Switzerland : The Bernese Oberland

Walking at the foot of the Eiger

Trip code: W07GW

Self-guided walking

7 nights,
single centre

Level: 1 to 3

SUMMARY

  • Set in a magnificent valley surrounded by high mountains, topped by the renowned Eiger
  • Experience high-altitude walking, ranking amongst the most beautiful walks in the region
  • Walk along the foot of the North Face of the Eiger as this daunting spectacle towers above you

WHAT'S INCLUDED?

  • 7 nights accommodation
  • All breakfasts
  • Comprehensive route directions
  • Flight inclusive package includes rail tickets between Zurich airport and Grindelwald, plus a Swiss Half Fare Card

TRIP DESCRIPTION

Grindelwald, thanks to its magnificent setting, has been attracting visitors since the end of the 18th century. The town is in a valley surrounded by high mountains not least of which is the renowned Eiger with its imposing North Face. There is a maze of walking routes from either Grindelwald itself or from the top of local gondolas mountain railways or post bus routes that will have you quickly looking down on this stunning valley and at the same time up to the surrounding mountains. You can take the railway to the Jungfraujoch, Europe's highest railway station with its permanent snow and ice, and we even feature a walk from this station.

There are countless walking trails around Grindelwald with walks for all abilities. You can utilise the post bus gondola and mountain railway network to take away the climbs so you can choose from a selection of contour or downhill routes. Amongst them the high-altitude walk from First to Bachalpsee, the Faulhorn mountain hotel and continuing to the Schynige Platte ranking among the most beautiful walks in the region. Walk along the foot of the North Face of the Eiger with this daunting spectacle towering above you. The choice of walks in the immediate area will astound you, and if you travel a little further afield over the Grosse Scheidegg Mountain pass or into Lauterbrunnen valley more opportunities await.

Grindelwald is undoubtedly one of the busiest centres in the Swiss Mountains in the summer, bringing a very cosmopolitan atmosphere. Located centrally in the Bernese Oberland, it has a wide selection of restaurants. We have selected two hotels away from the bustle but still within easy reach of the main town with its wide selection of shops It has a railway connecting it with other areas around the valley and to Interlaken which has connections directly to the main Swiss cities.

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DAY-BY-DAY ITINERARY

 

Day 1: Arrive in Grindelwald

Arrive in the spectacular Swiss town of Grindelwald, home to the infamous Eiger. Below are just a selection of the many walks that are available in and around Grindelwald.

You stay at Hotel Lauberhorn.

hotel details

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Hotel Lauberhorn, Grindelwald

HOTEL WEBSITE      TRIP ADVISOR

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Your fantastic hosts Conny & Beni welcome you to the chalet-style Hotel Lauberhorn. Both are outdoor enthusiasts and are happy to share their local knowledge and show you the hidden beauties of the region. The Lauberhorn is a casual hotel, simple yet contemporary with a relaxed atmosphere. There is a communal indoor/outdoor lounge area where you can simply enjoy the breath-taking mountain scenery. If you prefer, visit the hotel’s sauna and rest area with a view of the Eiger north wall. Breakfast is a delicious buffet made with local fresh products.

We recommend making a dinner reservation locally at Hotel Kirchbuhl or at another local restaurant of your choice.

Extra nights: Please contact us for details.

Day 2: Schwarzwaldalp to Grindelwald via Grosse Scheidegg (11KM/7MILES)

You take the Postbus from Grindelwald to Schwarzwaldalp where you start with a steady ascent to the pass at Grosse Scheidegg. Upon reaching Grosse Scheidegg at 1,962m high, the panorama is truly magnificent as you come face to face with the infamous Eiger and its sheer North Face. A leisurely descent across small streams brings you back into Grindelwald. A perfect way to start your Swiss adventure!

You stay at Hotel Kirchbuhl.

hotel details

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Upgrade - Hotel Kirchbuhl, Grindelwald

HOTEL WEBSITE      TRIP ADVISOR

Hairdryer
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This 4* hotel is located in a quiet sunny location with commanding views, just 3 minutes’ bus ride from the railway station. The hotel has been in the Brawand family for 4 generations and the old-fashioned traditional hospitality is as alive now as it was when the hotel was opened in 1900. Dinner and breakfast are taken in the wood-panelled dining room - dinner is a sumptuous 5 course delight.

Extra nights: Please contact us for details.

Day 3: Grindelwald to Kleine Scheidegg (13KM/8MILES)

This walk takes you along clear, well-marked paths with fantastic views of the Eiger, the Monch and the Jungfrau, amongst magnificent peaks. This walk is mainly through mountain pasture, with some dappled woodland. You have options to end the walk at Kleine Scheidegg (the highest point), Wengernalp or Wengen, from where you can take the train back to Grindelwald.

