Experience with me the Magic of Grindelwald: From Thrilling Heights to Serene Alpine Lakes
Grindelwald is yet another charming village in the Bernese Oberland region of Switzerland. It is a gateway to some of Europe’s most breathtaking alpine adventures. Known as the “Glacier Village,” it’s a perfect base for exploring the Swiss Alps. With various hiking trails, cable cars, and scenic train rides, it is for every adventurer. Beyond its natural beauty, Grindelwald boasts cozy chalets, delightful Swiss cuisine, and a warm hospitality that invites visitors to immerse themselves in the serene alpine lifestyle. We started our waddle to First from here, so read on to learn where to park, what to expect from the hike, and more.
How to Get to Grindelwald from Interlaken
We chose Interlaken as the starting location as we were also staying nearby. Grindelwald is located just 20 kilometers from Interlaken and is easily accessible by transportation methods.
- By Car. Driving to Grindelwald offers flexibility and convenience, especially if you plan to explore the region at your own pace. The drive takes around 30 minutes and includes well-maintained roads with incredible views of alpine landscapes.
- By Train. The train journey from Interlaken to Grindelwald is one of the most picturesque rides in Switzerland. Take the Bernese Oberland Railway (BOB) directly to Grindelwald from Interlaken Ost station. The trip takes approximately 35 minutes, with trains running frequently throughout the day.
- By Bus. Take a bus for a budget-friendly and scenic option. The journey takes about 50 minutes, and the buses have large windows to maximize your enjoyment of the stunning surroundings. This option is especially ideal for those looking for a direct and comfortable connection without transferring.
Where to Park in Grindelwald
Parking in Grindelwald is convenient and well-organized, making it easy to start your adventure. If you’re heading to the Grindelwald First cable car station, you’ll find a large parking lot right next to the station. The parking area is marked and spacious, accommodating cars and larger vehicles. Grindelwald also offers additional parking facilities near the train station and main shopping areas. Be sure to arrive early during peak seasons to secure a spot, as this picturesque destination attracts visitors worldwide.
We came to Grindelwald during the Bell Festival, so the initial parking lot was closed, but we parked at a spacious parking lot close to the cemetery. There are also facilities like the toilet free of charge. For the day we spent here, we paid 6.67 CHF. You can pay in the parking machine.
Cable Car station Grindelwald – First
It was a short waddle from the parking lot to the cable car station. We didn’t have any tickets that we bought upfront; we purchased them on the spot. You can conveniently do so in the machines outside the station or inside the ticket office.
The cable car operates seasonally, typically opening from 8.30 am to 5.00 pm in summer, with extended hours during peak periods. Admission prices vary, with a standard roundtrip ticket costing around 64 CHF for adults, though discounts are available for Swiss Travel Pass holders and children. And the penguins get a free pass. We paid 130 CHF for two adults for a roundtrip to First and Back to Grindelwald. For more information about the timetable and prices, check the link – here.
Scenic ride to the top of First
The smooth, scenic ride to First takes about 25 minutes, offering spectacular views of Grindelwald’s lush valley and majestic peaks, making the ascent a memorable experience in itself. As the cable car glides upward, the iconic peaks of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau come into view, framed by emerald-green meadows and quaint alpine chalets. Spacious and comfortable, the cabins make the ascent enjoyable for everyone, whether snapping photos or simply soaking in the views.
As we came pretty early in the morning, we had a fantastic view of the sun creeping in through the high peaks. It was a breathtaking view that we won’t forget.
Along the way, you can stop at intermediate stations like Bort and Schreckfeld, each offering unique activities. At Bort, you can enjoy a picturesque playground or rent mountain carts to descend. Schreckfeld provides opportunities for adventure enthusiasts to spot wildlife and access biking trails.
- Other experiences include the famous First Flyer, where you can experience pure exhilaration on a thrilling zipline adventure that lets you glide through the alpine air at speeds up to 84 km/h. Suspended on an 800-meter-long steel cable, you’ll race from First to Schreckfeld, soaring as high as 50 meters above lush meadows. Perfectly secured in a stable harness, up to four people can take off together. With no fixed time slots, arriving early is key to avoiding long waits, especially during peak times. The First Flyer is open year-round, but weather conditions may affect availability, so plan to ensure this high-speed adventure is part of your Grindelwald journey!
- Then, you can go on the First Glider, an adventure that lets you soar like an eagle across the breathtaking mountain landscapes of Grindelwald. Starting from Schreckfeld, you’re pulled backward towards First at an exhilarating speed of 72 km/h. But the real excitement begins on the return journey as you glide along an 800-meter route, reaching speeds of up to 83 km/h. With panoramic alpine views rushing past, it’s an unforgettable experience combining adrenaline and awe. Suitable for adventurers meeting the height and weight requirements (minimum height: 130 cm, body weight: max. 125 kg), the First Glider is a highlight of any visit. To make the most of your day, arrive early to avoid long waits.
As you see, plenty of activities are already on the way, and First offers even more.
Reaching the Top of First
We continued at all of the experiences and aimed to get off directly at First. As the cable car glides to a stop at the summit of First, you step out into a world of alpine wonder. Already on the way up, you know this will be promising. At 2,168 meters above sea level, the views are nothing short of spectacular. The rugged peaks of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau dominate the horizon, while the lush valleys below stretch endlessly, creating a perfect contrast.
