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If you’re planning a trip to the Bernese Oberland in Switzerland, the Grindelwald Gondola Ride to Mount First offers an accessible yet breathtaking way to experience the region’s stunning alpine scenery. This experience combines a scenic 25-minute gondola ascent, an exhilarating cliff walk, and the chance to hike to the picturesque Bachalpsee. Priced at $88 per person, it’s a solid value for those seeking a blend of easy access to mountain vistas and memorable photo opportunities.
What makes this tour particularly appealing is the First Cliff Walk Suspension Bridge—a modern marvel that offers thrilling views and a sense of adventure without requiring any technical skill. Plus, the chance to hike to Bachalpsee, often called one of the most beautiful lakes in the Alps, adds a peaceful, nature-immersive element to the trip. However, the gondola itself is quite old-fashioned, which is a small consideration for travelers used to modern lifts.
This experience suits travelers who enjoy stunning scenery, light adventure, and flexible planning. Whether you’re visiting Switzerland for a day trip or just want to add a memorable mountain excursion to your itinerary, the Mount First ride offers a balanced mix of excitement and serenity.
Key Points
- Scenic 25-minute gondola ride with spectacular mountain views.
- Access to the First Cliff Walk Suspension Bridge, a must-see for thrill-seekers and photographers.
- The opportunity to hike to Bachalpsee, one of the most beautiful lakes in the Alps.
- Flexible start times and easy check-in make it a convenient option.
- The experience is well-rated, with a 4.6/5 from hundreds of reviews.
- Additional activities, like mountain biking or flying tours, are available but sold separately.
An In-Depth Look at the Grindelwald Gondola Experience
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How the Tour Works: From Valley to Mountain Top
Starting at the Cableway Station in Grindelwald, you can hop onto the gondola at any time, making it flexible to fit your schedule. The ride lasts roughly 25 minutes and takes you from the picturesque village of Grindelwald up to the top of Mount First. As you ascend, you’ll be treated to increasingly impressive views of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau peaks—a real highlight for mountain lovers.
Many travelers note that the gondola ride itself is smooth and scenic. Even on rainy or foggy days, reviews mention that the ride remains pleasant, with some even appreciating the atmosphere when weather isn’t perfect. One reviewer, Tara, said, “Even with the rain and fog, the gondola ran smoothly and we still managed a great hike and saw some lovely views.”
First Cliff Walk Suspension Bridge: A Modern Marvel
Once at the top, the First Cliff Walk Suspension Bridge is the main draw. This walkway, which extends out from the mountain face, offers an adrenaline-pumping yet safe way to experience the sheer scale of the Alps. Reviewers consistently mention that the bridge is wide enough for two people and feels very secure, with enclosed sides that prevent swaying—making it accessible even for those wary of heights.
Veronica called it “the best way to end my visit to Interlaken,” highlighting how memorable this feature is. Several reviewers say it’s not scary, just breathtaking, with “unforgettable” views from the lookout points. The bridge provides a perfect spot for photos—be prepared to wait a few minutes as many visitors are snapping pictures from every angle.
The Mountain Top: Food, Shopping, and Photo Spots
At the summit, there’s a restaurant, a souvenir shop, and plenty of vantage points to capture the panoramic vistas. The restaurant offers a chance to relax after the walk or hike, and some reviewers have enjoyed a cold drink or local Swiss fare while taking in the scenery.
More Great Tours NearbyAdventure Activities (Sold Separately)
While the ticket covers just the gondola and Cliff Walk, there are additional adventure options you can book at the top. Reviewers mention activities like First Flyer, Mountain Cart, First Glider, and Scooter Bike—all of which might require advance booking to avoid long waits. These options add to the fun but are not included in the base price.
You might also want to explore these Grindelwald activities
Hiking to Bachalpsee: A Must-Do
One of the tour’s most praised features is the hike to Bachalpsee, a mountain lake renowned for its stunning reflections of the surrounding peaks. The trail is accessible from the top station and offers a peaceful escape into nature. Several reviews describe it as “the most beautiful lake in the Alps,” with lush meadows and snow-capped mountains framing the scene.
Reviewer Nicole shared, “We even got to play in the snow in April,” emphasizing how accessible and fun the hike can be, even in shoulder seasons. The walk is moderate and suitable for most hikers, making it an ideal addition if you have a bit of extra time and energy.