Day 4: Rest Day

Enjoy a rest day exploring the charming village of Grindelwald or take on another of the many walk options in the area. There are plenty of sights to explore including the famous Jungfraujoch rail journey; this is a once in a lifetime experience to the 'Top of Europe' at 3,400m where we have a short walk to the Monch Hut and Jungfraujoch Observatory. We also highly recommend taking a mountain railway and cable car journey to Schilthorn 'Piz Gloria', famous for being featured in the James Bond film 'On Her Majesty's Secret Service', its revolving restaurant and unmatched mountain views.

Day 5: Schwarzwaldalp to Grindelwald via Pfanni, First & Bussalp (22KM/14MILES)

This is a truly lovely and memorable walk which will take you over the pass from one valley – Reichenbachtal – to another - Lütschental – offering spectacular views of the Bernese Oberland giants alongside a wonderful botanical display. There are plenty of options to make this shorter or longer as you please, so that this route suits you and any adverse weather.

Day 6: The Eiger Trail - West to East from Kleine Scheidegg (8KM/5MILES)

Take the train from Grindelwald to Kleine Scheidegg where you'll explore the moraines of the Eigergletscher before following the spectacular mountain trail at the foot of the imposing Eiger North Wall to reach Alpiglen. From here, you can return by train or continue walking all the way to Grindelwald.

Day 7: Augstmatterhorn (16KM/10MILES)

This is a classic ridge walk to the summit of Augstmatthorn (2137m) offering fantastic views over Lake Brienz and the mountains beyond. A beautiful train journey from Meiringen to Interlaken starts off your day before ascending at a 64% gradient on the Harder Kulm funicular. Upon reaching ‘The Top Of Interlaken’, you gradually ascend through woodland where you’re likely to spot the local deer alongside spectacular views of the bright blue Lake Brienz below.

Day 8: Depart Grindelwald

Say fond farewells to Grindelwald as you depart on the train.

CHOOSE A DEPARTURE DATE

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These tour only prices are based on two people sharing. Single supplement from £142.

These flight inclusive prices are based on two people sharing. Single supplement from £142.

OPTIONAL UPGRADES
  • Flights from London Heathrow to Zurich with British Airways, then onward rail to the region.
  • Other flights, including regional departures
  • Alternative flights, including regional departures
  • Business/club/first class fares
  • Upgrade to 4* hotel
  • Upgrade to Half Board
TRAVEL DETAILS

Our aim is to provide holidays that are unbeatable for choice and flexibility. We've listed our most popular travel options below, however you aren't limited to these - we can tailor-make virtually any holiday to suit.

Air-rail prices include our standard flights and onward rail
Out: British Airways London Heathrow to Zurich 09:25/12:20, then rail Zurich Airport to Grindelwald via Bern and Interlaken Ost 13:45/16:39.

Return: Rail Grindelwald to Zurich Airport via Interlaken Ost and Bern 09:48/12:51, then British Airways Zurich to London Heathrow 15:50/16:40.

Flight inclusive package includes rail tickets between Zurich airport and Grindelwald, plus a Swiss Half Fare Card (50% off all public transportation in Switzerland, including most mountain railroads; valid for one month).

Business/club/first class seats are available on request.

Alternative Air Travel
Alternative flights, onward rail to your holiday area, and connecting private transfers can be arranged from most UK airports. If you would like to use one of the many 'low cost' airlines, we can book these on your behalf. We can also book UK shuttles to connect with your onward flight, please call for details and prices.

Self drive
We can arrange various channel crossings for you. Please call for details and prices.

Alternative transfers
If you require alternative transfers (because you will be arriving at a different time to our standard flights), then we can usually arrange these for you (there may be an additional charge).

To find out more about the travel options available call our sales team on 01606 720199, use our live webchat (we're open from 9am today) or email sales@headwater.com

Should you require overnight airport accommodation, airport parking or even a uniformed chauffeur to take your car from your departure terminal and park it for you, we can arrange this for you through Holiday Extras. You can book airport parking, airport hotels and executive lounges through their website or contact us for further details. Early booking is recommended to obtain the best availability and prices.

REVIEWS

Excellent service- Lauren listened to exactly what I was looking for and made some very helpful suggestions. The service could not have been better

18 May 2024

Geat follow up
Clear an accurate answers to questions
Responsive to questions
Provided guidance on better options than had been considered
Very easy to deal with

28 Apr 2024

Very good

13 Mar 2024

Used for over 15 years, great choice of holidays, reliable friendly staff and good to react to any issues

21 Jan 2024


Self-guided walking

7 nights,
single centre

Level: 1 to 3

7 nights from £999

CHOOSE A DEPARTURE

Call: 01606 720199

 

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