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Day 7  : Our Scenic drive into Bavaria

From the Misty Swiss Alps to Munich's Warm Glow: A Day of Scenic Wonders, Sweet Stops, and Bavarian Cheers
 

The journey from Interlaken to Munich is one of those magical travel days that feels like turning the page in a storybook—from the dramatic, mist-shrouded peaks of the Swiss Alps to the hearty, welcoming heart of Bavaria. On this particular July morning, the group set off under a veil of rain, the kind that clings to the mountains and turns the world a soft, silvery gray.


Interlaken's iconic landscape looked ethereal in the drizzle, with clouds draping the towering peaks and the turquoise rivers rushing below. The air was crisp and invigorating, a reminder that the Alps don't always pose for postcard-perfect sunshine—sometimes they wrap you in atmosphere instead.
 

As the coach wound its way out of town and toward Germany, the route delivered classic Alpine scenery: winding passes, emerald valleys, and glimpses of snow-capped summits fading into the distance. Our morning drive starts moody, but the clouds began to part by noon, letting golden light spill across the rolling Bavarian countryside.


The drive transitioned beautifully from Swiss drama to German charm—highway stretches mixed with forested hills, charming villages, and open fields. To break up the ride, the group pulled over at a cozy roadside spot for donuts—a sweet, indulgent snack that hit just right after the morning's chill. Nothing fancy, perhaps a classic bakery or quick stop, but those warm, sugary treats were the perfect morale booster on the road.


Lunch followed at a familiar McDonald's—practical, fast, and reliably satisfying for a traveling crew eager to keep moving.


Midway through the afternoon, the tour guide made the rounds with a delightful surprise: trays of premium Swiss chocolate treats. Rich, velvety squares and perhaps some truffles passed hand to hand, melting on tongues and sparking smiles. It was a small but perfect touch—Swiss chocolate really does taste like happiness wrapped in foil.

By the time the coach rolled into Munich, the sky had fully cleared, and the city's lights were just starting to twinkle. The day wrapped up with a lively group dinner at a classic Bavarian spot—think long wooden tables, vaulted ceilings painted with cheerful murals, and the unmistakable clink of massive beer steins.
The spread was pure Bavaria: hearty pretzels, sizzling sausages, crispy pork knuckles, and platters of cheeses and cold cuts, all washed down with crisp, golden lagers poured fresh from the tap. Conversations flowed as easily as the beer—stories from the Alps, laughs over travel mishaps, and toasts to new friendships forged on the road. The atmosphere buzzed with warmth, the kind only a beer hall can deliver after a long, scenic drive.

 

What started as a rainy departure from the Swiss wonderland ended in the joyful embrace of Munich's beer culture. Days like this remind you why travel matters: the landscapes shift, the weather plays its tricks, but the little moments—chocolate on the bus, donuts by the roadside, steins raised in good company—turn a simple transfer into an unforgettable chapter.
 

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Our sumptous meal at a Bavarian restaurant in Munich

ABOUT US

For us, Patrick coming from Hong Kong with our 13-year-old twins (Bobby & Betsy, American Born Chinese roots), this social side is extra special. The predominantly American group gives our kids natural exposure to U.S. family vibes. It's gentle, fun cultural bridging: they make friends, pick up slang, laugh at the same silly things, and get a taste of Stateside living culture ahead of any future return. 

And the people ?  That's where the real spark happens. Rick Steves attracts a crowd of like-minded travelers—curious, down-to-earth Americans (often families, couples, or multi-gen groups) who value thoughtful, authentic experiences over glitz. Small groups (usually 24–28 max) mean real conversations form fast: shared bus rides turn into storytelling sessions, group dinners become lively cross-table chats, and free time adventures create instant bonds. Tourmates just get it—they're there for the same reasons you are.


Whether it's the thoughtful pacing that keeps everyone happy, the hassle-free logistics that let us focus on joy instead of stress, or the welcoming crowd that turns strangers into friends, Rick Steves tours deliver the kind of family travel we crave: enriching, relaxing, and full of heart.

 

They also arranged a bigger room for the three of us, hence no need for single room supplement, and it allows the parents to stay with their young kids in the same room !!

One more thing : all tips are included in the Tour price, and we don't have to carry too much cash !!!
 

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Whether you're planning your own multi-country Alpine adventure or simply love armchair travel through Europe's most scenic region, we invite you to explore, get inspired, and perhaps start dreaming of your next getaway among these three beautiful nations.


Join us as we relive the magic of the German-speaking Alps — one breathtaking vista at a time!

If you have any feedback or want any advice on travelling matters, drop a message in the mail box to my gmail account.

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