A Family Adventure in Wengen, Switzerland: Memories and Miles
Our family trip to Wengen, Switzerland, was a week filled with breathtaking landscapes, unforgettable experiences, and the joy of spending time together. The journey began with a smart use of points and miles, allowing us to explore Europe without breaking the bank. Here’s a look back at our adventure, from the bustling streets of Amsterdam to the serene beauty of the Swiss Alps.
Flying High with KLM: The Start of Our Journey
We were thrilled to find a great deal on KLM, using just 13,000 points per person thanks to a Chase 25% transfer bonus during a KLM sale. Our journey started with an overnight flight from Houston to Amsterdam, where we treated ourselves with a cash upgrade to economy comfort seats—a small luxury that made the long flight much more bearable. We’ve enjoyed flying with KLM.
From Amsterdam to Wengen: A Scenic Journey
After a short flight a few days later from Amsterdam to Geneva, we embarked on a scenic train journey to Wengen, using our Swiss Rail Passes. Though expensive at $660 per adult, the passes allowed us to travel seamlessly across Switzerland. One hiccup was that our train didn’t have a restaurant car, leaving us scrambling to find water for our thirsty daughter. It was a stressful moment, but a lesson learned—always carry enough water!
The train ride to Wengen was long, nearly four hours, but the stunning views made it worthwhile. Upon arrival, it was a quick and easy walk from the train station to our Airbnb, nestled right in the heart of Wengen. The cool mountain air meant we didn’t miss having air conditioning, even as avid users of it back home.
Wengen: A Peaceful Retreat in the Swiss Alps
Wengen was everything we’d hoped for—peaceful, picturesque, and perfect for a family getaway. The town’s charm, coupled with the breathtaking Alpine scenery, made it a place we’ll never forget. Our Airbnb was comfortable and ideally located, allowing us to explore the town and surrounding areas with ease. We also happened to be there on August 1st, during a Swiss National Holiday where they had lots of performers and celebrations.
Exploring the Best of the Swiss Alps: Day Trips from Wengen
Our week in Wengen, Switzerland, was made even more memorable by the fantastic day trips we took to explore the surrounding areas. Each destination offered something unique, and we were thrilled by how kid-friendly everything was. Here’s a glimpse into our Alpine adventures.
Soaring to New Heights: Männlichen via Cable Car
One of our favorite excursions was taking the cable car from Wengen to Männlichen. The ride itself was an adventure, with stunning panoramic views of the Swiss Alps that left us in awe. Once at the top, we were treated to breathtaking vistas and a network of trails perfect for a family hike. The kids had a blast running around the amazing playground at the top, and the fresh mountain air was invigorating. It was a day well spent in nature, soaking in the beauty of the Alps. If you get hungry, there’s even a restaurant up there.
A Day in Interlaken: Boat Ride to Brienz and a Splash at the Beach Pool
Interlaken was another highlight of our trip. We enjoyed a first-class boat ride on Lake Brienz, which was included in our Swiss Rail pass. The boat ride was serene and offered incredible views of the surrounding mountains. We docked in Brienz, a charming village that felt like stepping into a postcard.
After our boat adventure, we headed back to Interlaken to cool off at the “Beach” Pool. The kids loved splashing around, and it was a perfect way to unwind after a day of exploration. The pool’s location, surrounded by mountains, made it a unique and relaxing experience for the whole family.
Discovering Lauterbrunnen: Waterfalls and a Refreshing Swim
Lauterbrunnen, known for its stunning waterfalls, was a must-visit on our list. We explored the famous Staubbach Falls, which cascades dramatically down the mountainside. The kids were mesmerized by the sight, and we spent time hiking around the area to take in the natural beauty.
Afterward, we visited the local pool in Lauterbrunnen, a lovely spot to cool down and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. The combination of waterfalls and swimming made for a perfect day in this picturesque valley. The pools are cool in Switzerland, and the lake water is COLD but we still swam and had a great time!
Thrills in Grindelwald: Alpine Slide and “Fly Line” Fun
Grindelwald offered a mix of adventure and fun that the whole family enjoyed. We rode the Alpine Slide, a thrilling ride down the mountain that had our hearts racing. The kids couldn’t get enough and wanted to go again and again.
The “Fly Line” was another exciting experience—a zipline-style ride that gave us a bird’s-eye view of the stunning landscape. It was a perfect blend of adrenaline and scenic beauty, making it a favorite for both the kids and adults.
Kid-Friendly Adventures and Seamless Travel
One of the best parts of our trip was how kid-friendly each destination was. Whether we were hiking in Männlichen, swimming in Interlaken, or riding the Alpine Slide in Grindelwald, the kids were always entertained and engaged.
Traveling between these spots was a breeze, thanks to the efficient public transportation system and the SBB App. We loved the ease of hopping on and off trains, boats, without worrying about tickets or logistics. The Swiss Travel Pass was worth every penny, making our adventures smooth and stress-free.
Wrapping Up a Week of Unforgettable Memories
Our day trips from Wengen added so much variety and excitement to our stay in the Swiss Alps. Each day brought new adventures and unforgettable experiences, all set against the backdrop of some of the most beautiful scenery in the world. These moments, shared as a family, are the memories we’ll cherish forever.
The Return Journey: Manchester and Homeward Bound
Our return journey took us from Geneva to Manchester on EasyJet. While the low fare was attractive, the additional costs for luggage and seat selection made us question whether it was the best option. We spent the night at the Delta Hotels in Manchester, where we enjoyed a late dinner at Brasserie Blanc before turning in.
Singapore Airlines Business Class
The next morning, we embarked on our most luxurious flight yet—Singapore Airlines business class. Using 90,000 points per person, we upgraded our originally planned economy seats, thanks to the Amex Platinum bonus. The flight was wonderful, though keeping our 2-year-old entertained during the 10-hour flight was a challenge. Still, it was a memorable experience, and we appreciated the impeccable service.
A Trip to Remember
Our week in Wengen, Switzerland, was an unforgettable experience that brought our family closer together and gave us memories to cherish for a lifetime. We’re so grateful that points and miles made this dream trip possible, allowing us to explore the world with our children. From the charming streets of Amsterdam to the majestic peaks of the Swiss Alps, every moment was worth the journey.
