Ah, my fellow wanderers, today I will regale you with a tale of a journey to the mesmerizing Jungfraujoch, the "Top of Europe." As we embarked on this alpine adventure, we felt as though we were following in the footsteps of the many illustrious adventurers who have previously risked so much to first explore the high mountains. Nestled amidst the Swiss Alps, the Jungfraujoch is a place where clouds whisper secrets to snow-capped peaks and where latter day airborne adventurers soar over the snowfields in whirling helicopters or silent gliders.
To reach this ethereal destination, one must embark on a whimsical train ride aboard the Jungfrau Railway. The cogwheel train whirred and chattered as it scaled the steep slope through the mountain. Our hearts raced in tune with the trains rhythmic motion, and we marvelled at the Swiss engineering prowess.
Emerging at the "Sphinx" observation deck, we stood at 3,454 meters (11,350 ft) above sea level, feeling like a modern-day Edmund Hilary gazing upon the world below. The panorama stretched far and wide, showcasing a frozen wonderland where glaciers kissed the heavens, and valleys whispered tales of enchantment.
We found ourselves frolicking in the snow, relishing the sensations of the bright, cold, clear air. A visit to the Ice Palace added a touch of whimsy to our day, with icy sculptures that sparkled like diamonds.
Walking up through the snowfields above the Eigergletscher we became aware of the altitude. Even at this relatively benign height one is conscious of the additional effort required to suck oxygen into one’s lungs. After this we felt we had earned our luncheon of rosti washed down with plentiful German beer.
As we descended from this alpine paradise, we couldn't help but reflect on how our journey to the Jungfraujoch had been a true voyage of discovery. It's a place where dreams meet reality, and where this alpine world is showcased in all its glory. So, fellow travelers, do heed my words and embark on your own Jungfraujoch adventure; you won't be disappointed.
The following day held further adventure for we headed onto the Firstbahn. We gently floated in the security of the gondola, enjoying the company of fellow travellers who were celebrating their 2nd wedding anniversary and carrying a large, gold balloon in the shape of the number 2.
We enjoyed the airy views from the suspension bridge of the First Cliff Walk and strolled across alpine meadows and the gritty base of vertiginous ski runs to reach the glistening Lake Bachalpsee.
At the end of the afternoon we descended tired but satisfied and returned to Grindelwald for sustenance. We then rode the Mannlichen gondola to look down on Wengen from the summit station at 2,343 meters.
The following day it was time to move on. Holding many happy memories we left the Jungfrau region and drove East heading over the Steingletscher. Navigating many hairpin bends we climbed then descended out of Switzerland and into Italy.
After four-and-a-half hours driving we arrived at Lake Como. Here we enjoyed a different experience with a day spent traversing the lake on the packet steamer mixing with the throngs of tourists in this ever popular destination.
Lunch was declared to have involved the “best burrata ever” as we sat on the square in Mennaggio soaking up the warm Italian sun with a view of the crystal clear turquoise waters of the lake.
That evening we returned as the sun set. The lake steamer took us slowly up the lake as we watched the ranks of surrounding mountains recede into the haze. Layers of grey and blue merged into each other providing a simple graphic scene for our visual memory to treasure forever.
Our time at Como was brief for we were still but a week into our journey. We must move on and will update you further, dear readers, as our travels unfurl.
The Eiger Express
Eiger north face sunset
From the Eigergletscher
Jungfraujoch plateau
The Jungfraijoch sphinx
Soaring over the Jungfrau