Practical Details: What to Know Before You Go
Ticketing and Pricing
At $88 per person, this experience is generally seen as good value. The ticket includes round-trip cable car access and the Cliff Walk. According to reviews, pre-booking is highly recommended to skip queues—especially during peak seasons—since waiting times can be up to 20 minutes for the gondola if you buy tickets on-site.
Meeting Point & Duration
Your starting point is the Cableway Station at Grindelwald, located conveniently in the village center. The activity is valid for one day, allowing flexibility to start when you prefer. Many travelers spend about 2-3 hours at the mountain top, enough time to enjoy the walk, lunch, and some photos.
Weather & Accessibility
Weather can impact visibility and overall experience. Several reviewers mention that clouds or rain can limit views, but the ride and walk still remain enjoyable. The gondola rides are described as “smooth,” though the gondola cabins appear quite old-fashioned, which might be less comfortable for some.
What’s Not Included
Remember, the adventure activities such as the First Flyer or Mountain Cart are sold separately. Also, food and drinks are not included, so consider bringing snacks or planning to dine at the summit restaurant.
Authentic Experiences and Tips from Reviewers
Many travelers praised the knowledgeable guides and friendly staff, noting that everything was well-organized and easy to navigate. Alicia shared that “the staff was very helpful,” and others appreciated the small group sizes that make the experience more intimate.
Even when weather was less than ideal, reviewers still raved about the stunning views and well-maintained walkways. One reviewer, Lyn, mentioned, “Even though it was foggy, we loved every minute,” demonstrating how the experience is worth it regardless of weather conditions.
A key theme across reviews was value for money: many felt that the breathtaking views, the thrill of the cliff walk, and the hike to Bachalpsee justified the cost, especially if booked in advance.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This experience is perfect for families, couples, and solo travelers who want an easy, scenic adventure with a few fun thrills. It’s suitable for those with moderate hiking ability and anyone eager to enjoy Switzerland’s iconic mountain vistas without extensive trekking or expensive gear.
If you’re a photographer, the lookout points, bridge, and lake offer endless opportunities. For adventure lovers, the optional activities at the top provide extra fun, but even without them, the views and walkways are spectacular enough.
Travelers on a flexible schedule will appreciate the easy check-in and short ascent, making this a manageable yet memorable addition to any Swiss itinerary.
The Sum Up
The Grindelwald Gondola Ride to Mount First offers a rounded, scenic experience that combines breathtaking mountain vistas, an exciting cliff walk, and a serene hike. The price of $88 is reasonable given the stunning views, especially if you plan ahead and book tickets in advance. This tour is best suited for those looking for a manageable but impactful mountain adventure—ideal for families, nature lovers, and anyone eager for that iconic Swiss alpine experience.
While the gondola itself might feel a bit aged, the views and activities make it more than worthwhile. Whether you’re capturing perfect photos, hiking to Bachalpsee, or simply taking in the scenery, this experience will likely be a highlight of your Swiss trip.
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Grindelwald Gondola Ride to Mount First
“I loved the experience! For me, it was the best way to end my visit to Interlaken”
FAQs
How long is the gondola ride?
The ride from Grindelwald to Mount First lasts approximately 25 minutes, offering ample time for scenic viewing.
Is the gondola comfortable?
The gondola cabins are described as quite old and tired, but reviews say they run smoothly and are generally comfortable for the short ride.
What’s included in the ticket?
The ticket covers round-trip cable car access and the First Cliff Walk Suspension Bridge. Additional activities like the First Flyer or Mountain Cart are sold separately.
Can I hike to Bachalpsee?
Yes, the hike to Bachalpsee starts from the summit and is known for its stunning scenery. It’s suitable for most hikers.
What is the weather usually like?
Weather can vary—clouds or rain might obscure views, but many travelers still enjoy the ride and walk regardless.
Is there food at the top?
Yes, there is a restaurant at the summit where you can relax and enjoy Swiss cuisine or snacks.
Do I need to pre-book?
Pre-booking is strongly recommended to avoid long queues, especially during peak times.
Are adventure activities available?
Yes, activities like First Flyer, Mountain Cart, and First Glider can be booked at the summit, but they’re not included in the basic ticket.
What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans change.
Who would this experience suit best?
It’s ideal for travelers seeking stunning mountain views with light adventure, suitable for couples, families, or solo explorers wanting a manageable day trip in the Swiss Alps.
This detailed review aims to give you a clear picture of what to expect from the Grindelwald Gondola Ride to Mount First, helping you decide if it’s the right fit for your Swiss adventure.
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