A Hiking Adventure in the Swiss Alps Just for families, Ages 8 to 80

See the timeless delights of Switzerland on this eight-day journey designed for eight- and 80-year-old alike. Like Heidi from the storybook, youll roam green meadows, hike through forests, and milk cows, all within view of the iconic Alps. Take cable car rides to Emmentel and Bernese Oberland region villages, ride by horse-and-buggy to the town of Arni where youll visit a local cheese making factory, and take a train to the world-famous Confiserie Schuh for mouthwatering truffles. The kids can hop on the back of a mule when their feet get tired from the hikes, and well have two guides throughout. This is a unique outdoor adventure for families to enjoy together.

Activities

5 days easy mule-assisted hiking

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS

• Mule-assisted hikes through the green pastures, lush forests, and picturesque villages of the Emmentel and Bernese Oberland regions
• Take one night off to sip the renowned wines of Spiez, while your guide entertains the kids
• Treat yourself to truffels grand cru or chocolate mousse at the Confiserie Schuh Chocolate Factory
• A trip designed for families to experience the outdoors together, with activities enjoyable for all ages

2010 PRICES
$3,695 (12-14 members)
$3,995 (6-11 members)
$400 single supplement

Bring the Kids!
$300 discount available for children ages 8-11.

Duration: 8 days Start Location: Zurich End Location: Zurich Best time to go: June - August

Itinerary

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  Day 1 : Zürich – Lützelflüh-Goldbach

  Arrive in Zurich. Travel by private bus to Lützelflüh-Goldbach in the heart of the Emmental region.

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  Day 2 : Lützelflüh-Goldbach to Niederbach

  Mule supported hike to the village of Niederbach to visit an old-fashioned-but still operating-grain mill. Spend the night in a hotel with 360-degree views to the high peaks of the Bernese Oberland, Valais, and Vaud.

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  Day 3 : Niederbach to Schwanden

  Hike to the famous gold-panning region of Goldbach, for a picnic by the river, followed by a visit at the traditional Swiss farm home of your guide Hansueli Weber.

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  Day 4 : Blasenfluh

  Hike to the Blasenfluh, a scenic rock formation with expansive views to hundreds of green hills and snow-capped peaks.

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  Day 5 : Arni to Thun

  Journey by horse-and-wagon to the village of Arni, home of the famous Emmental cheese factory. In the evening it's time for fun in the waterpark for the kids, and fabulous Spiez wine tasting for the adults!

• Day 6 : Murren

  Take a cable car to the mountain village of Mürren, home to the mountaintop revolving restaurant made famous by James Bond.

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  Day 7 : Interlaken-West & Ballenberg

  Train from Spiez to the wood-carving village of Brienz, followed by a stop in Interlaken-West to visit Confiserie Schuh, a factory that has produced exquisite chocolates since 1818.

• Day 8 : Depart Zürich

  Depart from Zurich.

Properties shown are representative of the accommodations we use on this trip, may not be inclusive of all accommodations we use, and are subject to change.

Expert leadership is the key to an exciting, unforgettable experience. Our trips feature gifted leaders for whom leading trips is a true vocation. Besides showing you wonders you’d never find on your own, they make sure everything runs smoothly and safely without a hitch. They are knowledgeable about all aspects of your trip, and take great pleasure in sharing their insights with you. More than just guides, they positively elevate your experience by being teachers, companions, and the best of friends. You’ll be in good hands with them every step of the way.

• Theresa Moser

  Theresa is a remarkable woman and has been with MTS for 8 years. A trained and professional ballet dancer, she co-organizes the annual International Dance Festival in Zurich, offers yoga classes for adults and children and works as a life guard at the Seebad in Zurich (a spa and beach on Lake Zurich). Her expertise in first-aid and CPR and her skills in mountaineering make her a wonderful tour guide, a position she loves above all.

• Hansueli Weber

  Hansueli Weber is a Swiss native who truly loves to work in the outdoors. He is an experienced children’s ski instructor, canoe guide, farmer, and even served in the Swiss Army working specifically with mules. For the past several years, Hansueli has worked as a mule trekking guide and enjoys introducing visitors to the beautiful countryside of his homeland from atop a sure-footed steed. Hansueli is fluent in German, English, and French—as well as the language of children. He is always enthusiastic to engage and teach inquisitive young minds, and found his passion with the rewarding career of both leading tours and working with kids.

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