Wandering Solothurn & Scaling the Swiss Alps: A Journey of Discovery

When you think of Switzerland, what springs to mind? For me, it’s the majestic Swiss Alps. But staying near those breathtaking peaks wasn’t in my budget. Instead, I discovered Solothurn, a charming little town that felt like stepping into a postcard. Although quiet and mostly deserted, Solothurn’s charm captivated me as I wandered its cobbled streets and prepared for an unforgettable adventure.

Exploring Solothurn: Nature, Relaxation, and Local Life

My day began with a delightful walk along a quaint trail surrounded by streams and towering trees. The Einsiedelei St. Verena trail offers a serene escape for families and nature lovers alike. I found a bench near a bubbling stream, perfect for diving into a good book while soaking up the peaceful ambiance.

After a tranquil morning, I decided to check out the local public pool, an unexpected gem for just 6€. The pool was bustling with families, while a grassy hill overlooking the river became the preferred spot for sun-seeking adults. I spread out my trusty towel (sign up for my newsletter to discover my favorite travel towel!) and combined two of my favorite pastimes: reading and lounging by the water. Nearby, people were paddleboarding, but despite my best efforts, I couldn’t figure out where they rented the boards—it seemed they had brought their own.

A large river takes up most of the photo with a few paddle boarders on the left and a small boat on the right. A few swimmers are around the boat. There are homes and trees surrounding the river and in the background is the outline of mountains. White clouds are overhead.

As storm clouds began rolling in, I packed up and headed back to my Airbnb for a cozy dinner paired with a glass of wine. The anticipation of the next day’s adventure—a trip to the Swiss Alps—kept my spirits high.

A Day in the Swiss Alps: Beauty, Challenges, and Chocolate

The morning started with a minor hiccup. My ticket to Interlaken West required a transfer in Bern, but I accidentally boarded the wrong train—a rookie mistake! Thankfully, the kind staff in Bern reassured me that I could catch the next train without purchasing a new ticket. Crisis averted, though the mishap cost me an hour.

The front of the picture show a road and a sidewalk. Behind the sidewalk are two cute little houses, and behind them you can see part of the Swiss Alps. The blue sky above has some coulds.

Once in Interlaken, I grabbed a quick bite at a local kebab shop before heading toward the Alps. The scenery was everything I had dreamed of: towering peaks, lush greenery, and a crisp, invigorating breeze. A gondola ride promised panoramic views, but at 50€ with a long line, I opted to hike to the summit instead.

The views leading up to the base of the Swiss Alps!

This decision proved to be a mixed blessing. My tank top and tennis shoes were fine, but my denim shorts? Not so much. What I expected to be a leisurely stroll turned into a serious hike. The trail wound through dense woods, rocky paths, and tangled roots, leaving me hot, sweaty, and out of breath. Altitude sickness began to creep in, making the climb even tougher. After 40 grueling minutes, I was only halfway up and decided to turn back, grateful for the stunning vistas I had already experienced.

Views from my hike in the Alps!

Back in town, I rewarded myself with some famous Swiss chocolate and leisurely explored Interlaken’s picturesque streets. Despite the challenges, the beauty of the Alps and the charm of the town made the trip unforgettable.

Looking Ahead

The train ride back to Solothurn was seamless, giving me time to reflect on the highs and lows of the day. Though the hike didn’t go as planned, I was grateful for the adventure and the memories made along the way. Tomorrow, my journey continues in Italy. Ciao, Switzerland—you’ve been unforgettable!

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