Grindelwald

Grindelwald – often called the “Glacier Village” – is one of the most scenic destinations in the Bernese Oberland. Snow-covered peaks, green valleys, wooden chalets and powerful glaciers descending towards the village create a postcard-perfect setting. For families looking for a balance of nature, light adventure, and beautiful photo spots, Grindelwald is an excellent base.

How to Get Around Grindelwald?

Grindelwald is easy to reach by train and is extremely well connected once you arrive. Several gondolas operate directly from the village – First, Männlichen and Pfingstegg – along with mountain trains to Kleine Scheidegg, Wengen and Jungfraujoch. Local buses and funiculars make it simple to combine multiple viewpoints in one day.

Families often appreciate the extra flexibility a rental car provides, especially when carrying snacks, jackets and children’s gear or when planning several short stops. Parking is available at the Eiger+ Terminal, which offers covered spaces and direct shuttle access to Firstbahn. The cost is 16.50 CHF for 6.5 hours or 25 CHF for a day ticket.

Tip from the Itinerary Expert: I prefer using the large terminal car parks on busy days – you avoid driving through narrow village streets and can go straight to the cable cars.

Expert tip: coffee tastes 30% better when a giant mountain watches you drink it

When Is the Best Time to Visit Grindelwald?

Nature is the main attraction in Grindelwald, and each season offers a different experience.

Summer (June–September)
This is the ideal period for easy family hikes such as Bachalpsee, the Eiger Trail, Glacier Gorge and various panoramic routes. Meadows are in full bloom, waterfalls are strong and visibility is usually excellent. Weather can change quickly – after rain, the valley often fills with mist, creating a unique atmosphere.

Autumn (September–October)
A quieter season. Travellers often note that late September feels noticeably less crowded, while all major routes and gondolas continue operating.

Winter (December–March)
Snow transforms Grindelwald into a classic Alpine setting. Families enjoy skiing, sledding, winter walks and snowy views around First and Männlichen. The gondola ride to First is frequently described as “one of the longest and most impressive,” even in winter conditions.

What are the main attractions and family activities in Grindelwald?

First Cliff Walk – Grindelwald’s Famous Cliff Bridge

One of the signature landmarks of the region. A metal walkway suspended along the mountain face leads to a viewing platform rising about 45 metres above the valley. The scenery from here is striking: snowy peaks, waterfalls and the wide green valley stretching below.

Bachalpsee – The Scenic Alpine Lake

A picturesque lake at 2,265 m, reached by a walk of roughly 50 minutes from the First gondola station. Its still water beautifully reflects the Wetterhorn and Shreckhorn peaks. The trail is rated easy to moderate and is suitable for families. You can return via Bort for a comfortable downhill walk.

Glacier Gorge (Gletscherschlucht) – The Glacial Canyon

A unique experience featuring narrow wooden walkways attached to rock walls, a roaring river, and the SPIDERWEB net that children love climbing. The visit takes about an hour and includes waterfalls, natural echo effects and suspended paths carved into the canyon.

Männlichen – A Summit of Views and Calm

The ascent to Männlichen is considered an excellent family experience. A long gondola ride brings you to the summit, where you’ll find easy trails and wide viewpoints overlooking dozens of snow-capped peaks. The Panoramaweg is a gentle route leading from Männlichen toward Kleine Scheidegg.

Pfingstegg – Viewpoint + Summer Toboggan

A small family-friendly station with a short gondola ride, easy walking paths and a viewpoint over the valley. The area also features a summer toboggan (Rodelbahn), which is especially enjoyable for children.

Eiger Trail – A Route for Nature Lovers

A roughly 6 km trail running beneath the north face of the Eiger. The path is rated easy to moderate, suitable for families with children, and offers a chance to see the mountain up close. It begins at Eiger Glacier station, reached by the Jungfrau Railway.

Gross Scheidegg – Open Views and Calm Atmosphere

A particularly quiet nature area accessible by bus or on foot from First. The surroundings offer dramatic views of glaciers, waterfalls and the green valley. It is ideal for a peaceful break and provides a sense of open alpine space without crowds.

