What to see in Lauterbrunnen: Discover the valley of 72 waterfalls

Lauterbrunnen, known as the valley of the 72 waterfalls is one of the most magical places you can find in Switzerland. Located in the heart of the Swiss Alps, this village offers a perfect combination of natural beauty, outdoor activities and a cozy atmosphere. In this post, I will tell you my experience and practical tips that will lead you to discover what to see in Lauterbrunnen to make your visit unforgettable.

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I have visited Lauterbrunnen on more than one occasion and in different seasons, it is a unique place from which you can start many different activities. Here I will tell you about each and every one of them:

The Lauterbrunnen valley is famous for being one of the most impressive in the Swiss Alps, characterized by its cliffs and waterfalls. In fact, the name "Lauterbrunnen" translates to. as "many fountains" or "many springs".The waterfalls are a clear reference to the waterfalls found in the valley. It has more than 70 waterfalls, some emerging directly from the high cliffs and others from the depths of the mountains.

Among the most emblematic waterfalls in the valley the Trümmelbach Falls and the Staubbach Falls are the most importanteach with unique characteristics that make them fascinating and worth visiting.

The Staubbach Falls are the most iconic in the valley. of Lauterbrunnen. With a height of almost 300 metersThe waterfalls are one of the highest waterfalls in Switzerland and fall in the form of a veil from a rocky cliff directly over the valley. This waterfall, visible from almost anywhere in the village, is especially impressive in spring and summer.

Today, you can walk a trail that leads to the base of the waterfall and continue on to the to a lookout point behind the water curtainfrom where you will enjoy panoramic views of the valley. The visit is totally free and recommendedIn fact, it is one of the first things you will see in Lauterbrunnen, as it is located a few meters from the entrance to the village.

The Trümmelbach Falls are a series of ten glacial waterfalls. located inside the mountain, which makes them a unique natural phenomenon. Fed by the waters of the Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau glaciers, these waterfalls are the largest of their kind in Europe and carry up to 20,000 liters of water per second.

What makes Trümmelbach Falls special is its location within the rocks of the mountain. To access them, you will have to go through a system of tunnels and galleries carved into the rock.The waterfalls of the Lauterbrunnen Waterfalls, which allow an up-close and immersive exploration of the inland waterfalls. Undoubtedly one of the best things to see in Lauterbrunnen.

These waterfalls are generally open to the public from April to November with an entry price of about 11 Swiss francsand are easily accessible from the village of Lauterbrunnen, either on foot, by bicycle or by car.

The valley offers routes for cyclists of all levels, from leisurely rides on flat roads to more demanding challenges involving climbs and descents on mountain trails.

One of the most popular routes is the one through the valley floor, where you can cycle through green meadows, cross bridges over crystal-clear rivers and admire the many waterfalls cascading from the high cliffs. This route, which runs from Lauterbrunnen to Stechelberg, is perfect for families and recreational cyclists, as it is relatively flat and offers scenic stops at landmarks such as the Staubbach Falls and Trümmelbach Falls.

In the region it is also common to rent electric bicycles (e-bikes), which make climbing easier and allow longer distances to be covered without excessive effort.

Paragliding in Lauterbrunnen usually begins with a brief training and orientation by professional guides who ensure that the experience is safe and enjoyable. Once equipped with your harness and paraglider, you will take off from an elevated hill, usually in the Mürren or Wengen area. During the tandem flight, it is possible to enjoy unique views of the valley, waterfalls and the Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau peaks.

Most paragliding flights last from 15 to 30 minutes, depending on weather conditions and takeoff location. Also, if you don't have your GoPoro, the company offers photo and video services to capture the experience and take home a souvenir of your adventure in the Alps.

The trail towards Tanzbödeli and Obersteinberg is one of the most authentic and least crowded routes in the region.offering a genuine experience of the Swiss Alps. This tour allows you to enter the tranquility of the mountain, with panoramic views, alpine meadows, and the opportunity to enjoy old huts and landscapes almost untouched by time.

Obersteinberg: A Journey into the Past

The trail begins in StechelbergA small settlement at the end of the Lauterbrunnen valley, famous for its views of cliffs and numerous waterfalls. From here, you ascend to Obersteinberg, an ancient alpine village located at 1,777 meters above sea level.

