A Guide to the Lauterbrunnen Valley, Switzerland

The Trummelbach Falls: A system of glacier waterfalls situated in a mountain. You read that correctly: IN a mountain. The falls can be accessed by a “mining” cog train, which will take you up to the main complex, or by hiking up the outside path. There is a small fee for access. This amazing spectacle of nature should top your list of things to see in Lauterbrunnen.

Waterfalls: I would love to just say check out this one or that one, but there are simply too many to pick one over another. As if watering the town, the Staubbach Falls are beautiful and can be seen from almost everywhere in the town of Lauterbrunnen. Mürrenbachfall is near the end of the valley and falls near the Stechelberg lift station (gondola).

Gimmelwald: A mountain town known for breathtaking views and highland cattle used to make cheese. Visit the town and meander through the winding walkways (there really aren’t streets), taking in the beautiful houses and the alpine livestock. The views of the valley below aren’t bad either.

Berner Oberland-Bahn: The Jungfrau railway is a great way to climb the Alps without much effort. This modern cog-wheeled train takes you up through the Berner Oberland, exploring the villages above the Lauterbrunnen Valley. Take the day and see the mountain villages in comfort.

The Eiger, Monch, and Jungfrau Mountains: You can enjoy these peaks from the valley below or take a cable car/gondola up the opposite side for a spectacular view. True adventures hike—more like climb—these monstrous peaks that are snowcapped year-round.

Schilthorn: As if mountain peak views are not a great reason to cable-car/gondola to the peak of the Schilthorn, James Bond fans may have another reason. The revolving restaurant at the summit of the Schilthorn was the setting for On Her Majesty’s Secret Service's skiing scene on the way to Piz Gloria. So, take a ride and experience a little James Bond while having your martini—shaken, not stirred.

Schilthorn – Piz Gloria 360° - Restaurant: Amazing alpine views accompanied by typical regional dishes. You simply must have a martini while taking in the 360-degree views from this awesome restaurant. Not in the mood for a full meal? Grab a snack and coffee while taking in the views. The food is good and the views are stunning.

Gimmelwald Beirgarten: This beirgarten is just off the cable car and a great place to have a bite and enjoy some beir (beer). You get a sense of mountain life and get the opportunity to interact with locals. The mountain fare is delicious—have some of the local cheese.

Trummelbach Café: This is a great place to have some lunch before or after your expedition into the Trümmelbach Falls. The food is good, and the scenery is amazing. You can hear all the waterfalls while you sip your drinks. Stop by the gift shop for a little souvenir to bring home.

Hotel Restaurant Schutzen: Typical Swiss fare—schnitzel and sausage—wonderfully prepared and served with wonderful local beir. The weather while we were here was exceptional, so we enjoyed the patio and soaked up the mountain air while we dined. The sound of the mountains and waterfalls filled the air.