Picture a small village with the scent of Alpine air and the sound of cow bells in the early morning. Welcome to Gimmelwald - a car free village at an elevation of 1367 meters (4485 feet) located in the Bernese Oberland in the Canton of Bern, Switzerland which is only accessible by cable car (gondola) or walking path.
Interesting fact: The locals had Gimmelwald declared an avalanche zone to prevent it from being developed into a large ski resort.
The Village
Hear the distinct warning sound of the incoming and departing cable cars carrying tourists to the Schilthorn. Take a hike along the many paths connecting neighboring villages offering majestic views of the Swiss Alps. Enjoy a picnic of fresh local Alpine cheese and milk from the local farmers, various meats and Swiss chocolates. Be amazed at the sight of local farmers gathering hay the old fashion way for the upcoming winter. Enjoy beer and food while trading travel stories and the days' activities with fellow travelers at the Mountain Hostel in the evening. Gaze into the clear night sky at the constellations and spot a few satellites. Sleep and restart the process the next day.
Honesty and Self Service Shops
Most of the locals make their money from farming and operating the cable cars. A few farmers sell fresh cows' milk, cheese and various items out of their homes by utilizing an honesty system for the customers while the farmers are out in the fields working. Simply leave the cost of an item in a box and grab what you want. Many tourists love this unique experience and the fresh milk and cheese is tasty!
