{"id":3054,"date":"2016-05-22T08:32:01","date_gmt":"2016-05-22T16:32:01","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/blog.andrewlorenzlong.com\/?p=3054"},"modified":"2019-08-15T14:51:35","modified_gmt":"2019-08-15T22:51:35","slug":"lauterbrunnen-valley","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/blog.andrewlorenzlong.com\/?p=3054","title":{"rendered":"Lauterbrunnen Valley"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed-youtube wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"Lauterbrunnen Valley\" width=\"640\" height=\"360\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/TWdw1thJLM8?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/div><figcaption>The highlights video<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">On Thursday morning we took the train to Lauterbrunnen, <a rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" href=\"https:\/\/middleearthtraveler.wordpress.com\/2013\/09\/22\/lauterbrunnental-valley-switzerland-tolkiens-rivendell-middle-earth\/\" target=\"_blank\">Tolkien&#8217;s original inspiration for Rivendell<\/a>, remembered from his travels as a young man before the first world war.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">When we arrived in Lauterbrunnen it was raining, but by the time we checked in and had lunch it had turned into fog and mist. Here is the view from our hotel balcony:<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed-youtube wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-embed-handler wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"20160519 140047\" width=\"640\" height=\"360\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/IpZIDHRCIZY?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">We went for a stroll for a few miles by the waterfalls in the valley before heading back for dinner (we bought food at the <a rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" href=\"http:\/\/www.coop.ch\/pb\/site\/common\/node\/50465\/Len\/index.html?page=5\" target=\"_blank\">Coop <\/a>market below the hotel) in the room. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed-flickr wp-block-embed is-type-photo is-provider-flickr\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<a href=\"https:\/\/flic.kr\/p\/J8QLhZ\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/live.staticflickr.com\/7366\/27655714105_a98043ac44_z.jpg\" alt=\"_DSC4078\" width=\"640\" height=\"427\" \/><\/a>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Afterwards we took the train to <a rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" href=\"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Wengen\" target=\"_blank\">Wengen<\/a> and walked slowly all the way down to Lauterbrunnen taking in the rainy but still arresting vistas.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed-flickr wp-block-embed is-type-photo is-provider-flickr\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<a href=\"https:\/\/flic.kr\/p\/J8QVxc\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/live.staticflickr.com\/7753\/27655745205_3394c85fba_z.jpg\" alt=\"_DSC4123\" width=\"640\" height=\"427\" \/><\/a>\n<\/div><figcaption>This was when we made a handshake agreement to exchange lifelong dishwashing for backscratching<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed-youtube wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-embed-handler wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"20160519 201917\" width=\"640\" height=\"360\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/-uzJ_pW38XM?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed-youtube wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-embed-handler wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"20160519 210910\" width=\"640\" height=\"360\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/nMdzneBepI4?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed-flickr wp-block-embed is-type-photo is-provider-flickr\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<a href=\"https:\/\/flic.kr\/p\/HHfReu\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/live.staticflickr.com\/7792\/27377501010_9c056e8587_c.jpg\" alt=\"_DSC4148\" width=\"533\" height=\"800\" \/><\/a>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed-flickr wp-block-embed is-type-photo is-provider-flickr\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<a href=\"https:\/\/flic.kr\/p\/HYYuG5\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/live.staticflickr.com\/7343\/27555374052_dfe8547b6d_z.jpg\" alt=\"_DSC4179\" width=\"640\" height=\"427\" \/><\/a>\n<\/div><figcaption>View from our hotel balcony<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">On Friday morning we took the funicular to the <a rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" href=\"http:\/\/schilthorn.ch\/en\/Welcome\" target=\"_blank\">Schilthorn&#8217;s &#8220;James Bond&#8221; Piz Gloria<\/a>.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed-youtube wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-embed-handler wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"20160520 100553\" width=\"640\" height=\"360\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/-6HBc1mDlTw?