We were thinking about basing in Murren for 4 days. I was in Wengen 2 yrs ago in mid April and it was nice without the "masses." Not interested in Skiing, nightlife, or bigtime shopping, but would like to do some light hiking and love scenery. Another option might be late June into early July, but prefer to avoid hoards of tourists. I've already searched but would like to hear comments from the many BO lovers. Thanks...

Hi Beatle,

I was in the BO once in August, and only Grindelwald was mobbed. Mom and I had lunch in a nearly deserted Wengen. So, I might suppose you would be ok in Muerren, even in late June. For that reason, I would choose late June --

s

Thanks swandav. I should have also said we may spend about 5-6 days in Northern Italy- Lake Como, maybe Cinque Terre or Tuscany. Again we have a late April or late June option. Would like to hear any personal preferences on which time would be better. Thanks again...

Weatherwise: definately late June. Late April is not usually good for hiking in the mountains.

I was there in late June last year and the weather was very warm for that time of year. I don't think you will be mobbed up there because there are no roads leading to the village.

The hiking trails will be in much better shape, and all of the cable lifts will be fully operational.

Mürren offers some fantastic views of the Jungfrau, the Mönch, and some of the other snowy giants of the Berner Oberland.

For a light hike of a different nature, I warmly recommend a walk from Gimmelwald to the Kilchbalm. As mountain trails go, it is relatively level. The route takes you deep into a cirque where the trail ends against towering walls, streaming water falls, ice and snow patches, and solitude.

I am assuming that cows are part of the solitude. We were up in the Kilch a few years ago and it was populated by cows. I guarantee you that they will not bother you if you don't bother them. I had to walk around a couple of reclining milkers, but they are very polite animals. I thought they added to the ambience of the glacial meadow.

Just look down more than you look up while walking. If you want to stare upwards, I suggest doing it from a stationary position. (Hope I don't need to explain why!!)

Just a tip, something I (re-) learned last week : the funicular between Lauterbrunnen and Gruetscalp will be closed from the end (maybe I read 28th)of April till mid December. Actually they are replacing the funicular with a ropeway because of fragile ground situation. So during that time the access to Muerren is possible only via the ropeway from Stechelberg.

And I agree about late June with the other posters. In April, there can still be snow at higher altitude which is not ideal for hiking.

Thank you all for the helpful tips and I think I'm taking the advice re late June. A priority is avoiding hoards of tourists, if possible. Can I also ask if this would be a good time for Northern Italy- Lake Como, Cinque Terre or Tuscany. We may also be there for about 5-6 days. Thanks..

Bob Brown - your words "stare upwards while standing" - LOL! But so true (first-hand experience!)

Hello Beatle - I just love it when people have questions about the BO. It's such a beautiful place, the hills, lovely chalet style homes with all the flower baskets, glaciers, lakes, etc. etc.

Anyway, about your question. I would definitely agree that late June or early July would be best for wildflower gazing in the high hills. We're usually there mid July and they're in full bloom at that time, so I would imagine you'd see some a couple weeks earlier.

If you are looking for good hiking weather, this would also be best. The snow in the higher elevations stays for quite awhile (sometimes way into May, early June), depending on where you're going.

And welcome to the world of BO lovers!

Happy travels!

ttt