The hike to Obersteinberg takes about 3 to 4 hours.depending on the pace. Upon arrival, you will find a small group of traditional cabins and a mountain lodge that has remained virtually unchanged for over a century. This shelter, with no electricity and a rustic atmosphere, offers home-cooked meals and a place to rest while enjoying views of the nearby glaciers and the breathtaking scenery of the valley.

Tanzbödeli: A Panoramic Viewpoint

From Obersteinberg, the trail continues towards Tanzbödelia spectacular viewpoint at an altitude of 2,100 meters above sea level. This point is known for its wide rocky plateau, which is offers a 360-degree view of the Lauterbrunnen valley. and the surrounding majestic peaks, including the Jungfrau, the Breithorn and the Gspaltenhorn.

The ascent from Obersteinberg to Tanzbödeli is steep and challenging, but the reward upon reaching the top is one of the most breathtaking views in the region. The vast natural platform offers a perfect place to take a break, enjoy a picnic and simply contemplate the grandeur of the Alps.

The Route Experience

The complete route to Tanzbödeli and Obersteinberg is a hike of moderate to high difficulty, with a considerable slope.I recommend it if you have a good level of physical preparation. The total duration of the tour, round trip, usually takes between 7 and 9 hours, depending on the time spent enjoying the different points along the route.

This hike is ideal if you are looking for a more immersive experience in the Alps, away from the crowds and closer to nature in its purest state.

Wengen is a Swiss village located 1,274 meters above sea level in the Bernese Oberland. This alpine destination is known for its quiet and car-free atmosphere.Wengen is the perfect place to enjoy nature at its purest. Surrounded by stunning mountains and green meadows, Wengen is popular in both winter and summer and attracts skiers, hikers and travelers looking to relax in a spectacular setting.

This village is only accessible by train from Lauterbrunnen. During the summer months, Wengen is an excellent place to visit. starting point for numerous hiking trails and outdoor activities, including the iconic Eiger climb and the scenic route to the Jungfraujoch.

The train ride from Wengen to the Eiger region is an experience in itself. From Wengen, first take the train to Kleine Scheidegg.The Eiger, a station located at an altitude of 2,061 meters, offers spectacular views of the Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau peaks. This route, which passes through postcard-perfect alpine scenery, is one of the most scenic railway routes in Switzerland.

At Kleine Scheidegg, you can take the cog railway up to the Eiger Gletscher station. This train is part of the line that continues to the Eiger Gletscher. Jungfraujoch, Europe's highest stationBut for adventurers who want to explore the Eiger more closely, the Eiger Gletscher is the ideal stop.

This route allows visitors to not only enjoy breathtaking views of glaciers and mountain peaks, but also to prepare for some of the most challenging and memorable hikes and via ferratas in the Swiss Alps.

The Eiger Trail is one of the most famous trails to see near Lauterbrunnen, and for good reason. This route of about 6 kilometers will allow you to get close to the iconic north face of the Eiger, one of the most legendary and feared in the history of mountaineering. The trail starts at the Eiger Gletscher station and descends to Alpiglen, offering spectacular views and an immersion into the imposing alpine landscape.

The route is relatively accessible for hikers of all levels, although it is recommended to have some physical preparation because of the inclination and the duration of the hike, which usually takes about 2 to 3 hours. During the hike, hikers can admire not only the monumental rock face of the Eiger, but also the panoramic views towards the Grindelwald valley and the surrounding peaks.

During the tour, you can find information panels on the following subjects the history of the Eiger and its legendary north facefamous for its difficult ascents.

The via ferrata between the Eiger and Grindelwald is an adventure if you are looking to take your alpine experience to a new level. This route, known as the "Rotstock Via Ferrata"follows a route that ascends the west face of the Eiger, with spectacular views.

The via ferrata includes sections with cables, ladders and handrails that help to negotiate the most difficult sections, combining climbing with the additional safety provided by this type of route. Although the via ferrata does not enter the infamous north face of the Eiger, it offers the possibility to experience this legendary mountain up close.

The route ends descending towards Grindelwald, a village that is a popular base for various mountain activities. This via ferrata is recommended for those with some climbing experience and a good physical condition, as it involves a combination of technical challenges and considerable exposure in some sections.