Valley of Cows, Waterfalls and Alpine Rainforest

Along various trails in the Grindelwald area, you pass powerful waterfalls (especially after rain), flowing streams and lush alpine forest. This is one of the most enjoyable regions for a short family walk and natural viewpoints.

Valleys, Waterfalls and Alpine Forests

Throughout the Grindelwald area, many trails lead through powerful waterfalls, fast-running streams and lush alpine forest. These routes are especially pleasant for short family walks, offering easy access to classic Swiss scenery without long or demanding hikes. After rainfall, the waterfalls become even stronger, creating dramatic viewpoints and excellent photo opportunities.

I swear the deer statue knows all the local secrets

Family Activities and Kid-Friendly Fun

Grindelwald offers many family-friendly activities that do not require long or demanding hikes. The summer toboggan run at Pfingstegg is one of the most popular options, combining gentle viewpoints, open spaces and an easy layout that children quickly feel comfortable with.

Trotti bikes (scooter-bikes) from First to the village are repeatedly mentioned by travellers as “so much fun.” They provide a safe and exciting downhill ride suitable for older children.
Additional activities include mini-carts, the First Flyer zipline and simple snow-play areas in winter. Around the village, you’ll also find easy forest and valley walks that work well for strollers.
Even cable car rides themselves often become a highlight – many children enjoy the gondola journey just as much as the attractions at the top.

Since 2015, our website has specialized in individual planning of unique routes, taking into account personal preferences and desires.

Each of you will receive a unique PDF file from us, which contains everything you need: travel routes, car rentals, hotels, the best tourist attractions, attractions for kids and everything you need for a perfect vacation.

During the trip, we are available for you by phone via WhatsApp.

Our personal service provides information from A to Z, taking into account many small details that can become a decisive factor on the way from a wasted trip to an unforgettable vacation.

Our service will make your trip comfortable, save a lot of time on planning and preparation, and most importantly – will allow you to become freer and fully enjoy the pleasure of the trip.

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Gastronomy: What to Eat in Grindelwald?

Restaurants at First and Pfingstegg offer panoramic terraces ideal for lunch with mountain views.
Mountain restaurants typically serve Swiss staples such as rösti, soups, cheese-based dishes and homemade desserts – simple and comforting options that work well for families.
At Männlichen and Kleine Scheidegg, mountain huts are known for relaxed, family-friendly meals with warm indoor seating for colder days.

Tip from the Itinerary Expert: Reserve terrace tables on clear days. Many mountain restaurants accept reservations even for short lunch stops, which is especially helpful when travelling with children.

3-Day Family Itinerary for Grindelwald (Shorter Version)

Day 1 – First Cliff Walk & Bachalpsee

Morning (10:00–13:00)

Take the gondola from Grindelwald up to First. The ride already opens the views of the valley and the Eiger. Walk directly to the First Cliff Walk – a short but memorable metal pathway along the cliff that ends with a panoramic platform. Spend roughly an hour enjoying the scenery and taking hotos.

Lunch (13:00–14:00)

Lunch at Bergrestaurant First, located right beside the walkway.

Afternoon (14:00–17:30)

Begin the gentle hike to Bachalpsee. The entire trail is scenic and accessible for families.
At the lake, enjoy reflections of the surrounding peaks and the peaceful alpine setting before returning to First for the gondola back down.

Evening (17:30–18:00)

Dinner in the village – Barry’s or Restaurant Eiger both work well for families.

Day 2 – Männlichen & Panorama Trail

Morning (10:00–13:00)

Ride the long gondola from Grindelwald Terminal to Männlichen. At the summit, take time to explore the wide viewpoints and grassy slopes – the panorama of the Eiger is especially striking. Marmots often appear along the paths.

Walk the Panorama Trail toward Kleine Scheidegg. The route is mostly flat and ideal for families who want great scenery without a strenuous hike.

Lunch (13:00–14:00)

Lunch at Kleine Scheidegg on one of the outdoor terraces.

Afternoon (14:00–17:00)

Spend some time near the station – children enjoy watching the mountain trains – then take the train back to Grindelwald.

Evening (17:00–18:00)

Dinner at Café 3692.

Day 3 – Pfingstegg & Glacier Gorge

Morning (10:00–13:00)

Take the cable car to Pfingstegg, a quiet viewpoint above the valley. There are easy walking paths and the summer toboggan run, which many children consider a highlight.

