Interlaken and the Jungfrau region in Switzerland are renowned for their breathtaking winter landscapes and an array of activities that cater to both thrill-seekers and those looking to savor the tranquility of the Alps. Here’s a curated list of the top 10 winter activities to ensure your visit is nothing short of spectacular:
Cheeski safari: a sporty and culinary mix of skiing + cheese & wine tasting
Begin your winter adventure with a uniquely Swiss experience known as Cheeski safari. This activity blends the joy of skiing with an indulgent exploration of Swiss cheeses paired with local wines. As you glide down the slopes exploring the entire Jungfrau ski region between Grindelwald, Wengen, Lauterbrunnen & Mürren you’ll make stops at various points to sample different types of cheese, learning about their production, aging processes, and the art of pairing them with local wines. It’s an educational journey as much as it is a culinary delight, offering a taste of traditional Swiss life amidst the snowy peaks. The day gets topped off with an indulgent Swiss cheese & chocolate fondue feast at the fabled fondue villa.
Night Sledding with Cheese & Choco Fondue
Imagine the magic of sledding under the night sky, where the stars and moon illuminate your path winding through Swiss treeline mountains. A short drive up into the gorgeous Swiss Alps above Interlaken sees you reaching even higher grounds with the most scenic gondola you have ever experienced. After an exhilarating ride of about 1 hour, you’ll find warmth and comfort at Fondue Villa where you will be served an indulgent all you can eat Swiss cheese & chocolate fondue providing the perfect end to a magical winter evening. This combination of adventure and gastronomy makes for an unforgettable night in the Alps.
Day Sledding on Europe’s Longest Sledding Track
Head to Big Pintenfritz in the Grindelwald region to experience Europe’s longest sledding track. This 15km adventure takes you through forested areas and down into open alpine landscapes, offering stunning views of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau mountains. It’s not only fun but also a scenic journey that captures the essence of a Swiss winter day. Important to note here is that after you take the cable car you still need to walk for about 1 hour to reach the start of this one of a kind sledding experience. Well worth it though.
Velogemel Snow Biking / Sledding /Skiing
For those seeking a more unique and traditional winter experience, velogemel sledding is the way to go. The velogemel is a cross between a bicycle, a sled and skis and it looks like a wooden bicycle without wheels that slides on snow aka a Snow Bike. This wooden snow bike was invented in Grindelwald in 1911 and has ever since been a big part of their winter culture. They even host the annual velogemel world championships annually here. These wooden bike sleds move at a leisurely pace, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the serene beauty of the snowy landscape. Its like sliding a bicycle on snow, oh its so much fun. It’s an activity that connects you with the past, offering a slower, more reflective way to enjoy the winter wonderland.
Ride the World’s Steepest Gondola from Stechelberg to Mürren
Embark on an adventure by taking one of the world’s steepest gondola rides from Stechelberg to Mürren. This journey not only provides an adrenaline rush but also rewards you with breathtaking views over the Lauterbrunnen Valley. It’s a must-do for photography enthusiasts or anyone wanting to experience the awe-inspiring beauty of the Alps from a unique vantage point.
Ski the World’s Steepest Ski Slope: Diretissima
Dare to challenge yourself on the Diretissima, known as the world’s steepest ski slope in Mürren. This black run is not for the faint-hearted, offering a heart-pounding descent where skill, courage, and control are paramount. It’s a test of your skiing abilities against one of the most formidable terrains in skiing.
Visit the James Bond Mountain – Schilthorn
A visit to the Schilthorn is essential, not just for fans of the James Bond film “On Her Majesty’s Secret Service”. The Piz Gloria revolving restaurant at the summit offers a 360-degree view of the surrounding Alps. Whether you’re there for lunch or just to soak in the views, the experience is unforgettable, blending cinematic history with natural beauty.
Ski Safari, explore the Jungfrau ski region
If you are not that much into cheese you should embark on a less cheesy Ski Safari to explore the vast ski domains of the Jungfrau region. This activity allows you to ski across multiple resorts in one day, providing a diverse skiing experience from the family-friendly runs of Grindelwald to the more challenging slopes in Mürren and Wengen. You’ll not only test your skiing prowess but also enjoy panoramic views that encompass the iconic peaks of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau.
Ice Climbing
For those looking for a unique challenge, ice climbing in the Jungfrau region offers an exhilarating adventure. With numerous icy waterfalls and peaks, there’s something for climbers of all levels. It’s an opportunity to test your mettle, learn new skills, and connect with the raw, icy beauty of the Alps.
Snowshoeing
Finally, for those who wish to explore at a peaceful pace, snowshoeing is ideal. Wander through the silent, snow-covered landscapes of the Jungfrau region, where you can discover hidden trails, enjoy the solitude of the winter forest, and observe wildlife undisturbed by the usual bustle. Snowshoeing here is about embracing the quiet beauty of winter, allowing you to connect deeply with nature.
Each of these activities provides a unique way to experience the winter magic of Interlaken and the Jungfrau region, ensuring that your visit is filled with diverse, memorable moments, whether you’re seeking adrenaline or the calming embrace of nature’s winter cloak.