Don’t miss this Day Trip while in Interlaken, Switzerland

If you plan on visiting Interlaken, Switzerland, I BEG you to set aside a day to visit Lauterbrunnen Valley. The picturesque valley is a paradise for nature lovers who prefer the quiet to big cities. From cascading waterfalls to charming town to the gondola adventure up to Birg/Schiltorn – which many argue is a cheaper and quicker alternative to the famous Jungfrau peak and offers just as stunning views – you really don’t want to miss a full day spent here.

Getting There: A Scenic Train Ride

Start early in the morning to ensure you have plenty of time and take a 45-minute train to Lauterbrunnen. The route itself is a spectacle, showcasing Switzerland’s stunning countryside. As you arrive in Lauterbrunnen, you’ll be greeted by the quaintest of towns, which get even more adorable, despite seeming impossible. To explore the valley, you have two options: walk or take a bus.

A Leisurely Stroll or a Bus Ride?

The town and the entire valley are accessible by foot. The walking route is a not too difficult elevation-wise, but is quite a long walk and keep in mind the higher altitude. If you’re looking to cover more ground or shorten the distance to get to more of the action, Bus 141 provides a convenient alternative which makes multiple stops along the valley (including Trummelbachfalle, listed below) and ends at the gondola lift that you’ll need for the rest of the trip.

Trümmelbachfälle: A Must-See Wonder

Along the valley you will notice dozens of small waterfalls, but about mid way through you will come across Trümmelbachfälle. These are no ordinary waterfalls – they are a series of impressive waterfalls flowing inside a mountain powerfully water-carving its way through rock.

To get up there takes a steep walk up a set of stairs. Mid-way up, there is a lift that will take you straight up into the action. The inside is well developed with rails and lights, so it’s rather safe. Nevertheless, it gave me a bit of a rush seeing how much water was flowing. It really makes you feel small!

KEEP IN MIND: Depending on weather conditions, the Trümmelbach Falls are generally open daily from the beginning of April until November from 9.00 until 17.00 – and in July and August from 8.30 until 18.00.

Ascending to New Heights: Birg and Thrill Walk

After the falls, continue down the valley for the next leg of the adventure. Take the Stechelberg LSMS gondola lift to Birg. It will take a few stops with quick cart changes (so pay attention), and gives you the chance to see stunning views of the valley from above! At the final stop, you’ll find Birg Bistro, a casual restaurant serving Swiss bites and the iconic Thrill Walk. Don’t miss this heart-pounding path that allows you to walk along the mountain side, on transparent floors, suspended high above the valley – not for the faint of heart, but an experience you won’t forget.

There is also a set of resting stairs for those who do not want to do the Thrill Walk, and you will still get the same stunning views of the large mountains. You can stop here or go up one last ride to Schilthorn. There is another observation deck and the Piz Gloria 360 rotating restaurant (a more formal eating experience than Birg Bistro).