Mürren is a quiet alpine village suspended at an altitude of 1,650 meters. This small village, accessible only by cable car from Lauterbrunnen or by train.is characterized by its authentic atmosphere and breathtaking panoramic views of the iconic Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau peaks.

The village is ideal for those looking for a mountain retreat with a perfect combination of tranquility, nature and outdoor activities. Its location as a natural terrace above the Lauterbrunnen valley makes it an excellent starting point for various hiking trails, winter activities and, of course, for exploring one of the most exciting via ferratas in the region.

One of the highlights if you visit Mürren is the climb up to the famous SchilthornThe Schilthorn, a 2,970-meter mountain that offers unparalleled panoramic views of the Alps. From Mürren, reaching the Schilthorn is easy, thanks to a cable car ride.

The route consists of several stages. From Mürren, you take a cable car to Birg, an intermediate station that already offers spectacular views, and a second cable car takes you directly to the top of the Schilthorn.

At the summit is the famous revolving restaurant Piz Gloriaknown for being James Bond movie set On Her Majesty's Secret Service. From here, you have a 360-degree view of the snow-capped peaks and the Bernese Oberland region. In addition, the summit features James Bond-themed exhibits and several observation decks to appreciate the surrounding mountains.

The Skyline Walk Birg is an attraction located at the Birg intermediate station, halfway between Mürren and the Schilthorn summit. This walkway is part of a series of experiences designed to offer spectacular views.

The Skyline Walk is an observation platform that extends beyond the edge of the cliff.The Lauterbrunnen Valley, will allow you to walk on a partially transparent structure with direct views of the Lauterbrunnen Valley and the peaks of the Alps.

The Mürren via ferrata is a must and somewhat easier than the Eiger via ferrata. Known as one of the most spectacular via ferrata in SwitzerlandThe trail follows a route of approximately 2.2 kilometers along a rock face that rises above the Lauterbrunnen valley.

The journey begins at the edge of the village of Mürren and extends to Gimmelwald. During the crossing you will cross suspension bridges, move along ledges and cross a Tibetan bridge 80 meters long. Although the via ferrata has demanding sections, it is accessible if you have little experience, as long as you are accompanied by a guide or are well equipped.

The activity is available from June to October and is an unforgettable way to experience the breathtaking alpine landscape from a unique perspective.

Gimmelwald is an alpine village often considered one of the best kept secrets of the Swiss Alps. It is located at an altitude of 1,367 meters on a steep slope in the Lauterbrunnen valley. With its tranquil atmosphere, traditional architecture and breathtaking scenery, this village is a perfect destination if you are looking for an authentic experience away from mass tourism.

Access to Gimmelwald is mainly by cable car from Stechelberg or by hiking from Mürren. The lack of direct roads has preserved the authenticity of the village, which remains an active farming community.

Gimmelwald is an ideal starting point for numerous hiking trails through the region. From here, you can hike to Mürren, Schilthorn, and other nearby destinations. One of the most popular routes is the hike from Gimmelwald to Mürren, an easy and scenic walk that offers panoramic views of the Lauterbrunnen valley and the Alps.

Known as the Top of EuropeJungfraujoch is the highest railway station in Europe, located at 3454 meters above sea level.. From Lauterbrunnen, you can take a train to Kleine Scheidegg and then another train to Jungfraujoch. Here, you can enjoy panoramic views, walk on a glacier and visit the Ice Palace, an ice cave with impressive sculptures. The train ride itself is an unforgettable experience, as it passes through tunnels and offers breathtaking views of the Alpine peaks.

At Jungfraujoch, you can also visit the Sphinx Platform, an observation deck offering 360-degree views of the Swiss Alps. If you're feeling adventurous, you can try activities such as sledding and glacier skiing, available year-round.

Interlaken is the best known village in the area, located about half an hour by train from Lauterbrunnen. Its characteristic location between the Brienz and Thun lakes, as well as being surrounded by iconic mountains with routes such as Harder Kulm is what makes this village so special. It is also the village I always use as a base to enhance all my activities, as it is very well connected to the other villages and routes.

In interlaken you will be able to do activities such as kayak tours on lake brienzparagliding, visit Harder Kulm or just relax in one of its natural pools. If you are interested in knowing in depth this town take a look at my article about interlaken where you will find all the necessary information.

