Hello,

Greetings from Vermont, USA! I am planning a trip to Switzerland for my husband's 50th birthday. Switzerland, particularly Wengen, holds a special place in our hearts, and we've visited the country twice before, exploring Wengen, Murren, Zurich, Bern, Lucerne, Montreux, Vevey, and Zermatt.

Although my husband's birthday falls on November 30th, which might not be the ideal time to be in Wengen, we are still determined to fly to Switzerland for the entire week (the last week in November). Our plan is to spend at least three days in Wengen, where we are considering renting an apartment since many hotels may be closed during that period. I'm curious if any trails will be open for hiking at that time. While it might be too early for skiing, which we don't mind, any suggestions for activities would be greatly appreciated.

Before heading to Wengen, we are looking for ideas for a 3-4 night stay. We are drawn to non-commercial and unique places, preferably located higher in the mountains or at least in small, distinctive villages. Considering that the end of November might see many places closed, any recommendations would be helpful.

Thank you for any ideas and assistance!

While most people will tell you that November isn't the best time to visit Switzerland, we've done it many times.

Yes, some things will be closed, and cable cars may be closed for pre-ski season maintenance, so if you have your heart set on something, you'd do best to check ahead of time so you're not disappointed.

Whether or not trails are closed depends on the weather, and IME, trails are only officially closed if they pose some sort of danger. It's quite feasible to hike year round if conditons allow; there may be very little snow. It's more difficult if the area has received a lot of snow and the trails haven't yet been groomed for winter (grooming trails at ski areas is common practice, but doesn't happen until ski season is up and running).

I've never not found a trail in Switzerland, regardless of time of year, it will just depend on elevation and weather, which no one can predict. You'll find pleny of trails at lower elevations, and I can think of several hikes right from Wengen that might work for you if conditions allow.

I suggest you just pop into the tourist office upon your arrival and ask for hiking/walking suggestions.

PS - pack some traction devices, just in case.

In November, sunny places like everything between Sierre, Sion and Crans-Montana or around Locarno will have no snow.
There are no closed villages as people live there all the year round. Only hotels, restaurants and tourist shops (but not food stores) may be closed.