Lauterbrunnen ; A Trip from Mürren to Kleine Scheidegg

This article was meant to be called “From Lauterbrunnen to the Jungfrau”, but unforeseen events prevented going any higher. Even so, 36 hours in one of the most beautiful regions of Switzerland remain unforgettable.

From Lauterbrunnen to Kleine Scheidegg

By Way of Lake Thun, Mürren and Wengen

It all begins when blogger Nawai Lï mentions the Lauterbrunnen region, which she dreams of discovering. A few messages and some research later, the departure is set. On the programme: two days exploring the Bernese Alps. A room booked for the night, and the trip begins, midweek, in March. The journey starts by train from Lausanne to Palézieux, then by car to Lauterbrunnen. The weather is mild.

On the way, a short break for lunch is a must, facing Lake Thun. The sandwiches are enjoyed in front of a breathtaking view. Even from a motorway rest area, the calm allows a few photos and a chance to enjoy the panorama over the lake.

By Way of Mürren

A Snowy Walk Above Lauterbrunnen

The Lauterbrunnen valley is famous for its 72 waterfalls, including the impressive Staubbach Falls. Bags dropped at the hotel, it is off to the heights with the cable car near the station. It heads towards the little village of Mürren, known for its view and walks of all lengths. Sun and snow are there: the walk promises to be magical.

Without knowing the place, the easiest thing is to follow a few walkers through the village. The steps lead onto a pretty snowy path. On one side, beautiful mountain ranges; on the other, forests covered in immaculate white. Along the way, a first break in a café is a must. It smells of homemade food, and the urge to sit down is immediate.

Back down, it is off to the hotel to change before dinner. No need to go far: the chosen address is a few minutes’ walk away. Next stop: the Hotel Silberhorn for the evening meal.

A Morning in Lauterbrunnen

After a good night, breakfast is at an address spotted online. Once again, everything is done on foot. After a few minutes’ wait, the door opens onto a most original café. Ethnic furniture and colourful posters make you feel a little at home. Several tempting dishes catch the eye on the menu. The choice is quickly made: a bowl of homemade granola and a coffee. And for a little treat, a soft brownie. A great way to start a sporty day.

Kleine Scheidegg

The Jungfrau, or Almost…

Next, it is off to the train for the Jungfrau, with impatience, despite a journey of about an hour and a half. Bad surprise at the ticket check: the tickets are not valid on this private train. A supplement still makes it possible to reach Kleine Scheidegg. Good to know: standard SBB tickets do not cover the climb to the Jungfraujoch. It is best to book in advance on the official website, as the full journey is expensive.

Sledging Down to Wengen

Despite the disappointment, the conductor advises making the most of the Kleine Scheidegg panorama. Sledges rented, it is time for the descent under the sun and a clear sky. It takes about an hour, between slopes and hills, with stops to admire the view. Be careful, though: the runs are shared with skiers. After an hour and a half, here at last is Wengen station.

The sledges are returned directly to a station employee, before taking the train back to Lauterbrunnen. The journey is short, through a less snowy landscape. Crossing another train offers the chance for a few photos of the valley. Back down, a last snack awaits at the morning’s café. Then it is time to head home, with a happy heart and stars in the eyes. From Kleine Scheidegg, the train continues to the Jungfraujoch, at the foot of the Jungfrau summit (in French).

For another version of this trip, the article by Nawai Lï, who shared this adventure, is here: Mini road-trip dans les Alpes bernoises (in French). And for another corner of Switzerland, head to the Dents du Midi, a jewel of Valais, or the Grande-Dixence dam (in French).

Lauterbrunnen