If you want to leave the crowds of Lauterbrunnen behind there are other perfect options.

visit Lauterbrunnen in Switzerland but stay in villages nearby

Why stay near Lauterbrunnen

When planning to visit Lauterbrunnen, there are so many wonderful, beautiful, and awesome places to choose from.  However, it can be a daunting task to get affordable accommodation, as it is such a famous travel destination.  So I thought I’d give you a bit of info on the villages near Lauterbrunnen.  Wonderful places to stay when you want to visit Lauterbrunnen but try to escape the crowds.  As Lauterbrunnen is often the most popular place to visit, people might miss out on the beautiful villages near the magnificent Lauterbrunnen waterfalls.

Alternative Stay:

  • Wengen: A charming car-free village with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
    Mürren: Another car-free village perched on the cliffs, offering a peaceful and idyllic atmosphere.
    Gimmelwald: A smaller and quieter village with spectacular mountain views.

Lauterbrunnen in Switzerland is only about 3 minutes (1.3 km) away from Wengen, 24 minutes from Gimmelwald, and about 40 minutes from Murren.  Should you decide to stay in any of these villages, there are various options for getting to Lauterbrunnen.

Hiking from Wengen to Lauterbrunnen

Can you walk from Wengen to Lauterbrunnen?

The 5 hr 28 min (19.5 km) hike via the Eiger Ultra Trail connects Wengen to Lauterbrunnen.  If you are a nature lover, this is the perfect hike to go on.

Embarking on the Eiger Ultra Trail from Wengen to Lauterbrunnen is an exhilarating adventure for hiking enthusiasts seeking unparalleled alpine scenery.

Beginning in the car-free village of Wengen, perched on a plateau with panoramic views, the trail gradually descends, offering breathtaking vistas of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau peaks. As you traverse the Eiger Ultra Trail, be prepared for diverse landscapes, including lush meadows, and rocky paths. The trail meanders through the heart of the Swiss Alps, providing a unique perspective of the iconic landscapes.

Along the way, hikers will encounter cascading waterfalls, such as the Staubbach Falls, adding a touch of enchantment to the journey.

The path is well-marked, but it’s advisable to carry sufficient water, snacks, and weather-appropriate gear.

As you approach Lauterbrunnen, the awe-inspiring valley and its 72 waterfalls come into view, creating a captivating finale to this remarkable trek. This trail offers a physical challenge and an immersive experience in the natural beauty of the Bernese Oberland.  You don’t have to be super fit to do this hike.

alternatives beautiful villages near Lauterbrunnen in Switzerland escape the crowds save on accommodation

What does the Lauterbrunnen Valley offer?

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:

  • The Lauterbrunnen valley is known for its 72 waterfalls, with the most famous one being the Staubbach Falls. These cascading falls create a dramatic backdrop against the lush green landscape.

Here are some highlights of what the Lauterbrunnen Valley has to offer during the winter months:

  • Skiing and Snowboarding:   The nearby villages of Wengen and Mürren have well-groomed slopes suitable for both beginners and experienced winter sports enthusiasts.
  • Winter Hiking and Snowshoeing
  • Ice Climbing
  • Culinary Delights:  Warm up with a cup of hot chocolate or indulge in traditional fondue after a day of winter activities.
  • Christmas Markets
  • Snow-Capped Waterfalls:  The waterfalls, including the iconic Staubbach Falls, often freeze in winter, creating stunning ice formations. It’s a unique sight to witness these frozen cascades against the snowy backdrop.

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.

     

Photo-opportunities

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.

Things to do

  • Let’s have a look at a few beautiful places you have to visit while you’re in the valley:
    • Staubbach Falls:

      • Capture the iconic Staubbach Falls, one of the highest free-falling waterfalls in Switzerland. The view from the valley floor or from the walking path provides a mesmerizing perspective.
    • Trümmelbach Falls:

      • Explore the inside of the mountain at Trümmelbach Falls and capture the dynamic waterfalls within the rock. The interplay of light and water creates a unique and captivating photo opportunity.
    • Wengen Village:

      • Climb to the higher points in Wengen to capture panoramic shots of the village with the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau peaks in the background. The alpine architecture and snow-covered landscapes add to the charm.
    • Mürren:

