Waddle with us the Soaring Heights, Alpine Trails, and Majestic Views in the Heart of the Swiss Alps
Switzerland’s Lauterbrunnen Valley, often called the “Valley of 72 Waterfalls,” is a hiker’s dreamland. It was the first waddle we decided to do in Switzerland, and it blew our minds. The nature in Switzerland is out of this world. Come with us on our epic hike starting in Lauterbrunnen; I take a cable car ride up to Birg, enjoy a panoramic descent to Mürren, and then follow a picturesque trail back down to Lauterbrunnen. Read to learn what to expect, what to pack, how much the cable car is, and more.
What is the best time to visit Lauterbrunnen Valley
With its jaw-dropping landscapes and timeless charm, Lauterbrunnen is a year-round destination. However, your experience here can vary greatly depending on the season, but it comes down to your preference.
- Spring in Lauterbrunnen brings blooming wildflowers, cascading waterfalls at their fullest, and fewer crowds. The valley becomes a lush green paradise as the snow melts, with streams and rivers swelling from the thaw.
- Summer is the best time for hiking, climbing, and paragliding. The weather is warm, the trails are clear, and wildflowers blanket the meadows. It’s also the ideal season to visit Mürren and explore Schilthorn or Jungfraujoch. We came in the summer and can only highly recommend it.
- Autumn offers breathtaking fall foliage, fewer crowds, and tranquil hiking opportunities. The trails are quieter, making it an excellent time for a peaceful escape.
- In winter, Lauterbrunnen transforms into a snow-draped paradise that is ideal for winter sports and cozy alpine experiences. The nearby ski resorts of Mürren and Wengen are world-renowned.
Getting to Lauterbrunnen Valley from Interlaken
Lauterbrunnen Valley is just a short trip from Interlaken, making it an accessible and scenic destination.
By Train
- Duration: Approx. 20 minutes
- Frequency: Trains run every 30 minutes from Interlaken Ost to Lauterbrunnen.
- Cost: CHF 7–10 (one way) with discounts available for Swiss Travel Pass holders.
- Why Choose It? The train ride offers breathtaking scenery, including views of Lake Brienz, Staubbach Falls, and the towering peaks of the Jungfrau region.
By Bus
- Duration: Approx. 25–30 minutes
- Frequency: Buses run less frequently than trains but are a viable alternative.
- Cost: Similar to the train, but slightly cheaper.
- Why Choose It? It’s a good option if you’re traveling on a budget or want a different perspective of the valley.
By Car
- Duration: Approx. 20 minutes (14 km / 9 miles)
- Cost: Free road access, but parking fees apply (approx. CHF 12/day).
- Why Choose It? It is ideal if you want to explore nearby attractions like Trümmelbach Falls or continue your journey to other villages in the Jungfrau region.
Lauterbrunnen Valley Parking
As we were on our road trip to Switzerland, we arrived by car, which we know is not as eco-friendly as a train or bus, but it gives great flexibility. When traveling with a vehicle, you must check for parking constantly. Thankfully, Switzerland offers vast parking lots. There were several options to park in Lauterbrunnen directly (all for a fee), but we continued to park close to the cable car we took.
The Lauterbrunnen Valley Station Parking is the main parking lot for accessing the cable cars to Birg, Schilthorn, and Mürren. This is a large, well-maintained parking area with ample spaces, but it can fill up during peak tourist seasons, so arriving early is recommended. Parking fees are typically around 1.50–2.00 CHF per hour, with daily rates available if you plan to stay longer. We stayed over half a day and paid 7.45€.
To pay, machines accept Swiss francs, major credit cards, and sometimes contactless payments.
If you’re catching a cable car at a specific time, allocate extra minutes for parking and walking to the station.
If the main lot is full, there are smaller parking areas within walking distance, but these may require an extra 5-10 minutes on foot.
Opening Hour and Admission Lauterbrunnen Valley Station
The Lauterbrunnen Valley Station cable car, which connects to Mürren and other destinations, operates daily with opening hours generally from 8.00 am to 5.00 pm, including public holidays. The cable car runs approximately every 12 minutes, ensuring convenient and frequent access.
The ticket counter is open in two shifts: 7.30 am to 12.25 pm and 1.25 pm to 5.20 pm. Tickets can also be purchased at on-site machines for added flexibility.
The cost of tickets for the Lauterbrunnen cable car to Birg, Mürren, and Schilthorn varies depending on the specific route, ticket type, and whether you hold a Swiss Travel Pass (which gives you a 50% discount on the fares). You can buy a round trip or one-way and combine it with any of the stations you get off at.
