Interlaken: Gateway to the Swiss Alps

Interlaken sits between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz, and while the town itself is modest, its location is exceptional. I arrived by train from Lucerne and used Interlaken as a base rather than a destination. The real reason to be here is access to: Jungfraujoch (Top of Europe) Lauterbrunnen Valley Grindelwald The train to Jungfraujoch is expensive but unforgettable — climbing through mountains to reach snow and ice at high altitude. Lauterbrunnen, just 20 minutes away by train, is one of the most beautiful valleys in Europe, with waterfalls dropping from steep cliffs. Interlaken itself is also known for adventure activities — paragliding, hiking, and skiing depending on season. What I’d do differently: Stay in Lauterbrunnen instead of Interlaken.