The Jungfrau ; A Walk at 3,454 Metres

The summit of the Jungfrau rises in Switzerland, in the heart of the Bernese Alps.

The Jungfrau

A Bit of History

The Jungfrau is one of the most iconic peaks of the Swiss Alps. It rises in the Bernese Alps massif and reaches 4,158 metres. This majestic summit attracts climbers and mountain lovers. Its name means “maiden” in German, referring to its long inaccessible nature. The first ascent dates back to 1811.

Today, the Jungfrau is easily accessible thanks to the famous railway. It takes visitors to the Jungfraujoch, nicknamed the “Top of Europe”, at an altitude of 3,454 metres. This summit symbolises the wild beauty of the Alps. Every year, visitors from all over the world come to admire its spectacular panorama and unspoilt environment.

A Summit at 4,158 Metres

The Jungfrau ; A Swiss Summit

Located on the border between the cantons of Valais and Bern, the Jungfrau dominates the Bernese Alps. At 4,158 metres, it offers a spectacular view over the Grindelwald and Lauterbrunnen (in French) valleys. Lake Thun also appears on the horizon. Since 1912, the Jungfraubahn, Europe’s highest rack railway, has reached the Jungfraujoch. This pass nestles between the Mönch and the Jungfrau, at over 3,400 metres. The train made the site easier to reach and boosted its international reputation.

The history of ascents of the Jungfrau is marked by important milestones. In 1811, the brothers Johann Rudolf and Hieronymus Meyer, from Aarau, made the first ascent. Two chamois hunters from Valais accompanied them. In 1926, Hans Lauper opened the first route on the north face. Yet the mountain is not without danger. On 12 July 2007, six Swiss soldiers specialising in mountain warfare lost their lives on the south face. An avalanche swept them away at around 3,800 metres.

The Jungfrau remains a legendary mountain, fascinating for its spectacular beauty and technical challenges.

The Jungfrau ; A Trip with Friends

One Saturday morning, the road leaves Lausanne, with friends, to discover the Top of Europe. The adventure holds its share of surprises. After a gondola ride then a train, the summit reveals a 360° panorama. There are few tourists that day. Despite a temperature of -15 °C, the clear view and lack of wind make the experience pleasant.

The visit includes the Sphinx, the Ice Palace and a panoramic show on a giant screen. Lindt’s chocolate world then invites a sweet break. The souvenir shop completes the visit. A lovely experience, though it does require a certain budget. For another legendary summit, the Gornergrat (in French) offers a panorama facing the Matterhorn, above Zermatt.

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The Jungfrau