FollowWhat on earth is an iltis? I gather it’s some sort of animal, but I’d never heard of it. It turns out that iltis is a German word for the European Bobcat.
They’re fairly common in Switzerland, but they’re protected as they’re sensitive to habitat loss. Why do you need to know this? Well, the property we’re viewing today is called Chalet Iltis. It is one of a group of three chalets situated alongside the railway line just below the station.
Usually in Wengen, chalets and houses are large, and are subdivided into apartments. This one is different; it’s small and self contained – you get the whole chalet. Period 1970s decor and furnishings.
It has been empty for five years, but you’d never know it – it’s like stepping back in time. Everything is old, but it still looks like new. Look at those curtains.
Amazing views. We’re only five minutes below the village here, but it feels like we’re out in the countryside.
And a real fireplace.
Upstairs is nice, and there are balconies on both floors.
The exterior window shutters are electric, which must have been quite a luxury when it was built. In the basement is a sort of granny flat that we probably wouldn’t use, along with a laundry and cellar.
With some less garish soft furnishings, this could be a brilliant place. We absolutely love it.