Via Alpina: Bernese Oberland & The Jungfrau – 8 Days

Your journey begins in Meiringen, a village tucked into the Haslital valley at the foot of the Swiss Alps. It’s a relaxed place to arrive, with enough character to reward an afternoon’s wander before the walking begins. Budget-conscious travellers may want to stock up at the local Co-op before heading into the hills.

Accommodation: 3-star hotel in Meiringen

Begin your day with a scenic bus ride to Rosenlaui, where the rugged beauty of the Alps unfolds before you. Hiking to the idyllic Schwarzwaldalp, you’ll find yourself mesmerised by expanses of lush greenery. The ascent to Grosse Scheidegg rewards you with an awe-inspiring panorama, featuring the majestic trio of Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau. A long descent with a constant view of the north face of the Eiger takes you into the bustling small village of Grindelwald. Alternatively, save your knees and take a bus from Grosse Scheidegg to Grindelwald.

Walk: 7 km / 4 hrs or 15 km / 7 hrs
Elevation: + 615 m / – 30 m or – 920 m
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: 3-star hotel in Grindelwald

Today’s trek leads you up to the renowned Kleine Scheidegg. Mountain viewpoints don’t get much better than today, with more epic views of Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau. Try to wipe the smile from your face as you traverse down the trail to the car-free resort of Wengen and its surreal ambience. Wengen lies on a wind-protected sun terrace at the foot of the Jungfrau, 400 metres above the Lauterbrunnen valley. A stunning side path brings you past the breathtaking Trümmelbach waterfall, an enchanting feature of the Lauterbrunnen valley. Again, there is the option to shorten the walk by taking the cogwheel train up to Alpiglen, or all the way to Kleine Scheidegg.

Walk: 6.5 km / 2.5 hrs or 16 km / 5.5 hrs
Elevation: + 40 m or + 1095 m / – 856 m
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: 3-star hotel in Wengen

An early morning train takes you to Lauterbrunnen, kicking off a day filled with breathtaking views. Ascend by cable car to Mürren as you traverse up the stunning alpine landscapes, potentially blanketed in snow at the Sefinenfurgge pass. Walk up to the pass via Spielbodenalp and Rotstockhütte. There are some flatter sections and some very steep sections. Then descend the 950 metres in altitude to Alp Brügli via wooden steps and gravel path until you reach the familiar hiking trails again. Walk into Griesalp, which is situated in a natural paradise of clear mountain streams and waterfalls, flower-dotted meadows, shady mountain forests and snowcapped peaks.

Walk: 17 km / 6.5 hrs
Elevation: + 995 m / – 1225 m
Meals: Breakfast and Dinner
Accommodation: 3-star hotel in Griesalp / Pochtenalp

Today’s journey is crowned by an ascent to Blüemlisalp, where sweeping vistas at 2,843 meters await. After conquering this spectacular stage, perhaps relish in a delightful meal at the Swiss mountain pasture, Blüemlisalphütte. Following the trail over Hohtürli, marvel at glacier moraines leading down to the tranquil, deep blue Lake Öschinen. Again, rub your eyes in disbelief of the picturesque scenery. Soak your feet in the lake, or purchase a cold drink, before a brief walk brings you to Kandersteg. Alternatively, take the cable car after you’re suitably refreshed.

Walk: 13 km / 5 hrs or 17 km / 6.5 hrs
Elevation: + 1355 m / -1087 m or – 1587 m
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: 3-star hotel in Kandersteg

Start the day with a cable car ascent to Allmenalp. From here, hike up to Bunderspitz where the panoramic viewpoint promises awe-inspiring peaks, including the Eiger, Mönch and  Jungfrau, at every turn. The tranquil descent into the valley leads you to Adelboden. The relaxed holiday resort has a great village atmosphere, ideal for a leisurely afternoon.

Walk: 12 km / 4.5 hrs
Elevation: + 915 m / – 1355 m
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: 3-star hotel in Adelboden

Your final day of hiking takes you from the picturesque village of Adelboden, traversing up a gentle climb towards Hahnenmoospass. Experience the sweeping views and the commanding presence of the Wildstrubel peak as you make your way down into the lush Simmental valley, celebrating your journey through Switzerland’s alpine wonders. Today, there are optional cable car and bus rides, at the start or end of the walk, to shorten the distance and elevation.

Walk: 8 km / 3 hrs or 14 km / 5 hrs
Elevation: + 650 m / – 930 m
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: 3-star hotel in Lenk

As your remarkable journey draws to a close, take the opportunity for a final stroll in the stunning landscape. Your adventure finishes after breakfast today.

Meals: Breakfast