A car-free village in Bernese Oberland, offers alpine views, the Lauberhorn ski race, Jungfraujoch, and access to the Mürren-Schilthorn region.
Nestled in the Bernese Oberland region of Switzerland, Wengen is a car-free village known for its traditional timber houses and panoramic views of the surrounding Alps. You can reach it by a cogwheel train from Lauterbrunnen. Key attractions include the Jungfrau-Aletsch UNESCO World Heritage site and the annual Lauberhorn ski race, one of the longest and most challenging courses in the world.
Attractions to Visit
Jungfraujoch, the "Top of Europe" can be accessed via the highest railway station in Europe, it offers views of the Aletsch Glacier and surrounding peaks. Another must-see is the Mürren-Schilthorn region, known for the Piz Gloria revolving restaurant and its role in the James Bond film "On Her Majesty's Secret Service." The Mannlichen cable car provides yet another opportunity for stunning vistas, connecting Wengen to this popular hiking and skiing area.
Local Nature
The landscape around Wengen is ideal for both summer and winter activities. Hiking trails like the Eiger Trail and the Panoramaweg offer a range of difficulty levels and breathtaking alpine scenery. During winter, the village transforms into a ski haven, featuring the downhill Lauberhorn race, part of the FIS Alpine Ski World Cup circuit. The area also offers snowshoeing, sledging, and ice climbing.
How to Get There
You can only reach Wengen by cogwheel train from Lauterbrunnen. The journey takes about 15 minutes and offers scenic views of the valley. The Wengernalp Railway connects Wengen with Kleine Scheidegg, where you can continue your journey to Jungfraujoch.
Seasonal Events and Festivals
Wengen hosts several events throughout the year. The Lauberhorn ski race in January is a significant draw, attracting ski enthusiasts from all over. In summer, the Jungfrau Marathon brings runners who tackle the challenging mountain route from Interlaken to Kleine Scheidegg.
