Schlaf im Stroh
("Sleep in Straw")

ABOVE: Sleeping in straw in a Swiss barn is fun--and inexpensive--for travelers of all ages.

Switzerland has a reputation for being an expensive country, but don't be fooled: Bargains are readily available if you know where to look. As I explain in "Where to Stay in Switzerland and Austria," lodging options such as private rooms, vacation rentals, and farm vacations can cut the cost of a Swiss vacation substantially. And now, with the Schlaf im Stroh ("Sleep in Straw") program of the Swiss Farmers Association, you can hit the hay in Switzerland for 10 to 20 francs per night--including breakfast.

The concept behind the program is simple: In the early summer, many Swiss farmers send their cattle to graze in alpine pastures. With the cows gone for the season, their barns are vacant, and farmers can turn the cattle's winter quarters into rustic hostels for hikers, families, nature enthusiasts, youth groups, and anyone who's ever wanted to live the life of Heidi and Peter for a few nights.

Facilities vary from basic straw-filled haylofts to accommodations with heating, recreation rooms, picnic and barbecue areas, and horse stalls. (You'll need to bring a sleeping bag.) Toilets and showers are sometimes attached to the barn; in other cases, they're provided in the farmhouse. Special services such as baggage transportation, meals, picnic lunches, and catered birthday parties are available on many farms.

In 2003, the standard Schlaf im Stroh rate for an adult is CHF 20, with a Bauernfrühstück of coffee, milk, and bread. (Tea and hot chocolate are usually available on request.) Here's a detailed breakdown of pricing:

For more information, including listings of participating Swiss farms, see the Schlaf im Stroh links on page 2.

Related Web links

Next Page > Schlaf im Stroh Web sites > Page 1, 2

Photo © Switzerland Tourism. All rights reserved.

Home

Copyright © 1996-2008 Cheryl and Durant Imboden and their licensors.
All rights reserved.

Privacy Policy