Bernese Oberland Jewels: Interlaken & Grindelwald

Welcome to Switzerland! Upon arrival at Zurich Airport, you’ll be greeted by MyMountains Guide, who will answer any last-minute questions and ensure you’re ready to begin your self-guided hiking adventure.

Your 8-day Swiss Travel Pass (2nd Class) gives you unlimited travel on Switzerland’s extensive rail, bus and boat network, making it easy to explore the country’s breathtaking landscapes throughout your journey.

After saying goodbye to the guide, board a comfortable train from Zurich Airport and enjoy your first taste of Switzerland as you travel through picturesque countryside toward the Bernese Oberland. In about two hours, you’ll arrive in the vibrant resort town of Interlaken, beautifully situated between the turquoise waters of Lake Thun and Lake Brienz and surrounded by the iconic peaks of the Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau.

After checking into your hotel, spend the remainder of the day exploring Interlaken at your own pace. Wander through the charming town center, relax in the Höhematte Park, browse the local shops, or enjoy dinner at one of the many restaurants serving traditional Swiss specialties.

Tomorrow, your hiking adventure begins along the spectacular shores of Lake Brienz.

Accommodation: Beausite Interlaken (or comparable lodging).

Nestled on the shores of the turquoise Lake Brienz, the village of Iseltwald is one of Switzerland’s hidden gems. With its traditional wooden chalets, peaceful waterfront, and spectacular mountain backdrop, it is the perfect place to begin today’s adventure.

A scenic boat cruise across Lake Brienz brings you to Iseltwald, where your hike begins. Follow an easy lakeside trail through quiet forests and along crystal-clear waters until you reach the magnificent Giessbach Falls.

Here, dozens of waterfalls tumble over rocky cliffs before flowing into the lake below, creating one of the most beautiful natural settings in the Bernese Oberland.

Continue by boat to the charming village of Brienz, famous for its woodcarving tradition. Spend some free time strolling along the lakeside promenade, enjoying a swim in the emerald waters during summer, or visiting the local animal park before returning to Interlaken by train.

Today’s Hike
The hike is easy and can be completed in two scenic sections.
Section 1: Iseltwald – Giessbach Falls

• Distance: 5.3 km (3.3 miles)
• Elevation Gain: 140 m (460 ft)
• Elevation Loss: 175 m (574 ft)
• Time: 1.5–2 hours
• Hiking Difficulty: Easy to Moderate

Optional Extension: Giessbach Falls Loop

• Distance: 4 km (2.5 miles)
• Elevation Gain: 345 m (1,132 ft)
• Elevation Loss: 345 m (1,132 ft)
• Time: 2–2.5 hours
• Hiking Difficulty: Moderate

In the evening, return to Interlaken and enjoy another relaxing night between Lakes Thun and Brienz.

Meals included: Breakfast. 

Accommodation: Beausite Interlaken (or comparable lodging).

Welcome to one of the most spectacular valleys in Switzerland. Surrounded by towering limestone cliffs and more than seventy waterfalls, Lauterbrunnen Valley has inspired artists, writers and mountain lovers for generations.

After a short train ride from Interlaken, enjoy a leisurely hike through flower-filled meadows and traditional Swiss villages while the famous Staubbach Falls plunge nearly 300 meters (984 ft) beside you. Continue to the impressive Trümmelbach Falls, where glacial meltwater thunders through narrow rock chambers deep inside the mountain.
Take your time to soak in the scenery before returning to Interlaken by train.

Today’s Hike

• Distance: 8.5 km (5.3 miles)
• Elevation Gain: 400 m (1,312 ft)
• Elevation Loss: 400 m (1,312 ft)
• Time: 3–3.5 hours
• Hiking Difficulty: Moderate

Meals included: Breakfast.

Accommodation: Beausite Interlaken (or comparable lodging).

Today’s journey begins aboard the historic cogwheel railway climbing from Wilderswil to Schynige Platte, one of the finest panoramic viewpoints in the Bernese Oberland.

Once at the summit, you’ll discover breathtaking views of the famous trio — Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau — while hiking through alpine meadows filled with wildflowers during the summer months. This classic panoramic trail is one of the most rewarding shorter hikes in the region.

After your hike, return by mountain railway to Interlaken.

Today’s Hike

• Distance: 6 km (3.7 miles)
• Elevation Gain: 340 m (1,115 ft)
• Elevation Loss: 340 m (1,115 ft)
• Time: 2–2.5 hours
• Hiking Difficulty: Moderate

Meals included: Breakfast.

Accommodation: Beausite Interlaken (or comparable lodging).

Today you’ll leave Interlaken behind and journey to the world-famous mountain village of Grindelwald, nestled at the foot of the mighty Eiger.

Before departing, take the funicular to Harder Kulm, Interlaken’s spectacular panoramic viewpoint.

From the viewing platform, admire sweeping vistas of the turquoise waters of Lakes Thun and Brienz, with the iconic Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau rising dramatically in the distance.

While it is possible to hike to the summit, we recommend the funicular, allowing you to spend more time exploring the stunning alpine scenery awaiting you in Grindelwald.

