From Lyon to Gryon

After having spent only a couple of days in Geneva, I decided to once again return to the banking capital of the world, Switzerland. This time, however, I chose to venture to the Swiss Alps for some of the famed mountain scenery. I was not disappointed. High in the Alps a small town called Gryon sits nestled among jagged peaks. These peaks are truly astounding, even to a girl who comes from a state known for its mountain ranges. Gryon is the perfect Swiss town, with winding streets, wooden shops, and chalets, all tucked into the mountainside.

One of these chalets, called the Swiss Alps Retreat, is the most amazing hostel I have stayed in in all of Europe. The retreat houses both private rooms and dorm living, with several common rooms, bathrooms, a kitchen and movie room. It is a cosy place, full of leather couches, wooden tables, bunkbeds and breathtaking views. During the day the chalet seems entirely deserted, with the front desk opening at 5pm, but at dinner and nighttime, the place comes alive with people cooking, eating, drinking, playing games and socializing. The staff is all very welcoming and helpful, and the facilities are more than anyone could ask for. On the last night I was there, our hosts prepared a huge fondue meal, with both cheese and chocolate courses, a true swiss experience!

Outside the chalet, there are endless miles of sloping roads and fabulous views. Indeed, I spent a large chunk of my time in the mountains hiking around, exploring Gryon, or walking up the mountain towards the more touristy Villars, where restaurants, bars and stores abound. Besides walking, one can get around between Gryon, Villars, and the ski areas via the local cog rail, an experience for those who have never ridden one of the mountain-scaling trains.