A truly unique Switzerland experience
Have you ever wondered how they lived in the days of Heidi and before the Sound of Music popularised Swiss life? Nestled in the Bernese Alps is 660, 000 sq. meters (164 acres) dedicated to showing you how it was done. More than 100 buildings, over a century old, are placed in surroundings appropriate for the regions they came from. The area is divided to represent the different regions of Switzerland so you can see the different architecture, tools and methods used. And I shouldn’t forget to mention over 250 animals.
**NOTE – The museum is open Apr 14 – Oct 31. If you plan to be in Switzerland during Nov 1 – Apr 13 contact me for other unique Switzerland experiences. We have lots of traditional Swiss festivals & customs. “There’s probably not a weekend that goes by without a fair, a festival, or a concert. Heck, we even celebrate when nobody else cares except the folks in our own town. Festivals range from colourful folk spectacles to medieval celebrations, from weird sport events to sophisticated art”.
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- Nestled in the Bernese Alps the drive alone makes this trip worth while.
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- Working mill
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- Watching a Black Smith making nails with assistance from the kids.
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- You can explore and walk through most of the buildings.
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- Learn how they made rope back in the day
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- The machine they used to make the rope. This was pretty interesting!
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- Inside the church
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- The church
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- No Swiss trip is complete without some infamous cowbells.
ITINERARY
– Our day will start with a scenic drive to the Open-Air Museum. On the way to the museum we can stop at some scenic lookouts for photo opportunities.
– Once we arrive at the Museum we can walk around the different regions and get a feel for how life may have been in days gone by. At the ticket booth, we will get a schedule of events to see what your group is most interested in (pie making, cheese making, children activities, etc) and work out the best route to take through the museum.
– At some point we can stop at one of the restaurants for some local Swiss fare or you can pack a lunch and we will find a nice spot to sit and eat.
– After a satisfying day of experiencing the traditional Swiss life, I will drive you back to your Hotel via the scenic route.
Our itinerary is flexible and can be adjusted to cater to your desires. Feel free to contact me with any special requests.
MORE INFORMATION
Meeting Point Options: Rail or Bus Station, Hotel
End Point Options: Rail or Bus Station, Hotel
Duration: 7 hours – This tour can be done in less time if needed. I usually put a little extra time in my tours to account for pulling over at scenic lookouts, photo opportunities or simply enjoying the Swiss experience.
Transportation: We will go in my private vehicle. It is a 5 seater. So comfortably 4 adults (me plus 3 adults) but we can fit 3 people in the back if you are willing. It’s not uncommon for us to have 4 passengers in the car. If you have a bigger group contact me for a quote. I can most likely make accommodations.
What’s Included: My time and assistance as your private guide, driver, and transportation by private vehicle.
Estimated Local Cash Needed:
55 CHF – Tickets
– Adults = $24
– Children (6 – 15) = $12
* Depending on which travel pass you have admission may be free. I can assist you with choosing the best travel pass for your stay in Switzerland.
Lunch – “In the “Alter Bären” tavern, the “Degen” tavern and the Osteria in the farmstead from Novazzano there are Swiss specialties and home-style fare on the menu. The “Wilerhorn” tavern specializes in chicken dishes.”
– Average Lunch is about 30 CHF for adults and 20 CHF for children.
Souvenirs
Restrictions: My car is a 5 person car. It comfortably seats 3 adult passengers (1 in front & 2 in back). A 4th passenger can be added if you are willing to sit 3 people in the back. For larger groups I have access to a larger vehicles. Please contact me for a quote.
Kid Friendly: Yes. This trip is a great trip for kids. They can see the craftsman at work, and often times have a chance to participate. There is also a section where the kids can interact with the animals. Great family trip!
Handicap Friendly: Yes. Wheelchairs are available if needed.
Interested in this or a similar tour?
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