Faulhorn
Iconic Swiss Alps peak offering unparalleled panoramic views and a historic summit hotel, accessible via scenic hikes.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, crisp air
Faulhorn
Best Time
Fewer crowds, crisp air
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic Swiss Alps peak offering unparalleled panoramic views and a historic summit hotel, accessible via scenic hikes.
"The most beautiful hike, with unbelievable views throughout and magical sunsets/sunrises."
🎯 Gondola Last Call!
Catch the last gondola from First at 6 PM to avoid a late descent. :ticket:
🥾 Trekking Poles Essential
Highly recommended for stability on steep and gravelly sections of the trail. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic Summit Views
Faulhorn Summit
Breathtaking 360-degree vistas of the Bernese Alps, including Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau.
+1
Bachalpsee Lake
On the trail to Faulhorn
A crystal-clear alpine lake offering stunning reflections of the surrounding peaks.
Berghotel Faulhorn
Faulhorn Summit
Historic 19th-century hotel offering dining and overnight stays with unparalleled mountain views.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Trail Conditions & Footing
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Gondola Last Call!
Catch the last gondola from First at 6 PM to avoid a late descent. :ticket:
🥾 Trekking Poles Essential
Highly recommended for stability on steep and gravelly sections of the trail. :athletic_shoe:
⭐ Book Hotel in Advance
Faulhorn hotel rooms are scarce; book well ahead, especially for overnight stays. :bed:
🐄 Mind the Cows!
Be aware of Swiss cows and their bells; they are majestic but can be numerous. :cow:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Gondola Last Call!
Catch the last gondola from First at 6 PM to avoid a late descent. :ticket:
🥾 Trekking Poles Essential
Highly recommended for stability on steep and gravelly sections of the trail. :athletic_shoe:
⭐ Book Hotel in Advance
Faulhorn hotel rooms are scarce; book well ahead, especially for overnight stays. :bed:
🐄 Mind the Cows!
Be aware of Swiss cows and their bells; they are majestic but can be numerous. :cow:
📸 Photo Ops Galore
Allow ample time for photos; the views are spectacular at every turn. :camerawithflash:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Faulhorn for its absolutely breathtaking panoramic views and the unique experience of dining or staying at the summit hotel. The hike, while sometimes challenging, is considered incredibly rewarding. However, the limited operating hours of the last gondola and the potential for crowds during peak season are noted drawbacks.
"Amazing views from the top of Faulhorn! The restaurant at the top is the perfect place to refuel. I did this as a pit stop on a hike from Schynige Platte to First. Last gondola down from First leaves at 6, so make sure you give yourself plenty of time. You’ll definitely want to stop and take photos. In late September, expect that the trails will be a bit snowy."
Samantha Monteith
"The most beautiful hike. It’s only another hour from Bachalpsee with varied incline. Definitely worth going to! Just be mindful that the final gondola down to Grindelwald from First is 6PM. If overnight stay is needed, there’s a hotel on top of Faulhorn (prebook this, it’s not available last minute) or there’s a hiker’s lodging/hostel beside the First gondola. Tips for this hike: beware of Swiss cows and their bells. They’re everywhere and incredibly majestic. Also, pay attention to your footing. The gravel even in the flatter areas of the hike can be sharp."
Michele Cheung
"Stayed at Faulhorn Hostel for one night mid September 2023 and enjoyed dinner at the summit restaurant. Reservations are required in advance. It's roughly a 3 mile steep hike in from the summit of First and roughly an hour past the quaint and scenic Bachsee lakes which are crystal clear. The climb in is rough after the Bachsee lakes so I recommend some experience hiking and with steep inclines. It is a road ... traveled by bikes and farm trucks and cows/ducks. Also I saw several marmots tending their area and ignoring me which is how it should be. Unbelievable views throughout. Make sure you get outside to view the stars at night if you have a clear sky, they are so close it felt like you could reach out and touch them."
Katya Maiser
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most popular route starts with a gondola from Grindelwald Grund to Grindelwald First. From First, you can hike to Faulhorn, which takes about 2 hours. Alternatively, you can hike from Grindelwald directly to Faulhorn, a longer trek of approximately 5 hours.
Yes, the hike from Schynige Platte to Faulhorn is a well-known and scenic route, often combined with a descent to First. This trail offers stunning alpine landscapes and views of Lake Brienz.
The difficulty varies depending on the starting point. The hike from First to Faulhorn is considered moderately challenging, with a steep incline after Bachalpsee. Direct hikes from Grindelwald are more demanding.
From Interlaken, take a train to Grindelwald. From Grindelwald, you can access the gondola to First or begin your hike.
Public transport is key to reaching the starting points. Trains connect Interlaken to Grindelwald, and the gondola system operates from Grindelwald.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
You'll need tickets for the gondola from Grindelwald to First. The hike itself is free. If you plan to stay at the Berghotel Faulhorn, booking accommodation is required.
The last gondola down from First to Grindelwald typically departs at 6 PM. It's essential to check the exact operating hours for the day of your visit.
There is no specific entrance fee for Faulhorn itself, as it's a natural mountain peak. Fees apply to the cable car services used to reach the starting points of many hikes.