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed-flickr wp-block-embed is-type-photo is-provider-flickr\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<a href=\"https:\/\/flic.kr\/p\/HcPc4E\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/live.staticflickr.com\/7312\/27044316424_85b09f78ef_z.jpg\" alt=\"_DSC4234\" width=\"640\" height=\"427\" \/><\/a>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We actually enjoyed the lower station at <a rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" href=\"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Birg_(Bernese_Alps)\" target=\"_blank\">Birg<\/a> much more, as it had a glass overlook that shook when you walked on it and many of the tourists skipped it. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed-youtube wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-embed-handler wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"00000\" width=\"640\" height=\"360\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/8K4zPQrds3g?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed-flickr wp-block-embed is-type-photo is-provider-flickr\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<a href=\"https:\/\/flic.kr\/p\/J8RgqD\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/live.staticflickr.com\/7300\/27655812105_20cf854eab_z.jpg\" alt=\"_DSC4256\" width=\"640\" height=\"434\" \/><\/a>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The overlook\u00a0was very slippery and covered with melting snow and ice, enhancing the feeling\u00a0of danger. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed-flickr wp-block-embed is-type-photo is-provider-flickr\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<a href=\"https:\/\/flic.kr\/p\/HcPqqE\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/live.staticflickr.com\/7313\/27044361374_0534cf1ce5_z.jpg\" alt=\"_DSC4299\" width=\"640\" height=\"427\" \/><\/a>\n<\/div><figcaption> Even more dangerous looking was the cliff walk still under construction below the station on the steep rock face. <\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed-youtube wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-embed-handler wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"20160520 104250\" width=\"640\" height=\"360\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/lr-l37hwUCA?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We ate lunch in <a rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" href=\"http:\/\/www.muerren.ch\/en\/\" target=\"_blank\">Murren<\/a>, where we&#8217;d been instructed to meet our pilots. We went on a short hike to a field above the city.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed-flickr wp-block-embed is-type-photo is-provider-flickr\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<a href=\"https:\/\/flic.kr\/p\/HcPsXU\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/live.staticflickr.com\/7132\/27044369914_84c2f49883_z.jpg\" alt=\"_DSC4309\" width=\"640\" height=\"427\" \/><\/a>\n<\/div><figcaption>  From here we got a running start and took off, soaring up alpine thermals to about 4000 feet. <\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed-youtube wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-embed-handler wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\nhttps:\/\/youtube.com\/watch?v=7vfMoV_MbaI\n<\/div><figcaption> Hiking to take-off point <\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed-youtube wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-embed-handler wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\nhttps:\/\/youtube.com\/watch?v=f6quJcak1fc\n<\/div><figcaption> Waiting for the right moment and then running to catch the wind:<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed-youtube wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-embed-handler wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\nhttps:\/\/youtube.com\/watch?v=DR4HfbcKyBM\n<\/div><figcaption> Right turn into another valley <\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed-flickr wp-block-embed is-type-photo is-provider-flickr\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<a href=\"https:\/\/flic.kr\/p\/J8RwWZ\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/live.staticflickr.com\/7356\/27655864325_dbb793be46_z.jpg\" alt=\"_DSC4385\" width=\"640\" height=\"427\" \/><\/a>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We had purchased the &#8220;James Bond&#8221; experience that launches from Birg, but a recent snowfall would have prevented any running. Instead, our pilots caught drafts and soared up to the same height we would have enjoyed on the James Bond flight.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed-youtube wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-embed-handler wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\nhttps:\/\/youtube.com\/watch?v=ADKxu39zM3Q\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed-youtube wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-embed-handler wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"GOPR5735\" width=\"640\" height=\"360\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/geN3bzVTbzk?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/div><figcaption>  Sam in front <\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed-flickr wp-block-embed is-type-photo is-provider-flickr\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<a href=\"https:\/\/flic.kr\/p\/HHgC13\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/live.staticflickr.com\/7042\/27377651610_1158cbb2af_z.jpg\" alt=\"_DSC4646\" width=\"640\" height=\"427\" \/><\/a>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed-youtube wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-embed-handler wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"00001\" width=\"640\" height=\"360\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/U2qGL0O43o8?