Bettmeralp

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Monday 13 Sept
We awoke this morning to dense fog rising out of the valley; it looks like white smoke rising from a very large fire. Not very good for mountain viewing, but it made it possible to see the updrafts the para-sailors and hang-gliders use. We have seen them everyday since arriving. It seems this area is know for a great place to for gliding or sailing and we watched them take off right below us on the hike to Fiescheralp.

The fog cleared about noon and we hiked back up to the Pro Natura Villa Cassel to a new trail through the Aletschwald (Aletsch forest) and along the Grosser Aleschgletcher (or Aletsch glacier). There is no noises along the trail except for the sound of our steps, the birds and the occasional waterfall. I find myself standing still just to listen to the silence. On a whim we decided try a new way home. You can probably guess it took us longer than we planned and included a 300 meter climb up toward the end of the hike; although we were winded I think we have finally acclimated to the altitude. We didn't get back to the hotel until 7:15 pm, but it was worth it. Our last meal at the Waldhaus offered another unusual fare which I tried (Gary opted for a steak). The meal started with several varieties of thinly sliced smoked meats from the region. Then I had a cheese Recklette, which is melted cheese on a plate served with small boiled potatoes, pickles, pickled onions, mushrooms and cabbage. It was quite interesting, although I don't know that I would want it every night.

Tuesday 14 Sept

We ride the lift back down the mountain and are off to Basel to meet the Wilhelms and a trip to Alsace. The day is sunny and clear and as I look at the Alps at breakfast I am trying to imprint the view in my mind. It's goodbye to Bettmeralp!

Auf Wiedersehen

Mary and Gary

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Photos

Swiss scenery?
To quote Gary "Any description of this area would be remiss without a picture of this

Blausee
On the hike back to Bettmeralp

Comments

[Cherie]

I am so glad you two are having such a wonderful time! The pictures are absolutely gorgeous and I can't wait to hear about the trip! Have a safe trip back home.