The grand and majestic Alps, particularly the Jungfrau region of the Swiss Alps, can be best described as exhilirating. Even this self-proclaimed beach bum found that the hills really are alive as they wind and curve from one valley or town to the next, in direct contrast to the towering backdrop of the three side-by-side glacial mountains: the Eiger, the Monch and the Jungfrau.

One could stroll the trails in this region endlessly, and though you may be dead-tired at the end of the day, you'll never tire of the magnificent scenery that awaits around every bend and over every hill.

Kleine Scheidegg is a popular starting point for a hike in any number of directions and lengths. It's little more than a gathering spot, certainly not even a hamlet, and sits directly in front of the north face of the Eiger.

My hike, which included stopping a lot to smell the roses, take the pictures and pet the cows, also included a cable-car ride to Mannlichen and then the easy, but lengthy, walk to the picturesque town of Grindelwald.

No matter what path you take, you're never far from a glimpse of the tri-peaks, as in this glacial slide.

The cow perhaps thought I was paying it some attention; but what I really wanted was the bell from around its neck!

Grindelwald lies in the valley at the foot of the tri-peaks. It's a popular starting point not only for hikers and skiers, but also for those starting the trecherous climb up the Eiger.

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