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/div><figcaption> Then from up there we turned left and headed down into Lauterbrunnen valley, Sam&#8217;s pilot just feet above mine<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed-youtube wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-embed-handler wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"00002\" width=\"640\" height=\"360\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/Ae5Fq0GAN2w?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed-youtube wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-embed-handler wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\nhttps:\/\/youtube.com\/watch?v=65K8qmKA7pE\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed-youtube wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-embed-handler wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\nhttps:\/\/youtube.com\/watch?v=K8xzdxL9YGI\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed-flickr wp-block-embed is-type-photo is-provider-flickr\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<a href=\"https:\/\/flic.kr\/p\/HYZnbb\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/live.staticflickr.com\/7372\/27555543882_38d721c6bd_c.jpg\" alt=\"_DSC4790\" width=\"533\" height=\"800\" \/><\/a>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed-youtube wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-embed-handler wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"00003\" width=\"640\" height=\"360\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/x3FFLPh0ovU?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/div><figcaption> As we gradually got closer to the treetops our pilots took us within a hundred feet of some of the massive waterfalls that we&#8217;d seen from below down in the valley. <\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed-youtube wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-embed-handler wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\nhttps:\/\/youtube.com\/watch?v=l5HZXOGbLsw\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed-flickr wp-block-embed is-type-photo is-provider-flickr\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<a href=\"https:\/\/flic.kr\/p\/HHgRAE\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/live.staticflickr.com\/7293\/27377697350_1bd19bcf84_z.jpg\" alt=\"_DSC4888\" width=\"640\" height=\"427\" \/><\/a>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed-youtube wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-embed-handler wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"Clip of paragliding Lauterbrunnen Valley, Switzerland\" width=\"640\" height=\"360\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/dK1G_1c-0v0?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed-flickr wp-block-embed is-type-photo is-provider-flickr\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<a href=\"https:\/\/flic.kr\/p\/J5NkVf\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/live.staticflickr.com\/7341\/27621292396_19306ca182_z.jpg\" alt=\"_DSC4892\" width=\"640\" height=\"427\" \/><\/a>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed-youtube wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-embed-handler wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"GOPR5754\" width=\"640\" height=\"360\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/Z5RVSaHrR-4?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/div><figcaption> At the end of the flights our pilots let us take the controls for a minute before doing some tricks. <\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed-youtube wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-embed-handler wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"GOPR5755\" width=\"640\" height=\"360\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/ngRL9VwneV0?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/div><figcaption> My pilot was a &#8220;trick pilot&#8221; and so I got a real roller coaster ride; he asked me beforehand if I could handle it  <\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Are you kidding? I grew up spending summers going to Cedar Point, rollercoaster heaven. I could have done flips up there all day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed-youtube wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-embed-handler wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\nhttps:\/\/youtube.com\/watch?v=csEr_SaCZwI\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We landed (me on my feet and Sam on her behind) in a pasture in <a rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" href=\"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Stechelberg\" target=\"_blank\">Stechelberg<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed-flickr wp-block-embed is-type-photo is-provider-flickr\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<a href=\"https:\/\/flic.kr\/p\/J8S9Kx\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/live.staticflickr.com\/7693\/27655984765_53d468c681_z.jpg\" alt=\"_DSC4938\" width=\"640\" height=\"431\" \/><\/a>\n<\/div><figcaption>This was the last graceful looking moment before the non-gymnast tumbling