Katie and Pierce
Nestled in the heart of Switzerland’s Bernese Alps, Lauterbrunnen Valley stands as one of the world’s most breathtaking landscapes. From dramatic waterfalls to snow-capped peaks, this guide will take you through the most incredible spots to experience its natural splendor.
1. Wengen
Perched above the valley floor, the car-free village of Wengen offers some of the most spectacular views you’ll find anywhere in Switzerland. Traditional Swiss chalets dot the landscape, creating a perfect foreground for the dramatic valley views beyond. The absence of cars adds to the peaceful atmosphere, letting you focus entirely on the natural beauty surrounding you.
From the Evangelical Reformed Church viewpoint, you can capture perfect photos of the valley, complete with cascading waterfalls and the iconic trio of peaks: Jungfrau, Eiger, and Mönch. The village serves as an ideal base for exploration in any season, offering lush green meadows in summer and pristine snow-covered vistas in winter. The train ride up from Lauterbrunnen adds to the experience, giving you stunning views before you even arrive.
2. Staubbachfall Viewpoint
The Staubbachfall Viewpoint showcases one of Europe’s most impressive natural spectacles. Here, you can witness the mighty Staubbach Falls plunging 297 meters down the valley’s sheer cliff face. On sunny days, the waterfall creates an enchanting display as rainbows dance through the mist, offering photographers endless opportunities for stunning shots.
The viewpoint features well-maintained walking paths and comfortable benches, making it accessible for everyone. Visit during the golden hours early morning or late afternoon when the sunlight transforms the cascading water into a magical display. The sound of rushing water and the cool mist in the air create an immersive experience that goes beyond just the visual spectacle.
3. Männlichen
Reaching Männlichen is an adventure in itself, with cable cars whisking you up to a viewpoint that feels like it’s on top of the world. The Royal Walk leads to a crown-shaped viewing platform that delivers precisely what it promises: a royal perspective of the surrounding Alps. The 360-degree panorama includes some of Switzerland’s most famous peaks, while the Lauterbrunnen Valley stretches out below like a perfect postcard.
Families will particularly appreciate the Alpine Herdsman Playground, which lets children explore while parents soak in the views. The Panorama Trail to Kleine Scheidegg offers an excellent opportunity to experience these views from different angles. Whether you visit in summer for hiking or winter for skiing, Männlichen provides an accessible yet unforgettable mountain experience.
4. Schilthorn
Standing proudly at 2,970 meters, Schilthorn takes mountain views to another level entirely. From its summit, you can spot over 200 alpine peaks stretching into the distance. On clear days, your gaze can reach as far as Mont Blanc and Germany’s Black Forest. The Piz Gloria revolving restaurant adds a unique twist to the experience, letting you enjoy a 360-degree panorama while dining.
Movie buffs will recognize this location from “On Her Majesty’s Secret Service,” and the Bond World exhibition celebrates this cinematic connection. For thrill-seekers, the suspension bridge Thrill Walk provides an adrenaline rush while offering incredible views. The journey up via cable car is an experience in itself, showcasing the changing landscape as you ascend through different alpine zones.
5. Tanzbodeli & Obersteinberg
Known locally as “the dance floor,” Tanzbodeli rewards determined hikers with some of the most spectacular 360-degree views in the region. The grassy plateau serves as a natural viewing platform for both the Lauterbrunnen and Sefinen Valleys, with the impressive Schmadribachfall waterfall adding to the drama.
Nearby Obersteinberg, with its historic 1880s hotel, provides a perfect rest stop and its own set of impressive views. While the hike up is challenging, requiring good fitness and some scrambling skills, the combination of glacial views, alpine meadows, and pristine mountain scenery makes every step worthwhile.
6. Hunneflue
Just a leisurely 35-minute walk from Wengen, Hunneflue proves that you don’t need to be a mountaineer to experience fantastic views. Situated at 1,363 meters, this accessible viewpoint offers clear views of the valley’s lush meadows, dramatic cliffs, and snow-capped peaks. The 600-meter drop from the balustrade adds an exciting element to your photos without being overwhelming.
From here, you can spot multiple valleys, including the Lütschental, and see all the way to Interlaken. The gentle trail makes it perfect for families and casual hikers who want to experience the majesty of the Alps without a strenuous climb.
7. Leiterhorn
For those seeking a more secluded experience, Leiterhorn offers the perfect escape. This lesser-known viewpoint provides peaceful panoramas of the entire valley, complete with its signature waterfalls and the distinctive pyramid shape of Silberhorn peak. The moderate trail from Wengen winds through charming woodland and alpine meadows, offering tantalizing glimpses of the views to come.
The quieter atmosphere here lets you fully appreciate the natural beauty without the crowds found at more popular spots. It’s an ideal location for photographers looking to capture unique angles of the valley or anyone wanting to experience the tranquility of the Alps in relative solitude.
Each of these viewpoints offers its own unique perspective on Lauterbrunnen’s natural wonders, whether you’re seeking adventure, family fun, or peaceful contemplation. By visiting several of these locations, you’ll gain a complete appreciation of why this valley is considered one of Switzerland’s most precious natural treasures.
