Jungfrau-aletsch Protected Area Switzerland Travel Guide
Europe's highest railway station, Jungfraujoch, is situated at 3,454m (11,332 ft). It has unparalleled panoramic views of the Great Aletsch Glacier, the longest glacier in the Alps, and the peaks of Jungfrau, Mönch, and Eiger. The journey via the cogwheel Jungfraubahn is an engineering marvel.
The Aletsch Glacier, extending over 23 km (14 miles), defines the UNESCO World Heritage site. It serves as a powerful example of glacial dynamics and a stark indicator of climate change. The Eiger North Face, a famous and difficult climb, dominates views from Grindelwald.
Mountain weather can be unpredictable. Always check conditions before departing for high-altitude attractions.
Small museum focused on local history, traditional village life, and mountaineering heritage. Admission fee applies.
The 7-kilometer (4.3-mile) tunnel through the Eiger and Mönch mountains, a feat of early 20th-century engineering.
Wengen, Mürren, and Lauterbrunnen showcase traditional Swiss chalet architecture.
Picturesque 13th-century ruins near Interlaken, on Lake Thun. No-cost access for a peaceful walk.
Features over 600 species of alpine plants, accessible by historic cogwheel railway.
Beyond the iconic peaks and glaciers, the region features an abundance of diverse natural beauty.
Famous for its U-shaped valley and 72 waterfalls. Staubbach Falls plunges almost 300 meters, visible directly from Lauterbrunnen village (free access).
These turquoise lakes flank Interlaken, suitable for scenic boat trips, swimming in summer, and peaceful lakeside walks.
A funicular transports you to a panoramic viewpoint with views of Interlaken, Lake Brienz, Lake Thun, and the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau peaks.
An exhilarating suspended walkway along the cliff face near First summit station. Views into the valley and across to the Eiger. Free with a First cable car ticket.
Accessible by historic cogwheel railway. Features a botanical alpine garden with over 600 species of alpine plants, and panoramic views of the Jungfrau massif.
A mountain known for easy, panoramic hikes. The Regal Walk leads to a crown-shaped viewing platform. The Panorama Trail leads to Kleine Scheidegg.
A tiny, car-free village beyond Mürren. It feels untouched by mass tourism, offering a tranquil atmosphere plus gorgeous scenery. Get there by cable automobile from Stechelberg.
A relatively easy and rewarding hike from the First cable car station. This alpine lake is famous for its reflections of snow-capped peaks.
A challenging but rewarding route along the base of the Eiger North Face. It starts from Eigergletscher station and descends to Alpiglen.
Instead of taking buses, strolling the flat, paved path along the floor of the Lauterbrunnen Valley is a marvelous way to experience its unique beauty.
Maximizing your sightseeing means strategizing around transportation, weather, and specific attractions.
The extensive mountain transport system is a part of any visit, connecting all major sights and villages efficiently.
Consider a relevant travel pass (Swiss Travel Pass, Half Fare Card, or Jungfrau Travel Pass) to cover the costs of the extensive mountain transport system.
Mountain weather changes quickly. Check real-time conditions before heading to high-altitude attractions. Clear skies at lower elevations do not guarantee visibility higher up.
For activities like glacier walks or challenging high-alpine hikes, a licensed mountain guide is advisable for safety and a experience.
Engage with locals for insights on hidden viewpoints or less-trafficked routes. Tourism offices also provide valuable, up-to-date information.
Venture slightly off the main tourist path to discover quieter, equally enchanting spots.
This tiny, genuinely car-free village beyond Mürren feels untouched by mass tourism. It offers a tranquil atmosphere, traditional Swiss chalets, and stunning views. Reach it by cable car from Lauterbrunnen to Stechelberg, then another cable car up. A peaceful escape.
A relatively easy and exceptionally rewarding hike from the First cable car station leads to Lake Bachalpsee. This beautiful alpine lake is famous for its stunning reflections of the surrounding snow-capped peaks, creating a mirror image on calm days. A popular spot for photographers.
For hikers seeking a more immersive experience than just viewing the Eiger from a distance, the Eiger Trail offers a challenging but rewarding route. It hugs the base of the Eiger North Face, starting from Eigergletscher station and descending to Alpiglen. It gives unique perspectives of the mountain, views into the famous Eiger tunnel windows, plus understanding of its climbing history.
Walk the flat, paved path along the floor of the Lauterbrunnen Valley. This easy stroll goes past numerous waterfalls, charming chalets, and lush meadows, presenting intimate views of the valley's unique beauty. A free way to immerse yourself in the atmosphere.
Find ToursAccessible by a historic cogwheel railway, Schynige Platte offers a traditional alpine experience. It features an unique botanical alpine garden with over 600 species of alpine plants, along with incredible panoramic views of the Jungfrau massif and the lakes.
Explore GardenAccessible by gondola or cable car, Männlichen is a mountain known for its easy, panoramic hikes. The Royal Walk leads to a crown-shaped viewing platform, and the Panorama Trail leads to Kleine Scheidegg, offering continuous views of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau.
Discover the WalkA funicular transports you from Interlaken up to Harder Kulm, a panoramic viewpoint presenting spectacular views of Interlaken, the emerald-green Lake Brienz, the deep blue Lake Thun, and the grand peaks of Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau.
Go to Harder KulmThis exhilarating suspended walkway extends along the cliff face near the First summit station. It has a thrilling perspective with stunning views into the valley below and across to the Eiger. Access is included with a First cable car ticket.
Experience the Cliff WalkBooking pre-purchase tickets for popular attractions and activities in advance can make things quicker and book your desired entry slots, especially during peak travel periods.
To fully explore the Jungfrau region, think about combining different transport modes and activity types. A single day often fits multiple experiences.
Maximize your sightseeing by purchasing a relevant travel pass (Swiss Travel Pass, Half Fare Card, or Jungfrau Travel Pass) to cover the costs of the extensive mountain transport system.
Check webcams for real-time weather at high-altitude attractions before heading out.
Venture slightly off the main tourist path to discover quieter, equally enchanting places and unique perspectives.
Discover Gimmelwald, a genuinely car-free village beyond Mürren. It has a tranquil atmosphere, traditional Swiss chalets, and stunning views.
A rewarding hike from the First cable car station leads to Lake Bachalpsee, a beautiful alpine lake famous for its beautiful reflections of snow-capped peaks.
For hikers seeking a more immersive experience than just viewing the Eiger from a distance, the Eiger Trail has a challenging but rewarding route.
Starts from Eigergletscher station and descends to Alpiglen.
Instead of taking buses, walk the flat, paved path along the floor of the Lauterbrunnen Valley. This easy stroll takes you past numerous waterfalls.
A perfect, free way to soak in the atmosphere and connect with nature.
Beyond well-known spots, many trails feature smaller, less-crowded areas perfect for capturing the essence of the Jungfrau region.
These locations provide unique perspectives away from the main crowds.
Maximize sightseeing with relevant travel passes for mountain transport.
Check webcams for real-time weather at high-altitude attractions.
Consider certified guides for challenging trails or glacier walks.
