Heidi in the Swiss Alps

Heidi made me want to stretch out in the Alpine meadows, explore the Alm Uncle's mountain hut, traipse through Dorfli, and chase goats with Peter. Over Labor Day weekend, we were able to visit Maienfeld, the real town which is the setting for the fictional character of Heidi.

Starting at the Heidi museum, we were able to poke around the Heidihaus, which was much more than the one-room hut described as the Alm Uncle's. Perhaps it would be more like the house where she lived with Dete? It was very authentically furnished and decked out, the kids could touch and try much of the things inside -- try on Heidi's red shawl! -- and more importantly, did not require a long hike.

After stretching our legs outside the gift shop and seeing the freely wandering goats (who quite enjoy the picnic table as a goat-sofa), we began our climb up the mountain. The stroller was quickly abandoned for the initial rocky, somewhat steep path. Our toddler was buoyed onward by the fresh ripe blackberries growing along the side of the trail. We were delighted to find one wayside marker had cold running spring water marked Trinkwasser -- safe for drinking. Eventually, after about an hour of our slow progress, we reached a fork: continue to Heidi's meadow or veer left to Peter's Hut, promising ice cream, beer, and cake? Reader, we veered.

Peter's Hut is operated by the house's inhabitants. We think they moved the modern addition, and turned the original house into the hut/cafe area, but this does not detract from its charm, or the delight in resting your legs and refreshing yourself while looking over the lovely valley.

Having seen the sign to "Peter's Hut" on another walk, we asked the lady if taking the path further onward would be the quickest way back down. Happily it was, especially since our toddler was about to fall asleep in our arms.

Overall, a very enjoyable afternoon, especially since the weather was in our favor. I recommend hiking shoes, backpack carriers for babies, and definitely a camera.