First Cliff Walk
If you are an adventure seeker, like we are, or at least one of my humans is (the other is scared of heights), then the First Cliff Walk by Tissot is a breathtaking steel walkway that clings to the side of the mountain, offering heart-stopping views of the Grindelwald valley and the surrounding peaks. This circular path is approximately 300 meters (980 feet) long and features a suspension bridge and an exhilarating viewing platform that juts out 45 meters (148 feet) over the cliffs. At its highest point, the walkway stands about 2,168 meters (7,113 feet) above sea level, giving you a bird’s-eye view of the dramatic alpine scenery.
It can be toa bit nerve-wracking if you’re afraid of heights, especially when looking down through the grated sections.Wear sturdy shoes, as the metal surface can be slippery when wet, and bring a jacket since the high-altitude winds can be chilly. The walk takes about 10-20 minutes, depending on how often you pause to marvel at the stunning vistas.
Many people do not do the whole walk and focus only on the top point where they take pictures. However, during peak season, it gets crowded, and you have to wait in line, which is not worth it as you get the same view everywhere around you.
Crash Landing on You Filming Location
For fans (like us) of the beloved K-drama Crash Landing on You, Grindelwald First is a dream come true. This alpine setting served as a key filming location, capturing the romance and breathtaking beauty that defined the show. You’ll feel like you’ve stepped into the world of Yoon Se-ri and Ri Jeong-hook. It’s a must-visit for K-drama enthusiasts.
After we experienced what there was around First, we started our waddle.
Our Waddle:
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- Waddle duration: 3 hours 23 minutes
- Distance: 8.08 km (5.02 miles)
- Route: yellow, red
- Map: link
- Things to see: Top of First, First Cliff Walk, Crashlanding on You filming location, Bachalpsee Lake
Waddling from First to Bachalpsee Lake and back
Waddling from First to Bachalpsee Lake is a journey that feels like stepping into a postcard. The well-maintained trail winds through lush alpine meadows dotted with wildflowers and grazing cows, their bells ringing softly in the crisp mountain air. Every step reveals a new perspective of the majestic peaks, with the towering Eiger always in view. The gentle ascent makes it accessible for most hikers, while frequent benches and viewpoints invite you to pause and take in the breathtaking scenery. As you waddle along at your own pace, the anticipation builds with every twist in the trail, knowing that the serene beauty of Bachalpsee Lake awaits just ahead. The trail is well-marked and easy to waddle.
Bachalpsee Lake
Bachalpsee Lake is famous for its glassy surface that often mirrors the surrounding snow-capped peaks. Geologically, it formed during the last Ice Age as glaciers retreated, leaving behind a natural basin filled with meltwater over thousands of years. Today, the lake’s pristine clarity results from this glacial origin. While the shimmering water may tempt you for a swim, it’s not advised due to its icy temperatures, even in summer. However, it is allowed to swim in. Plenty of benches here will enable you to sit, have a break, and enjoy the views.
Close by, you also have amenities like the toilet, which is awesome considering you are in the middle of the alpine beauty. It is a very clean and overall great experience, and the best is when you come out after finishing your business and see the fantastic views.
According to local legend, the lake is guarded by a mystical spirit often described as a beautiful water maiden. She ensures its waters remain pure and tranquil, protecting the valley below from misfortune. The story goes that centuries ago, the valley below was plagued by floods and misfortunes caused by angry mountain spirits. One fateful day, a kind-hearted shepherd discovered the lake and, moved by its beauty, sang a melody of gratitude to the mountains. The water maiden, touched by his sincerity, appeared and vowed to protect the lake and its surroundings. Since then, the lake has symbolized the valley’s peace and prosperity.
Locals believe anyone disrespecting the lake by polluting its waters or acting carelessly risks angering the guardian spirit. On rare misty mornings, some even claim to have seen her shimmering outline dancing on the water.
Continuing the waddle back to First (taking the lower route)
Getting back to First can be done via various routes. One was to take the same route back, but we took another route, which was a nice circle around.
It is primarily a nice descent with breathtaking views. The trail goes through lush alpine meadows, offering a more intimate view of the valley below. You also end up waddling next to a small waterfall in Switzerland with plenty of water. Still, everything you encounter is magical.
Be prepared to go from 1 982 meters above sea level to 2 164 meters above sea level at the end of your waddle on a very short distance. This last push will take a toll on you but also gives one of the best views. As one of us fears heights, the trial was also a little scary, but we managed.
As you near the top, the path reveals a thrilling sight: paragliders gracefully soaring through the air, their colorful wings floating above you as they descend toward the valley. This peaceful yet exhilarating moment adds a magical touch to the end of your hike, creating a perfect conclusion to an unforgettable day in the Swiss Alps.
Grindelwald’s combination of dramatic landscapes, thrilling experiences, and cinematic connections makes it a must-visit for hikers and nature lovers. Whether you’re here for the adrenaline or the tranquility, the journey from First to Bachalpsee promises memories to last a lifetime.
Enjoy First, and waddle on!
