You never can keep the Swiss away from hiking, even if it has to be appropriately distanced. Sure enough, popping up in the inbox was an invitation from the hike promoter of the Cornell Club of Switzerland, Dr. Professor Jürg Hari, announcing a walk in the Emmental region.

I read it warily. It described an “easy hike”. But easy for the Swiss is not your normal easy for a non Swiss – even though I grew up stomping the Himalayas as a teenager. The Swiss are born wearing hiking boots and skis. They trudge up or ski down literally as infants, maybe attached to a parent. Nevertheless, I decided to bite the bullet.  No matter what came, I would persevere..

Walking through the village of Konolfingen, climbing through mysterious woods and dales, we arrived at an enormous mountain-top plain overlooking the valley. A stunning place to unwind, munch on our self-packed lunches or have a power nap.

Never short of surprises on a Cornell walk, on top of the mountain we are witness to yet another example of Swiss inventiveness – a game called Hornusser. Ever heard of it? Most hadn’t. One swings around a long, flexible golf club like implement to hit a tiny ball which has to be blocked by a train of equally spaced guys with paddles, reminiscent of Alice in Wonderland’s game of cards. For the bored elderly, I thought, till I ran into young Simon, 25 years old. Bedecked in shades and nifty sneakers, he proudly informed me that he’s a Sunday regular representing the Häutligen team. So be it.  Another best kept Swiss secret!