48 Hours in Winter Wonderland: Switzerland
Ode to the Mountains
What I know to be true is this: when you’re living in alignment with your heart and soul, everything changes. The weight of worry melts away, allowing you to redirect your energy toward walking your own path, moving to the beat of your own rhythm. Recently, I felt the mountains whispering my name, calling me to a winter escape.
I imagined being transported to a winter wonderland, silenced by the majestic presence of the peaks, able to hear my deepest thoughts and tune into the rhythm of my heartbeat. In the embrace of Mother Nature, I paused to reflect on where I’ve been and reconnected with the curious, grateful child within me—the one who sees the world with optimism and hope, tempered by an understanding of the responsibility to live sustainably.
“Mountains are silent masters and make silent students.” — Goethe
My sights were set on Switzerland—a land of pristine blue lakes, towering mountains, fine cheeses, chalet living, and trains that run like clockwork. In winter, Switzerland transforms into a snow-draped wonderland. The change of seasons leaves trees bare yet breathtaking, their skinny branches exposing the subtle nuances of nature’s artistry. Inspired, I booked the Glacier Express, “the slowest scenic train ride in the world,” to soak in the splendor of the Swiss Alps, as if sugar had been sprinkled over the peaks.
The Glacier Express Experience
The Glacier Express traverses one of the most breathtaking routes in the world, connecting St. Moritz and Zermatt in an 8-hour journey through snow-capped peaks, deep valleys, and storybook villages. As a James Bond fan, I’d long been captivated by the dramatic car chases and train scenes set against the Swiss Alps. Now, it was my turn to experience it firsthand.
Planning the Journey
The Glacier Express departs from Zermatt or St. Moritz, with cities like Zurich and Geneva serving as convenient gateways. Initially, I planned to stay in Zermatt, but holiday demand had driven hotel prices sky-high. Instead, I found a charming and budget-friendly alternative: Täsch, a quiet village just one train stop from Zermatt.
At Zurich’s train station, the customer service desk helped us craft a personalized route, avoiding crowds and unnecessary stress—a game-changer compared to pre-booking online.
Arriving in Täsch
By mid-afternoon, we arrived in Täsch, greeted by a town blanketed in snow and twinkling with chalet-style homes adorned in Christmas lights. Our hotel, MountTime, was a quick five-minute walk from the station. The Co-op supermarket offered an impressive selection of local treats, and I indulged in wine, cheese, gluten-free crackers, grapes, and a perfectly ripe persimmon.
We dined at a cozy restaurant that evening, savoring cheese fondue. Fireworks ushered in the New Year, but we were up early the next morning, eager for our adventure. The hotel’s thoughtfully curated breakfast included fresh options and gluten-free bread, exemplifying Switzerland’s attention to detail.
Onboard the Glacier Express
The Glacier Express exceeded expectations. Boarding in Zermatt, we were met with panoramic windows showcasing uninterrupted views of the Alps. Though I’d considered first-class tickets, second class proved to be delightful, especially with a quiet train and a window seat in the early hours.
The journey was surreal—a tapestry of snow-draped forests, viaducts, and crystal-clear streams. It wasn’t just a visual experience but also a deeply reflective one. The vastness of nature grounded me in gratitude, reminding me of life’s delicate balance.
Travel Tips for the Glacier Express
Luggage: Pack light! Leave larger bags at your base accommodation and travel with a smaller suitcase or backpack. This makes hopping on and off trains far more convenient.
Essentials: Bring a Hat: Yes, it gets sunny if you get a window seat. The view in both directions is superb but definitely get a window seat. Bring a Kinto travel mug so you avoid constantly buying plastic water bottles and stay hydrated. Tap water never tasted so fresh. Heavy coats, winter gloves, layers layers and long wool socks, comfortable boots.
Booking Tickets: Instead of pre-booking online, consult train station staff upon arrival for the best routes and availability.
Accommodations: Staying in nearby towns like Täsch can save you money while offering a quieter, more intimate experience. Tasch is only a train ride away from Zermatt.
Exploring Pontresina and St. Moritz
Pontresina
Nestled in the Roseg Valley near St. Moritz, Pontresina is a quaint village brimming with charm. After checking into the Bernina Hotel, we wandered the snow-laden streets, passing the medieval St. Maria Church and enjoying the festive atmosphere. A local band played in the town square, offering free mulled wine and lemonade—a delightful surprise for someone without Swiss currency on hand! Dinner at La Gondoletta featured delicious cheese fondue, making for a cozy end to the day.
St. Moritz
The next morning, we took a bus to St. Moritz, where we stored our luggage at the train station lockers. Strolling through the luxury-laden streets, we marveled at the iconic Badrutt Palace overlooking the frozen lake, where skaters glided under the winter sun. Seeking warmth, we found a café serving decadent hot chocolate and spent time writing postcards to memorialize the fleeting magic of the moment.
A Lesson in Alignment
The Glacier Express wasn’t just a train ride; it was a reminder to appreciate life’s rhythm. Starting the year immersed in nature, pausing to reflect, and soaking in the grandeur of the Alps set the tone for an intentional, joy-filled year ahead.
What I learned on this journey is simple yet profound: when you live in harmony with your soul, life becomes spectacular, serendipitous, and special.
If you’re seeking a unique way to start the year, there’s nothing quite like watching the world unfold outside a train window as you glide through the heart of the Swiss Alps.