INTERLACKEN
GENERAL INFORMATION-Interlaken is a small city in the Bernese Highlands of central Switzerland. Located between two Alpine Lakes Brienz and Thun. Interlaken is a popular base camp for outdoor sports and travel in the surrounding Bernese Alps. With its central location within the country, visiting Lucerne, Bern, Basel, Zermatt, Zurich, Geneve, Montreux or Lausanne can all be accomplished as day trips. While Interlaken itself is not that scenic but it serves as a good base to discover the neighboring valleys, mountains and lakes, since it holds all the infrastructure and can be reached quickly from major Swiss cities by train and car. Interlaken is also in the heart of the magnificent Jungfrau region mountain world and affords views of the world-famous icy icons, the Eiger, Mönch & Jungfrau. Interlaken is a center for many types of sporting activities both in the summer and winter months. One of the most popular activities is paragliding/hang gliding and often one will see people landing in the Höhematte or gliding over the nearby hills. In winter skiing is very popular and with a number of ski regions found in close proximity to Interlaken one will always find one to suit. Interlaken has two railway stations, Interlaken Ost and Interlaken West, which are both served by the BLS AG's Thunersee line that provides direct services to Spiez, Thun, Bern and beyond, with onward connections at Bern to the rest of Switzerland. Trains arrive frequently from Zurich, Geneva, Basel, Berne and Luzern.
GEOGRAPHY-Interlaken is located at 570 m (1,870 ft.) above sea level, between Lake Brienz to the east and Lake Thun to the west in the area called Bödeli. The town takes its name from its geographical position between the lakes (in Latin inter lacus). The Aar River flows through the town connecting the lakes, whilst the Lütschine River flows from the mountains to the south
AREA- 4.3Km Sq.
POPULATION -- 5500
CO-ORDINATES -46°41′N 7°51′E
TIME ZONE -UTC+1
CLIMATE-
MONTH JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUNE JULY AUG SEPT OCT NOV DEC
HIGH 3 5 10 14 19 22 24 23 19 14 8 4
LOW -4 -3 0.3 3 8 11 13 13 9 6 0.6 -2
POPULATION -- 5500
CO-ORDINATES -46°41′N 7°51′E
TIME ZONE -UTC+1
CLIMATE-
MONTH JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUNE JULY AUG SEPT OCT NOV DEC
HIGH 3 5 10 14 19 22 24 23 19 14 8 4
LOW -4 -3 0.3 3 8 11 13 13 9 6 0.6 -2
AIRPORT- Zurich is the nearest International Airport.
SCENIC TRAINS OF SWITZERLAND
001-GLACIER EXPRESS (ZERMATT - ST. MORITZ) -The Glacier Express is the most famous railway in the world. It travels from Zermatt to Davos or St. Moritz in around seven hours. It is a day trip. The red and white train winds its way through no fewer than 91 tunnels and across 291 bridges. Observation carriages open up vistas of unique landscapes – for example, the 400-metre deep Rhine Gorge, the 2033-metre high Oberalp Pass and of course the mighty Matterhorn in Zermatt. All in a spectacular setting of rugged cliff faces, crystal-clear mountain lakes and villages. The 1st class panorama viewing car offers 36 comfortable seats (12 x 3-seat compartments, central-aisle car) with table, air-conditioning and information channel. You'll enjoy nearly equivalent comfort and service in 2nd class with 48 seats (12 x 4-seat compartments, central-aisle car). The Glacier Express offers comfortable panorama wagons on its 4 trains daily during summer months, and 1 train daily in winter. There's a surcharge and seat reservation is mandatory, lunch reservation recommended. The timings are-(in summer -Zermatt dep. at 07.52, 08.52, 09.52hrs and arr. St Mortiz at 15.58,16.58, 17.58hrs). The ticket is for 120Euro (IInd Class) and 211Euro (Ist Class).The meal charges are 27.5Euros.
002-GOLDENPASS LINE (MONTREUX – ZWEISIMMEN – INTERLAKEN Ost – LUCERNE) -Taking a trip on the Golden Pass Line is rather like taking a short vacation. From Montreux to Lucerne in a panoramic coach and three railway lines will take you from Lake Geneva towards the Alpine summits and then on down to Lake Lucerne .Change trains at Zweisimmen and Interlaken Ost .On leaving Lucerne and its enchanting lake and mountains, enjoy more scenic splendor in the brand-new Lucerne-Interlaken Express climbs leisurely up to the Brünig Pass. Then comes the descent to Meiringen, before the train passes Brienz with its same-named lake and the Giessbach Falls en route to Interlaken. Here you change trains to continue along the Lake Thun shoreline. The Zweisimmen, from where the train with the golden carriages (Golden Pass Panoramic) departs for glamorous Gstaad. Your first glimpse of Lake Geneva comes as the train weaves its way through vineyards to your destination, Montreux. A-Montreux-Zweisimmen (travel time 1.50 hours),
B-Zweisimmen-Interlaken Ost (travel time 1.10 hours),
C-Interlaken Ost-Lucerne (travel time 2 hours).