      • Visit Mürren and capture the village perched on the cliffs with the majestic mountains as a backdrop. The view from the Allmendhubel viewpoint is particularly breathtaking.
    • Lauterbrunnen Village:

      • Wander through the village of Lauterbrunnen and capture the traditional Swiss chalets against the backdrop of the surrounding mountains. The church and charming streets make for picturesque scenes.
    • Männlichen:

      • Take the cable car to Männlichen and capture panoramic views of the Lauterbrunnen Valley, with the Schreckhorn and Wetterhorn peaks in the distance. In winter, the snow-covered landscapes enhance the beauty.  Männlichen stands majestically at an elevation of 2,343 meters in the Swiss Alps, nestled within the Canton of Berne. Accessible from Wengen via the Wengen–Männlichen aerial cableway or from the recently inaugurated Grindelwald Terminal station through the Grindelwald–Männlichen gondola cableway, this mountain offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes. The journey culminates with a picturesque 15-minute walk to the summit, where visitors are treated to breathtaking vistas of the Swiss Alpine beauty.
    • Gimmelwald:
        • Explore the charming village of Gimmelwald and capture the rustic beauty of wooden chalets surrounded by snowy peaks. The village provides a more intimate and authentic alpine experience.
    • Jungfraujoch:

      • Capture the awe-inspiring views from the “Top of Europe.” The Sphinx Observatory and the Aletsch Glacier provide unique and dramatic scenes that are perfect for photography.
    • Lauterbrunnen Valley Viewpoint:

      • Hike or take a cable car to viewpoints like Grütschalp or Wengernalp for stunning panoramic shots of the entire Lauterbrunnen Valley.
Stay in Wengen as an alternative to Lauterbrunnen which can be expensive

The Lauterbrunnen Village is beautiful and surely it is the ultimate bucket list destination.

Family Holiday Destination

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, Lauterbrunnen provides a memorable and enchanting getaway for families seeking both adventure and relaxation.

 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 Mürren, these villages cater to a range of family-friendly activities in a picturesque setting.

Mürren:

  • Allmendhubel Playground: Mürren features the Allmendhubel Playground, where kids can play in one of the coolest playparks in the Alps with views of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau. It adds an extra element of fun to the alpine experience.

Gimmelwald:

  • Nature Exploration: Gimmelwald, surrounded by nature, is perfect for kids to explore the outdoors. Whether it’s a family hike or a nature walk, children can discover the beauty of the Swiss Alps.

Wengen:

  • Mini Golf at Wengen-Mini Golf: Wengen offers a delightful mini-golf course that provides entertainment for kids and families. It’s a fun outdoor activity with beautiful mountain views.

Where to stay

Wengen @ Arenas Resort Victoria-Lauberhorn

Nearby ski lifts:
  • Wengen-Mannlichen – 200 m
  • Wengiboden – 250 m
  • Figeller – 250 m
  • Ski Lift Wengen – Mannlichen – 400 m
  • Lauterbrunnen – Grütschalp – 1.3 km
  • Innerwengen – 1.3 km

Stay in Wengen with a view on Lauterbrunnen

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.

Travel Tip(s)

Roll your clothes instead of folding them to save space in your luggage. It also prevents wrinkles (especially when you don’t have a travel-size steamer) and it’s easier to find specific items.

Use leak-proof sleeves for your toiletries to prevent spills in your luggage. Keep things tidy and hassle-free!

Mürren @ Hotel Alpina

The family-run Hotel Alpina right in the heart of the car-free resort of Mürren offers you a unique location and spectacular views over the Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau mountains. The Swiss-style rooms are pleasantly and comfortably furnished. Most rooms also offer spectacular views of the mountains and the Lauterbrunnen Valley.

Gimmelwald @ Eagle’s Nest

Nearby ski lifts:
  • Ski Lift Grindelwald Grund-Holenstein – 550 m
  • Grindelwald – Grund – Kleine Scheideggbahn Cog Train – 1.2 km

Set in Grindelwald and only 1.8 km from Grindelwald Terminal, Eagle’s Nest offers accommodation with mountain views, free WiFi and free private parking. It is situated 2.1 km from First and provides a shared kitchen. The property is non-smoking and is located 38 km from Giessbachfälle. The apartment includes 3 bedrooms, a fully equipped kitchen with a dishwasher and an oven, as well as a kettle.

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