The Aare Gorge (Aareschlucht) is one of Switzerland's most impressive geological attractions. This narrow, winding gorge was carved over thousands of years by the powerful flow of the Aare River, which continues to run through it, creating a dramatic landscape of steep limestone walls that rise to 650 feet on either side.

You can walk along a series of well-maintained paths and boardwalks suspended along the cliffside, providing breathtaking views of the rushing turquoise waters below and the towering rock formations above.

The path is easily accessible and suitable for all ages, making it a popular destination for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Along the way, you'll encounter several observation points and information panels detailing the gorge's geological history and the forces that shaped its rugged landscape.

The Aare Gorge is open from April to November, with the best time to visit being in the warmer months when the gorge is lush and the river is flowing at its fullest.

Logistics tip: park at the West Entrance, walk up the gorge, and then take a train hidden inside one side of the gorge on your way back — it's already included in your ticket.

In addition to the dramatic scenery, the cool air within the gorge offers a refreshing escape from the summer heat. The gorge is also conveniently located near other attractions, such as the Reichenbach Falls—famous as the fictional site of Sherlock Holmes's final battle with Professor Moriarty—and the picturesque village of Meiringen, known for its charming alpine architecture and delicious meringues.

Official website

Aare Gorge

Blausee is a hidden gem with crystal-clear blue waters and enchanting natural setting, tucked away in the Alps. The lake is surrounded by dense forests, and the reflection of the surrounding trees creates an otherworldly blue-green hue that has to be seen to be believed.

Just take a leisurely walk around the lake, rent a boat to explore the waters, or simply relax on the shore and take in the stunning scenery. The surrounding forest also offers hiking trails that lead to panoramic viewpoints and secluded picnic areas.

Blausee

The Faulhorn Trail is an incredible hiking adventure that showcases the best of the Swiss Alps.

We recommend taking a cable car up to the First Summit, where you'll be treated to sweeping views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. From there, the trail winds its way through alpine meadows and pastures, leading to the crystal-clear waters of Bachalpsee, a stunning mountain lake that is known for its emerald-green hue.

Continuing on, the trail ascends to the summit of Faulhorn, offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountain ranges and alpine lakes. At an elevation of 8,800 feet, the summit of Faulhorn is the perfect spot to take in the breathtaking beauty of the Swiss Alps.

From the summit, the trail descends to the charming town of Bussalp, where you can relax and enjoy a well-deserved meal or drink at one of the local restaurants or cafes.

Overall, the Faulhorn Trail is a challenging yet rewarding adventure that offers a true immersion in the natural beauty of the Swiss Alps.

AllTrails

Faulhorn Trail

The First Adventure Park is a popular outdoor activity center at the top of the First Summit that offers a range of exciting activities for everyone.

The park features the famous First Cliff Walk, a thrilling suspension bridge, as well as zip-lining, rock climbing, and a range of hiking trails. You can also enjoy mountain biking and paragliding in the area.

With its stunning alpine scenery and range of thrilling activities, it offers an unforgettable experience.

Detailed Guide

First Glider

First Flyer

Mountain Cart

Website

First Adventure Park

The First Cliff Walk is a thrilling suspension bridge located in Grindelwald First. The bridge is suspended 7,100 feet above sea level, offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

The walkway is made of steel and features a glass floor, giving a unique perspective on the breathtaking alpine scenery. The bridge is accessed by cable car and is part of the larger First Adventure Park.

First Cliff Walk

Grindelwald is a charming alpine village, surrounded by stunning mountain ranges, including the iconic Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau peaks. It is a perfect base for most of the Swiss Alps have to offer.

We recommend exploring the quaint village center with its traditional Swiss chalets and charming shops during the downtime between the stunning nearby activities you'll find separately in our app.

Grindelwald

Jungfraujoch, also known as the Top of Europe, is a summit with the highest railway station in Europe, situated at an altitude of 11,332 feet above sea level. While most of the train ride is in the tunnel, it also offers some breathtaking views of the mountains.

At the top of Jungfraujoch, you can visit the Sphinx Observatory, which offers panoramic views of the Alps, the Ice Palace, which features ice sculptures and an underground tunnel, and the Alpine Sensation, which is an exhibition that showcases the history and development of the railway. There are also several restaurants, cafes, and souvenir shops.

We recommend taking an early train from Grindelwald station (Jungfrau Railway). The ride is approximately 1 hour each way.

Overall, the journey to Jungfraujoch is an unforgettable experience that offers stunning views of the Swiss Alps and a chance to explore one of the most famous mountain passes in the world.

Jungfraujoch

Lauterbrunnen is a picturesque village with stunning natural beauty and tranquil atmosphere, nestled in the heart of the Bernese Alps. The village is surrounded by towering mountain peaks, verdant forests, and dozens of cascading waterfalls, including the famous Staubbach Waterfall.

The village is home to charming chalets and traditional Swiss architecture, along with a variety of shops, restaurants, and cafes. We recommend to just stroll through the village turning into random alleys and admire the stunning views and unique architecture.

Lauterbrunnen

Oeschinensee is a pristine alpine lake located in the heart of the Swiss Alps. Surrounded by towering mountains and verdant forests, the lake is renowned for its crystal-clear waters and breathtaking scenery.

You can reach Oeschinensee via a gondola ride from Kandersteg, followed by a short hike to the lake. Once there, you can rent a boat to explore the lake, go for a refreshing swim, or simply relax on the shore and take in the stunning views.

There's one more thing if you're into thrilling experiences – their summer toboggan run with a length of over 2,500 feet and a height difference of approx. 500 feet, resulting in breakneck speeds. Alone or in pairs - it is simply great fun to whizz down the slope and let your hair flutter in the wind.

Oeschinensee

Staubbach Waterfall is an iconic waterfall and a natural wonder located in the Lauterbrunnen Valley. Plunging over 900 feet from a sheer cliff face, the waterfall is one of the highest in Europe and is a spectacular sight to behold.

You can reach the base of the waterfall via a short walk from the parking lot below the fall, but we recommend parking in the village and walking down the steets with the constant view of this majestic waterfall.

Staubbach Waterfall

Catherine

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I’d pick Derby Swiss Quality Hotel for an alpine stay. Being downtown is handy for exploring.

We love Switzerland because it's the most heavenly-looking place on Earth. From its tranquil towns to the dramatic but covered in fluffy clouds Swiss Alps – you will quickly fall in love. Switzerland is best if you are looking for unique stunning nature but also want to slow down and reflect a little.

Derby Swiss Quality Hotel is a 3-star alpine resort located in the heart of Grindelwald, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

The hotel features cozy rooms and suites, a restaurant serving regional and international cuisine, a bar, and a spa area with a sauna and steam room.

It is a perfect base for exploring the region given its proximity to the train station that takes you to Jungfraujoch.

Derby Swiss Quality Hotel

The best of mountain regions with the sunrise at Riffelsee, for true nature lovers.

Mountain Paradise

Explore stunning nature and quaint towns of Swiss Alps on this balanced road trip.

Swiss Adventure

Imagine standing amidst towering mountains, with every view a masterpiece of nature's art; welcome to Grindelwald. Whether it's hiking or taking a cable car up the First mountain, the beauty is unparalleled.

Derby Swiss Quality Hotel

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