B-Zweisimmen-Interlaken Ost (travel time 1.10 hours),
C-Interlaken Ost-Lucerne (travel time 2 hours).
A-MONTREUX – ZWEISIMMEN - Montreux-Zweisimmen (travel time 1.50 hours/60Kms) - One of the two types of panoramic trains offers a very special attraction, eight VIP seats situated at the front of the train. The view from here is even more beautiful than the one that the driver has, as he has to keep an eye on the railway track. They are Golden Pass Panoramic and Golden Pass Classic. The Golden Pass Classic train that runs on the Montreux–Zweisimmen line offers a journey with a romantic, retro style ambiance. Its coaches are inspired by the Golden Mountain Pullman Express from the 1930s, a luxury train in the style of Orient Express that was short lived due to the economic crisis of the period. The current train is a reproduction of the Belle Époque style of its predecessors, in which you will travel like a king. All panoramic viewing cars both 1st and 2nd class offering unrestricted views. First class carriages have 33 seats (four and two seater compartments with central aisle). 8 first class VIP seats at the head of the train are also available for an additional reservation fee of £13 per person. Second class carriages have 48 seats. You can even find a coach that houses a wine cellar in which you can taste wines from the area in a warm, convivial atmosphere. Seat reservations are optional, but it is recommend to reserve seats on the Montreux-Zweisimmen portion. Consider getting a VIP seat in the panorama wagon front row - a very special riding experience (limited availability).Dep. from Montreux-09.44, 11.44, 13.44 hrs. Fare = Lucerne to Montreux 2nd class £28 per person 1st class £49 per person.
B- ZWEISIMMEN – INTERLAKEN OST- Zweisimmen-Interlaken Ost (travel time 1.10 hours/70Kms) - This section of rail journey is in the heart of the Bernese Oberland. Traditional chalets with richly painted and carved façades, which are typical of the area, nestle around white churches. Over the centuries, the proud mountain folk have expressed their comfortable life style in an artistic manner. Today, the Simmental region remains a farming area with a population that has its own distinct personality and dialect. One of the two types of panoramic trains offers a very special attraction, eight VIP seats situated at the front of the train. The view from here is even more beautiful than the one that the driver has, as he has to keep an eye on the railway track. First class 'GoldenPass Lounge' with 27 seats (furnished with comfortable leather sofas and chairs) and 'Salon Bleu' carriages with 36 seats feature pivoting individual chairs. Second class 80 seats (20 x four seater compartments and central aisle). They are Golden Pass Panoramic and Golden Pass Classic.Dep.from Zweisimen at 11.38,13.38,15.38.
C-LUZERN-INTERLAKEN EXPRESS - Interlaken Ost-Lucerne (travel time 2 hours/80Kms). The brand-new panoramic train Luzern-Interlaken Express now takes you to discover Lake Brienz and the Giessbach fall, then it reaches Interlaken which means “between two lakes”, Lake Thun and Lake Brienz. You might be lucky enough to get a glimpse of the Eiger, the Mönch and the Jungfrau, known as the proud 4000s.The train will then change from one bank to the other which gives you a better view of the snow covered summits. It is said that Lake Brienz has a very distinctive color. The Reichenbach falls near Meiringen will be next. You will then climb back up to the high pastures towards the Brünig pass. A medium altitude pass, it is located at an altitude of just over 1,000 m. The countryside rolls past on both sides. On the other hillside, there are three small lakes, Lungern, Sarnen and Alpnach and just after these, Lake Lucerne. You are now in the historical heart of Switzerland. First class panoramic viewing cars with air-conditioning and ultra-large windows which extend into the roof curvature of the carriage ceiling, 48 seats (12 x four-seater compartments and central aisle) with table and long-window viewing cars 38 seats (4 x four and two seater compartments and 2 club compartments with 7 seats and central aisle). Second class 56 seats (9 x four and two seater compartments and central aisle).Dept. from Interlaken Ost at 10.04,12.04,15.04,17.04.Arr Lucern at 12.04,14.04,17.04,19.04.Fare = Lucerne to Interlaken 2nd class £12 per person 1st class £21 per person and Interlaken to Montreux 2nd class £20 per person 1st class £35 per person.
