How to get to gimmelwald switzerland
Gimmelwald, located in the picturesque Lauterbrunnen Valley of Switzerland, is a hidden gem that should not be missed on any traveller’s itinerary. This charming Swiss village is nestled dramatically between towering alpine peaks, offering breathtaking views and endless opportunities for outdoor adventures.
Getting to Gimmelwald is part of the adventure, as the village is car-free. To reach this enchanting destination, travellers typically fly into Zurich Airport, the largest international airport in Switzerland, which offers various international connections. From Zurich, you can take a scenic train journey to Interlaken, a town located at the base of the Lauterbrunnen Valley.
Once you arrive in Interlaken, you can continue your journey to Gimmelwald by taking a series of cable cars and mountain trains. The journey itself is an experience to remember, as the cable cars give you a bird’s-eye view of the stunning Swiss Alps, lush valleys, and cascading waterfalls. Be prepared to be awestruck by the natural beauty that surrounds you.
Upon reaching the village of Lauterbrunnen, you can catch a local bus that will take you directly to Gimmelwald. The bus ride is a short and scenic journey, offering glimpses of traditional Swiss cottages and verdant meadows. As you step off the bus in Gimmelwald, you will instantly be transported to a world that feels like stepping back in time, with its traditional chalets, flower-adorned balconies, and serene atmosphere.
How to Reach Gimmelwald, Switzerland
Gimmelwald is a charming village located in the heart of the Swiss Alps. If you’re planning a visit to this picturesque destination, here are the various ways you can reach Gimmelwald:
By Air:
The closest airport to Gimmelwald is Zurich Airport, which is well-connected to major international destinations. From Zurich, you can either take a direct train or hire a car to reach Gimmelwald. The train journey takes around 3 hours and offers breathtaking views of the Swiss countryside.
By Train:
If you are already in Switzerland, you can easily reach Gimmelwald by train. The Swiss Federal Railways (SBB) operates regular train services to and from Gimmelwald. The nearest train station to Gimmelwald is Lauterbrunnen. From Lauterbrunnen, you can take a cable car to Gimmelwald. The cable car journey offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
If you prefer driving, there is a parking area available at the base station in Lauterbrunnen. From there, you can take the cable car up to Gimmelwald.
By Bus:
Another option is to take a bus to Gimmelwald. The Swiss Post operates bus services from various towns in Switzerland to Lauterbrunnen. From Lauterbrunnen, you can continue your journey to Gimmelwald by cable car.
Once you reach Gimmelwald, you can easily explore the village on foot. The compact size of Gimmelwald allows you to immerse yourself in the stunning natural beauty of the Swiss Alps at your own pace.
By Air
The closest international airport to Gimmelwald is Zurich Airport, which is situated approximately 200 kilometers away. From the airport, there are several options to reach Gimmelwald.
- Public Transportation: You can take a train from Zurich Airport to Interlaken, which is a scenic journey that takes around 2 and a half hours. From Interlaken, you can continue your journey to Gimmelwald by taking a combination of trains and cable cars. The total travel time from the airport to Gimmelwald can range from 3 to 4 hours.
- Chartered Helicopter: If you prefer a faster and more luxurious option, you can charter a helicopter directly from Zurich Airport to Gimmelwald. This will significantly reduce travel time and provide you with breathtaking aerial views of the Swiss countryside. However, this option can be quite expensive.
It’s important to note that Gimmelwald doesn’t have its own airport, so traveling by air will still require additional modes of transportation to reach the destination. Nevertheless, flying to Zurich Airport is a convenient and efficient way to begin your journey to Gimmelwald.
By Train
Traveling to Gimmelwald by train is a popular and convenient option for many visitors. The Swiss railway system is known for its efficient and scenic train rides, making it an ideal way to reach this beautiful village nestled in the Swiss Alps.
From major cities like Zurich, Geneva, or Bern, you can take a train to Interlaken. Trains in Switzerland are known for their punctuality, so you can expect a smooth and timely journey. Once you arrive in Interlaken, you’ll need to transfer to another train to Lauterbrunnen.
Transfer in Lauterbrunnen
Upon arrival in Lauterbrunnen, you’ll find yourself surrounded by breathtaking mountain views, waterfalls, and a sense of tranquility. From here, it’s time to catch the next leg of your journey by switching to the Schilthornbahn cable car. This cable car will take you from Lauterbrunnen up to Grutschalp station.
Grutschalp to Gimmelwald
Once you reach Grutschalp, you need to board another cable car that will take you down to the charming village of Mürren. From Mürren, the final leg of your journey involves boarding the Allmendhubelbahn funicular, which will take you to Gimmelwald.
It’s important to note that Gimmelwald is a car-free village, so trains and cable cars are the only means of getting there. However, the stunning mountain views and the peaceful environment are definitely worth the journey.
Be sure to check the train and cable car schedules before starting your journey to ensure a smooth trip to Gimmelwald.
