Grindelwald

A picturesque mountain village famous as a hiking base with the dramatic north face of the Eiger looming overhead. The village offers excellent trails, traditional Swiss chalets, and access to mountain railways and glaciers.

Things to do

• Eiger Trail — A spectacular moderate hiking path that descends from Eigergletscher station along the base of the Eiger's north face, offering unobstructed views of this iconic 3,970m peak.
• Jungfraujoch - Top of Europe — Take the cogwheel railway from Grindelwald up to 3,454m where you can walk on the Aletsch Glacier, visit the Sphinx Observatory, and see panoramic Alpine vistas.
• First Mountain Adventure Park — Accessed by gondola from Grindelwald, this high-altitude zone offers cliff walks, zip-lining, and hiking trails with sweeping valley views.
• Gorge Schlucht (Grindelwald Gorge) — A short walk through a dramatic limestone gorge carved by glacial meltwater, featuring steep canyon walls and a turquoise stream.
• Bachalpsee Lake Hike — A popular family-friendly trail leading to an alpine lake with mirror reflections of the Wetterhorn and Schreckhorn peaks.
• Grindelwald Glacier (Lower Glacier) — One of Switzerland's most accessible glaciers, viewable via a gentle hiking trail that passes through forests and meadows before reaching the glacier's snout.

Food to try

• Älplermagronen — A hearty Bernese Alpine pasta baked with potatoes, onions, and local cheese, traditionally served with apple compote.
• Fondue Moitié-Moitié — A classic Swiss cheese fondue combining equal parts Gruyère and Emmental, perfect for après-hike warmth in Grindelwald's mountain restaurants.
• Rösti with Raclette — Crispy potato pancakes topped with melted Valais raclette cheese, a favorite comfort dish in local mountain lodges.
• Fresh Trout (Forelle) — Local mountain streams supply restaurants with freshly caught trout, often prepared simply with butter and Alpine herbs.
• Bircher Muesli — While originating from Zurich, this Swiss breakfast staple of rolled oats, yogurt, and fresh berries is widely served in Grindelwald guesthouses.

Local customs & good to know

• Respect hiking trail etiquette — Always stay on marked paths, greet fellow hikers with 'Grüezi,' and be prepared for rapidly changing Alpine weather even on clear mornings.
• Learn basic Swiss German — Locals speak Swiss German dialect; simple phrases like 'Grüezi' (hello), 'Merci' (thanks), and 'Auf Wiedersehen' (goodbye) are appreciated and useful.
• Book mountain restaurants and cable cars in advance — During peak seasons (July-August and winter), popular lifts and dining spots fill quickly, so reserve ahead to avoid disappointment.
• Observe Alpine farming traditions — The region maintains active alpine dairy farming; respect livestock on trails, don't disturb cows, and support local cheese and dairy producers.