Top of the World

Mountain Hostel
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Friday morning Nori, Sean, Julie and I left for Gimmelwald, Switzerland.  We arrived in Interlaken around 11:30, then took a train to Lauterbrunn, a bus to Stechelberg, and finally a cable car up to Gimmelwald.  The cable car ride was absolutely incredible.  We looked down into the greenest valley I've ever seen to a small little village.  It honestly looked fake!  Upon arrival in Gimmelwald we dropped our stuff off at the Mountain Hostel and began the hike up to the ice caves, I believe it's called Kilchbrum?  It took up a good three hours to make it all the way up to the cave since we stopped often, taking pictures, etc.  Not only was the hike itself one of the most beautiful experiences I've ever had, but once we reached the valley and hiked up to the caves I was honestly speechless.  I've never seen such a scene.  Sean attributed it to the dramatic effect, something about sea level and whatever, but regardless it was the most breathtaking view I've ever, probably will ever, experience.  I wish I could just share it with all of you!  After looking around for a while we hiked back to the hostel and ate some pizza.  We planned on hitting up the hot tub, but considering a group of thirty students from an international program in Vienna, via an Ohio university, we didn't have the chance.  Instead we called it an early night and passed out.

another view from the hostel
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The next morning, we didn't mess around much, and headed back down into Interlaken in order to get back to Heidelberg at a reasonable time.  I have a history project to round off the weekend while the other girls have plans to go to a German boy's birthday party!  Regardless of the brevity, our trip was absolutely amazing.  I really cannot even put into words our experience.  I feel so lucky to be here!

We hiked up to the caves; I was honestly speechless