City Guide for: Gimmelwald, Switzerland

Gimmelwald, Switzerland Guide

Gimmelwald is a tiny, car-free village perched high in the Swiss Alps, offering breathtaking views and a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of modern life. It's a place where time seems to slow down, and the sounds of cowbells and the wind whistling through the mountains are the soundtrack to your stay. This charming village is a haven for hikers, nature lovers, and those seeking an authentic Swiss experience. Unlike many of the more polished tourist destinations in Switzerland, Gimmelwald retains a rustic, unspoiled character. Expect to find traditional wooden chalets, working farms, and a genuine sense of community. It's a place where you can truly disconnect and immerse yourself in the beauty and simplicity of the Swiss Alps.

Food & Cuisine

Gimmelwald offers a limited but authentic selection of Swiss cuisine. Expect hearty, traditional dishes featuring local cheeses, meats, and potatoes. Many guesthouses and small restaurants offer home-cooked meals. Cheese fondue and raclette are popular choices, especially during the colder months. While there aren't any Michelin-starred restaurants, the focus is on fresh, locally sourced ingredients and traditional recipes. Consider trying the local cheese at the Honesty Shop, a self-service cheese shop. For a wider selection of restaurants, Mürren, accessible by cable car, offers more options.

Nightlife

Gimmelwald is not known for its vibrant nightlife. The focus is on relaxation and enjoying the natural surroundings. Evening entertainment is typically limited to enjoying a quiet drink at your guesthouse or a local restaurant. For more lively nightlife options, you would need to travel to larger towns or cities in the region.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Gimmelwald is during the summer months (June-September) for hiking and enjoying the alpine scenery. The weather is generally pleasant, and the trails are open. Winter (December-March) is also a good time to visit for skiing and snowboarding in the surrounding Jungfrau region, although access may be more limited due to snow conditions.

Transportation

Gimmelwald is a car-free village. Access is primarily via cable car from Stechelberg or Mürren. From Mürren, you can also hike down to Gimmelwald. There are no buses, trams, or subways/metros within Gimmelwald itself. Your own two feet are the primary mode of transportation within the village.

Airport

The closest airport is Zurich Airport (ZRH). It is approximately 140 km (87 miles) from Gimmelwald. From Zurich Airport, you can take a train to Interlaken Ost, then change to a train to Lauterbrunnen. From Lauterbrunnen, take a bus to Stechelberg, where you can catch the cable car up to Gimmelwald. The journey takes approximately 3-4 hours.

Attractions

Mountain Viewpoints around Gimmelwald

Mountain Viewpoints around Gimmelwald Explore the various viewpoints surrounding Gimmelwald, offering panoramic vistas of the Swiss Alps. Hike to vantage points overlooking the Lauterbrunnen Valley, Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau peaks. Capture breathtaking photos and immerse yourself in the stunning natural beauty of the region. Perfect for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts.

Hike to Sprutzbach Falls

Hike to Sprutzbach Falls Embark on a scenic hike to Sprutzbach Falls, a hidden gem near Gimmelwald. The trail winds through lush forests and meadows, offering stunning views of the cascading waterfall. Cool off in the refreshing mist and capture memorable photos of this natural wonder. A moderate hike suitable for families and nature lovers.

Gimmelwald Village Walk

Gimmelwald Village Walk Take a leisurely stroll through the charming village of Gimmelwald. Admire the traditional wooden chalets, flower-filled window boxes, and peaceful atmosphere. Discover local cheese shops, craft workshops, and friendly locals. Enjoy the tranquility and breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.

Via Ferrata Gimmelwald

Via Ferrata Gimmelwald Experience the thrill of climbing a vertical rock face with the Via Ferrata Gimmelwald. This assisted climbing route offers stunning views of the Lauterbrunnen Valley and surrounding peaks. Securely attached to a steel cable, navigate ladders, bridges, and rock formations for an unforgettable adventure. Suitable for experienced hikers with a head for heights.

