Switzerland Itinerary-beginning of May
 

We have to fly to LGW and out of BRU because we are using FF miles. Plan to fly out of LGW to either Zurich or Geneva the same day we arrive LGW and this is the itinerary we have come up with so far. My husband doesn't like to change hotels very often, and prefers a "relaxing" pace rather than trying to cram too much in. We have even been known to get up early, do things, then return to hotel for afternoon nap, and then go out again. Thinking of flying to Geneva, train to Montreux, 3 days there, then Golden Pass scenic train to Interlaken, 2 days there - day trip into the mountains - then 2 days Lucerne, and then train or fly to Brussels, spend two nites Brugge before going home. Any comments or suggestions on this itinerary? From reading other posts, getting the impression that the beginning of May (when we are going) is not prime time for spending time in the mountains so that's why chose these places.

For scenery, you can't top the Grindlewald or Gimmelwald area with the Jungfrough. I would make that my base (skip Montreux) and do a day trip into Interlaken. Also Zermatt is spectacular with the Matterhorn and its cute pedestrian town. Brugge is very charming, a unique town with its canals.

Having just done this last month, I would also skip Montreux and spend more time in the Grindelwald area. Besides Grindelwald, you could base yourself in Murren or Wengen. I happen to prefer Grindelwald, but you'll get a lot of differing opinions, and I don't think you can go wrong with any of them. Lots of great hikes, train and gondola trips in the area. Have fun.
((H))

I respectfully disagree with the previous posters. Sure, the mountain views of Grindelwald region are not to beat - but in early May the area is shut down. Snow is melting slowly and hiking paths are still closed (like many cable cars). So I think two nights in Interlaken and a day trip to Kleine Scheidegg (or maybe Jungfraujoch) by train are perfect.

At this time of year you should not miss Montreux and Lake Geneva. Blooming flowers on the lake promenade, a visit of castle Chillon and a relaxing ferry ride on the lake (hopping on/off at small villages' stops) are fantastic.

So - stick with your original itinerary!

Ingo

I absolutely *love* the stretch along Lac Leman from Geneva out thru Lausanne, Vevey, and Montreux, with lake and Alps on one side & the wine region up behind. I can't compare it to other areas because I have friends who live in Vevey/Montreux that I stay with and have only seen this part of the country (but have gone 4 trips there). Fantastic!

Thanks for your replies. I think I will stick to my original itinerary and am getting ready to book my hotels now.