Sorry I've been MIA for a while, though as I'm about to go backpacking around Europe for 5 weeks I'm...
Sorry I've been MIA for a while, though as I'm about to go backpacking around Europe for 5 weeks I'm afraid it will be a little longer before I resume the 3 'R's! Hopefully I'll have loads of travel ops ready for when I get back... ;)
Member since:07.05.2001
Reviews:21
Members who trust:35
Nestled high up in the Swiss Alps lies the picturesque little French-speaking town of Gryon, where I ended up staying for several days longer than I intended during my Europe trek last year.
After the heat and mayhem of Spain and Morocco, I was quite keen to stop somewhere relaxing. So when I got chatting to an Australian on the train from Barcelona to Geneva who was on his way to a 'Swiss chalet in the mountains', I thought that sounded pretty damn good.
Chalet Martin, a beautiful little house looking out over the most incredible view, is definitely in my top three hostels of all time. Quite affordable by Swiss standards, its merits include friendly Australian/Canadian staff, a very good kitchen, internet access, video hire, games and CDs, a small grocery store (in case you're too late for the local shop), a masseur (unfortunately he was booked out when I was there, but apparently fantastic), white water rafting and hiking in summer and, of course, ski hire and instruction.
I didn't get to go skiing this time (my insurance didn't cover it and though very tempted, I just know I would have broken something), but I did have great fun going for walks, sketching the mountains, playing in the snow, making fondue (the hostel has a recipe that is quite easy and affordable if a few people chip in) and just hanging out in the common room, chatting to interesting people and occasionally looking the window and being overwhelmed by the breathtaking view.
To get to Chalet Martin from Geneva, take a train to Bex (you might have to change in Lausanne), then take the connecting cograil train to Gryon. You'll see the signs for the hostel as soon as you get there. It's a bit of a climb up a hill but well worth it for the amazing views!
Prices are pretty reasonable for Switzerland - 15 francs (£7) per person per night for a dorm bed in summer, and 18 francs (£8) for the same in winter.
I'm definitely stopping here again on my next backpacking expedition in October, so if you hurry I just might see you on the slopes!!
Phone: +41 24 498 33 21 Email: chaletmartin@yahoo.com Also check out www.gryon.com
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