Inaugural Grand Bernese Oberland Traverse

This was the first edition of the Grand Bernese Oberland Traverse, extending our usual tour to stretch all the way from Meiringen to Gstaad. That gave us 10 days of running with no rest day. I was fortunate to have a wonderful group of five strong women. We all got along famously and it was the ultimate relaxed, supportive, and cohesive group. A true pleasure to guide!

Apart from one rainy day when we took a lower route due to storms, we were exceptionally lucky with the weather. It was warm and sunny with incredible views – we could often see where we had been 2-3 days prior. After leaving Lauterbrunnen, we felt the sense of journey as we traveled east to west toward Gstaad.

Highlight

To name a few: Being up on Tanzbödeli (the dance floor) on a perfect morning with panoramic views of Lauterbrunnen. Running up to Sefinafurgga with Run the Alps Content Producer, Kim, who took some great photos and infused us with her energy. Bagging the summit of Bunderspitz and being inspired by elderly locals hiking all the way up there.

Best meal of the tour

We especially enjoyed our food at Berghaus Golderli in Griesalp. Hearty homemade soup, delicious salad, generous portions of vegetarian lasagne, and fresh strawberry cake for dessert. Breakfast was fantastic too. All prepared and served with love by our generous hosts, Alexandra and Robert.

Unexpected or otherwise memorable moment

We encountered some rather lively goats on the trail through Kiental, and one that was a bit too playful with her horns. Fortunately I’m familiar with naughty goat behavior and had fun distracting her while the others passed. All in a day’s work!

Low point

The final day was my personal low point because the heat really got to me and I felt nauseous all day. As a guide, it’s nice to feel strong and comfortable on the trails, but we are all human, and some days definitely feel harder than others. The last section along Wasserngrat perked me up and it was a relief to jump on the chair lift for the final descent into Gstaad.

Favorite overnight stop

Obersteinberg is always a treat and this time was no exception. When the flagpole comes into view around the final bend, I love seeing people’s reactions to this unique place. We enjoyed drinks on the terrace in the sun, before retreating indoors to listen to the rain in the sanctuary of our wooden rooms. The candlelit dinner was wholesome and plentiful, and we enjoyed seeing some young children who had managed to hike up there.

Get all the details about our next Grand Bernese Oberland Traverse!