When doing our research for our trip to the Jungfrau region, Grindelwald First was not high on our list of must-see’s. It looked overly commercialized and tourist heavy. We did however want to do the cliff walk and this is what ended up making up our minds to make the trip up. It was included with our Jungfrau pass so why not?
We decided to go here on a whim after leaving Jungfraujoch. Grindelwald is connected to Jungfraujoch at the main station. We went later in the day solely to do the cliff walk, but quickly realized this place has much more to offer than just spectacular views. We have already made a list of the many activities this place offers when we are able to return.
How to get there?
Grindelwald First is included in the Jungfrau pass, so again I would recommend getting this to explore the region. As mentioned above, we took the cable car from Jungfraujoch to Grindelwald, rode the bus to the Firstbahn stop and then took the cable car up to the Cliff Walk. In the likely scenario you are not coming from Jungfraujoch, here would be the steps to get there.
Whether you are traveling from Interlaken, Wengen, Murren, or anywhere else in the Jungfrau region, take the train to Lauterbrunnen. At Lauterbrunnen station you will board the train to Grindelwald town. Exit the main station in Grindelwald. Take a walk along Dorfstrasse road about a half mile to the Grindelwald First cable car station. A bus also goes this route, and you will want to get off at the Firstbahn stop. Take the cable car from the station all the way up and you have arrived. The views in this little cable car are incredible and you will get to see people enjoying many of the activities, but more on that later.
What to wear?
We only did the cliff walk, but you are going to want hiking shoes/boots. In the end of September, the temperature was in the 50’s Fahrenheit and sunny. The wind was surprisingly not too bad with being so high up. I was comfortable in my light jacket and leggings. My boyfriend, Evan, wore his hiking pants and a hoodie and said he was comfortable. Check the forecast before you go. I would avoid the area if there were any rain in the forecast, but this place is stunning on a clear, sunny day.
Was it worth it?
YES. The cliff walk alone is worth the trip up. It was much more exciting than we were expecting it to be. If you have a fear of heights, it may not be for you. The cliff walk is a metal grate suspended from the side of a cliff; in some spots you can see FAR down. You will cross a suspension bridge with views that go for miles.
At the end of the cliff walk is the pinnacle of all views. You walk out to the viewing platform, with a glass end, and it will give you some of your favorite pictures of the whole trip. You will have your camera out the entire time because there isn’t a boring spot on this cliff walk. Just don’t drop your phone or you will not be getting it back. We did have to wait in line for the pinnacle pictures, but it was so worth it.
This is a place where you could easily spend a whole day with your family. There is the “First Flyer” which is a zipline with an unforgettable view. There is the “First Glider” which is also a zipline, but you go down lying flat on your belly like you’re one of the birds flying around up there. Both of these we got to see running and looked absolutely thrilling. There is a winding path down the mountain where you can rent mountain carts and “trottibikes”. All of these activities will cost extra but man, they looked like fun.
The cliff walk is free, also there is the “First View” vantage platform that offers beautiful views of the Swiss Alps. The First View platform is easily accessible and offers views similar to what you get on the cliff walk, but not quite as dramatic. If you don’t have the nerve for the cliff walk this is your best bet. There is a very popular hike to Lake Bachalpsee. We didn’t have the time to do this but will definitely make time for on our next visit. It’s an out and back hike that is about an hour each way. It starts very close to where you get off the cable car. The trail start is well marked with a sign.
Grindelwald First has so much to offer. Whether you have an hour to do the cliff walk, or you have a whole day to enjoy the many things this place has to offer. I do not think you will be disappointed with your decision to go up to the Grindelwald First. It ended up giving us some of our favorite photos of our trip and some of our best memories.
When to go?
Our trip was the end of September into early October, so the weather was mild and comfortable. This place is seasonal and is open from June to October. It also has a winter season where it is open from mid-December until April. If you’re using the Jungfrau pass you will want to go during the summer season. On a clear summer to fall day the views up here are unreal. This will be yet another highlight of your Jungfrau trip.
All in All, I would highly recommend Grindelwald First. Especially if you have the Jungfrau pass. The views were unmatched, and the cliff walk feels very secure. The pinnacle views are structured so you feel like you are part of the landscape, and it shows in the pictures.
Until next time, Keep adventuring! XO, Joanna
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