There are some essential things to know before planning your visit to Lauterbrunnen. Taking into account factors such as the season of your visit, accommodation or simply transportation will save you from some unpleasantness. Here I tell you all the essentials:

• Train: If you decide to arrive by train, it is advisable to acquire a Swiss Travel Passthat will allow you to move freely throughout Switzerland by train, bus and boat. This pass is an excellent option if you plan to visit several destinations in Switzerland, as it offers unlimited trips during the validity period. In addition, the Swiss Travel Pass includes the free admission to more than 500 museums and most importantly, discounts on many cable cars and mountain trains you're going to wear every day. Believe me, it makes a difference, you will save a lot of money money during your stay in Switzerland. Lauterbrunnen is easily accessible by train from all major Swiss cities. From Zurich or Geneva, you can take a direct train to Interlaken and then a regional train to Lauterbrunnen.

• Car: If you prefer to drive, the Swiss roads are in excellent condition and the drive offers spectacular panoramic views. In addition, Lauterbrunnen has ample parking where you can leave your car and get around the region using public transportation.

The best time to visit Lauterbrunnen depends on your interests:

• Summer: If you enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking and biking, the summer months (June to September) are ideal. During this period, the weather is generally warm and pleasant, and the landscapes are at their best with green meadows and wildflowers.
• WinterIf you enjoy skiing and other winter sports, the snow season (December to March) is perfect. Lauterbrunnen becomes a winter paradise, with ski slopes and snowshoe trails.
• Spring and Fall: There are also things to see in Lauterbrunnen, with less tourists and equally spectacular scenery, but in my opinion these are the least recommended months to go to Lauterbrunnen. The thaw causes the roads to be closed and in bad condition, in addition, the weather becomes very changeable and most of the days are cloudy. As a consequence, you will never know for sure if some activities such as skydiving will be available.

Each season has its own charm, and depending on your preferences, you can enjoy different activities. For example, in summer, you can paraglide from Murren, an experience that offers a unique view of the valley from the air. In winter, you can try sledding on the numerous slopes available around the valley.

To tell you the truth, when I go to Switzerland, I stay in InterlakenI would like to stay in Lauterbrunnen, as it allows me to travel easily to any town. However, staying in Lauterbrunnen for a day or two seems to me a very good option to explore the area. Here are some recommendations according to the type of accommodation you are looking for:

If you're looking for a more luxurious experience, Hotel Silberhorn has rooms with spectacular views and a fine dining restaurant serving Swiss specialties. The hotel also has a spa where you can relax after a day of exploring.

If you prefer a more economical option, the Camping Jungfrau would be my preferred choice. This campsite is well equipped and offers both tent pitches and bungalows. It is a perfect option for families and groups if you want to be in direct contact with nature.

Seeing Lauterbrunnen in one day is possible, although my recommendation from my own experience is to spend at least a couple of days to enjoy everything more calmly. That said, here is my one-day itinerary to make the most of your visit:

• Tomorrow: Spend the morning strolling through the valley and visiting the waterfalls. Start at Staubbach Falls, where you can see the waterfall up close and then head to Trümmelbach to see the mouth of the falls from the top of the valley.
• Noon: Take advantage of the walk through the valley to reach the end and take the cable car to Murren. Once there you can have lunch with panoramic views of the Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau mountains. You can buy food in a supermarket or go to any local restaurant.
• Afternoon: One of the options I would suggest would be to do the via ferrata from Murren to Gimmewald, but there are infinite options at this point. You can hike a trail, paraglide or simply visit any of the villages I have mentioned throughout the article.
• Night: You can take the opportunity to try the local beer and traditional food in a traditional restaurant such as Weidstübli.

Almost every time I visit Interlaken I make a full day trip to Lauterbrunnen to remember the magic of this town.

What I like most about Lauterbrunnen is its connection to other routes and the possibility to do multiple activities in one day. In particular, if you like to hike in the mountains you should not miss the tanzbodeli trail and Obersteinberg. On a good day, Lauterbrunnen becomes a paradise for anyone who enjoys nature and the mountains.

There is always something to see in Lauterbrunnen, whether you are looking for adventure, relaxation or simply enjoying the natural beauty.