Switzerland's Berner Oberland
 

Hi,

My wife and I, along with another couple, will be visiting Switzerland's Interlaken and Berner Oberland area for 3.5 days (net of travel) this summer. My question is, with all the small towns in the Berner Oberland, where is the optimal place to stay? We plan to see as much in this mountainous area as we can. We prefer to keep the nightly rate at around $150.00 or under....if possible. What town would you suggest staying in? Hotel recommendations would also be greatly appreciated.

Thanks so much!

TravelGuy

We loved staying at the Hotel Bellevue in Murren. (We also stayed in Wengen.) We preferred the cozy feeling of the car-free village of Murren, and we enjoyed the access to our favorite hiking trails from Murren, such as the north face trail. Since you only have 3.5 days, I suggest you decide what you want to do, and then base yourself wherever it is most convenient for access to your planned activities. If your main objective is to hike around in the Berner Oberland, then Interlaken is too far, in my opinion. I'd suggest Murren, Wengen, or Lauterbrunnen, for better access to the hikes and sites of the gorgeous Berner Oberland. Enjoy this magnificent area!

Lauterbrunnen is a great place to stay - pretty little town, beautiful scenery, easy access via trains and cable cars to Jungfrau, Schilthorn, Wengen, Murren, Grindelwald etc. We've stayed at Hotel Staubbach in Lauterbrunnen - good sized rooms, good breakfasts - worth paying a little extra to get a room with a balcony looking down the valley.

I too like to stay in Lauterbrunnen. It's a great little town that is convenient for day trips to the entire region.
Martha

With that budget I also recommend Lauterbrunnen (Hotel Staubbach would be a good choice), Wilderswil or maybe even down by the lakes - www.thunersee.ch gives an excellent overview on accommodation (online booking possible).