003-BERNINA EXPRESS - The Bernina Express (crimson-colored train) is a breath-taking train ride through the snow-capped mountain scenery of Switzerland. Take in views of dynamic glaciers, alpine lakes and rolling countryside. The highest mountain railway in the Alps provides a link between northern and southern Europe. The Bernina Express takes you from Chur, Davos or St. Moritz across the stunning Swiss Alps to Tirano (Italy) (Chur/584m –Bergun/1372m- Albula Valley – Pontresina /1773m - Bernina Pass/2253 – Poschiavo /973m – Tirano /429m) . In summer you can take a bus from Tirano to Lugano (Switzerland). The Bernina Express offers breathtaking views from the beautiful 1st and 2nd class panorama cars. The glass-roofed train has been designed to offer the best panoramic views. The train climbs up to the 2253 m high Bernina pass without the help of a rack-and-pinion mechanism. The first highlight awaits passengers near Filisur, where the train traverses an awe-inspiring landmark – the 65-metre-high Landwasser viaduct. The train continues through 55 tunnels and across 196 bridges, making short work of the gradients even without a rack-and-pinion system. The entire trip is narrated. It’s also one of the shorter train rides in this group, taking you by train to Tirano in just under three hours. The part from Chur to St. Moritz is part of the Glacier Express and Bernina Express are common and any train on the same line to reach the Upper Engadin. This is called the Albula line. The Bernina line proper starts after that and is the part from the Engadin - St. Moritz area (Samedan, Pontresina or St. Moritz) to Tirano. All passengers on the Bernina Express require a seat reservation and a valid ticket. Ticket from Chur to Tirano (in CHF) = 60.00(IInd class), 105.00(Ist class). The route is Chur (dep. 08.58)-Platz(dep.09.31)-St.Mortiz(dep.10.45)-Pontresina(dep.11.04)-Tirano(Arr.13.12).
ATTRACTONS & SIGHTS AT INTERLACKEN-
001-HÖHEWEG PROMENADE -The small town of Interlaken offers a wide variety of attractions and activities both in the summer and winter months. The main thoroughfare of Interlaken is the Höheweg promenade which links the more urban center of Interlaken West with the less populated Interlaken East. It is one of the best locations for souvenir and watch shopping and there are plenty of cafes, hotels and restaurants along here as well. It is a good place to stroll down and a lot of the attractions of Interlaken are here. This is the main street of Interlaken and it stretches from the central square to the east. This street is home to a huge number of fashionable hotels, restaurants, cafes, local shops and night venues. Here is the 150 year old Victoria Jungfrau Hotel. You may want to look inside this grand hotel or have a meal at its outdoor restaurant. It is also the place to get some lovely views of the Jungfrau Mountain as well as the hills around the town.
002-CASINO KURSAAL - The Casino Kursaal Interlaken is a unique complex which was built at the end of the 19th century with spacious halls and elegant gardens. The tradition of gambling at the casino dates way back to 1858. Today you find slot machines, Black Jack, Poker and American Roulette tables - try your luck or visit the Swiss Folklore Show at the Restaurant "Spycher".The casino and convention center is just stunning with its fountain and magnificent mountain backdrop and flower clock. The building itself dates from 1859 and was built on the site of a former Augustinian monastery.
003- HÖHEMATTE-This meadow is found in the middle of Interlaken along Höheweg. It covers around 14 hectares and from here one can get some stunning views of the surrounding mountains. It is always filled with seasonal flowers and it is a favorite place for various sporting activities including the landing spot for many para- gliders. Hoehematte is one of the main attractions of Interlaken and it has an interesting history. At the end of 19th century the owner of Grand Hotel Victoria Jungfrau had given the big meadow in front of his hotel as a gift to the town of Interlaken and had sentenced, that this very big field will never be changed, never put houses on it, or alter anything for a longer time.
004- RIVERSIDE WALK- Starting just near Interlaken East one can take a lovely walk on a path running beside the River Aare. On a warm summer day this is a lovely treat away from the busy center of Interlaken. One could also start this walk from the other end near Interlaken West. If one would like a longer walk then one can also walk along the banks of the River Aare from Lake Thun to Lake Brienz.
005- HARDER KULM- Interlaken's Home Mountain-The journey from Interlaken to the Harder Kulm, Interlaken’s local mountain, takes ten minutes by cable car. The restaurant looks like a small castle, and it is located 1,322 meters above sea level. The Harder Kulm is a starting point for mountain hikes. It also offers a beautiful view of the Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau mountains as well as Lake Thun and Lake Brienz. Folklore evenings are held regularly on the Harder Kulm. There's fun at the playground for children
006- HORSE DRAWN CARRIAGE RIDES- Carriages can be hired so one can enjoy a peaceful ride and take in the sights of Interlaken in a leisurely way for 30 minutes up to an hour. They depart from outside Interlaken West Railway Station on Höheweg. They cost CHF40 for 1 or 2 people and each additional person costs CHF10. Children between 7 and 16 are half price.
