Discover Jungfrau: The Ultimate Winter Getaway in Switzerland
Discover Jungfrau: The Ultimate Winter Getaway in Switzerland
Nestled in the heart of Switzerland, Jungfrau region is one the most known destinations in the country and it definitely deserves this recognition. Famous for its towering peaks, charming villages and natural beauty, Jungfrau offers the perfect escape for those seeking a winter retreat full of breathtaking landscapes and alpine adventures. This is one of my favourite Swiss destinations and I want to share my guide to Discover Jungfrau: the Ultimate Winter Getaway in Switzerland.
As winter blankets the Swiss Alps in a serene white, the Jungfrau region transforms into a wonderland that feels straight out of a fairytale. This picturesque area, home to the famous peaks of Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau, has something for everyone. From scenic train journeys that climb through snowy vistas, to cozy village stays that capture Swiss charm at its finest. From stunning nature backdrops with dozens of waterfalls, to gliding down powdery slopes.
This region is easily connected with other places in Switzerland either by train or by car. Be aware that trains work perfectly in Switzerland, but it can be quite expensive. To make it more affordable, check Swiss Travel Pass, available for different number of travel days. This is a good option if you are planning to make several trips, as it gives you great discounts not only for trains, but also buses and cable cars.
I recommend staying at least four days in this region and there are many options of places to be based while exploring the area like Grindelwald, Interlaken, Lauterbrunnen, Wengen or Murren.
Around Jungfrau you can visit the famous Jungfraujoch the Top of Europe, taking one the most scenic train rides in the world to the peak of the Alps. Or take a cable car to visit other equally renowned mountains like First Grindelwald or the 007 movie scenery Schiltorn. Or walk around the Valley of 72 Waterfalls in Lauterbrunnen.
From seasoned travelers to first-time visitors, Jungfrau region promises a Winter experience that is nothing short of magical. Let me share my travel guide to discover Jungfrau: the ultimate Winter getaway in Switzerland’s alpine wonderland.
Grindelwald, the Glacier Village
Grindelwald is the quintessential Swiss alpine village, with snow-dusted chalets lining its quaint streets and breathtaking views of the towering Eiger mountain around every corner. Known as the “Glacier Village,” Grindelwald combines its natural beauty with a warm, inviting atmosphere, making it the perfect base for a Winter getaway.
Visitors can wander through its charming streets, discovering a delightful mix of shops, cozy cafes and traditional Swiss restaurants. For those seeking adventure, the village is well-connected to some of the best ski slopes in the Jungfrau region, offering easy access to pristine trails and powdery runs.
A must-do experience in Grindelwald is the cable car ride to First Grindelwald, a popular peak known for its thrilling activities and panoramic views. As you ascend, the scenery unfolds in a spectacular display of jagged peaks, forested valleys, and snow-blanketed landscapes, with the Eiger standing proudly in the distance.
At the summit, a whole world of Winter adventure awaits, from hiking along scenic trails to walking around the First Cliff Walk which offers a thrilling yet serene way to soak in the views, allowing you to stroll along a metal walkway that hugs the cliffside.
Jungfraujoch, the Top of Europe
Jungfraujoch is the crown jewel of the Swiss Alps. With no surprise it has been named the “Top of Europe” and it is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Nestled at a breathtaking elevation of 3,454 meters, it promises a panoramic spectacle of snow-capped peaks, including the iconic Eiger or Mönch.
From Grindelwald Terminal you can take the new Eiger Express gondola to the Eiger Glacier. From there you can continue your unforgettable journey to the highest railway station in Europe on the Jungfrau Railway, one of the most scenic and epic train rides in the world.
At the top of Jungfraujoch, there are no shortage of activities available. The Ice Palace invites into a frozen wonderland with intricately carved ice sculptures and shimmering tunnels. The Sphinx Observatory, one of the highest altitude observatories in the world, provides a 360-degree view of the Swiss Alps, including some of the most famous alpine peaks and Aletsch Glacier, Europe’s longest glacier. The Alpine Sensation is an interactive exhibition showcasing the pioneering efforts that made this railway wonder possible.