began<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">I don&#8217;t know if you figured it out from the looks on our faces, but paragliding was one of the most exciting and enjoyable experiences we&#8217;ve ever had. We were in the air for nearly an hour soaring like birds. And once you&#8217;ve done a 360-degree flip thousands of feet in the air, no rollercoaster can compare. We got up-close views of cliffs and waterfalls and trees and ice that only birds and paragliders can see. And, unlike skydiving which puts all the lift between your legs, we were essentially sitting in flexible deck-chairs the entire time. Will do again 100% when we have the next opportunity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Our tour gave us a lift to nearby\u00a0<\/span><a rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" href=\"http:\/\/www.myswitzerland.com\/en-us\/truemmelbach-falls-water-in-a-corset-of-stone.html\" target=\"_blank\">Tr\u00fcmmelbach Falls<\/a>, where the swiss built tunnels encircling a glacial waterfall that cut deep into the mountain. I immediately regretted not bringing my tripod as most of the great photo opportunities were inside the mountain in low light.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed-flickr wp-block-embed is-type-photo is-provider-flickr\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<a href=\"https:\/\/flic.kr\/p\/HcQgkJ\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/live.staticflickr.com\/7504\/27044525924_506b38478a_c.jpg\" alt=\"_DSC4992\" width=\"533\" height=\"800\" \/><\/a>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed-youtube wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-embed-handler wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\nhttps:\/\/youtube.com\/watch?v=bfF-kAcYKYE\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed-flickr wp-block-embed is-type-photo is-provider-flickr\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<a href=\"https:\/\/flic.kr\/p\/HcQdX7\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/live.staticflickr.com\/7430\/27044517884_695e7e119b_c.jpg\" alt=\"_DSC4953\" width=\"533\" height=\"800\" \/><\/a>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed-youtube wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-embed-handler wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\nhttps:\/\/youtube.com\/watch?v=IOr_gPSQhsg\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed-flickr wp-block-embed is-type-photo is-provider-flickr\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<a href=\"https:\/\/flic.kr\/p\/J8SiWt\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/live.staticflickr.com\/7322\/27656015675_f505ca7cc5_c.jpg\" alt=\"_DSC5019\" width=\"533\" height=\"800\" \/><\/a>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed-youtube wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-embed-handler wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\nhttps:\/\/youtube.com\/watch?v=5q89oBPGnGI\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed-youtube wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-embed-handler wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\nhttps:\/\/youtube.com\/watch?v=DJjjBsYNTPw\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed-youtube wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-embed-handler wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\nhttps:\/\/youtube.com\/watch?v=nlCicBS8mXE\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed-flickr wp-block-embed is-type-photo is-provider-flickr\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<a href=\"https:\/\/flic.kr\/p\/HcWid8\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/live.staticflickr.com\/7224\/27045702883_809abcb1b3_z.jpg\" alt=\"_DSC4978B\" width=\"640\" height=\"413\" \/><\/a>\n<\/div><figcaption>So I had to cheat here and combine two shots in Photoshop because I didn&#8217;t have a grip or tripod in order to get a good long exposure<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed-youtube wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-embed-handler wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\nhttps:\/\/youtube.com\/watch?v=zQSdVemhmaQ\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed-flickr wp-block-embed is-type-photo is-provider-flickr\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<a href=\"https:\/\/flic.kr\/p\/HcWnLg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/live.staticflickr.com\/7677\/27045718203_5b0fddc014_c.jpg\" alt=\"_DSC5089\" width=\"533\" height=\"800\" \/><\/a>\n<\/div><figcaption>No cheating with this one, there was actually a ledge I could perch the camera on<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed-youtube wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-embed-handler wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\nhttps:\/\/youtube.com\/watch?v=1fgpizMqV_s\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u00a0After that we had a short stop for a cold beer, then took a bus back to the train station.