Gimmelwald Cable Car to Stechelberg

Gimmelwald Cable Car to Stechelberg Take a scenic cable car ride from Gimmelwald down to Stechelberg, the valley floor. Enjoy breathtaking views of the Lauterbrunnen Valley and surrounding mountains as you descend. Connect to other cable cars and hiking trails for further exploration of the region. A convenient and picturesque way to travel.

Honesty Shop Gimmelwald

Honesty Shop Gimmelwald Discover the unique Honesty Shop in Gimmelwald, a self-service store where you can purchase local products and souvenirs. Browse through a selection of cheeses, honey, crafts, and other regional specialties. Leave your payment in the designated box, trusting in the honesty of fellow travelers. A charming and authentic shopping experience.

Day Trips

Lauterbrunnen Valley

The Lauterbrunnen Valley, a mere stone's throw from Gimmelwald, is a spectacle of nature. Towering cliffs, cascading waterfalls (including the famous Staubbach Falls), and picturesque villages dot the landscape. It's a hiker's dream, with trails for all levels, and a perfect base for exploring the Jungfrau region.

Travel Time

Approximately 30 minutes by cable car and bus.

Activities
  • Hike to Trümmelbach Falls (Europe's largest subterranean waterfalls)
  • Visit Staubbach Falls
  • Explore the village of Lauterbrunnen
  • Hike to Wengen (car-free village)
  • Take the cable car up to Mürren

Interlaken

Nestled between two stunning lakes, Thun and Brienz, and shadowed by the majestic Jungfrau massif, Interlaken is an adventure paradise. From paragliding and canyoning to leisurely boat trips and scenic hikes, there's something for everyone. The town itself is a vibrant hub with charming shops, restaurants, and the iconic Höheweg promenade.

Travel Time

Approximately 1 hour 15 minutes by cable car, train, and bus.

Activities
  • Paragliding over Interlaken
  • Boat trip on Lake Thun or Lake Brienz
  • Hiking in the surrounding mountains
  • Visit Höheweg promenade
  • Explore St. Beatus Caves

Lake Brienz

Lake Brienz is known for its stunning turquoise waters and picturesque villages along its shores. Take a scenic boat trip, visit the woodcarving village of Brienz, or hike along the lake.

Travel Time

Approximately 1 hour 45 minutes by cable car, train, and bus.

Activities
  • Take a boat trip on Lake Brienz
  • Visit the woodcarving village of Brienz
  • Hike along the lake
  • Visit the Ballenberg Open-Air Museum
  • Ride the Rothorn Railway

Lucerne

Lucerne is a picturesque city located on the shores of Lake Lucerne, surrounded by mountains. Explore the historic old town, walk across the Chapel Bridge, and visit the Lion Monument.

Travel Time

Approximately 2 hours 45 minutes by cable car, train, and bus.

Activities
  • Walk across the Chapel Bridge
  • Visit the Lion Monument
  • Explore the Old Town
  • Take a boat trip on Lake Lucerne
  • Visit the Swiss Museum of Transport

Bern

The Swiss capital, Bern, is a UNESCO World Heritage site, boasting a remarkably well-preserved medieval old town. Wander through its arcaded streets, admire the Zytglogge astronomical clock, visit the Bear Park, and soak in the relaxed atmosphere of this charming city.

Travel Time

Approximately 2 hours by cable car, train, and bus.

Activities
  • Explore the Old Town (Altstadt)
  • Visit the Zytglogge astronomical clock
  • See the bears at the Bear Park (Bärengraben)
  • Walk along the Aare River
  • Visit the Bern Museum of Fine Arts (Kunstmuseum Bern)

Thun

Located on the shores of Lake Thun, Thun is a charming town with a medieval castle overlooking the Aare River. Explore the historic old town, stroll along the lake promenade, and enjoy the views of the surrounding mountains.

Travel Time

Approximately 1 hour 45 minutes by cable car, train, and bus.

Activities
  • Visit Thun Castle
  • Explore the Old Town
  • Take a boat trip on Lake Thun
  • Walk along the Aare River
  • Visit the Schadau Park