007- HEIMWEHFLUH- A funicular built between 1904 and 1906 takes you up a short trip from the valley station found near Interlaken West railway station to a small hill called Heimwehfluh which is situated above Interlaken. As well as the stunning view there are numerous attractions found here including beautiful woodland paths, an open-air model railway and a bobsled run from the top all the way down to the base station in Interlaken and a spacious play area for children. The summit restaurant serves a choice of snacks. The funicular operates from April to October every day from 10am until 5pm.
008-LAKE BRIENZ-Lake Brienz is a lake just north of the Alps. It has a length of about 14 kilometers, a width of 2.8 kilometers and a maximum depth of 260 meters. Lake Brienz has beautiful turquoise water and there are several places to visit around its shores. It has a magnificent natural setting with mountains all around as well as waterfalls that plunge from great heights into the lake. It is fed by the upper reaches at its eastern end of the Aar River and by the Lütschine River, flowing from the valleys of Grindelwald and Lauterbrunnen, at its south-western corner. It flows out into a further stretch of the Aar River at its western end. The village of Brienz, from which the lake takes its name, lies to its eastern end. There has been a regular boat service on Lake Brienz since 1839. Today, the fleet numbers five boats, including the splendidly renovated steamer the "Lötschberg", built in 1914. Especially in summer, there are a number of special excursions in addition to the regular service for example, the "Indian Dinner Cruise", the "Fish and Jazz Trip" on board the steamer. The regular boat service links all the little places around the lake on its route from the chic resort of Interlaken on the western side to the idyllic little town of Brienz in the east. From Brienz, the oldest steam rack railway in Switzerland, the Brienz-Rothorn Railway, takes you up to the Brienzer Rothorn (235 m). From here there is a lovely panoramic view of the lakes and mountain chain. The Brienzer Rothorn is also the starting point for some exciting hikes, not least over the summit to the Brünig Pass. Another destination for a boat trip on Lake Brienz is the Giessbach Falls. The roaring waterfall thunders in a number of different stages down 500 meters into the lake. Immediately beside it is the historic Grand Hotel Giessbach, which looks like a fairytale castle. The oldest funicular railway in Europe leads from the landing-stage in Giessbach straight up to the hotel and the mighty waterfall. Another popular excursion is to walk along the southern bank of Lake Brienz from Bönigen via Iseltwald to Giessbach. Starting point: Boat Station Interlaken Ost.
009- LAKE THUN- At the northern rim of the Alps, in the midst of the Bernese Oberland, Lake Thun is surrounded by a fabulous mountain scenery, a myriad of cozy villages and the charming cities of Thun and Interlaken. It is 17.5km long and 3.5kms wide lake. The lake is fed by water from Lake Brienz to the south east, which lies 6 meters higher than Lake Thun. In order to enable ships to serve the towns of Interlaken and Thun, the Interlaken ship canal and Thun ship canal connect the lake to Interlaken West Railway Station and Thun Railway Station respectively. The small town of Thun at the western end of the lake with the same name is the gateway to the Bernese Oberland. It boasts a medieval Old Town, a mighty castle and an attractive pedestrian zone. Niesen (2362m), Stockhorn (2190m), and Niederhorn (1950m) are the well-known panoramic mountains around Lake Thun. They are reached by cable cars and are starting points of beautiful hiking trails, challenging bicycle tours and paragliding adventures. Lake boats sail Lake Thun all year round. In summer a magnificently restored historic paddle steamer plies the lake. On the sunny southern slopes between Thun und Merligen subtropical vegetation flourishes that has given the region the name the “Riviera of Lake Thun”. Lake Thun has numerous churches, fortresses and farmhouses as well as five magnificent castles which one can visit.
010- JAPANESE GARDENS OF FRIENDSHIP-At the end of Hoehematte one may see this lovely Japanese Garden. It was a gift by the town of OTSU in Japan, a sister-town of Interlaken. Both places have many similarities - the lakes, the high surrounding mountains and a fertile, green landscape. This garden is a great place to relax, it is open day and night without entrance-fee.
011-MINI-TRAIN TOUR- Approx. 30-minute sightseeing tour of Interlaken, Matten and Unterseen with an interesting commentary in German and English. Pick-up points- Höheweg, Interlaken Ost and West Railway Stations, and Marktplatz. From mid-April to October there is a train that takes you around Interlaken and its sights.You depart from the stop found opposite the Victoria-Jungfrau Hotel. Costs are Adults CHF 9.00, children (4-12) CHF 4.50, Family (2 adults + 1-2 children) CHF 20.00.
012- INTERLAKEN OST RAILWAY STATION -The Interlaken Ost railway station connects the SBB national network to the Jungfrau region. From here, you can travel with the Bernese Oberland Railway throughout the entire region.