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed-youtube wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-embed-handler wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\nhttps:\/\/youtube.com\/watch?v=Iy0-TtE4Smw\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Then we boarded the train to Interlaken and walked across the river to the gondola up to the<a rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" href=\"http:\/\/www.jungfrau.ch\/en\/sommer\/tourism\/destinations\/harder-kulm\/experiences\" target=\"_blank\"> lookout<\/a> on top of Harder mountain (harder kulm). <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed-youtube wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-embed-handler wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\nhttps:\/\/youtube.com\/watch?v=Z2D_ehta9fM\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed-youtube wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-embed-handler wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\nhttps:\/\/youtube.com\/watch?v=Fk_jPGmGlZQ\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed-flickr wp-block-embed is-type-photo is-provider-flickr\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<a href=\"https:\/\/flic.kr\/p\/HHhhjY\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/live.staticflickr.com\/7493\/27377780540_6e5f6b17e8_z.jpg\" alt=\"_DSC5138\" width=\"640\" height=\"427\" \/><\/a>\n<\/div><figcaption>The &#8220;hike&#8221; up the final bit to the lookout<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed-youtube wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-embed-handler wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\nhttps:\/\/youtube.com\/watch?v=4TYWjy7_T-E\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed-youtube wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-embed-handler wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\nhttps:\/\/youtube.com\/watch?v=tTuyPwVNQhY\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed-flickr wp-block-embed is-type-photo is-provider-flickr\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<a href=\"https:\/\/flic.kr\/p\/HHhgcN\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/live.staticflickr.com\/7682\/27377776760_1a5bd78179_z.jpg\" alt=\"_DSC5129\" width=\"640\" height=\"427\" \/><\/a>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed-youtube wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-embed-handler wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"20160520 192214\" width=\"640\" height=\"360\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/HNhSBdL6WSg?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">While we were up at the top a high-speed train hit a tour bus right in front of the gondola station at the bottom of the mountain. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed-flickr wp-block-embed is-type-photo is-provider-flickr\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<a href=\"https:\/\/flic.kr\/p\/HHhiws\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/live.staticflickr.com\/7259\/27377784570_c33b53247a_z.jpg\" alt=\"_DSC5147\" width=\"640\" height=\"427\" \/><\/a>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The police closed the bridge forcing us into a long walk down the Aare river path to a much farther bridge. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed-flickr wp-block-embed is-type-photo is-provider-flickr\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<a href=\"https:\/\/flic.kr\/p\/J2kgQt\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/live.staticflickr.com\/7249\/27582061151_128212e0aa_z.jpg\" alt=\"_DSC5183\" width=\"640\" height=\"427\" \/><\/a>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The accident also pushed our train to Lauterbrunnen back to 10:02pm. We found a local pub by the youth hostel and I had a beer while we waited.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed-flickr wp-block-embed is-type-photo is-provider-flickr\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<a href=\"https:\/\/flic.kr\/p\/HHhsYy\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/live.staticflickr.com\/7350\/27377816360_fdfe386c0a_z.jpg\" alt=\"_DSC5197comp-2\" width=\"640\" height=\"427\" \/><\/a>\n<\/div><figcaption>And I took more pictures because&#8230;.I&#8217;m me<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Saturday we went canyoneering in the morning. We couldn&#8217;t bring our own cameras as they&#8217;d be damaged, so these photos are from the photographer that followed along on the sides of the canyon (full album is on my facebook).<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/scontent-lax3-1.xx.fbcdn.net\/v\/t1.0-9\/13335946_10156895771930005_782421189361894349_n.jpg?oh=7e0d8f0697d0b9e357880f9d75b02082&amp;oe=57D98380\" alt=\"\"\/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">We were supposed to have a longer version of it, but the crew decided it was too dangerous (due to the same snow that altered our paragliding plans). We still jumped into, swam through, and got carried away by glacial currents in the <a href=\"http:\/\/www.myswitzerland.com\/en-us\/easy-saxeten-canyon.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">saxeten canyon gorge<\/a>.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed-flickr wp-block-embed is-type-photo is-provider-flickr\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<a href=\"https:\/\/flic.kr\/p\/2gXWTzi\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/live.staticflickr.com\/65535\/48547160887_0c1538aee4_z.jpg\" alt=\"13412225_10156895769695005_1098031142814741667_o_10156895769695005\" width=\"640\" height=\"427\" \/><\/a>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">We wore heavy thermal wetsuits but it was still very cold and the thickness made it hard to move around. That&#8217;s a problem when your guide wants you to jump and pose like superman in flight.