Children under six and penguins travel free, and those aged 6-15 can travel free with a Junior Card (30 CHF for unlimited travel with a parent).
You can check the prices here link.
We bought a ticket from the Lauterbrunnen valley to Birg and then down to Mürren, and it cost us 168.20€ for two people. From Mürren, we waddled down to the valley. So, as mentioned, the price depends on whether you go up to the top, buy a return or one way, etc. We recommend doing our version as you enjoy the valley while descending.
What to Expect in Lauterbrunnen Valley
You can expect to be blown away by Mother Nature. This hike is a sensory feast, offering an array of experiences that perfectly capture the magic of the Swiss Alps. At Birg, with the added thrill of the Skyline Walk, expect to be mesmerized by sweeping views of iconic peaks like the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau. The descent to Mürren treats you to picture-perfect alpine meadows, rustic wooden chalets, and the distant tinkling of cowbells echoing through the hills. In Mürren, you’ll find a charming, car-free village steeped in tradition and a hint of Hollywood history. Finally, the hike from Mürren to Lauterbrunnen immerses you in a fairytale landscape of dense forests, open meadows, and panoramic vistas, with the valley’s famous waterfalls cascading in the background. It’s a journey that blends awe-inspiring natural beauty with the tranquil charm of alpine life.
Local Legend
As usual, we always dig deeper or ask a local about a legend connected to the place we visit. And we learn about one, connected to the Staubbach Falls, plunging nearly 300 meters from a sheer cliff above Lauterbrunnen. According to a local legend, the falls are home to a guardian spirit known as “Flüelenmädchen,” or the Maiden of the Mist. She is said to appear on moonlit nights, her ethereal form dancing gracefully in the waterfall’s spray. Villagers tell stories of the maiden aiding lost travelers, guiding them back to safety with her glowing presence. Some believe she is the spirit of a young woman who sacrificed herself to protect the valley from invaders centuries ago, her soul forever intertwined with the cascading waters. To this day, many feel an unexplainable feeling of calm and wonder near the falls, as though the maiden’s gentle presence lingers, watching over Lauterbrunnen.
Our Waddle:
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- Waddle duration: 3 hours 40 minutes
- Distance: 10.81 km (6.71 miles)
- Route: yellow, red, green
- Map: link
- Things to see: The Skyline Walk and Thrill Walk, Mürren, Sprutz Waterfall, Grimmelwald Village, The Honesty Shop
Getting to Birg and back to Lauternbunnen Valley
Once we arrived at the parking lot, we found a place and rushed to the ticket office. We didn’t purchase tickets upfront, as we needed to know which hour we would make it. So we rushed to get tickets and then ran to take the cable car. We made it just as it left after we boarded.
Boarding the Lauterbrunnen cable car feels like stepping into an airborne adventure. As the doors close and the car begins its ascent, the bustling charm of the village quickly gives way to sweeping views of the iconic valley below. The ride is smooth but exhilarating, climbing steeply up the rugged cliffs that frame Lauterbrunnen like a natural amphitheater.
Through the glass, the lush green meadows contrast with the jagged gray peaks, while waterfalls—Staubbach Falls being the most striking—ribbon gracefully down the cliffs. Higher up, the scenery shifts dramatically. Pine forests thin out, giving way to alpine terrain, and distant peaks capped in snow come into sharper focus.
We started from Stechelberg, and the cable car went to Gimmelwald, where we boarded another cable car headed for Mürren, where you once again board another cable car that goes up to Schilthorn, but we got off at the Birg station.
The entire journey takes about 15 minutes, but each moment is captivating. You will fall silent, mesmerized by the breathtaking scenery and the sense of rising above it all. When the cable car reaches Birg, perched at an altitude of 2,677 meters, the view is nothing short of jaw-dropping—an alpine panorama that feels like stepping into another world.
The Skyline Walk and Thrill Walk
Birg is known for its Skyline Walk, a glass-bottomed platform jutting over the cliff’s edge. It’s not for the faint of heart, but the unobstructed views of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau peaks are worth every second of vertigo. Fun fact: the Eiger’s north face is one of the most challenging climbs in mountaineering history.
The Skyline Walk is a glass-bottomed observation platform extending over the vertical drop beneath Birg station. On the transparent floor, you can gaze straight down at the rocky slopes plunging thousands of meters below. If you are brave enough to look, the view floating above the valley is unforgettable but also scary.
