Hotel Waldhaus in Switzerland

Connie Doty (waving) and Orinda Hiking Club friends at the Aletsch Glacier.

Hotel Waldhaus (3992 Bett­meralp, SWITZERLAND; phone ++ 41 [0] 927 27 17, e-mail waldhaus@bettmeralp.ch or visit www.bettmeralp.ch/waldhaus), located in the Aletsch region, high up on the ridge between the Rhone and the Aletsch Glacier, not known to many Americans. This is ideal hiking country, with many gondolas and lifts to get you even higher.

Access to the hotel is by aerial tram from Betten, a train stop on the valley floor (no cars are allowed up in the village).

The hotel is owned and run by Herr and Frau Berchtold, who speak English and offer friendly personal service, including guided walks and bike loans at no charge.

A double room with bath, balcony and a spectacular Alps view costs €74 ($87). A huge breakfast buffet and 4-course dinner (really gourmet) can be included for €98 ($115) for two. A room overlooking the woods is €67-€87 ($79-$102).

You’ll want to stay here at least two or three nights! One could even come up here and not hike but just sit on their sunny terrace and enjoy the view and good food. A piece of heaven! (August ’03)

CONNIE DOTY
Orinda, CA