Awe-inspiring mountains, bankers, and top ski resorts are the common images the country Switzerland evokes, none of which are really associated with budget travel. So let’s jump to that other primary preconception…

Picture this:

A panorama of Alpine pastureland, lush green and dotted with edelweiss. Zooming in we see a herd of cows gently grazing, bells around their neck ringing with each step. The sound of song reaches our ears as a fair headed maiden comes up the stony path, yodelling happily in the morning air. In a nearby barn, the faintest stirrings tell us that our intrepid traveller is just waking up….

Hmmmm. Maybe a bit too heavy on the lyrical imagery?

However, the last part is true. If you’ve shied away from Switzerland and it’s prices before, here is the chance to see it without hurting your wallet. Just sleep in straw!

Swiss Cows by Olly Boyo

Around 200 farms across the country offer travellers a bed in their haylofts for under 20€ a night and give you the chance to see those high-lying meadows. The family will put on food if you request (for an extra small price) and even take care of your horse. If, you know, that’s your preferred method of transportation these days.

Many of the farms have additional activities, including donkey rides, climbing adventures and the chance to experience local specialties. Group bookings are possible and finding a farm in the Canton of your choice is easy via the (occasionally cryptic) English website. Just in case you are allergic to hay, many farms also offer normal mattresses in dorm rooms.

If you want to do this you will need a sleeping bag and a willingness to rough it a bit. At that price, and the chance to experience the countryside it’s well worth it. Maybe you can even convince someone to teach you how to yodel.