Home - Travel Destinations - Stay in 1 of 3 Beautiful villages – Near Lauterbrunnen in Switzerland
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If you want to leave the crowds of Lauterbrunnen behind, there are other perfect options…
Lauterbrunnen is one of those places that really does stop you in your tracks. The valley is famous for its sheer cliffs, green meadows, and a collection of waterfalls that tumble down the rock faces after rain or snowmelt. It looks exactly like the photos. Because of this, places to stay in Lauterbrunnen itself book out fast and prices can feel steep.
However, the smart move is to stay just outside the valley. The surrounding villages sit higher up, feel calmer, and come with views that are just as memorable—sometimes even better. But you’ll still be near enough for an easy daytrip…
Getting around is easy:
Distances are short and well connected.
Trains, cable cars, and lifts run regularly, so reaching Lauterbrunnen for the day is simple and stress-free.
 Staying in one of these villages lets you enjoy Lauterbrunnen at its best—then retreat to a quieter place with fresh mountain air and unforgettable views at the end of the day.
Lauterbrunnen sits at the bottom of the valley.
Wengen is perched on the eastern side, on a sunny terrace above the valley.
MĂĽrren sits high on the western cliffs, directly overlooking the valley.
Gimmelwald is just below MĂĽrren on the same western side, smaller and more rural.
They all look into the same dramatic valley and share the same waterfalls and mountain views—just from different angles and heights. Trains and cable cars link them closely, so moving between them and Lauterbrunnen is easy and part of the experience.
The Lauterbrunnen valley is certainly one of the most picturesque places in the world, it is no wonder everyone is going photo crazy. However, if you want to impress your Instagram followers, Lauterbrunnen Village is the stop to make for a popular photo spot. And if you love nature photography, you have to stop here.
The 6 km / 2–3 hour hike via the Eiger Ultra Trail connects Wengen to Lauterbrunnen.Â
A marked section of the trail runs between the two villages and is also used outside race days as a scenic hiking route.
The walk is about 6 km and mostly downhill from Wengen to Lauterbrunnen. Most people take 2 to 3 hours, depending on pace and photo stops.
The path passes alpine meadows, forest sections, and open viewpoints looking straight into the Lauterbrunnen Valley, with waterfalls appearing as you descend.
It’s a rewarding hike rather than a hard one, well signposted, and easy to combine with a train ride back up if your legs feel tired at the end.
Wengen is situated on a sunny terrace above the Lauterbrunnen Valley, providing breathtaking panoramic views of the valley below. From Wengen, you can enjoy a picturesque vista that includes Lauterbrunnen village, with its traditional Swiss chalets nestled among the stunning landscapes. The view encompasses the lush green meadows, the cascading Staubbach Falls, and the surrounding mountains, creating a postcard-worthy scene that captures the beauty of the Swiss Alps.
From village paths and hotel balconies, you look straight across to the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau, often with clouds drifting below your feet. It feels calm, scenic, and wonderfully removed from the busy valley floor—perfect if waking up to mountain air and wide-open alpine views matters to you.
The family-run Hotel Alpina right in the heart of the car-free resort of Mürren offers you a unique location and spectacular views. The Swiss-style rooms are pleasantly and comfortably furnished. Most rooms also offer spectacular views of the mountains and the Lauterbrunnen Valley.
Life moves slowly here, nights are silent, and the scenery feels close and personal. It’s ideal if you want simple guesthouses, fewer people, and the feeling of staying in a real Swiss mountain village rather than a busy resort.
Families can explore the valley’s numerous waterfalls, embark on scenic hikes suitable for all ages, and enjoy the magical atmosphere of Swiss alpine villages. With opportunities for skiing, snowshoeing, and family-friendly attractions,Â
 Each of the 3 alternative villages as mentioned above provides a tranquil atmosphere, making them ideal for family relaxation. Whether it’s exploring Wengen’s panoramic viewpoints, immersing in Gimmelwald’s authentic alpine life, or soaking in the breathtaking scenery of MĂĽrren, these villages cater to a range of family-friendly activities in a picturesque setting.
MĂĽrren:
Gimmelwald:
Wengen:
The Lauterbrunnen Valley in Switzerland is a picturesque and enchanting destination that offers a variety of natural wonders and outdoor activities. Here are some highlights of what the Lauterbrunnen Valley has to offer:
Waterfalls:
Here are some highlights of what the Lauterbrunnen Valley has to offer during the winter months:
Summer in the heart of the Swiss Alps:
Scenic Landscapes surrounded by towering cliffs and alpine peaks, with stunning views of iconic mountains, including the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau.
Hiking and Walking Trails: The valley is a paradise for hikers. Popular hikes include the trek to the Trümmelbach Falls or exploring the Schynige Platte.
For adventure enthusiasts, the Lauterbrunnen Valley serves as a gateway to thrilling activities like paragliding, zip-lining, and canyoning, providing an adrenaline-filled experience amid stunning surroundings.
Staubbach Falls:
TrĂĽmmelbach Falls:
Wengen Village:
MĂĽrren:
Lauterbrunnen Village:
Männlichen:
Jungfraujoch:
Lauterbrunnen Valley Viewpoint:
