http://europeforvisitors.com/switzau...f_im_stroh.htm

I was just reading about this program tonight, although I had vaguely heard about it before. In the summer, Swiss farmers send their cows out to graze in alpine pastures, leaving their barns empty. So what's to be done with the barns? Rent out sleeping places to budget tourists, of course. The cost is CHF20 for a sleeping place and a simple breakfast - about $17 USD.

I'm not planning on going to Switzerland anytime soon, but was intrigued by this idea. But despite my strong desire to save money while traveling, this might be one method I'm not willing to undertake.

It could be fun depending on how adventurous you are. Unfortunately, there are probably a few people here who wouldn't do it because if they did they would look like a tourist and given what some people <b> tell </b> you they take to Europe in terms of luggage, probably end up smelling even more like one, too!

Hi WillTravel, what a thought! I hope it is <i>clean straw! </i>

Could be fun. If I were younger and traveling with friends, I might try it once. But not with a husband and cocker spaniel in tow.

Hi BTilke, you think your dear husband and the cocker would turn up their noses regarding sleeping on straw in a cowbarn? Aren't they fussy!

A question WillTravel, will these fab accomodations have any bathrooms? Guess at the most it will be an outhouse? Just wondering. And noooo, I am not interested in reserving a spot.

&quot;schlauf im stroh&quot; I think it's called in German. I haven't done it either, but a co-worker of mine says it was a fun one-time experience. Apparently, they clean the barn thoroughly after the cows go away, throw in some fresh hay, and give people some basic bedding.

She has no complaints or horror stories about her stay in the hay. Her barn had a bathroom en suite, so to speak, and hot shower (you had to pay x for every 5 minutes). I'd love to try it on my trip this year, but I will be there in late May/early June and I don't think the cows will be gone by then. Even though I can afford 5-stars all the way, I think it's great fun to rough it for a night or two. It's trying something new and that's what travel is all about.

I guess a one-time roll in the hay could be fun.

Rick Steves writes about this in one of his books and I saw it on one of his programs. The town was Gimmelwald I think and it looked like a lot of fun. Don't think I could talk my husband into it though. Not sure about the bathroom/shower facilities and you may have to have your own sheet(s).

I have no problem with budget travel, but this is over the top, even for me. Besides, my allergies would forbid it.

I've seen the Gimmelwald 'Sleep in the Straw' barn and that's just what it is - a cow barn - hopefully the cow dung will have been cleaned away. I'm sure in the Swiss way of things it's thoroughly clean. Tremendous setting up in the Alps with just a few chalet houses in this tiny village - the Mountain Hostel nearby affords a step up bed, with feather ticks and a guesthouse offers budget hotel rooms in case you get there and find out the straw is not for you. Gimmelwald's web site has details on all. Yes - it's remote but still plugged in!

The bathroom facilities seem to vary. At worst they are located in the farmhouse, which could be a significant walk in the middle of the night.

BTilke, I'm sure that among me, my husband, and our dog - it would be our dog who would most enjoy a night in the straw.

Apparently you do need to bring along your own sleeping bag.

I travel light packing only bare nesessities. How do I get a sleeping bag to Switzerland?

Oh, I know how: I'll put it on instead of a coat. Will they hang it up for me on the airplane if I fly coach?

I can camp in the Glacier Express train later!

Wonder what the Fodor's fashionistas think of this new dress style.

FainaAgain, half the women in Italy seemed to be wearing puffy coats that looked like sleeping bags. I'm sure you could find a clever way to wear a sleeping bag.

I wonder if breakfasts are included, and if yes, will I have to milk a cow myself?

How do I get to such a place from the airport? If no shuttles or taxis, will I get to ride a cow? Can I hang my carry-ons on her horns?

Hi Faina,

I believe transport is via wheelbarrow.

Do I need an international drivers' license to rent a wheelbarrow?

Definitely, as well as &quot;cow milking&quot; certification! They can't have tourists getting kicked in the ribs and suing, can they?

You mean I need certification for preventing me from kicking that cow with my cowboy boots?

Honey, I don't wear boots, I am not Muffin. Smooches

This must be the last straw.

And here is the link for it:

http://www.abenteuer-stroh.ch/en/default.asp