After a scenic train ride, arrive in Grindelwald and set out on a beautiful walk to the Glacier Gorge (Gletscherschlucht). Carved over thousands of years by the Lower Grindelwald Glacier, this impressive natural wonder features towering rock walls, rushing glacial waters, and elevated walkways that wind through the narrow canyon. It offers a fascinating glimpse into the immense forces that have shaped the Swiss Alps and serves as the perfect introduction to the dramatic mountain landscapes surrounding Grindelwald

Today’s Hikes
Optional: Harder Kulm

• Distance: 8.2 km (5.1 miles)
• Elevation Gain: 775 m (2,543 ft)
• Elevation Loss: 775 m (2,543 ft)
• Time: 4.5–5 hours
• Hiking Difficulty: Moderate

Walk to Glacier Gorge

• Distance: 5.1 km (3.2 miles)
• Elevation Gain: 165 m (541 ft)
• Elevation Loss: 165 m (541 ft)
• Time: 1.5–2 hours
• Hiking Difficulty: Easy

Glacier Gorge Loop

• Distance: 1.8 km (1.1 miles)
• Elevation Gain: 195 m (640 ft)
• Elevation Loss: 195 m (640 ft)
• Time: 1 hour
• Hiking Difficulty: Easy

Meals included: Breakfast.

Accommodation: Hotel Derby (or comparable lodging).

Today offers two unforgettable ways to experience the heart of the Jungfrau Region. Whether you choose a leisurely panoramic hike after visiting the Top of Europe or a more challenging trek beneath the legendary Eiger North Face, you’ll be rewarded with some of the most spectacular mountain scenery in Switzerland.

Option A – The Famous Eiger Trail

For hikers seeking a more adventurous experience, the Eiger Trail is one of Switzerland’s most iconic mountain hikes. Beginning at Kleine Scheidegg, the trail traverses directly beneath the imposing North Face of the Eiger, where towering cliffs, cascading waterfalls and rugged alpine landscapes create an unforgettable setting.

As you descend toward Alpiglen, you’ll enjoy dramatic views across Grindelwald Valley while walking beneath one of the world’s most legendary mountains. This rewarding route offers an immersive alpine experience and is a favorite among experienced hikers visiting the Jungfrau Region.

Today’s Hike

• Distance: 13 km (8.1 miles)
• Elevation Gain: 800 m (2,625 ft)
• Elevation Loss: 800 m (2,625 ft)
• Time: 5.5–6 hours
• Hiking Difficulty: Challenging

Option B – Jungfraujoch & Männlichen Panorama Trail

Enhance your day with an optional visit to Jungfraujoch – Top of Europe, Europe’s highest railway station at 3,454 m (11,332 ft). Surrounded by glaciers and snow-covered peaks, this world-famous destination offers unforgettable alpine views, the Ice Palace, and the Sphinx Observation Deck.

From Jungfraujoch, descend by mountain railway to Kleine Scheidegg, where one of the Bernese Oberland’s most scenic panoramic hikes begins. Follow the well-maintained trail toward Männlichen, enjoying magnificent views of the Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau throughout the journey. Before descending, take the short Royal Walk to the summit viewpoint for one final breathtaking panorama.

Today’s Hikes

Kleine Scheidegg – Männlichen

• Distance: 4.7 km (2.9 miles)
• Elevation Gain: 200 m (656 ft)
• Elevation Loss: 100 m (328 ft)
• Time: 1–1.5 hours
• Hiking Difficulty: Easy to Moderate

Royal Walk

• Distance: 2.1 km (1.3 miles)
• Elevation Gain: 120 m (394 ft)
• Elevation Loss: 120 m (394 ft)
• Time: 30–60 minutes
• Hiking Difficulty: Easy

Optional Excursion: If you prefer a sightseeing experience instead of hiking, consider visiting the spectacular Schilthorn by cable car. Perched at 2,970 m (9,744 ft), this iconic summit offers breathtaking 360° views of more than 200 Alpine peaks, including the Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau. Visit the famous Piz Gloria, the world’s first revolving mountain restaurant featured in the James Bond film On Her Majesty’s Secret Service, and explore the interactive Bond World exhibition before returning to Grindelwald.

Meals included: Breakfast.

Accommodation: Hotel Derby (or comparable lodging).

Today is the grand finale of your Bernese Oberland hiking adventure and one of the most spectacular hikes in the Swiss Alps.

Begin your journey with a scenic gondola ride to First, where the exhilarating First Cliff Walk lets you step out onto a suspended walkway with breathtaking views of the valley below.

From here, follow a picturesque alpine trail to the shimmering Lake Bachalpsee, whose crystal-clear waters perfectly reflect the surrounding snow-capped peaks on calm days, making it one of Switzerland’s most iconic mountain lakes.

Continue your adventure through rolling alpine meadows toward Faulhorn, one of the oldest mountain viewpoints in the region.

Along the way, you’ll be rewarded with sweeping panoramas of the Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau, as well as countless other Alpine peaks stretching to the horizon. The final descent to Bussalp winds through peaceful pastures and traditional mountain landscapes before you board the local bus back to Grindelwald.

This unforgettable hike perfectly captures everything that makes the Bernese Oberland one of the world’s premier hiking destinations: pristine alpine lakes, dramatic mountain scenery, charming mountain trails, and breathtaking panoramic views at every turn.

Today’s Hike

• Distance: 10.5 km (6.5 miles)
• Elevation Gain: 600 m (1,969 ft)
• Elevation Loss: 900 m (2,953 ft)
• Time: 4.5–5 hours
• Hiking Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging

Meals included: Breakfast.

Accommodation: Hotel Derby (or comparable lodging).

After breakfast, it’s time to bid farewell to the breathtaking landscapes of the Bernese Oberland.

Board your train in Grindelwald and enjoy one final scenic journey through the Swiss countryside as you travel to Zurich Airport for your onward flight.

As your adventure comes to an end, take with you unforgettable memories of crystal-clear alpine lakes, majestic mountain peaks, charming villages, and some of Switzerland’s most spectacular hiking trails.

We hope to welcome you back soon for another MyMountains adventure in the Swiss Alps. 

Meals included: Breakfast

Not ready to go home?

The Post-Tour option extends your Via Alpina Hiking Tour with 3 nights in Zermatt. Via Apina Post-Trip Information and Pricing.