There are places that match the postcard views, and then there’s Lauterbrunnen. It’s the kind of place that feels almost unreal, even when you’re right there in the middle of it. This deep, U shaped valley was made by ancient glaciers, and it’s surrounded by tall limestone cliffs. There are 72 powerful waterfalls that flow down into the green meadows below. This isn’t just a pretty spot – it’s an unforgettable experience. The sound of the water is a constant, gentle roar. The air is so fresh and clean it feels like you’re drinking it. This is the Switzerland you’ve always imagined. If you’re planning a trip to the Jungfrau region, this guide will help you discover Lauterbrunnen.
Lauterbrunnen has a special charm that pulls every traveler in.
It was the inspiration for the Elven realm of Rivendell in “The Lord of the Rings,” and it’s easy to see why. The valley feels both grand and peaceful, powerful and calm. It’s a perfect base for explorers, a great spot for hikers, and a perfect place for anyone who wants to truly experience one of nature’s greatest wonders.
Getting to Lauterbrunnen: Your gateway to adventure
Getting to Lauterbrunnen is easy and convenient, making it a great choice for a day trip or longer stay.
By air:
The closest major airports are Zurich (ZRH) and Geneva (GVA). From there, you can take Switzerland’s excellent train system to reach Lauterbrunnen.
By train:
This is the best way to go. Take a train to Interlaken Ost, the main hub in the area. Then, board a scenic train on the Bernese Oberland Railway that takes you directly to Lauterbrunnen village in about 20 minutes. The views from the train window give a great preview of what’s ahead.
By car:
If you’re driving, you can reach the village by car. However, the village itself is small, and parking can be limited and expensive during busy times. Most visitors park and then explore the area on foot or using public transport.
Unforgettable things to do in Lauterbrunnen
There’s a lot to do in Lauterbrunnen. You could spend a whole week here and still have more to experience.
Chase the waterfalls:
This is the main attraction.
Staubbach falls:
This is the most famous waterfall in the valley, dropping 300 meters over the edge of the cliff above the village. You can walk behind it on a specially carved path for a unique view.
Trümmelbach falls:
These are ten powerful glacial waterfalls inside a mountain. You can access them via a lift. They carry up to 20,000 liters of water per second from the glaciers of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau. The power and sound of these falls are truly amazing. (Note: This attraction is open seasonally, usually from April to November.)
Keep an eye out:
Part of the fun is just walking around the valley floor and finding other beautiful waterfalls like the charming Mürrenbach Falls.
Take a mountain railway to the top:
Schilthorn Piz Gloria:
For fans of James Bond, this is a must. The cable car from Stechelberg (a short bus ride from Lauterbrunnen) takes you to the summit of the Schilthorn, home of the world’s first revolving restaurant featured in “On Her Majesty’s Secret Service.” The 360 degree views of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau are some of the most breathtaking in the region.
Wengen and Mürren:
These two car free villages are accessed by cable car or train from Lauterbrunnen. Wengen is charming and offers different hiking routes, while Mürren feels like it’s on the edge of the world. Visiting these villages is a key part of the Lauterbrunnen experience.
Hike the trails (For all levels):
Easy:
The walk from Lauterbrunnen to Stechelberg is mostly flat, paved, and very scenic. It takes about 1.5 hours one way, passing waterfalls and traditional farms.
Moderate:
The path from Mürren to Grütschalp offers amazing views of the valley. You can then take the cable car back down.
Challenging:
The hike from Schynige Platte to First is a classic, all-day Alpine trail for serious hikers.
Feel the Adrenaline:
Lauterbrunnen is a top spot for base jumping and skydiving. It’s exciting just to watch jumpers leap from the cliffs and glide over the meadows with their parachutes.
Explore the village itself:
Don’t rush through. Take the time to walk the main street, visit the charming church, and enjoy the atmosphere of a working Swiss village surrounded by incredible beauty.
Practical information for your visit
Best time to visit:
- Summer (June to August):
Great weather for hiking and all activities are open. This is also the busiest time.
- Spring (May) & Fall (September to October):
Fewer crowds, beautiful colors, and cooler weather. Some higher trails may close in late October.
- Winter (December to March):
The valley becomes a snowy wonderland. It’s a quiet, magical time for winter walks and skiing in Wengen and Mürren.
Where to stay:
Lauterbrunnen village:
Offers a range of hotels, hostels, and campgrounds right in the heart of the action.
Wengen or Mürren:
These are quieter, elevated spots with stunning mountain views. Remember, these are car free, so you’ll need to transport your luggage by train or cable car.
The Swiss travel pass is your best friend:
Traveling in Switzerland can be expensive, but the Swiss Travel Pass offers great value. It covers train, bus, and boat travel and gives a 50% discount on most mountain railways and cable cars in the Jungfrau region. It makes travel easier and can save you a lot of money
Beyond the guidebook: Insider tips
Pack a rain jacket:
You’re in the “Valley of Waterfalls.” Water from the falls and sudden mountain showers are common.
Wear good shoes:
Even the simple walk through the valley is better done in comfortable trainers or hiking shoes
Check the webcams:
Before heading up a mountain, look at live webcams for Schilthorn or Jungfraujoch. If it’s cloudy at the top, you’ll end up paying a lot just to see a wall of fog.
Budget your time, not just money:
The beauty of this area comes from taking your time. Don’t try to do everything in one day. The weather can change fast, so leave room for flexibility.
Lauterbrunnen is more than a place to visit; it’s a feeling. It’s the coolness you feel standing in the mist of a strong waterfall, the wonder of looking up at huge rock faces, and the simple happiness of enjoying a warm drink in a village that feels like it’s from another time. It’s definitely one of the most beautiful places on Earth. Start planning your trip your own adventure in the Valley of 72 Waterfalls is waiting for you.