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed-flickr wp-block-embed is-type-photo is-provider-flickr\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<a href=\"https:\/\/flic.kr\/p\/2gXW78A\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/live.staticflickr.com\/65535\/48547008016_63bed5b454_c.jpg\" alt=\"13412156_10156895771360005_4670233274759700134_o_10156895771360005\" width=\"534\" height=\"800\" \/><\/a>\n<\/div><figcaption> Well, unless you&#8217;re Sam, her pilates and genetically enhanced flexibility made it a little easier for her <\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> I had trouble sleeping the night before and took a Unisom, which further drained my energy before we even began. My helmet said &#8220;Homer&#8221; on it and it seemed apt, as I felt I was slowing the whole group down. The only truly enjoyable part for me was when they let us just float downstream for a bit.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed-flickr wp-block-embed is-type-photo is-provider-flickr\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<a href=\"https:\/\/flic.kr\/p\/2gXW77Z\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/live.staticflickr.com\/65535\/48547007981_930140ed44_z.jpg\" alt=\"13412205_10156895765170005_3789002885223491263_o_10156895765170005\" width=\"640\" height=\"427\" \/><\/a>\n<\/div><figcaption>Realizing simultaneously that I didn&#8217;t get enough sleep to remember all the instructions and realizing the only instruction I do remember is that not following all the instructions can get you killed<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed-flickr wp-block-embed is-type-photo is-provider-flickr\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<a href=\"https:\/\/flic.kr\/p\/2gXW7cZ\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/live.staticflickr.com\/65535\/48547008271_9cec88b1f9_c.jpg\" alt=\"13411684_10156895765760005_1349039003647296654_o_10156895765760005\" width=\"534\" height=\"800\" \/><\/a>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed-flickr wp-block-embed is-type-photo is-provider-flickr\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<a href=\"https:\/\/flic.kr\/p\/2gXWTD1\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/live.staticflickr.com\/65535\/48547161102_72a0ca44e9_c.jpg\" alt=\"13411862_10156895767660005_6094057460580981154_o_10156895767660005\" width=\"534\" height=\"800\" \/><\/a>\n<\/div><figcaption>Does she look scared?<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed-flickr wp-block-embed is-type-photo is-provider-flickr\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<a href=\"https:\/\/flic.kr\/p\/2gXWTWf\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/live.staticflickr.com\/65535\/48547162102_d90e344a12_c.jpg\" alt=\"13391412_10156895766615005_6999794888896114703_o_10156895766615005\" width=\"534\" height=\"800\" \/><\/a>\n<\/div><figcaption>How about now?<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed-flickr wp-block-embed is-type-photo is-provider-flickr\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<a href=\"https:\/\/flic.kr\/p\/2gXW71G\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/live.staticflickr.com\/65535\/48547007616_2af02fa9b1_c.jpg\" alt=\"13416979_10156895773530005_1868271118695440780_o_10156895773530005\" width=\"534\" height=\"800\" \/><\/a>\n<\/div><figcaption>Yes, they float&#8230;<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed-flickr wp-block-embed is-type-photo is-provider-flickr\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<a href=\"https:\/\/flic.kr\/p\/2gXW74h\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/live.staticflickr.com\/65535\/48547007766_29df2a28ba_c.jpg\" alt=\"13416758_10156895765440005_7247225117639184817_o_10156895765440005\" width=\"534\" height=\"800\" \/><\/a>\n<\/div><figcaption>&#8230;and you&#8217;ll float too<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed-flickr wp-block-embed is-type-photo is-provider-flickr\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<a href=\"https:\/\/flic.kr\/p\/2gXWUs5\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/live.staticflickr.com\/65535\/48547163832_a7ac88f5bc_z.jpg\" alt=\"13340090_10156895772730005_435612693190812662_o_10156895772730005\" width=\"640\" height=\"427\" \/><\/a>\n<\/div><figcaption>well, that&#8217;s <em>one<\/em> way to get in the water&#8230;<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The tour operators were originally going to take us bungee jumping from a gondola over an alpine lake after canyoneering, but a recent cold snap left the lake partially frozen.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">After a long lunch at the hotel, we headed to <a rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" href=\"http:\/\/grindelwald.ch\/\" target=\"_blank\">Grindelwald<\/a> to see the famous glacier gorge. Of course, when we got there we were told the gorge was closed because of the cold snap. The tourism folks gave us some other options and we decided to go up to <a rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" href=\"http:\/\/www.myswitzerland.com\/en-us\/first-even-today-a-dream.html\" target=\"_blank\">First<\/a>, which is a gondola station 7,111 feet up the mountain.