Lauterbrunnen, the Valley of 72 Waterfalls
Located in a lush valley framed by towering cliffs, Lauterbrunnen is one of Switzerland’s most enchanting villages. It is often called the “Valley of 72 Waterfalls” due to its abundance of cascading falls that spill over the steep rock faces.
The most famous of these waterfalls is Staubbach Falls, which plunges nearly 300 meters and can be seen from almost anywhere in the village, creating a dramatic backdrop that feels straight out of a storybook.
Lauterbrunnen’s idyllic setting, with alpine meadows, cozy chalets and winding pathways, is perfect for leisure strolls and photography. Visitors can immerse themselves in this serene landscape by exploring trails that lead to hidden waterfalls and scenic viewpoints. They can also take day trips to the nearby villages of Wengen and Mürren, which are accessible by train or cable car and offer equally stunning mountain panoramas.
Wengen, one of the most picturesque Swiss villages
Wengen is one the most picturesque Swiss villages, captivating visitors with its enchanting beauty and myriad of outdoor activities. The fact that it is a car-free village only adds to its idyllic charm, creating a peaceful and serene atmosphere that allows visitors to fully immerse themselves in the natural wonders that surround this Alpine gem.
Beyond its winter charm, Wengen transforms into a hiker’s paradise during the warmer months. The extensive network of hiking trails allows nature enthusiasts to explore alpine meadows, dense forests and cascading waterfalls. A must-visit is the iconic Mannlichen to Kleine Scheidegg trail, providing awe-inspiring views of the Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau peaks.
Murren, the village of the panoramic views
Perched high above the Lauterbrunnen Valley, Mürren is a charming, car-free village that offers some of the most stunning alpine views in Switzerland. Accessible only by cable car or train, this secluded village embodies traditional Swiss mountain charm, with cozy wooden chalets, narrow streets and an atmosphere that feels a world away from the modern rush.
Mürren is particularly known for its panoramic views of the iconic trio—the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau peaks—that tower majestically in the background. In Winter, Mürren transforms into a snow-covered paradise, with ski slopes that cater to everyone from beginners to seasoned experts. It also offers a range of hiking trails, making it a year-round favorite for visitors looking to experience the pure beauty of the Swiss Alps.
Schiltorn, the James Bond Mountain
One of the most thrilling attractions in the region is Schilthorn Peak, at 2,970 meters. Reaching the top is an adventure in itself. Starting from the village of Murren or from Stechelberg, visitors take a series of scenic cable cars that climb higher and higher, offering ever-more spectacular views of the Lauterbrunnen Valley and stunning alpine landscapes.
At the top of Schilthorn, visitors can admire incredible views to the surrounding snowy peaks. Additionally, the Piz Gloria revolving restaurant is one of the highlights, offering a one-of-a-kind dining experience allowing to enjoy Swiss cuisine while the restaurant slowly rotates, providing 360-degree views of the mountains.
Schilthorn is also home to the 007 Museum, a tribute to the famous James Bond film On Her Majesty’s Secret Service, which was filmed at this very location. The museum offers an immersive experience into the world of James Bond. Adventurous visitors can also try the Skyline Walk, a glass platform that extends over the cliff, offering heart-pounding views of the valley below.
Interlaken, the town between two lakes
Set in one of Switzerland’s most picturesque valleys, Interlaken is a charming town located between Thun Lake and Brienz Lake, offering diverse scenic and adventurous experiences. I recommend to start any visit to Interlaken by walking around its charming city centre and at the two lakes shores.
A highlight for visitors is a trip to Harder Kulm, known as the “Top of Interlaken,” which provides a breathtaking vantage point over the entire Lauterbrunnen Valley, Lake Thun and Lake Brienz. Accessible by a funicular railway from Interlaken, it offers a panoramic viewing platform with obstructed views of the Alps. There’s even a glass-bottomed walkway for an extra thrill, and a traditional Swiss restaurant to savour local dishes.
For those seeking an adrenaline rush, Lauterbrunnen is a hub for paragliding, one of the most exhilarating ways to admire the valley’s iconic beauty. Launching from the surrounding cliffs or mountain peaks, paragliders soar over cascading waterfalls andand quaint Swiss villages below.
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For more travel inspiration about Switzerland, visit my article “Discover Zermatt Top Winter Experiences“.