013- UNTERSEEN- Unterseen is a small old town near the Interlaken West train station and is across the River Aare. In Unterseen are some lovely examples of lovely wooden buildings that exemplify the ‘typical’ Swiss chalet for many people but are usually only found out in the countryside. Also in this area you will find farmers that keep animals in their gardens. This area has a more historic feel to it than Interlaken and it isn’t touristy. There are hotels to stay in that are quiet and quaint as well as many restaurants and cafes serving Swiss food. It is a lovely place to wander around and to take a break from the faster pace of its neighbor.
INTERLACKEN OUTSTATION DAY TOURS –
TOUR-1- Jungfraujoch Top of Europe Day Trip from Interlaken.
TOUR-2- Schilthorn - Piz Gloria-Half- or Full-day excursion (approx. 80 minutes by train and gondola from Interlaken Ost to the top).
TOUR-3- Gletscherschlucht - Glacier Gorge Grindelwald, Half-day excursion (approx. 45 minutes by train and bus from Interlaken Ost).
TOUR-4- Truemmelbach Falls-open April - November. Half-day excursion (approx. 40 minutes by train and bus from Interlaken Ost).
TOUR-1- Jungfraujoch Top of Europe Day Trip from Interlaken.
TOUR-2- Schilthorn - Piz Gloria-Half- or Full-day excursion (approx. 80 minutes by train and gondola from Interlaken Ost to the top).
TOUR-3- Gletscherschlucht - Glacier Gorge Grindelwald, Half-day excursion (approx. 45 minutes by train and bus from Interlaken Ost).
TOUR-4- Truemmelbach Falls-open April - November. Half-day excursion (approx. 40 minutes by train and bus from Interlaken Ost).
001-JUNGFRAUJOCH -TOP OF EUROPE (3,454 m / 11,333 ft) - Jungfraujoch - Top of Europe, the highest Railway Station in Europe. Jungfraujoch which is a very popular tourist destination. Train takes approx. 2 1/4 hours from Interlaken Ost to the top. Snow and ice 100% in all the seasons. The UNESCO World Heritage offers the Sphinx observation hall, an impressive Ice Palace and a hiking plateau in the glacier - these are year-round attractions up on the Jungfraujoch. Summer attractions include a skilift, husky-drawn sledging and adventure activities. Overnight stays: no accommodation on the Jungfraujoch.
Accessibility:
i-Narrow-gauge Grindelwald – Kleine Scheidegg Railway.
ii-Narrow-gauge Lauterbrunnen – Kleine Scheidegg Railway.
iii-Kleine Scheidegg – Jungfraujoch Cog Railway.
View: Over the Aletsch Glacier, Jungfrau, Mönch, Schilthorn, pre-Alps, Black Forest and Vosgen (with clear views)
a-Train Journey- From Interlacken drove to the Zweilutschinen train station and parked the vehicle. From here take the train to Lauterbrunnen and get off the train to take the train to Kleine Scheidegg. Once we were at Kleine Scheidegg , take the train to Jungfraujoch. Jungfraujoch is the train station inside of the Eiger mountain and it is the highest train station in Europe with an elevation of 3,454m/11,333ft. During the trip from Kleine Scheidegg to Jungfraujoch the train enters a tunnel that was created within the Eiger and Monch. The train has to overcome an elevation gain of about 1,400m/4,600ft, so it goes fairly slow. On the way to Jungfraujoch there are a couple of stops so one can get out and a look through huge windows created in the mountain wall to see the Eiger Glacier and the Eiger Wand (a straight mountain wall popular with mountain climbers). Once arrived at Jungfraujoch one is able to visit different areas through a set of tunnels. On the way back the Jungfraubahn would go back to Kleine Scheidegg, but from there one can take the train to Grindelwald instead of Lauterbrunnen. From Grindelwald take another train back to Zweilutschinen, so one can made a big loop which was nice to see different scenery on this way.
Accessibility:
i-Narrow-gauge Grindelwald – Kleine Scheidegg Railway.
ii-Narrow-gauge Lauterbrunnen – Kleine Scheidegg Railway.
iii-Kleine Scheidegg – Jungfraujoch Cog Railway.
