My Journey: The Ultimate Road Trip Through Switzerland

Aoife Breslin from Dinogo Planet has just returned from a week exploring Switzerland by campervan. She shares her best tips and insights for a memorable journey.

As a newcomer to 'van life,' I was initially doubtful about the experience living up to the hype, but I couldn't have been more mistaken. Having a home on wheels offered an unprecedented level of freedom and flexibility during my travels. This style of travel allowed me to change my plans spontaneously, whether it was stopping at scenic lakes for an impromptu swim or discovering quaint little villages that I would have otherwise missed. Being able to explore at our own pace and find hidden treasures along the way made this trip truly unforgettable.

Here's a glimpse of my adventures in Switzerland!

What accommodations did you choose, and what was the atmosphere like?

Switzerland is widely recognized for its high costs, so you might be curious how three young adults managed to spend a week in this expensive haven. The solution: renting a campervan. By merging our lodging and transportation expenses, we saved money while embarking on an unforgettable journey. 

Traveling this way allowed us to savor Switzerland's breathtaking landscapes at our leisure, from waking up to stunning mountain vistas and having breakfast by serene lakes to taking impromptu detours through picturesque villages.

We rented our campervan, named the Family Finca, from Roadsurfer in Zurich. It comfortably accommodates three adults, making it an ideal choice for our week-long getaway. Their prompt and professional service was invaluable. When we encountered a flat tire midway through our trip, they had us back on the road in under an hour, ensuring our journey remained stress-free.

Switzerland boasts numerous campsites, but it’s wise to book ahead, particularly during peak season. One highlight was Camping Gletscherdorf Grindelwald, where the sunrises over the mountains made for unforgettable mornings. Its close proximity to the town center and train station added convenience for daily outings and meals. Another favorite was Easybuchen Camping Eichholz in Bern, a well-maintained site with fantastic amenities, including a restaurant, kitchenettes, and complimentary train tickets to the city center. Its riverside location along the River Aare offered splendid opportunities for swimming in crystal-clear waters and lounging on verdant banks.

What was your travel route?

After landing in Zurich, we kicked off our adventure with a delightful breakfast at Babu’s Bakery and Coffeehouse before picking up our campervan and heading to Lucerne. Once we arrived in the historic city center, we wandered through its medieval architecture, visiting iconic sites like the Chapel Bridge and the Water Tower.

Our next destination was Interlaken for a two-night stay, where we enjoyed swimming in the pristine waters of Lake Thun, treating ourselves to gelato and chocolate at Vittorio Vanini, and fell in love with the charming town of Brienz. After that, we spent three nights in Grindelwald, which quickly became my favorite spot when I met a fellow Donegal native working at a local souvenir shop. Grindelwald was truly magical—whether it was the stunning views from the First Cliff Walk, sipping wine while soaking in the mountain scenery, or experiencing summer snowfall, every moment was unforgettable.

We concluded our journey with a brief stop in Bern to take in the sights and sneak in one last swim in the River Aare.

What was the most scenic part of your trip?

Spending a day at Lake Oeschinensee felt like stepping into a real-life postcard showcasing alpine perfection. Tucked away in the Bernese Alps, this lake is a hidden treasure surrounded by majestic peaks and lush forests, offering stunning views at every turn.

Our journey began with a picturesque gondola ride from Kandersteg, a quaint town just an hour's drive from Interlaken. Upon reaching the summit, we embarked on a brief hike through the forest, unveiling even more breathtaking Swiss landscapes. When we finally arrived at the lake, the scene took my breath away: the sun illuminating the snow-capped mountains, perfectly mirrored in the turquoise waters of Oeschinensee—it felt utterly surreal.

My Irish heritage prepared me well for the cool waters of the Swiss lakes, so we spent the day swimming in the crystal-clear waters of Lake Oeschinensee. As someone who cherishes nature's unspoiled beauty, basking in the sun, swimming, and picnicking by the lakeside was pure bliss.

From the gondola station, a variety of hiking trails await, catering to every preference, making it an ideal day trip for families, seasoned trekkers, or anyone eager to connect with nature. With a regular tram service to and from the gondola station, this destination is easily accessible, ensuring everyone can soak in the area's stunning beauty.

What was your top activity?

Experiencing snow in the middle of summer is a rare treat—unless you're at Jungfraujoch. Known as “The Top of Europe,” this destination is a must on your bucket list for Switzerland. At an impressive altitude of 3,454 meters, Jungfraujoch offers an unparalleled adventure. The journey kicks off with a thrilling gondola ride, followed by a picturesque train journey through tunnels hewn from the mountains, culminating at the snow-laden peaks of Jungfraujoch.

The crisp alpine air, the brilliant sparkle of the snow, and the towering peaks surrounding you create a feeling of being on top of the world. Beyond the breathtaking vistas, Jungfraujoch features attractions like the Ice Palace, showcasing elaborate ice sculptures, and the Sphinx Observatory, which offers a stunning panoramic viewpoint.

Pro tip: Consider getting the Good Morning ticket package, which lets you arrive between 7 and 8 AM. This option is not only budget-friendly but also allows you to enjoy Jungfraujoch before the crowds start pouring in around 9 AM.

I practically lived in activewear during my time in Switzerland.

Switzerland is a haven for outdoor lovers, so having the right gear is crucial. Despite its varied climate, we were pleasantly surprised by sunny and warm weather for most of our trip, and wearing breathable, comfortable clothing allowed me to fully embrace all the adventures ahead.

In addition to your clothing choices, investing in a good pair of walking shoes is highly recommended. Whether or not you’re planning to hike, Switzerland's charming cities are best experienced on foot.

Pro Tip: If you're heading to Jungfraujoch, known as the “Top of Europe,” make sure to pack a warm coat. During our visit, the temperature plummeted from 28 degrees at ground level to just 5 degrees with snowfall in under an hour.

What’s the best advice for someone looking to plan a similar trip?

While organizing a road trip in Switzerland, consider the driving time. Choosing amazing destinations is great, but reducing travel time can significantly enhance your experience—especially if you want to stay active. I found it ideal to keep each drive under two hours to maximize exploration time rather than time spent on the road. My longest day involved a three-hour round trip.

Our journey: We traveled from Zurich to Lucerne, then to Interlaken, Grindelwald, Bern, and finally back to Zurich!