By Car
If you are coming by car, Gimmelwald can be reached via the A8 motorway. Take Exit 19 towards Lauterbrunnen and continue on the main road towards Stechelberg. Leave your car in the parking lot in Stechelberg and take the cable car to Gimmelwald. The cable car ride offers incredible views of the alpine scenery and takes only a few minutes.
Please note that you will need a vignette to drive on Swiss motorways, which can be purchased at border crossings and petrol stations. Additionally, parking in Gimmelwald itself is limited, so it is recommended to leave your car in Stechelberg.
Driving to Gimmelwald allows for more flexibility and the opportunity to explore other nearby attractions in the Bernese Oberland region. However, be aware that the roads in the area can be narrow and winding, so drive cautiously and follow any signage or traffic regulations.
Keep in mind that Gimmelwald is a car-free village, so once you arrive, you will need to park your car and continue on foot or by using public transportation.
Important note: As an alternative to driving, consider taking public transportation to Gimmelwald. The local trains and buses are reliable, frequent, and offer stunning views along the way.
By Bus
If you prefer traveling by bus, there are several options to get to Gimmelwald, Switzerland.
1. Interlaken to Gimmelwald
You can take a bus from Interlaken to Gimmelwald. From Interlaken Ost or Interlaken West train stations, you can catch a bus to Lauterbrunnen. Once in Lauterbrunnen, you will need to transfer to the Schilthornbahn cable car, which will take you directly to Gimmelwald.
2. Stechelberg to Gimmelwald
Another option is to take a bus from Stechelberg to Gimmelwald. From Lauterbrunnen, you can take a bus or walk to Stechelberg, where you can catch a bus that will take you directly to Gimmelwald.
It is advisable to check the bus schedules beforehand as they can vary depending on the season. Also, keep in mind that during the winter months, some bus routes may be limited or not available, so it’s best to plan accordingly.
Traveling by bus in Switzerland is a convenient and scenic option as you can enjoy the beautiful Swiss countryside during your journey. Make sure to bring some cash for the bus fare, as some buses might not accept credit cards.
Remember to validate your ticket before getting on the bus and hold on to it as ticket inspections are common in Switzerland.
No matter which bus route you choose, once you arrive in Gimmelwald, you will be greeted by breathtaking views of the Swiss Alps and a charming village that will make your visit unforgettable.
By Cable Car
To get to Gimmelwald, you can take a breathtaking cable car ride. The cable car is a convenient and scenic option for reaching the village, nestled high in the Alps.
The cable car route starts from Stechelberg, a small town located in the Lauterbrunnen Valley. You can easily reach Stechelberg by public transport or by car. Once you arrive in Stechelberg, look for the signage that directs you to the cable car station.
The cable car runs regularly throughout the year, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys as you ascend. It is advisable to double-check the schedule beforehand to ensure you catch the appropriate departure time.
As you board the cable car, marvel at the panoramic views that unfold before you. Don’t forget to bring your camera for some incredible photo opportunities! During the approximately 15-minute ride, you can experience the beauty of the Swiss Alps, with vast expanses of green meadows and majestic peaks.
Arriving in Gimmelwald, you’ll be greeted by the peaceful charm of this alpine village. The cable car station is conveniently located near the center of the village, making it easy to explore the area on foot.
Overall, taking the cable car to Gimmelwald is a memorable way to arrive at this picturesque Swiss village, providing you with unforgettable views and a sense of adventure.
On Foot
If you enjoy walking and have some extra time, one of the most picturesque and rewarding ways to get to Gimmelwald is by foot. There are several beautiful hiking trails that lead to the village, allowing you to immerse yourself in the stunning Swiss landscape along the way.
One popular option is the North Face Trail, which starts in the village of Stechelberg. The trail takes you through lush green meadows, enchanting forests, and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. The hike takes about 2-3 hours, depending on your pace, and is considered moderate in difficulty.
Another option is the Allmendhubel Hiking Trail, which starts in Mürren. This trail is known for its remarkable views of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau mountains. Along the way, you’ll also pass by charming alpine farms and flower-filled meadows. The hike takes approximately 1.5-2 hours and is considered easy to moderate in difficulty.
Tips for Hiking to Gimmelwald
If you choose to hike to Gimmelwald, here are a few tips to help make your journey more enjoyable:
- Wear comfortable shoes: Make sure to wear sturdy and comfortable hiking shoes or boots.
- Bring plenty of water: It’s essential to stay hydrated, especially during longer hikes.
- Check the weather: Before setting out, check the weather forecast and be prepared for any changes in conditions.
- Pack a snack: Having a small snack, such as energy bars or trail mix, can help keep your energy levels up during the hike.
Walking to Gimmelwald not only allows you to experience the beauty of the Swiss Alps up close but also provides a sense of accomplishment as you reach your destination.
Note: Make sure to respect any trail rules and regulations, and always practice Leave No Trace principles by disposing of waste properly and staying on designated paths.
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