Weekend Adventure: Hiking the Bernese Oberland

Last weekend, I had the opportunity to explore one of Switzerland’s most iconic hiking regions—the Bernese Oberland. The combination of dramatic peaks, alpine meadows, and charming villages made for an unforgettable experience.

Day 1: Lauterbrunnen Valley

The journey started in Lauterbrunnen, the valley of 72 waterfalls. The train ride from Bern was scenic enough, but nothing prepares you for the moment you step off the train and see the Staubbach Falls cascading 300 meters down the cliff face.

Trümmelbach Falls

Inside the mountain, ten glacier-fed waterfalls drain the massive ice fields above. The indoor viewing platforms let you witness the raw power of 20,000 liters per second thundering through rock channels carved over millennia.

Practical tip: Book tickets online to avoid queues, especially on weekends.

Day 2: First to Grindelwald Hike

The main event was the classic hike from First down to Grindelwald:

• Start: First summit (2,168m) - reached by gondola
• Distance: ~8km
• Elevation loss: ~1,200m
• Time: 4-5 hours (with photo breaks!)
• Difficulty: Moderate

The Views

The panoramic views of the Eiger North Face, Mönch, and Jungfrau were absolutely stunning. Every turn revealed a new perspective on these iconic peaks.

Photo locations you don’t want to miss:

1. Bachalpsee Lake - Mirror-like reflections of the mountains
2. First Cliff Walk - Suspended platform with 360° views
3. Grosse Scheidegg - Historic mountain pass with traditional alpine huts

Wildlife

I was lucky enough to spot:

• Several marmots (their whistles echo across the valleys!)
• Ibex on distant rock faces
• Golden eagles soaring on thermals

Mountain Huts and Food

Lunch at Bergrestaurant First offered traditional Swiss fare with the best view in the house. The rösti with a fried egg and the apple strudel were highlights. Yes, it’s touristy, but the food quality is genuinely good.

Gear Notes

What worked well:

• Mid-layer fleece: Perfect for the variable weather
• Trail runners: The paths are well-maintained; no boots needed
• Trekking poles: Helpful on the descent to save knees

What I’d change:

• Bring more water—the mountain huts are pricey
• Pack sunscreen earlier in the season than you’d think

Transportation

The Swiss Travel Pass covered all gondolas and trains. If you’re planning multiple days of mountain transport, it pays for itself quickly.

Conclusion

The Bernese Oberland lives up to its reputation. Whether you’re an experienced mountaineer or a casual hiker, there’s something magical about being surrounded by these peaks.

Next time: I want to tackle the Eiger Trail and spend a night in a mountain hut above 3,000m.

Practical Information

• Best time: June-September (snow-free trails)
• Getting there: Train from Bern or Interlaken
• Where to stay: Grindelwald has options from hostels to luxury hotels
• Weather: Check forecasts; conditions change rapidly in the mountains

Have you hiked in the Bernese Oberland? Share your favorite trails in the comments!