Two of the most iconic day excursions into the Swiss Alps–to Jungfraujoch and the Schilthorn–can easily be done as day tours from Interlaken, Switzerland. These spectacular alpine tours offer breathtaking panoramic views of the Bernese Oberland and great opportunities for hiking, soft-adventure activities, visiting renowned film locations, family fun while visiting ice caves and glacier parks, beautiful locations for fondue lunches, and more.
Jungfraujoch, known as the “Top of Europe,” is perhaps the most famous excursion from Interlaken. Situated between the mountain peaks of Jungfrau and Monch at an elevation of 3,466 meters (11,371 feet), Jungfraujoch is renowned for having the highest railway line in Europe, an engineering feat completed in 1912.
Reaching the summit involves a scenic ascent through the Swiss Alps on a train, cogwheel train and cable car through tunnels and up steep gradients with stunning views of snow-capped peaks, wildflower meadows and traditional mountain villages.
The jaw-dropping beauty of the Lauterbrunnen Valley and its dozens of waterfalls is an iconic site en route from Interlaken to Jungfraujoch.
Upon arrival at Jungfraujoch, travelers ascend to the viewing deck of the Sphinx Observatory via an elevator constructed in the mountain. Perched dramatically on a rocky summit, it’s one of the world’s highest astronomical observatories.
The views from the observation deck of the vast Aletsch Glacier stretching out below alpine peaks are jaw dropping. The longest glacier in the Alps, it’s a highlight of the Swiss Alps Jungfrau-Aletsch UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Activities at Jungfraujoch include visiting the Ice Palace, a series of ice tunnels carved into the glacier in the 1930s and decorated with ice sculptures…
…Lindt Swiss Chocolate Heaven, a chocolate shop, exhibition, and workshop space that offers visitors insight into Swiss chocolatier’s history and chocolate production…
…Alpine Sensation, an exhibit dedicated to the history of Jungfraujoch and soft adventure activities like hiking, skiing, tubing and sledding on the glacier at Snow Fun Park, open in the summer months.
Another iconic day tour from Interlaken is to the Schilthorn, a stunning peak that is perhaps best known for having been a major filming location for On Her Majesty’s Service (1969), the James Bond film starring George Lazenby.
The journey to the Schilthorn includes a private transfer through the stunning Lauterbrunnen Valley followed by a series of thrilling cable car rides from the valley to the summit (9,744 feet/2,970 meters) that offer incredible views of the magnificent scenery.
At the top of the Schilthorn is Piz Gloria, a building with viewing platforms, shops and a revolving restaurant. Piz Gloria stood in for villain Ernst Blofeld’s lair in the movie and is a popular pilgrimage site for Bond fans. The viewing platforms offer spectacular views of the most famous peaks in the Bernese Oberland, the Eiger, Monch and Jungfrau.
James Bond fans can also enjoy the Walk of Fame, a pathway on the ridge of the mountain with signs dedicated to the actors in the film…
…and Spy World, a museum dedicated to the film, offers behind-the-scenes information and interactive exhibits, such as a helicopter simulator flight.
We arrange dining reservations for our travelers at the revolving Piz Gloria Restaurant, which serves regional dishes with panoramic views.
For interested travelers, we recommend having us arrange a cable car transfer to Birg for the adrenaline-inducing Thrill Walk.
The path along the vertical rock massif includes a glass-bottomed walkway, a tightrope walk, and a tunnel crawl.
We always enjoy stopping in the picturesque village of Murren at the foot of the Schilthorn peak on the return journey.
Artisans of Leisure can incorporate private day excursions to both Jungfraujoch and the Schilthorn from Interlaken, as well as additional experiences in the Bernese Oberland region, such as privately guided hikes and scenic walks and visits to picturesque villages like Grindelwald, Murren and Lauterbrunnen. Other options include strolling through a botanical alpine garden, a private visit to a cheese-making facility, meeting with a local family on their farm to learn about Swiss farming culture, meeting a Bernese Mountain Dog breeder, and meeting with local artisans to see traditional Swiss crafts such as woodworking and alphorn making.
Situated between Lakes Brienz and Thun, the resort town of Interlaken is an ideal base for exploring the spectacular natural beauty of the Swiss Alps. We arrange accommodation at the historic Victoria-Jungfrau Grand Hotel & Spa, a luxurious Old-World setting that is perfect for touring the surrounding majestic landscapes.
Contact Artisans of Leisure to begin planning a luxury Switzerland tour featuring Interlaken and private excursions into the surrounding Alps landscapes, including Jungfraujoch and the Schilthorn.
Destinations: Europe, Switzerland
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