It is highly recommended to book the Berghotel Faulhorn well in advance, as last-minute availability is very limited.
Discounts may be available for children, seniors, or with specific travel passes like the Swiss Travel Pass. It's best to check with the gondola operator for current pricing and offers.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The main attraction is the stunning panoramic view from the summit. You can also dine at the Berghotel Faulhorn, enjoy the scenery around Bachalpsee, and take photos.
The hike from First to Faulhorn can be challenging for very young children due to steep sections. However, the area around Bachalpsee is more accessible. Consider the Schynige Platte to First hike with kids for a more manageable experience.
You might spot marmots and Swiss cows along the trails. The cows are known for their majestic bells.
While not a primary activity, there are mentions of sledging in the context of winter activities in the Grindelwald area, but specific Faulhorn sledging trails are not widely advertised for summer.
In late September, trails can be snowy, but often still walkable without special equipment. Hiking sticks are advised.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the Berghotel Faulhorn at the summit offers dining options. Reservations are recommended, especially during peak season.
The food is described as standard mountain hut fare, but the experience is enhanced by the incredible views.
While not explicitly forbidden, it's common practice to support the mountain huts by purchasing food and drinks if you dine there. You can certainly pack snacks for the hike.
Bachalpsee is a scenic spot for a picnic. The Berghotel Faulhorn is the primary dining establishment at the summit.
Mountain hut prices can be higher than in the valley, but the unique location and views often justify the cost.
📸 📸 Photography
The summit offers unparalleled panoramic views. Bachalpsee is also a prime location for reflections and landscape shots.
Sunrise and sunset offer magical light for photography. Midday can be harsh, but the expansive views are still impressive.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the vast landscapes. A telephoto lens can be useful for distant peaks and wildlife. Don't forget a sturdy tripod for low-light conditions.
Generally, photography is allowed and encouraged. Be mindful of other visitors and any specific rules at the hotel.
Drone regulations in Switzerland can be strict. It's advisable to check local rules and regulations regarding drone usage in alpine areas before flying.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1If you plan to tackle the hike to Faulhorn with older children or teens, ensure they have appropriate footwear and are prepared for the elevation gain. Packing plenty of snacks and water is also essential. The Berghotel Faulhorn offers a unique dining experience, but it's best to gauge your children's energy levels before committing to the full hike.
💰 Budget Travelers
Opting for public transport to Grindelwald is generally more cost-effective than driving and parking. Look into multi-day travel passes if you plan to explore more of the Swiss Alps, as they can offer savings on trains and gondolas. While an overnight stay at the Faulhorn hotel is a splurge, enjoying the summit views during the day and returning to Grindelwald for accommodation can be a more economical choice.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
The Bachalpsee lake is another must-visit for its reflective qualities, creating stunning mirror images of the surrounding mountains, particularly beautiful during sunrise and sunset.+1To capture the best shots, aim for the golden hours of sunrise and sunset for dramatic lighting. A wide-angle lens is ideal for capturing the vastness of the landscape, while a telephoto lens can be useful for isolating distant peaks or wildlife. Consider bringing a sturdy tripod for low-light conditions and long exposures. Remember to allow ample time for photography during your hike, as the scenery unfolds beautifully at every turn.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Iconic Faulhorn Hike
From First, the trail leads to the picturesque Bachalpsee lake, a favorite spot for photographers due to its mirror-like reflections of the surrounding peaks. The final ascent to Faulhorn is steep but rewarding, offering increasingly dramatic views as you gain altitude.Many visitors combine the Faulhorn hike with a traverse from Schynige Platte to First, creating a multi-day adventure or a challenging day hike. This route, often referred to as the First Faulhorn Schynige Platte trail, showcases diverse alpine scenery, including ridge walks and panoramic overlooks of Lake Brienz.
Redditors often discuss the best timing for this hike, emphasizing the need to be aware of the last gondola departure from First to avoid being stranded after dark.For those seeking an immersive experience, an overnight stay at the Faulhorn mountain hotel is highly recommended. Waking up to a sunrise over the Alps from this vantage point is described as unforgettable.
However, booking this accommodation well in advance is crucial, as it's a sought-after experience. The hotel also offers dinner, providing a unique dining opportunity at over 2,600 meters.Navigating the Trails and Gondolas
From First, the Faulhorn trail is well-marked, guiding hikers towards the summit. The path to Bachalpsee is relatively gentle and incredibly scenic, making it a highlight for many.Beyond First, the ascent to Faulhorn becomes more demanding. Hikers should be prepared for steep sections and loose gravel, especially in the latter part of the hike. The Faulhorn hike is often undertaken as part of a longer trek, such as the Schynige Platte to Faulhorn and First route, which offers a comprehensive alpine experience.
Travelers on Reddit frequently share tips about trail conditions, noting that even in late September, there can be a dusting of snow, though it's usually manageable with good hiking boots and poles.Understanding the operational times of the gondola is critical. The last descent from Grindelwald First is typically at 6 PM, a detail that many reviewers stress to avoid a difficult and potentially dangerous hike down in the dark.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit