Top 7 things to do in Lauterbrunnen
What to do in the valley of waterfalls
Lauterbrunnen (translated to 'Many Fountains') is one of the most picturesque villages to be seen in Switzerland. Also known as the valley of waterfalls, this small village is home to 72 different falls, secluded valleys and vibrant alpine meadows - it is one of Switzerland's largest nature conservation areas. This small village has a population of just under 3000 people, so if you're keen on visiting places with an under-crowded, relaxed atmosphere, then you need to add this hidden Swiss gem to your bucket list. Here are the top 10 things to do in Lauterbrunnen:
1. Trümmelbach falls
The Trümmelbach Falls are the world's only glacier waterfalls that are underground and to visit them you need to take the lift, galleries, tunnels, paths and platforms. The water of the glaciers from the Jungfrau run down to the valley - up to 20,000 liters of water per second and finish at this stunning waterfall. The water carries with it over 20,000 tons of boulders per year and causes the entire mountain to shudder and make a thundering noise. Have your earmuffs and cameras ready for this once in a lifetime experience.
2. Sulwald Cable Car
This historical cable car has been operating since 1975 and is a crucial part to linking communities together. This red cable car carries passengers to beautiful hiking areas with unreal views of the three mighty peaks of the Bernese Oberland, the Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau. You can explore the Alpine landscape by visiting the quaint Sulseeli lake and the SAC Lobhorn hut, then continue on to the top of the Sulegg (2,413 metres). Other highlights include a monster scooter track (toboggan run in winter) and a trail devoted to nature and folklore. Did you know the cable car is big enough to fit 8 people or 1 cow - MOOve over for the cattle...
3. Staubbach Falls
This could be our favourite waterfall in Lauterbrunnen (there are 72 so that's a bold statement.) Situated in the centre of this small village, Staubbach Falls is almost 300m high and holds the title of the 3rd highest fall in Switzerland. During the summer months, you can climb steps which take you inside the falls for an awesome experience finishing at the rock balcony underneath the Staubbach Falls - just be sure to pack your waterproof clothing as you will get sprayed!
4. Talmuseum
The Talmuseum Lauterbrunnen is located in a former mill from the 16th century. This Valley Museum has various exhibitions such as working in past times, bobbin lace, alpine cuisine, woodworking, alpinism and tourism; as well as a ski collection from when it first started to the modern times. It costs just CHF 5 for entry - so what are you waiting for!
5. Take a hike
There are plenty of hikes to do in Lauterbrunnen, from super challenging climbs to moderate hikes. One of our favourite hikes to do would be the hike from Lauterbrunnen to Trümmelbach to Stechelberg which takes around 2 hours. This is a fairly easy flat walk along the Lauterbrunnen Valley with great views of the waterfalls. There are many restaurants and pubs along the way to fuel your journey and if you do get tired by the end of it, there is a bus which costs roughly CHF 5 one way to take you back to Lauterbrunnen.
6. Try the local Swiss Food
Who doesn't love to try local cuisine? In Switzerland, they're known for their traditional mountain food usually involving potatoes and cheese. In the summer, the dairy cows are taken up to the Alp where the grass is better and tastier, which then results in tastier produce. Some of the other famous Swiss foods include: Rosti, Raclette, Cordon Bleu, Alpine Mac 'n' Cheese, Cheese Fondue and Chocolate of course! Lauterbrunnen hosts several local restaurants - here are some to keep an eye out for: Hotel Silberhorn, Hotel Oberland, Restaurant Weidstubli and Lauterbrunnen Bakery. Be sure to book if visiting one of these!
7. The Mürrenbachfall
This waterfall stands at a whopping 417 metres high - making it Switzerlands largest waterfall. The best time to visit this fall would be in spring after the snow melts and after thunder storms in summer. Be warned - the hike around these falls can be quite challenging, so make sure you've had a good Swiss breakfast before visiting these falls!
Information about Lauterbrunnen:
Everything you need to know when visiting Lauterbrunnen - some helpful advice for you when visiting this beautiful village.
Shops/ Stores - generally open Monday - Friday 8am-12pm then 2pm-6:30pm, Saturdays until 4pm and Sundays are usually closed. The main supermarket in Lauterbrunnen is Coop.
Tourist Office - there is an office on the main street with information about the region, maps and brochures.
Bike Rental - you can rent a bike or an E-bike at the Imboden Bike Shop.
Bank/ ATM Machine - there are 2 banks in Lauterbrunnen, both with 24 hour ATM machines.
Plug Adapters - Swizterland has its own plug adapter, Switzerland plugs are not the same as EU plugs. These can be found on most online sites.
Church - the church in Lauterbrunnen has Protestant services daily which can be found at the timetable outside the church.
Doctors/Pharmacy - The doctors/pharmacy is in the same location, on the main street of Lauterbrunnen up a set of stairs you will see the office. There is no pharmacy shop however you can ask the doctor for what you need and he will sell it to you from his stock.
Trains - train station hours are 6:30am - 7pm.
Hotels - there are several hotels in Lauterbrunnen which need pre-booking in advance, some of which include; Hotel Steinbock, Hotel Schutzen, Hotel Oberland, and our favourite Hotel Staubbach.
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