Fantastic start to the day for a train journey with Jungfrau Railways beginning in Interlaken-Ost.

I know where I’m heading …

Ok, so you can’t use your Eurail Pass on this rail experience, but don’t be dismayed, just head back down the ramp to the Interlaken-Ost ticket office and show your Pass to receive a 25% discount on the normal price.

This is our first transfer point to change to another train better equipped with the terrain.

Our driver ready to go.

Making our way up is arduous but enjoyable to everyone onboard.

Ok so this is our next change of service for the climb upwards.

Fresh water anyone …

At 3,160 metres we’re ready to go again …

Arrival at the Sphinx – we’re at the ‘Top of Europe’

Here’s our shadow.

Cheeky black birds even at this height know where to find food.

Frozen glacier anyone?

Just add whipped cream …

As always all good things must come to an end and now we’re on our way down but towards Grindelwald.

Definitely the end of the day – those Lindt Chocolate Makers are feeling hungry as they know it’s feeding time. Ummm moo to you too!

From Avignon to Geneva the TGV travels directly and a confirmed reservation is always required. There are two main stations in Avignon whereby the Avignon Centre is directly in front of the main thoroughfare for eateries/restaurants and shopping once you step past the main gates of the walled city. Avignon TGV Station is about a five minute ride from Avignon Centre with regular services going between.

Lausanne or Lucerne Switzerland – any aspiring young travel consultant might like to learn the difference, almost always a geography test question.

Heading towards Bern and skirting around the perimeter of Lake Geneva near Lausanne, the French-speaking part of Switzerland.

The exquisite and lovely Hotel Bellevue at Interlaken is a family owned and managed hotel. Just off the main thoroughfare; it’s quiet and a very handy location near shops and eateries. Generally, when you stay at a hotel in Interlaken they will provide you with a visitor’s card which allows you to travel free on local bus and train services.

Room with a fabulous view at the Bellevue Hotel overlooking the Alps. Interlaken West railway station is a two-minute walk from here and really convenient.

Sometimes you just can’t believe your luck – the night before was the first sprinkling of snow for Switzerland heading into winter.

Headed up to Grindelwald for the day with long-time Swiss friend Anne from Bern.

Snow was just heavy enough for clearance the next morning.

Grindelwald has some wonderful little cafes and restaurants and only a short drive from Interlaken.