Thun

This weekend I was charmed by the lovely small city of Thun in the Lake District, west of Lake Thun. I now see some common elements between these wonderful Swiss cities and towns: a river or lake where the old town is centered, lively public space and cafes along the river, a church in the center or on higher ground, perhaps a castled and remains of the city wall. Booksellers have their 2012 agendas and advent calendars out, men are selling roasted chestnuts, friends gather at outdoor cafes despite the chilly weather, and crowds flock to any sunny spot they can find.

Like in Paris, the old central city of Thun is on an island in the middle of the Aare river. Several wooden covered bridges traverse the river and some also include dam machinery, so as you walk over you hear the rushing of water beneath you.