Grindelwald

Grindelwald is one of Switzerland’s most scenic and best-loved ski resorts, set at 1,034 m in the Bernese Oberland beneath the mighty Eiger North Face. Together with Wengen, Mürren, and Lauterbrunnen, it forms part of the Jungfrau Ski Region, offering over 200 km of pistes across three areas: Grindelwald–Wengen, Mürren–Schilthorn, and First.

Known for its spectacular scenery, long descents, and traditional alpine charm, Grindelwald blends big skiing with a lively village atmosphere and extensive non-skiing attractions. It is particularly popular with families, intermediates, and international visitors drawn to its iconic mountains — the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau.

Skiing & Snowboarding

The Jungfrau Ski Region caters to a wide range of abilities:

• Beginners: Nursery slopes at Bodmi and First provide excellent areas for learners, supported by good ski schools.
• Intermediates: Grindelwald is a cruiser’s paradise, with long reds and blues from Kleine Scheidegg and Männlichen down towards Grindelwald or Wengen. The views of the Eiger and Jungfrau while skiing are unforgettable.
• Experts: The famous Lauberhorn downhill course (Wengen) is a must, as are the steeper pistes and off-piste routes around Schilthorn. For freeride, the Jungfrau Region offers excellent opportunities with a guide.
• Freestylers: The White Elements Snowpark Grindelwald–First offers lines for all levels, while natural features across the terrain add freestyle appeal.

Snowmaking ensures reliable cover, while altitude up to 2,970 m (Schilthorn) provides solid conditions through the season.

Ski Lift Passes

Grindelwald is included in the Jungfrau Ski Region pass.

• Adult: ~CHF 75/day | ~CHF 370 for 6 days
• Child (6–15): ~50% reduction
• Under 6s: Free

Deals:

• Family discounts available.
• Regional passes also include rail and mountain transport options.

Resort & Infrastructure

Grindelwald has invested heavily in modern infrastructure in recent years:

• The Eiger Express gondola links Grindelwald directly to the Eigergletscher station beneath the Eiger, cutting transfer times dramatically.
• Modern gondolas and chairlifts serve First and Kleine Scheidegg.
• Cog railways remain a charming feature, linking Grindelwald with Wengen and Kleine Scheidegg.

Together with Mürren and Lauterbrunnen, the Jungfrau Region is one of Switzerland’s most scenic and varied ski domains.

Accommodation

Grindelwald has a wide range of lodging, from cosy chalets to luxury spa hotels:

• Budget: Guesthouses, B&Bs, and self-catered apartments.
• Mid-Range: 3★–4★ family hotels such as Hotel Kreuz & Post and Hotel Bernerhof.
• Luxury: High-end stays include Romantik Hotel Schweizerhof, Hotel Aspen, and Eiger Selfness Hotel.

Browse via the Grindelwald accommodation search.

Dining & Après

Mountain restaurants include Berggasthaus First and Brandegg, perfect for rösti, fondue, and hearty Swiss classics. In the village, dining options range from pizzerias to gourmet. Barry’s Restaurant and Restaurant Belvedere are local highlights.

Après-ski is sociable and relaxed rather than rowdy. Avocado Bar and Mescalero Club are popular, while most visitors enjoy long dinners or drinks in cosy hotel lounges.

Non-Skiing Activities

Grindelwald excels for non-skiers, with world-class winter attractions:

• The Jungfraujoch railway to the “Top of Europe” (3,454 m).
• The First Cliff Walk by Tissot suspension bridge.
• Winter hiking and snowshoeing with panoramic trails.
• Sledging runs, including Europe’s longest (15 km from Faulhorn to Grindelwald).
• Ice skating and curling.

Village Character & Access

Grindelwald is a traditional Swiss alpine village with wooden chalets, church steeples, and dramatic peaks rising above. Its size gives it plenty of shops, restaurants, and nightlife options, while still retaining charm.

How to get there from the UK:

• By air: Zurich Airport (2 hrs).
• By train: Scenic rail via Interlaken Ost to Grindelwald (2 hrs 20).
• By car: Around 10 hrs from Calais.

InTheSnow Verdict

Grindelwald offers spectacular scenery, modern lifts, and access to one of Switzerland’s great ski regions. While it doesn’t have the freeride intensity of Engelberg or Andermatt, it excels in variety, family-friendliness, and off-slope activities. For many, skiing beneath the Eiger makes it a true bucket-list destination.

For families, intermediates, and anyone seeking a classic Swiss alpine experience, Grindelwald is a top choice.

If you are looking for the perfect destination for your next trip, our Resort Guide has everything you need to know. You can check out our award-nominated podcast, The Whiteout (finalist at the Travel Media Awards) available on  Apple | Spotify | Podcasts or search The Whiteout on your chosen podcast directory.