The Thrill Walk continues the Skyline Walk, where metal and glass walkway clings to the cliffs, leading you along a narrow path under the cable car station. Along the way, you’ll encounter exciting obstacles, including a tightrope-like wire bridge, a mesh tunnel that lets you crawl over the abyss, and a glass-floor section that tests even the steadiest nerves. The Thrill Walk is designed for adventure but is family-friendly, offering alternative paths for those who prefer to skip the more challenging features. Every step brings a unique perspective of the Alps, with views stretching into eternity. Once again, you have to be brave enough.
After our adventurous waddle we had a cup of coffee and enjoyed the views. There is also a full restaurant and lots of space to sit and enjoy a meal.
After our coffee, we took the cable car back to Mürren. Also, the descent was breathtaking, and we enjoyed each second of it.
Waddling from Mürren to Grimmelwald
Before we waddled from Mürren to Grimmelwald, we also took a little time to waddle around the village. Mürren is at 1,638 meters above sea level. It is a car-free retreat. It is accessible only by cable car or mountain railway. Traditional wooden chalets line its narrow streets, framed by vibrant flower boxes and panoramic views of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau peaks. This village holds a bit of James Bond trivia. It served as the filming location for On Her Majesty’s Secret Service.
After we explored the village, we were on our way to Grimmelwald. The trail is a delightful downhill walk that feels like stepping into a fairy tale. As we waddled along the path, the charm of Mürren’s wooden chalets gradually gave way to open meadows, vibrant with wildflowers in the summer months.
A highlight of this short but scenic route is Sprutz Waterfall, a hidden gem tucked along the way. Unlike typical cascades, this one lets you waddle behind its water curtain, offering a refreshing mist and a unique perspective. The rushing water echoes against the cliffs, creating a serene yet exhilarating moment.
Soon, the idyllic hamlet of Gimmelwald appears, a postcard-perfect village renowned for its tranquil vibe and rustic beauty. After the waterfall, it’s a short waddle through the forest before you are greeted with yet another epic view. We already thought nothing could surprise us, but this view is among our favorites.
Grimmelwald Village
As you pass through the quaint and car-free village of Gimmelwald, it will feel like stepping back in time again with its rustic wooden chalets and slow-paced way of life. Gimmelwald is famous for its breathtaking views and is a haven for peace-seekers and nature lovers.
The Honesty Shop
In Gimmelwald, you’ll find the enchanting Honesty Shop, a tiny, self-service store run on trust. Shelves are filled with local crafts, handmade trinkets, and Swiss chocolate, with no staff in sight—just a cash payment box and a terminal to pay by card. It’s a testament to the simplicity and integrity of mountain life. Right next to it is a pub where you can get a famous dar beer. But you can also buy one in the honesty shop. We loved the shop concept and bought a few souvenirs, including the souvenir.
Waddling From Grimmelwald to Lauterbrunnen
The journey back to Lauterbrunnen is a gentle descent, offering a new perspective on the valley’s dramatic beauty. The sound of cowbells accompanies you as I meander past grazing livestock in the verdant fields. Although it was the last stretch, we felt it on our legs already. But we also found the river where we cooled down our feet.
Before reaching the parking lot, we encountered one of the 72 waterfalls and were happy to be in the car and ready to rest.
Why This Hike Should Top Your Bucket List
This day trip combines the best of Switzerland’s natural beauty, from lofty mountain heights to tranquil valley trails. With easy access via cable cars and well-maintained paths, it’s suitable for all levels of hikers.
Whether you’re seeking thrills on Birg’s Skyline Walk, exploring the charm of Mürren, or relishing the descent to Lauterbrunnen, this route is an unforgettable Swiss adventure. The blend of alpine grandeur and cultural charm makes it a must for your Swiss travel itinerary.
FAQ you asked on Instagram
Is one day enough in Lauterbrunnen?
Yes, one day in Lauterbrunnen can be enough to experience the valley’s highlights, but it largely depends on your interests and pace. With careful planning, you can immerse yourself in the stunning landscapes, explore iconic sights, and get a taste of this Alpine wonderland.
How long does it take to hike Mürren to Lauterbrunnen?
The hike from Mürren to Lauterbrunnen typically takes around 2.5 to 3 hours, depending on your pace and route. The trail is about 7 kilometers (4.3 miles) long and descends gradually through scenic alpine meadows, forests, and charming hamlets like Winteregg.
We hope you enjoy the waddle as much as we did.
Enjoy Lauterbrunnen Valley and waddle on!
