The happiest place on earth

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Disneyland is the self-proclaimed "happiest place on earth," but according to a 2008 study by Britain's University of Leicester, Switzerland was ranked as the second happiest place on earth behind Denmark. After spending time in Switzerland, there is little wonder why its inhabitants are among the world's happiest. Eiger, Monch

The Alps contribute to Swiss happiness. Interlaken, a well known city in the Bernese Oberland region, is the portal to one of the most stunning natural landscapes in the world.

The Berner Oberland Bahn train climbs 4,915 feet through the Lauterbrunnen Valley, finally stopping near the base of the Eiger, Monch, and Jungfrau, three of Europe's most famous peaks.

Hiking trails with difficulty ranging from the Sunday stroll to the quad-burning trek await the casual or more adventurous traveler at the Kleine Scheidegg rail station. The hike to the base of the Eiger provides spectacular views straight up the formidable North Face making any onlooker feel insignificant in teh midst of its majesty.

Near the trails, herds of carefree cows complete the postcard worthy scenery as they graze on the Alpine grass. In the widely seen commercial, whoever utters "Happy cows come from California," has never been to Switzerland.

Sphinx Observatory, Top of EuropeThe Jungfraubahn train leaves Kleine Scheidegg and enters a tunnel inside the Eiger that leads to the Jungfraujoch station and the Sphinx. Along the forty-five minute train ride, there are two fifteen minute stops where travelers can get out in the middle of the Eiger and look out windows built into its face.

At 11, 782 feet, the Sphinx Observatory, a glass structure situated on a ridge between the peaks of the Monch and the Jungfrau, overlooks the largest glacier in Europe. The awe-inspiring views stir emotions like few other natural settings.

After a hike and a train ride to the "Top of Europe" enjoy a dinner of Swiss fondue at a traditional Alpine chalet. Although only the Swiss know what it is like to be one of the world's happiest people, a trip here will make you one of the world's happiest travelers.