Grindelwald
Grindelwald in Switzerland is perfectly positioned for maximum beauty as it’s surrounded by stunning peaks such as the Eiger and the Wetterhorn. It may only be a village, but there is plenty going on for skiers and non-skiers alike.
Top Things to Do
Skiing – The Grindelwald ski area has a good range of piste difficulties with 16 Blue, 24 Red and 15 Black runs. The season usually runs from mid November to mid April, and some ski runs have snow cannons. There is also good provision for snowboarders, including a terrain park with kickers, rails and boxes and a half pipe.
As well as its own ski area, Grindelwald is part of the Jungfrau Region ski area and so, with the right ski lift pass, you can ski in the other resorts, Lauterbrunnen, Mürren and Wengen, which offer an additional 81 pistes.
Indoor Rope Park – This is the largest indoor rope park in Europe and it welcomes both young and old, in any weather. It is suspended above an ice hockey rink and includes platforms, ziplines and nets.There are five different routes ranging from easy to very challenging, so all abilities are catered for and staff are on hand to help instruct you (all necessary equipment is provided).
From the February to the mid March, it is open from Wednesday to Sunday, 1.30pm to 7pm. And from mid June to mid September, it is open from Wednesday to Sunday, 12.00 to 7pm. However, if you are a group of six or more they are happy to open at anytime if you get in touch.
Grindelwald Museum – This museum explores how the village has grown from its agricultural roots to the ski resort and mountaineering centre it has become. There are also exhibits about climbing the Eiger including video footage of climbers talking about their treks up the mountain.
Most of the exhibits and labels are in German, however, you can borrow a tablet with an audio guide in English for free. The entrance fee is CHF 2 for a child or CHF 7 for an adult. It is recommended to give yourself 1-2 hours to look around at everything the museum has to offer.
Other attractions include: The Jungfrau railway which takes you to the highest railway station in Europe at 3,454m and Bachalpsee Lake, a beautiful, picturesque lake, but it’s a bit of a hike to get there.
A Place to Stay
Romantik Hotel Schweizerhof – This five star hotel is only 100 yards from the train station and all cable cars are just 5 minutes away if you use the hotel’s ski bus. Panoramic views of the Eiger mountain can be seen from the hotel and the spa has a range of treatments and facilities including: a steam bath, Finnish sauna and indoor pool.
Hotel Schweizerhof also offers three restaurants, a hotel bar and a garden/terrace area. The restaurant “Schmitte” is included in the Michelin Guide with 3 forks and offers a unique combination of International, Swiss and alpine cuisine.
A Place to Eat
Restaurant Français – This restaurant is part of the Hotel Belvedere and is a member of the French Gourmet Association. They are able to cater for dietary requirements, including gluten or lactose intolerance, if you tell them ahead of time.
Also, in addition to their seasonal menu they have ‘gastronomic highlights’ on different days of the week, including steak tartare night on Friday where, on request, a fresh steak tartare will be prepared for you at your table.
Menus and the wine list can be found on their website as well as opening hours and the ability to book online.