The next day we decided to go up to Jungfraujoch. The hotel staff had informed us that it was the perfect day for the trip as the weather forecast for the next day was not good. We waited excitedly as the train came chugging up to the platform. The train slowly travelled down into the valley and began its ascent with short stops in between to pick up and drop off passengers.
The scenery was spectacular. Slowly, the houses and lodges scattered all around the valley were teeny tiny to the view. Now I know what Grindelwald birds see.
At Kleine Scheidegg, we had to change trains and take the Jungfraubahn. Such beautiful carriages set against an unbelievable backdrop of cascading ridges.
The spectacular view from Kleine Scheidegg.
The Jungfraubahn is equipped with very helpful screens with an informative video guide educating us on the history and the making of the Jungfraujoch trails. You will be amazed at the skill, courage, perseverance and dedication the workers had in making this world treasure accessible to all and sundry.
Thoroughly enjoyed the sights in between which included this lake. The moving shadows cast by the roving clouds made the land look so surreal.
We went through a stretch of tunnel and when we emerged from it, we were completely taken aback by the stunning view of what was directly below to the right. You can still see the side of the tunnel from where we came. Sadly, the picture does not give one the quake in the boots that reality does as we were up pretty high at the edge of the cliff at this point. Really felt like we were staring down from a plane.
As the train faithfully chugged along, we soon arrived at Eigerwand. We leapt down and were mightily impressed by the panoramic view cleverly designed to showcase the immense beauty that is the Swiss Alps. Could barely take our eyes off the glorious white. After what seemed like 3 seconds, we were summoned back to the train to continue the journey. Hopped out again at Eismeer for more breathtaking panoramic views and a quick toilet stop. So far, impressed by the clever planning done by the Swiss which made for a comfortable and pleasant experience.
We finally arrive at the top. I'll let the pictures do the talking.
All that I could think about was how amazing God is and how little we know of His glory. The white, white snow and crystal clear air provided a contemplative quiet that was very humbling. It made me instantly aware suddenly of how small we were in the grand scale of things. Just could not help praising the Lord, for a moment understanding what the Psalmist talks about- a deep soulful praise arising from within.
For You, O LORD, have made me glad by what You have done, I will sing for joy at the works of Your hands. How great are Your works, Oh Lord! Psalms 92:5
The views would change dramatically when clouds swirled over the peaks and swirled away.
We could see ski trails below
We went further to another viewpoint where we could look back to where we were moments before- the tip of the building peeks over the top of the snowmount.
The Jungfraujoch experience continued with the Alpine sensation which involved many indoor fixtures and pretty musical displays.
Next up was the Eispalast (Ice Palace). Very slippery. Igloo experience.
Food break (more yoghurt and herby chips) at the many benches provided with panoramic views of Jungfraujoch.
We continued walking to the other end of the visitor centre - the outdoor sports section. A wide range of activities was on offer including the flying fox which was a treat for the husband.
The queue was already building up by the time we got there. This is him getting all strapped up.
To the dismay of everyone waiting in line, the girl that went before him suddenly sat down, paralysed by fear and refused to let go of the platform. She also refused to step aside. Took a good 5 minutes before the instructor and her boyfriend managed to coax her into letting go of the rails and off she went screaming bloody murder. Good sign from the husband and his look-alike instructor-Two thumbs up and ready to go!
Whee!
After the marvellous experience and time just giving us the slip, we rushed to queue up and thankfully managed to catch the final train heading back down. Phew! The crowd naturally was gigantic as it was the final train. Some shoving but thankfully we managed to squeeze into a seat together. Very cramped but better than standing on a downward sloping carriage for an hour.
We were treated to yet more different facets of the beautiful landscapes. The sun shone through the clouds and made for amazing photos.
Finally, the view of the imposing North Face to end the unforgettable day.
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