Grindelwald

Grindelwald is a mountain village in the Bernese Alps of Switzerland. The north face of the Eiger mountain rises above the town, while cable cars transport visitors to viewpoints such as First and the Jungfraujoch. In winter, you can ski on the slopes, and in summer, you can hike through alpine meadows filled with wildflowers. You can also visit the ice palace at Jungfraujoch, try the First Cliff Walk, or ride the First Flyer zipline.

Location in the Bernese Alps

Grindelwald is situated at an elevation of 1,034 meters (3,392 feet) in the German-speaking region of Switzerland. The village is part of the Jungfrau area in the Bernese Oberland, surrounded by some of the most recognizable peaks in the Swiss Alps. From almost anywhere in town, you can see the Eiger's north face, which creates a striking backdrop. The nearby glaciers and varied terrain make Grindelwald a popular destination for mountain activities throughout the year.

Reaching the Top of Europe

One of Grindelwald's main attractions is its access to Jungfraujoch, which is often referred to as the "Top of Europe." You can reach this high-altitude site by taking the Eiger Express gondola and then a cogwheel train. The journey takes about 45 minutes and brings you to an elevation of 3,454 meters (11,332 feet). At the top, you'll find an ice palace, panoramic viewpoints, and restaurants. On clear days, the observation deck provides views as far as Germany and France. The Sphinx Observatory gives visitors a scientific perspective on the alpine environment.

Hiking and Mountain Activities

In summer, you can choose from many hiking trails in Grindelwald. These range from easy walks to challenging mountain routes. Many hikers enjoy the path to Bachalpsee, a small alpine lake known for its reflections of surrounding peaks. For a unique experience, you can try the First Cliff Walk, a metal walkway attached to the side of the mountain that provides a clear view of the drop below. If you're looking for more excitement, you can ride the First Flyer zipline or rent a mountain cart to descend the slopes.

Winter Sports in Grindelwald

When snow covers the landscape, Grindelwald becomes busy with winter sports enthusiasts. The ski area connects with neighboring Wengen, giving you access to a large network of slopes for all skill levels. If you prefer cross-country skiing, you can glide along trails in the valley. For sledding, you can try the 15-kilometer run from Faulhorn to Grindelwald, one of the longest in Europe. Even if you don't ski, you can enjoy winter activities like snowshoeing or taking in the snowy views from mountain restaurants.

Getting to Grindelwald

Grindelwald is well-connected to the Swiss rail network. From Interlaken, it's a 35-minute train ride up the valley. If you're coming from further away, you can reach Grindelwald in about 3 hours from Zurich or Basel, and 4 hours from Geneva, typically with a change in Interlaken. Once in the village, you can walk to most points of interest or use local buses and cable cars. The efficient Swiss transport system allows you to explore the region easily without a car.