiet and peaceful. About half way through, we started to run into crowds of people. We were happy to be hiking in the opposite direction. The views are unbelievable so make sure you bring your camera! But be prepared for this hike – pack lots of water, snacks, and comfortable and supportive walking shoes. There were plenty of slippery spots, and moments where you were climbing up steep inclines and declines. They’ve also been constructing steps, which makes it easier to climb, but more tiring at the same time. We hiked to the Klingenstock chairlift and took the chair back down to the village for a celebratory beverage. This hike, was without a doubt, one of our favourite days!

5. Titlis

Visit Bow Valley Parkway on your way between Lake Louise and Banff. It’s a beautiful spot for a picnic and a trail walk. Although we kept our visit short and sweet, you can bring your bike or lace up your hiking shoes and go off exploring the many different trails throughout the park.

6. Hike to the Burgenstock Hotel

Visit Bow Valley Parkway on your way between Lake Louise and Banff. It’s a beautiful spot for a picnic and a trail walk. Although we kept our visit short and sweet, you can bring your bike or lace up your hiking shoes and go off exploring the many different trails throughout the park.

Affordable Accommodations

1. We’ve stayed at both the Fox Hotel and Suites as well as the Peaks Hotel and Suites. I preferred the Peaks Hotel because it’s off the main busy road and it’s newer with lots of cozy character.

Splurge Accommodations

1. Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel – we haven’t stayed here, but it’s on our bucket list!

2. Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise – we would love to stay here in the future!