Augstmatthorn Hike: Interlaken's Most Spectacular Route

The Augstmatthorn is one of the most spectacular peaks in the Swiss Alps, offering panoramic views of the Brienz and Thun lakes, as well as a deep dive into the heart of the alpine wilderness. Reaching this destination is not easy, but it is one of the most rewarding routes you can do in the Interlaken region. In this article, I will guide you through the different options for the route to Augstmatthorn. from various surrounding areas, and I will tell you my personal experience leaving from Interlaken..

If your carrier does not include internet in Switzerland, you can buy a SIM card when you arrive at your destination, but I recommend something even more convenient: Purchase a Holafly eSIM with discount before your trip. You can book now with the code "MIRADASNOMADAS"and get a 5% discount. This way, you will have unlimited internet from the moment you land or cross the border. It is perfect for short stay trips between one and two weeks, here you can read my experience using Holafly's eSIM in Switzerland.

The Augstmatthorn is part of the Hardergrat mountain range.known for its sharp ridge and breathtaking views. From the top, you can see the entire Interlaken valley with its two lakes on either side.On clear days, you can even see the Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau mountains in the distance.

What makes this route so special is its combination of alpine scenery, wildlife (it is common to see mountain goats on the ridge) and physical challenge. It is a physically demanding route, but the visual and emotional rewards are immense.

💡Did you know that with the N26 travel card you have travel insurance included in partnership with Allianz? Find out how to get your free travel insurance with N26 in this article. and save money on your adventures. (Plus, if you open your account now, you get a 15€ welcome bonus).

If you are in Interlaken, as was my case, the most convenient and effective option is to start the hike by taking the funicular to Harderkulm. This funicular, which takes you from the valley to the Harderkulm viewpoint.significantly reduces the time and effort needed to start the hike to Augstmatthorn. The full route from Harderkulm to Augstmatthorn is still demanding, but it is the quickest and most accessible option from Interlaken to save you from a steep climb. Here is the link to the Augstmatthorn route from Interlaken in Alltrails.

I recommend you to book it in advance through the link I have put in the orange button. You will get an open round trip ticket at the same price as at the station but you will save time waiting in line which can sometimes be very long.

When I decided to hike to Augstmatthorn, I knew the trek was long, and I didn't want to waste unnecessary time on the initial ascent from the valley. That's why I I opted to take the funicular up to Harderkulm. For me, was the best decisionI started the route saving energy and with breathtaking views from the very first moment. Also, the funicular puts you directly on a high point, which facilitates access to the route to the Augstmatthorn. without having to face a grueling climb from Interlaken.

Tip: If you decide to do the same, I recommend buying the funicular ticket in advance to avoid long lines, especially in high season. You can book it through GetYourGuide and secure your place on the funicular.The price is the same as in the office.

If you prefer a longer and more challenging experience, you can choose to start the hike from Interlaken itself. This option is if you are looking for a complete challenge. The trail starts from the valley, and the first stage is a steep climb through the forest to Harderkulm. This initial trek takes approximately 2-3 hours depending on your pace.

From Harderkulm, the hike to Augstmatthorn is long but incredibly beautiful. Along the ridge, you will be surrounded by breathtaking views of lakes and mountains. The terrain is rocky and at some points can be quite narrow, so I recommend you be careful, especially if it's windy.

This option is ideal if you want to enjoy a longer hike and do not mind adding an additional ascent from Interlaken. However, keep in mind that the total time of the hike can extend up to 7-8 hours, so it is advisable to start early in the morning to avoid setbacks with daylight.

Another popular option for getting to the Augstmatthorn is to start the hike from the small village of Habkern. This route is less known, but no less beautiful. Habkern is located north of Interlaken and offers a quieter and less traveled alternative.

The route from Habkern is more gradual in terms of gradient.This makes it a slightly less strenuous option at the beginning compared to the other routes. However, once you reach the ridge, the hike becomes challenging with some technical sections. The views along the ridge towards Augstmatthorn are just as spectacular, with panoramas that stretch for miles.

Getting to Habkern from Interlaken may seem easy but it is not: You can take a bus that takes you directly to the village but you should plan ahead, as they don't run that often. From there, the hike to Augstmatthorn takes about 4-5 hours, depending on your pace and the terrain conditions. Here is a link to the complete route from Habkern to Augstmatthorn by alltrails.

For those staying in Brienz, there is also an option to reach Augstmatthorn from this picturesque lakeside village. This is one of the more challenging routes, as it includes a steep ascent from lake level to the ridge.

The hike from Brienz to Augstmatthorn is spectacular, but keep in mind that is one of the most physically demandingThe hike starts near the village and climbs through forests and alpine meadows to the Hardergrat ridge. It starts near the village and climbs through forests and alpine meadows to the Hardergrat ridge. From there, the hike to Augstmatthorn rewards you with unparalleled views of the Alps and Lake Brienz.

This option is ideal for those who are already in Brienz and want a high level challenge, but keep in mind that you will need at least 6-7 hours to complete the hike, so it is important to be well prepared. link to the route in Alltrails.

Another popular and challenging option is to start the hike to Augstmatthorn from Brienzer Rothorn, the highest mountain to the northeast of Lake Brienz. This route is particularly attractive if you want to enjoy the spectacular views along the entire length of the Hardergrat ridge, starting on the opposite side and walking in the direction of the Augstmatthorn.

To start from Rothorn, you must first reach Brienz, a village on the shores of Lake Brienz, and then take the historic rack railway Brienz-Rothorn. This mountain train, which operates from late spring to early fallwill take you to the top of Brienzer Rothorn, a perfect starting point for the hike.

From the top of Brienzer Rothorn, the hike along the ridge is truly spectacular, but also challenging. The trail follows the edge of the ridge, offering panoramic views of both sides, Lake Brienz and the surrounding mountains. This route is ideal for experienced hikers if you are looking for a long and technical route.

The path is rocky and in some sections very narrow, so it requires attention and caution, especially on windy days. The hike from Rothorn to Augstmatthorn takes about 4-5 hours, depending on your pace. From Augstmatthorn, you can continue to Harderkulm or descend by other routes to Interlaken or Brienz. Here is the link to the route to Rothorn in alltrails.

If you decide to start from Rothorn, it is most common to return by a different route. You can either descend to Harderkulm and take the funicular back to Interlaken or return to Brienz from Augstmatthorn. In this case, it would be ideal to have a clear plan for your return transport and to check train or funicular schedules.

• Adequate clothing: Be sure to bring clothing for changeable weather. Conditions on the ridge can change quickly, and it is important to be prepared for cold weather, even in summer.
• Mountain footwear: The route has rocky and technical sections, especially on the Hardergrat ridge, so proper footwear is essential.
• Water and food: There are not many opportunities to stock up on supplies along the route, so bring plenty of water and energy snacks.
• Start early: Since the hike can take several hours, it is essential to start early to avoid walking back in the dark.
• Check the weather: Be sure to check the weather forecast before starting the hike, as conditions in the mountains can change quickly.

After considering all the options, I can say that, from my experience, the best way to reach the Augstmatthorn from Interlaken is to take the funicular to Harderkulm. y cStarting the hike from there. You save time, energy and enjoy a more accessible experience without sacrificing the views or the challenge.

Regardless of which route you choose, the Augstmatthorn hike is one of the most impressive in the region and a unique opportunity to connect with alpine nature. Get ready for an unforgettable adventure!