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed-youtube wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-embed-handler wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\nhttps:\/\/youtube.com\/watch?v=onjtLiMS_HA\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed-youtube wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-embed-handler wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\nhttps:\/\/youtube.com\/watch?v=1qwvVckciTA\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed-youtube wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-embed-handler wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\nhttps:\/\/youtube.com\/watch?v=QFiwSJotUh4\n<\/div><figcaption> This year they opened a cliff walk with metal grating drilled into the cliff that ends in a point sticking out over a gorge.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed-flickr wp-block-embed is-type-photo is-provider-flickr\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<a href=\"https:\/\/flic.kr\/p\/J2ksxa\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/live.staticflickr.com\/7337\/27582097151_e865f4a688_z.jpg\" alt=\"_DSC5233\" width=\"640\" height=\"427\" \/><\/a>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed-youtube wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-embed-handler wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\nhttps:\/\/youtube.com\/watch?v=44cnowuz9P0\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The very end is made of glass and shakes when anyone else steps on the platform.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed-youtube wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-embed-handler wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"20160521 164118\" width=\"640\" height=\"360\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/JBWUvYNYi1E?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed-flickr wp-block-embed is-type-photo is-provider-flickr\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<a href=\"https:\/\/flic.kr\/p\/J8SLav\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/live.staticflickr.com\/7110\/27656103895_ba0087ea32_z.jpg\" alt=\"_DSC5254\" width=\"640\" height=\"427\" \/><\/a>\n<\/div><figcaption>Or when they do Pilates on it, whichever&#8230;<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed-youtube wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-embed-handler wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"20160521 163518\" width=\"640\" height=\"360\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/jX59xkDRoX4?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed-flickr wp-block-embed is-type-photo is-provider-flickr\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<a href=\"https:\/\/flic.kr\/p\/HcWT5B\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/live.staticflickr.com\/7248\/27045816823_52db4b1880_z.jpg\" alt=\"_DSC5256\" width=\"640\" height=\"427\" \/><\/a>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed-youtube wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-embed-handler wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\nhttps:\/\/youtube.com\/watch?v=dJWxH7fQIFk\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed-youtube wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-embed-handler wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\nhttps:\/\/youtube.com\/watch?v=7G92uCCSB2I\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed-youtube wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-embed-handler wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\nhttps:\/\/youtube.com\/watch?v=aDpMv-ajXME\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We only saw a few other people up there. Just when we were starting to congratulate ourselves on this find and start a picnic an employee ran out and said the last gondola down the mountain was leaving at 5 (i.e. \u201cnow\u201d). If we hadn&#8217;t made it to that gondola we\u2019d probably still be on that winding mountain path.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">We returned to Lauterbrunnen and went to the paragliding cafe for our free drinks (included in our flight) then walked a bit farther down the street to visit <a href=\"http:\/\/www.myswitzerland.com\/en-us\/staubbach-falls-free-falling-waters-with-a-mist-of-spray.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Staubbach Falls<\/a> again. The path up to the falls was still closed, &nbsp;but a farmer had brought sheep to the adjacent field.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed-flickr wp-block-embed is-type-photo is-provider-flickr\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<a href=\"https:\/\/flic.kr\/p\/J5PauU\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/live.staticflickr.com\/7087\/27621452456_23bd4f0c5a_c.jpg\" alt=\"_DSC5409\" width=\"533\" height=\"800\" \/><\/a>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">On our last full day in Lauterbrunnen, we went to see Staubbach Falls one last time up close, but this time with the morning sun on it. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed-flickr wp-block-embed is-type-photo is-provider-flickr\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<a href=\"https:\/\/flic.kr\/p\/J2kNLX\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/live.staticflickr.com\/7282\/27582165231_36699a1e35_c.jpg\" alt=\"_DSC5468\" width=\"533\" height=\"800\" \/><\/a>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The trail up the hill was still frustratingly \u201cclosed for winter\u201d as it had been every other visit. Also just like every other visit someone came along to challenge the concept of \u201cstrictly prohibited.