Friday, August 08, 2008

Altenberg façades







Altenberg is a charming little neighbourhood lining the River Aare in its valley below the town centre.

Wednesday, August 06, 2008

Lorraine

Restaurant Du Nord, gateway to the Lorraine,
Bern's northern neighbourhood

Lorrainestrasse, the main throroughfare


The Lorraine is a funky little neighbourhood mixing artistic and working-class values


Brasserie Lorraine, the neighbourhood's "alternative" bar, café, and concert venue

The Italian joint


The kiosk - love the plastic seats

The Lorraine is a five-minute walk over the Lorrainebrücke (Lorraine Bridge) from the railway station. Most tourists would miss it as they gravitate naturally towards the medieval Old Town in the centre. But Lorraine is immediately beside the centre and for those with more than just a few hours in Bern is well worth a wander - especially for those who dig the alternative neighbourhood vibe.