Lunch (13:00–14:00)

Lunch at Bergrestaurant Pfingstegg.

Afternoon (14:00–17:30)

Head to Glacier Gorge (Gletscherschlucht) – just a short bus ride or walk from the village.
Follow the wooden walkways through the narrow canyon where the sound of the rushing river echoes between high rock walls. It’s a dramatic but very approachable nature experience for families.

Evening (17:30–18:00)

Return to the village for a relaxed dinner at C und M Café Bar Restaurant.

Came for the mountains, stayed for the mini-golf drama

Traveller Reviews

Emma Collins – July 2019
I spent four days in Grindelwald with my husband and two kids, and it felt like stepping into a postcard. The First Cliff Walk was exciting but still comfortable for my younger child. We continued to Bachalpsee afterward – quiet, green and incredibly peaceful. The weather changed quickly, but the views made every moment worthwhile.

Daniel Harris – September 2023
We visited during the last week of September, and it was much calmer than we expected. Clear paths, fresh air and no crowds. The hike from First to Bachalpsee was longer than I thought, but the reflections on the lake were unforgettable. If you enjoy quiet mountain walks, this is the perfect time.

Olivia Reed – August 2022
My children still talk about the Pfingstegg toboggan. I assumed we’d do one ride, but we spent almost the entire morning there. The views are fantastic and the whole area feels relaxed and family-friendly. The hardest part was convincing the kids to leave.

Michael Turner – October 2018
We planned the trip for the Männlichen gondola and ended up loving the Panorama Trail. The ride up is long, smooth and incredibly scenic. Our teenagers enjoyed spotting marmots along the slopes. The walk to Kleine Scheidegg was gentle and peaceful, with clouds drifting in and out of the peaks. A simple day – but a perfect one.

Sophia Bennett – June 2024
Grindelwald was our base for a week, and Glacier Gorge surprised us the most. We discovered it by chance, but the walkways inside the canyon were dramatic and exciting. It was colder than expected inside, so bringing an extra layer helped. The kids loved the whole “adventure” atmosphere.

Jacob Matthews – December 2021
I travelled with my mother and three teenagers. We skipped long hikes and focused on viewpoints, and still had a great time. The First Cliff Walk was manageable for everyone, and the gondola rides alone were memorable. December weather changes often, so we kept our schedule flexible, but Grindelwald felt magical under the snow.

Laura Mitchell – August 2019
We stayed eight nights in Grindelwald and never ran out of things to do. Our highlights were the First Cliff Walk at sunset, Glacier Gorge and the Männlichen gondola, where we counted more than a dozen marmots. Some places were crowded, but stepping away from the main street always brought quiet and fresh views.

Andrew Foster – May 2023
I had just two free days after a work trip, so I tried to see as much as possible – and Grindelwald was the best part. The hike to Bachalpsee was gentle, the views were huge and even with a tight schedule I felt like I experienced real alpine scenery.

Hannah Brooks – September 2024
We just returned from a week in Grindelwald, and the quiet evenings were my favourite moments – sitting on the balcony, listening to cowbells and watching clouds drift across the Eiger. We did all the popular activities, but those slow moments were the ones I’ll remember the most.

James Walker – July 2021
The Trotti bikes from First were an unexpected highlight for our kids. I was nervous at first, but the route felt safe and extremely fun. We combined it with a quick stop at Glacier Gorge. My only regret is not staying longer – Grindelwald has a calm energy that’s hard to leave.

Grindelwald: where every viewpoint looks like a movie scene

Tips from the Itinerary Expert

Go to the First Cliff Walk before 11:00 to avoid the long wait at the photo platform.
I learned this the hard way – arriving after noon meant standing behind dozens of people. Early mornings offer calmer air, clearer views and a much quieter experience.

Combine the First Cliff Walk and Bachalpsee in one outing.
They are on the same route, and doing them together saves time and energy. I usually hike to Bachalpsee right after the Cliff Walk, while the trail is still quiet and the kids have plenty of energy.

On the Männlichen gondola, choose the right-hand side for the best Eiger views.
I’ve compared both sides several times. The right side gives uninterrupted panoramas almost all the way up – great for photos and for keeping children engaged.