&#8221;\u00a0This time, we went with him. However, after walking through the tunnel to the beginning of the rock walk behind the falls we turned back. The man who had jumped the fence with us went up the steps and yelped at the cascading glacier water wafting in from the falls. We had jumped into glacier water the morning before and had no desire to do so again without wetsuits.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">We headed back to the train station and took the next one to Wengen. At the station we walked down a different trail than a few days prior, looking for good shots of the valley before getting back on at the next stop.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed-flickr wp-block-embed is-type-photo is-provider-flickr\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<a href=\"https:\/\/flic.kr\/p\/J5PgtC\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/live.staticflickr.com\/7639\/27621472566_49da051139_z.jpg\" alt=\"_DSC5502\" width=\"640\" height=\"433\" \/><\/a>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed-youtube wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-embed-handler wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"20160522 102409\" width=\"640\" height=\"360\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/gnLcM45fAPY?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">We went to Interlaken for lunch and walked along the Aare before shopping for watches in town. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed-flickr wp-block-embed is-type-photo is-provider-flickr\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<a href=\"https:\/\/flic.kr\/p\/J5Pn5s\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/live.staticflickr.com\/7501\/27621491406_fc0325d251_z.jpg\" alt=\"_DSC5576\" width=\"640\" height=\"427\" \/><\/a>\n<\/div><figcaption>This here be Arrrr, a pirate river, matey<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">At four we took the swiss chocolatier class. My nose had started to run like a faucet because of all the pollen blowing through the valley so I looked pretty miserable while Sam was in chocolate heaven.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed-youtube wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-embed-handler wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\nhttps:\/\/youtube.com\/watch?v=shLvi_ZN1cs\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed-youtube wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-embed-handler wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\nhttps:\/\/youtube.com\/watch?v=RFWv8Kgzn38\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed-youtube wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-embed-handler wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\nhttps:\/\/youtube.com\/watch?v=aORmdRNkRZw\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed-youtube wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-embed-handler wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\nhttps:\/\/youtube.com\/watch?v=nz86JZ0olCo\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">After class we went back to Lauterbrunnen to turn in early since our train journey to Italy would start at 7am.<\/span><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>On Thursday morning we took the train to Lauterbrunnen, Tolkien&#8217;s original inspiration for Rivendell, remembered from his travels as a young man before the first world war. When we arrived in Lauterbrunnen it was raining, but by the time we checked in and had lunch it had turned into fog and mist. Here is the [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":99,"featured_media":4133,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[1],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-3054","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-uncategorized"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/blog.andrewlorenzlong.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/3054","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/blog.andrewlorenzlong.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/blog.andrewlorenzlong.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blog.andrewlorenzlong.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/99"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blog.andrewlorenzlong.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=3054"}],"version-history":[{"count":15,"href":"https:\/\/blog.andrewlorenzlong.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/3054\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":4431,"href":"https:\/\/blog.andrewlorenzlong.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/3054\/revisions\/4431"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blog.andrewlorenzlong.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/media\/4133"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/blog.andrewlorenzlong.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=3054"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blog.andrewlorenzlong.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=3054"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blog.andrewlorenzlong.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=3054"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}