Waterfalls of Switzerland

Lauterbrunnen Valley is often described as the valley of 72 waterfalls, and this is not an exaggeration. Vertical cliffs rise hundreds of meters above the valley floor, with waterfalls cascading directly beside villages and walking paths. It is one of the most visually striking regions in Switzerland and forms part of a UNESCO-listed natural landscape.

The most famous waterfall here is Staubbach Falls, one of Europe’s highest free-falling waterfalls. It drops almost straight down near the village and can be viewed from several angles. A short path leads behind the waterfall, where spray, wind, and changing light create a powerful sensory experience. The path is short but steep and can be slippery near the end, which is important to consider when travelling with children.

Nearby, Trümmelbach Falls offer a completely different experience. These are underground glacier waterfalls hidden inside the mountain, accessed via tunnels, staircases, and a lift. Ten separate cascades thunder through narrow rock channels, carrying up to 20,000 litres of water per second during peak melt. Children under four are not allowed inside, and noise levels are high – this is intense, immersive nature rather than a gentle walk.

Rhine Falls (Rheinfall) is the largest waterfall in Europe by volume, and its scale is immediately apparent. While it is not very high – around 23 meters – its width of approximately 150 meters and the sheer force of the water make it visually and physically impressive, especially in summer.

The area is very well organised. You can view the waterfall from both sides of the river, from bridges, observation decks, and from boats that approach remarkably close to the rushing water. Boat rides are one of the highlights for families, although they are not inexpensive and often sell out quickly on busy days. Expect multiple staircases, some of them steep, and a fair amount of walking if you want to explore all viewpoints.

There are playgrounds, cafés, benches, and wide promenades nearby, which makes Rhine Falls surprisingly family-friendly despite the crowds. The main drawback is exactly that – during weekends and holidays, the number of visitors can feel overwhelming.

Giessbach Falls (Giessbachfälle) consist of a cascade of 14 waterfalls flowing down toward Lake Brienz. Unlike a single dramatic drop, this is a layered experience where bridges, paths, and viewpoints reveal the water repeatedly from different heights.

You can reach Giessbach by car or by boat across Lake Brienz. From below, a funicular leads up toward the historic Grand Hotel Giessbach, while hiking paths allow you to walk alongside and even behind parts of the waterfall system. The bridges are especially engaging for children, though surfaces can become slippery after rain.

This area works particularly well for families because it combines waterfalls, lake views, gentle walking, and the option for a relaxed meal in one compact location.

The Simmental region is often described as one of Switzerland’s greenest valleys, and it feels noticeably quieter and more rural than the busier areas of the Bernese Oberland. This slower pace makes it especially appealing for families who want impressive nature without constant crowds.

Near the village of Lenk, Iffigfall drops nearly 200 meters, creating strong spray and a refreshing mist even on warm summer days. From the parking area, a short and well-marked walk leads to a bridge directly facing the waterfall. The visual impact is immediate, dramatic, and accessible without long hikes.

Nearby, Siebenbrunnen Falls form a multi-cascade route that feels wilder but still manageable. The paths allow you to experience nature at a calmer rhythm, making it easier to adjust the visit to children’s energy levels.

In the Italian-speaking canton of Ticino, Cascata di Foroglio feels noticeably different from alpine waterfalls in the north. The atmosphere is warmer, the light softer, and the setting more Mediterranean in mood. The waterfall plunges 108 meters beside a traditional stone village, with only a short walk from the parking area.

The contrast between the massive falling water and the compact stone houses makes this one of the most photogenic waterfall settings in Switzerland. In summer, many families combine the visit with a picnic or time near the water. While the stream is icy, children often enjoy splashing at the edges on hot days.

This is an easy stop to include even on a slower travel day, especially when you want strong scenery without physical effort.