Click here to learn more about creating a personal itinerary
Don’t rush along the Panorama Trail.
Clouds often open suddenly, revealing dramatic views for just a few minutes. Slowing down has rewarded me more than once with unforgettable scenery.

Late September is one of the calmest times on the trails.
The paths to Bachalpsee and Männlichen feel peaceful, and mornings are noticeably quieter.

Buy individual toboggan rides at Pfingstegg.
Weather can change quickly, and kids often decide after one or two runs whether they want more. Paying per ride has saved me both money and tears.

Bring a warm layer for Glacier Gorge.
It stays cool inside even on hot days. My children were much happier once I started packing light hoodies specifically for this stop.

Leave time for balcony or terrace breaks.
Some of my favourite moments in Grindelwald are simply sitting outside at the end of the day, listening to cowbells and watching the mountains shift with the clouds.

If you plan to rent Trotti bikes from First, start early.
The slopes get busier later in the day, and the ride feels smoother and safer in the morning.

Don’t overfill your itinerary.
Grindelwald rewards slow travel. Giving the kids more time for photos, playgrounds and spontaneous nature stops makes the whole day more enjoyable.

Respect to the legends who climbed these giants before gondolas existed

Insights from the Itinerary Expert

I last visited Grindelwald in September 2023, and even after many years of travelling through the Alps, this village still feels like one of the most balanced destinations for families. Everything is close: gondolas rise directly from the village, and within minutes you’re standing on the First Cliff Walk with half the valley opening beneath your feet. The hike to Bachalpsee remains one of my favourites – gentle enough for children, yet dramatic enough to feel like a real alpine adventure.

What I appreciate most is the variety. You can spend the morning walking across quiet meadows on Männlichen and the afternoon enjoying the toboggan run at Pfingstegg, which my own children loved. Glacier Gorge adds an entirely different atmosphere – cool, loud, powerful and unforgettable. The only real challenge is the weather: clouds move fast in Grindelwald, and visibility can change within minutes. I’ve learned to keep plans flexible and always carry a warm layer for the kids.

Grindelwald blends beauty, simplicity and adventure in a way few places manage. If you’re dreaming of a personalised, family-friendly trip filled with nature and unforgettable views, I’ll be glad to help you create a route tailored specifically to your family.

Price Table

This path made me consider moving here. Seriously

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Grindelwald good for families?
Yes. I find it one of the most convenient Alpine destinations for families, with easy trails, gondolas and a calm atmosphere.

How long does the Bachalpsee hike take?
About an hour each way. I’ve walked it many times, and most families manage it without difficulty.

Is the First Cliff Walk scary?
It looks dramatic, but in my experience it feels safe. Even travellers who are unsure about heights usually handle it well.

What can children do besides hiking?
Pfingstegg is always a great option — the toboggan and short paths suit a wide range of ages. Older kids enjoy the Trotti bikes from First.

When is the best time to visit Grindelwald?
Summer and early autumn offer the best conditions. Late September is my favourite period because the mornings are clear and the trails are quieter.

Is Männlichen worth visiting?
Absolutely. I always recommend it. The gondola ride is beautiful, and the top area has gentle, open trails that work perfectly for families.

Is Glacier Gorge suitable for kids?
Yes, as long as they are supervised. I always bring a light layer — it stays cool inside even on warm days.

Does the weather change quickly?
Very quickly. I’ve seen clear skies turn cloudy within minutes, so I always keep plans flexible.

Can several attractions be done in one day?
Yes. I often combine First Cliff Walk with Bachalpsee, or Pfingstegg with Glacier Gorge in the afternoon.

Since 2015, our website has specialized in individual planning of unique routes, taking into account personal preferences and desires.

Each of you will receive a unique PDF file from us, which contains everything you need: travel routes, car rentals, hotels, the best tourist attractions, attractions for kids and everything you need for a perfect vacation.

During the trip, we are available for you by phone via WhatsApp.

Our personal service provides information from A to Z, taking into account many small details that can become a decisive factor on the way from a wasted trip to an unforgettable vacation.

Our service will make your trip comfortable, save a lot of time on planning and preparation, and most importantly – will allow you to become freer and fully enjoy the pleasure of the trip.

More Info