We were driving up a mountain in Switzerland heading toward the chocolate factory, and happily enjoying the beautiful view. Then a car passes us and honks. Dave checks the gages which are fine, and I look out the side mirror and notice dark exhaust. So Dave pulls over and just then the engine dies. Oh, no! Dave looks at me with an expression that is not good. “I think we just lost the engine!” he says.
In complete naive denial, I try to reassure him that everything is fine.
But sadly, everything was not fine because Dave was right.
We were towed to Garage Du Pont near Vaulruz, Switzerland. We stayed camped out in their parking lot for a week while they worked hard calling all over the country trying to locate an engine that could be used as a replacement and trying to find a mechanic that could do it. They were completely booked out and did not have time on the schedule. However, the owners let us use a vehicle for free and also let us use their washing machine and wifi. They made sure we were taken care of and we were so thankful for their kindness.
There was a man named Jonas, who spoke English and worked so hard trying to find help for us during his personal time. He was so friendly and told us that he really wanted to help us continue our travels. We appreciated his help and optimism and friendship.
I am sad to say that we do not have pictures of this garage and these nice people. We were so stressed that this would be the end of our adventures in Europe.
A week later, we were towed to Garage d’Ogoz near Bulle, where the owner, Raphael would be working on our engine.
He let us camp out in his lot while we waited for the engine to be shipped in from out of country.
Once again we were overcome with the kindness of this family. They invited us to a wonderful dinner, let us use their shower and washing machine and wifi. They have a beautiful piece of property overlooking Lake Gruyere.
We just cannot say enough wonderful things about these families that really went above and beyond to help us through a tough situation. It is our opinion that Switzerland has some of the nicest people. We are completely grateful for their help and kindness, that has allowed us to continue our travels.
So, if you find yourself in western Switzerland and need mechanical help, I highly recommend both Garage d’Ogoz and Garage Du Pont. Or just stop in and say hi to some of the nicest people and tell them that Dave and Nancy from 4onatrip sent you.
Hohoho , sound not good?
just awesome family! Thks for dreams
Turns out Switzerland was a good place to break down, as we were surrounded by great people. We will never forget our time there, or the friends that helped us.
so glad you got it fixed! And that you were blessed with kind people to help you.
Hello!
Je suis la fille qui habite au garage d’Ogoz. Raphaël est mon papa. J’espère que 10 ans après, vous vous portez tous bien.
Je me souviens très bien de votre arrêt ici et j’espère que la suite de votre voyage était enrichissant !
Hello Vanessa, How fun to hear from you! That was such a beautiful area and you and your family were so wonderful to us. We think back fondly to that time. Thanks so much for writing. I hope you and your family are well!