View: Over the Aletsch Glacier, Jungfrau, Mönch, Schilthorn, pre-Alps, Black Forest and Vosgen (with clear views)
a-Train Journey- From Interlacken drove to the Zweilutschinen train station and parked the vehicle. From here take the train to Lauterbrunnen and get off the train to take the train to Kleine Scheidegg. Once we were at Kleine Scheidegg , take the train to Jungfraujoch. Jungfraujoch is the train station inside of the Eiger mountain and it is the highest train station in Europe with an elevation of 3,454m/11,333ft. During the trip from Kleine Scheidegg to Jungfraujoch the train enters a tunnel that was created within the Eiger and Monch. The train has to overcome an elevation gain of about 1,400m/4,600ft, so it goes fairly slow. On the way to Jungfraujoch there are a couple of stops so one can get out and a look through huge windows created in the mountain wall to see the Eiger Glacier and the Eiger Wand (a straight mountain wall popular with mountain climbers). Once arrived at Jungfraujoch one is able to visit different areas through a set of tunnels. On the way back the Jungfraubahn would go back to Kleine Scheidegg, but from there one can take the train to Grindelwald instead of Lauterbrunnen. From Grindelwald take another train back to Zweilutschinen, so one can made a big loop which was nice to see different scenery on this way.
i-Interlacken Ost to Lauterbrunnen -The Bernese Oberland Railway (BOB) linked Interlaken Ost railway station to Grindelwald or Lauterbrunnen. A modern, straight-track shuttle service is operated with two train compositions usually coupled together to travel to Zweilütschinen where they are then split. One train travels to Grindelwald in 35 minutes, the other to Lauterbrunnen in 20 minutes.
ii- Lauterbrunnen - Wengen to Kleine Scheidegg -The Wengernalp Railway is a cogwheel railway which links Lauterbrunnen - Wengen to Kleine Scheidegg in 45 minutes and on the other side Kleine Scheidegg to Grindelwald in 30 minutes. Kleine Scheidegg railway station at 2,061m/6760ft.
iii- Jungfrau Railway - The Jungfrau Railway, a pioneering masterpiece among mountain railways, went into service in 1912. The cogwheel railway takes passengers from Kleine Scheidegg to the Jungfraujoch-Top of Europe, which at 3,454 meters/11333ft is Europe’s highest-altitude railway station in a world of rock, ice and snow. The journey to Europe's highest railway station. Seven of the nine kilometers of railway are in a tunnel hewn in the rock of the Eiger and Mönch. The train stops for five minutes at each of two intermediate stations, the Eigerwand (Eiger Wall) and Eismeer (Sea of Ice), where passengers can marvel at the fascinating mountain world through panorama windows. The Jungfrau Railway climbs a height difference of 1400 metres in around 50 minutes.
b-Attractions-
i-The Ice-Palace / Eispalast- Ice Palace is another great sight on top of Jungfraujoch - It is a big area inside the mountain, which is created inside the Eiger Glacier, where all of the corridors and all of the halls are made by solid ice. You may see various sculptures made of ice and you have to be careful, when walking, but there are hand-rails and somehow it was less slippery than outside at the Jungfrau-Plateau. The WONDERFUL ICE PALACE-the layer of ice between you and the people who walk outside is some 7 - 10 meters thick. The palace is like a freezer where the most beautiful sculptures are on displayed. All over the place are signs, to guess how many metres of ice there would be above head, while admiring the ICE SCULPTURES.
i-The Ice-Palace / Eispalast- Ice Palace is another great sight on top of Jungfraujoch - It is a big area inside the mountain, which is created inside the Eiger Glacier, where all of the corridors and all of the halls are made by solid ice. You may see various sculptures made of ice and you have to be careful, when walking, but there are hand-rails and somehow it was less slippery than outside at the Jungfrau-Plateau. The WONDERFUL ICE PALACE-the layer of ice between you and the people who walk outside is some 7 - 10 meters thick. The palace is like a freezer where the most beautiful sculptures are on displayed. All over the place are signs, to guess how many metres of ice there would be above head, while admiring the ICE SCULPTURES.
ii- Sled Dog Ride- you can visit the sled dogs who can give you a fun ride on the snow up at Jungfraujoch.
iii-Sphinx Observatory-The Sphinx Observatory which is located even higher than Jungfraujoch. This Sphinx Observatory is located at an elevation of 3,571m/11,760ft. The views from the Sphinx Observatory were amazing, you could walk out on a big platform and see for miles and miles in the distance, the mountains were up close and you could also see the amazing Aletsch Glacier which is the longest one in Europe with a length of 25km (15.5mi).
iv- Culinary Aspects - Restaurant Crystal (110 seats; Swiss and international cuisine), Restaurant Bollywood (80 seats; Indian cuisine), Aletsch self-service restaurant(150 places).
v-Snow Hike- Standing amidst the snow-capped mountain world, views extend from the Aletsch Glacier to the Jungfrau - and a 45-minute snow hike through the thin air direction Mönchsjoch is perfectly feasible form here.
