Grindelwald is a quintessential Swiss village renowned for its enchanting winter ambiance and breathtaking mountain vistas. As a key part of the eminent Jungfrau ski region, Grindelwald offers a versatile skiing experience catering to everyone. Alongside its impeccable skiing terrain, the resort's rich traditional charm and array of winter activities make it a coveted destination for both skiers and nature lovers.
As one of the most charming Swiss ski resorts, Grindelwald provides a perfect blend of skiing and natural beauty. Here's a practical guide we've put together just for you, filled with insider tips and essential info to help you plan the perfect Grindelwald ski holiday. You'll discover everything you need to know, from its location to its ski areas, snow history, and the best places to grab a bite or relax after skiing. At the end, we've also included the resort map, plus some handy contact numbers and links.
Let's get started!
Grindelwald, Switzerland - overview
- Where is Grindelwald?
- Grindelwald the resort
- Grindelwald ski area
- Skiing in Grindelwald
- Mayrhofen ski season dates
- Grindelwald snow history
- Restaurants in Grindelwald
- Things to do in Grindelwald
- Grindelwald apres ski, and nightlife
- Grindelwald resort map
- Practical information
Where is Grindelwald?
Grindelwald is a village situated in the Bernese Oberland region of the canton of Bern.
For a detailed view of Grindelwald's location, you can explore it on Google Maps.
Nearest airport
Transfer time
- Sion airport (2hr 23 min)
Grindelwald the resort
- Resort altitude: 1050 m
- Resort permanent residents: 3756
The charm of Grindelwald is further accentuated by its authentic alpine ambiance, characterized by timber chalets and family-run hotels. The village, renowned for its glacier canyon and breathtaking scenery, offers a blend of adventure and relaxation. With activities ranging from skiing to hiking and enjoying local gastronomy, Grindelwald balances an active lifestyle with moments of tranquility. It's a place where the traditional meets the modern, ensuring you a memorable experience, whether you seek adrenaline-filled activities or a peaceful retreat in nature. With an efficient transportation network, encompassing mountain trains, buses, and cable-cars, the resort provides seamless access to the extensive Jungfrau skiing region, including Grindelwald-First, Grindelwald-Wengen, and Mürren-Schilthorn.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|
| One of the world’s most beautiful mountain scenery | Trains heading up to Kleine Scheidegg can get busy |
| High-quality mountain restaurants | Possibly lengthy lift connections |
| Huge diversity of non-skiing activities | Piste trails descending to Grindelwald can get icy |
| Exceptional off-piste powder | During mid-winter Grindelwald spends much of the day in shade |
Here is how Grindelwald looks like
Watch Grindelwald on YouTube .
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Grindelwald ski area
- Summit elevation: 2844 m
- Kilometres of pistes: 269 km
- Vertical drop: 2034 m
- Ski lifts: 56
Grindelwald, as part of the
Jungfrau ski region alongside Grindelwald-Wengen, Grindelwald-First and Mürren-Schilthorn, offers an extensive skiing experience with over 265 km of pistes in the combined area. Grindelwald itself boasts 213 km of skiable terrain, spread across 55 pistes (16 blues, 24 reds, 15 blacks), and served by 20 lifts. Grindelwald's main skiing sectors, include:
- First: This sector, with its 50 km of piste and eight lifts, boasts some of the area's best skiing and superb views. It includes high points like the 2,170 m First and 2,486 m Oberjoch, offering a mix of challenging black runs and scenic reds, winding down to the village.
- Kleine Scheidegg and Mannlichen: The largest single area with 100 km of piste and 22 lifts, it lies directly below the Eiger and includes the famous Lauberhorn, with a high point of 2,473 m. The majority of its expansive, relatively easy red runs are on the Grindelwald side, offering gentle ski routes and magnificent scenery.
- Murren: Though a trek to access from Grindelwald, Murren’s skiing is a worthwhile excursion for variety, covered by the ‘Sportpass Jungfrau’. The journey involves trains, roads, and cable cars, with options to ski from Wengen. Murren offers a different skiing experience, making it an appealing day trip for those staying in Grindelwald and looking to explore the broader Jungfrau region.
Skiing in Grindelwald
Beginners
The Bodmi Arena beginner area, located just above Grindelwald’s town centre, is a fantastic starting point. As your confidence builds, advance to the slow slope at Mӓnnlichen. The picturesque gentle blues at Kleine Scheidegg, running alongside the iconic cog railway, offer breathtaking views, ensuring every run is a delightful experience.
