We woke in our tents to the pattering of rain so we knew today was going to be a less-than-ideal start. It’s no fun packing up wet tents in the rain. Also, neither Allison nor I slept well since our stomachs were feeling off.

We were not in a rush since our bus back up the mountain didn’t leave until 8:20am. So we had a cold breakfast of bread, peanut butter and Nutella, packed our bags under a shelter and headed out for the 30min walk to catch the bus.

After wincing again at the cost of the bus ride, we boarded. The ride up was certainly more entertaining than the ride down. Our driver was in a chatty mood and gave commentary as we drove up the S-Curve roads.

It took about an hour to reach the top. We were treated to some clearing skies at the 6347ft peak and again the views were spectacular.

Our day was going to be an easy one of only 5.1mi and almost all downhill.

One of the things we have noticed is the start of changing leaf color and the temperatures are a little cooler in the morning.  Contrasting are the patches of blueberries which are a surprise as well as some pretty pink alpine flowers. 

Views of Schwartzalp, Eiger, Monch, and eventually Jungfrau kept us stopping for photo ops.

Allison and I came to Grindelwald 26 years ago. Back then it was a lesser known summer destination and as a result it was a relative bargain in Switzerland. Well, someone let the secret out because now it is a hub of summer and winter sports and a world renown destination and the prices reflect it. We probably won’t be back. Mind you, it is still one of the top two places in the world for natural beauty.

We are taking two rest days here. This will be the first rest day we’ve taken since Nürnberg on day 30. So that’s 26 consecutive days on the move…and I’m ready for a rest.

Our apartment has a kitchen and access to a cheap, pay laundry room. So we are going to relax tonight but get up early for the first and last big planned extravagance of our trip, a train ride to the top of Jungfrau and a walk along the glacier.

The sun is setting earlier and earlier here. Even the sunset here is something to behold. The temperature is already dropping quickly as the sun is behind one of the Alps. Dinner is cooking and we are all in relaxation mode.