002-KLEINE SCHEIDEGG (Centre of the Alps) (2,061 m / 6,760 ft.) - From here, the Jungfrau Cogwheel Railway begins its remarkable journey to the Jungfraujoch - Top of Europe. Kleine Scheidegg on the foot of the Eiger North Face in the Berner Oberland, approx. 80 minutes by train from Interlaken Ost . The Kleine Scheidegg, the pass between the Lauterbrunnen and Grindelwald Valleys, lies directly beneath the towering trio of the Eiger, Mönch & Jungfrau mountains. The Kleine Scheidegg is a lively, bustling place, during the winter it's the departing point of numerous skiing runs and during summer time, you'll meet Alpine herdsmen with their cattle, climbers preparing to attempt the Eiger North Face and visitors from all over the world. This is also the starting point for some of the best hikes in the region. In winter, Kleine Scheidegg is the center of the ski area around Grindelwald and Wengen. The Jungfrau Marathon, a mountain race that takes place every year in early September, ends at Kleine Scheidegg.
003- WENGEN (1300m/4265ft) -Situated in the center of the Bernese Oberland and lying at the foot of the Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau mountain range. There is no road leading to Wengen, accessible only by a mountain railway. The village has just a few cars and enjoys a healthy, stimulating climate at an altitude of 1300 m (4265 ft.), with long periods of sunshine and a dry, pure air. Key excursion is the railway trip to the Jungfraujoch - Top of Europe. Wengen is an ideal place to relax, walk and mountain climb - 15 cable cars take the visitor to the most beautiful viewpoints in the area. As the sporty highlight in summer, the toughest marathon in the world - the international Jungfrau Marathon - passes through Wengen in early September .Wengen, ideally situated in the ski center Kleine Scheidegg - Männlichen with its famous Lauberhorn and Eigergletscher runs, is one of the most attractive and popular winter sport villages in Switzerland. Every year in January, Wengen hosts the Lauberhorn Downhill Ski Race - surely the most spectacular race of the whole world cup circuit. For the non - skier Wengen offers relaxation in pure mountain air and many hours of sunshine are guaranteed, even in winter. The population is about 1050 which swells to 5,000 during summer and to 10,000 in the winter. There are 23 hotels in Wengen with 1600 beds. It is by train 15 minutes from Lauterbrunnen. Wengen is serviced by the Rack railway system Wengernalpbahn (WAB), and the village is accessible directly from Lauterbrunnen, or by train from Grindelwald via Kleine Scheidegg, as well as by a series of gondola lifts from Grindelwald via Mannlichen. Wengen's old, well looked after wooden chalets give the village the charm and character of a typical mountain village. Although close to nature, Wengen offers its guests all modern comforts.
004- GRINDELWALD (1034m/3392ft) - Grindelwald village is located at 1,034 m (3,392 ft.) above sea level with population of 3800, in the Bernese Alps. The tourism industry began in Grindelwald in the late 18th century as foreigners discovered the scenic town. Numerous ski lifts, cable cars, hiking trails and alpine huts were built in the late 19th and 20th centuries to allow tourists to explore the mountains. Today, almost the entire economy of Grindelwald is based on tourism. Grindelwald railway station, in the center of Grindelwald village, is served by trains of the Berner Oberland Bahn (BOB), which run to Interlaken, and by trains of the Wengernalpbahn (WAB), which run to Kleine Scheidegg and on to Wengen and Lauterbrunnen. Every year the Eiger Bike Challenge takes place in Grindelwald. Meanwhile a classic among mountain bike races. Adventure Sports-Bungy Jumping, Canyon Jumping, River Rafting, Tyrolienne, Spider Highway, First Flyer ⁄Zip Rider. Open Air Swimming Pool-The open air swimming pool Hellbach offers two pools for swimmers and non-swimmers as well as a children’s pool. Grindelwald is located in the Canton of Berne in a valley above lakes "Brienz" and "Thun". Grindelwald can be reached from Zurich on National Highway N1 via Bern-Spiez, continuing on a well built "A" road via Interlaken to Grindelwald or by train via Interlaken where visitors change from the international express trains to a cogwheel train (30min. ride). Distance from Zurich app. 195 km/ 121 miles; from Berne 70 km/ 43 miles; from Basle 175 km/ 108 miles; from Geneva 200 km/ 124 miles.
i-Blue Ice Grotto-The "Blue Ice Grotto" is at the Upper Grindelwald glacier. After climbing up towards the glacier on a built stairway, enter the cave and have a look right inside the Glacier with its mystic natural beauty. During summer months.
ii- Pfingstegg-A superb point from which to view Grindelwald, in the midst of the excellent walking area between the two Grindelwald glaciers.
i-Blue Ice Grotto-The "Blue Ice Grotto" is at the Upper Grindelwald glacier. After climbing up towards the glacier on a built stairway, enter the cave and have a look right inside the Glacier with its mystic natural beauty. During summer months.
ii- Pfingstegg-A superb point from which to view Grindelwald, in the midst of the excellent walking area between the two Grindelwald glaciers.
005-SCHILTHORN/PIZ GLORIA (2,971 m / 9,750 ft) - Schilthorn is a must, when visiting Interlaken. Schilthorn is also called Piz Gloria since the James-Bond-movie "On her Majesty's Secret Service" was made there in 1968 and still today plenty of tourists mainly go up there in order to see the place where the movie was made. With a hight of 2970 meters Schilthorn is one of the most famous mountains of Switzerland and it offers a perfect 360 degree-panorama including Eiger, Moench, Jungfrau, Mont Blanc, the Lake Thun, Schyniggeplatte, the mountains around Bern and Fribourg and plenty of others. Schilthorn - Piz Gloria with its revolving restaurant offering spectacular views of the Swiss Alps. Dine-and-wine in the world's first revolving restaurant at an altitude of nearly 3,000 meters. In the souvenir-shop on ground-floor , you even have a section in the self-service-bar, decorated in 007-style , and of course the shops offer a wide range of 007-souvenirs .On 2nd floor you will find a revolving restaurant and there is a large platform behind the restaurant-building as well - the perfect place for your pictures. From that platform / terrace you may step down the mountain and walk down to Muerren, but it is only possible and advisable for experienced and well-equipped hikers.
DIRECTION-The main resorts from which you can make your way to the Schilthorn are from Interlaken, Grindelwald, Wengen, Lauterbrunnen, Wilderswil, Lake Thun or Brienz and Mürren. From Lauterbrunnen the cable car takes you to Grütschalp where you board a train to Mürren. From Mürren, there is a short walk through the village where you take a cable car to Birg and onto a connecting cable car to the Schilthorn. It takes just 30 minutes by cable car from Mürren to reach the summit of the Schilthorn at 2,970m. This is still the highest peak of the Bernese Pre-Alps where you will find magnificent hiking routes. If you are arriving by car, you will need to park in the multi-storey in Lauterbrunnen as Mürren is traffic free.
DIRECTION-The main resorts from which you can make your way to the Schilthorn are from Interlaken, Grindelwald, Wengen, Lauterbrunnen, Wilderswil, Lake Thun or Brienz and Mürren. From Lauterbrunnen the cable car takes you to Grütschalp where you board a train to Mürren. From Mürren, there is a short walk through the village where you take a cable car to Birg and onto a connecting cable car to the Schilthorn. It takes just 30 minutes by cable car from Mürren to reach the summit of the Schilthorn at 2,970m. This is still the highest peak of the Bernese Pre-Alps where you will find magnificent hiking routes. If you are arriving by car, you will need to park in the multi-storey in Lauterbrunnen as Mürren is traffic free.
006-GRINDELWALD GLACIER GORGE- Gletscherschlucht - Glacier Gorge Grindelwald, is the wildly-romantic gorge, with its mills, erosion, pink and green marble blocks, is a masterpiece of nature. From the Gletscherschlucht hotel-restaurant a wooden walkway leads over raging water, through galleries and tunnels in the rock over 1,000 m (approx. 0.7 miles) into the depths of the gorge. At the entrance to the Glacier Gorge there is a crystal museum with minerals found in the Bernese Alps. The Glacier Gorge is reached within 35 minutes on foot from the center of Grindelwald, or by bus from Grindelwald Station within just a few minutes
007-TRUEMMELBACH FALLS- It is open from April - November.The Truemmelbach-falls in Lauterbrunnen are certainly worth a half-daytrip, when you stay in Interlaken and you may easily combine it with excursions to Wengen, Muerren or Jungfraujoch. These waterfalls are quite unique and they are also listed as a UNESCO-World-heritage: You may take an elevator up the mountain and you may see there 10 glacier-waterfalls inside the mountain - a long path will lead you to the most spectacular places.
These waterfalls alone are draining the Eiger, Moench & Jungfrau-glaciers at this side of the mountains – 20,000 liters of water per second will rush through these cascades, everything is wet and hazy inside the mountain, but not at all slippery, all of the tunnels are lighted well, and you might need about 1 hour to see and enjoy everything .The entrance-fee for the Truemmelbach-falls is 10 Sfr. and includes the ride on the lift, that takes you up the mountain, but you still have to step up many steps in order to get to the highest point. Make sure you step down all the way to the entrance-gate, otherwise you will miss some of the best waterfalls. Here Indian movie Sangam was filmed.
These waterfalls alone are draining the Eiger, Moench & Jungfrau-glaciers at this side of the mountains – 20,000 liters of water per second will rush through these cascades, everything is wet and hazy inside the mountain, but not at all slippery, all of the tunnels are lighted well, and you might need about 1 hour to see and enjoy everything .The entrance-fee for the Truemmelbach-falls is 10 Sfr. and includes the ride on the lift, that takes you up the mountain, but you still have to step up many steps in order to get to the highest point. Make sure you step down all the way to the entrance-gate, otherwise you will miss some of the best waterfalls. Here Indian movie Sangam was filmed.