Intermediates
Intermediate skiers can ascend to Kleine Scheidegg to explore long runs weaving through serene alpine forests. Oberjoch presents an array of blues and reds, with the majestic Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau peaks accompanying you on your descent.
Advanced
The renowned Lauberhorn World Cup downhill piste beckons those seeking an adrenaline rush, as does the challenging Black Rock run commencing at the Eigergletscher station. For those looking to further test their skills, the infamous black Kanonenrohr run in Mürren awaits.
Off-piste skiing
Off-piste enthusiasts can embark on the White Hare adventure at the base of the Eiger, guaranteeing challenging terrain. For a slightly tamer experience, two ungroomed routes are available - one beneath the Lauberhorn chair and another leading to Wengernalp.
Snowboarding
Grindelwald's White Elements snow park is a freestyler's dream with its half-pipe, rails, wall rides, and grand kickers. Oberjoch's park is more beginner-friendly, boasting kickers, rails, and boxes tailored for newcomers.
Grindelwald ski season dates
The ski season in Grindelwald for 2024/25 is expected to start on December 7th and run until April 20th. Obviously, opening and closing dates may vary slightly depending on snow conditions. If you're planning a ski holiday to Grindelwald this season, be sure to explore our Grindelwald ski deals for the best ski offers available.
Grindelwald snow history
Grindelwald offers optimal snow conditions from December through April, each month presenting unique opportunities for skiers. December and January consistently bring about 26 cm and 31 cm of snow respectively, dispersed across roughly 3.2 days each week, ensuring regular fresh snow. February's snowfall slightly decreases to 27 cm but it occurs more frequently, averaging 3.6 days per week. The pinnacle of snowfall arrives in the second week of January, traditionally the snowiest week in Grindelwald, with an impressive 45 cm of snow over 3.6 days, making it a paradise for those who cherish Bluebird Powder Days—when sunshine and light winds follow fresh snowfall. The season stretches into April with enjoyable conditions, accumulating 19 cm of snow over 2.3 days.
| Month | Snow amount (week) | Snow days (week) |
|---|
| December | 26 cm | 3.1 days |
| January | 31 cm | 3.4 days |
| February | 27 cm | 3.6 days |
| March | 26 cm | 3.3 days |
| April | 19 cm | 2.3 days |
(Ref: snow-forecast.com)
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Restaurants in Grindelwald
Mountain restaurants
- Berggasthaus First: Nestled high in the mountains, Berggasthaus First offers breathtaking panoramic views alongside a menu filled with hearty alpine specialties.
- Petit Glacier Restaurant: A serene spot that combines the beauty of snow-covered landscapes with delicious Swiss delicacies.
- Bergrestaurant Brandegg: A retreat for those exploring the slopes, offering both sumptuous meals and stunning vistas of the surrounding mountain range.
- First Lodge: Situated at a strategic location, First Lodge is known for its rejuvenating beverages and mouth-watering local dishes.
Resort restaurants
- Belvedere Restaurant: Part of the prestigious Belvedere hotel, this restaurant promises a fine dining experience, merging international cuisine with local flavors.
- C und M Café Bar Restaurant: A blend of a cozy café, vibrant bar, and elegant restaurant.
- Hotel Restaurant Alpenblick: Located within the Alpenblick Hotel, this restaurant showcases the essence of Swiss gastronomy.
- Restaurant Gaststübli: A quaint and traditional spot, Gaststübli exudes the charm of Grindelwald with its wooden interiors and a menu that pays homage to Swiss culinary traditions.
- Restaurant Aspen: Embodying sophistication, this restaurant offers a fusion of global flavors served amidst chic and modern interiors.
Things to do in Grindelwald
- Winter hiking
- Sledging
- Cross-country skiing
- Ice skating
- Curling
- Journey up to the Jungfraujoch
Grindelwald apres ski and nightlife
Après ski bars
- The Bus Stop Bar: A favorite rendezvous among locals.
- Bistro Memory: A cozy haven, it serves a mix of warm beverages and cocktails.
- Avocado Bar: Known for its refreshing drinks and lively ambiance.
- Skilehrer Bar: With its rustic charm, this bar is the go-to place for ski instructors and those wanting to mingle with the local ski community.
- Espresso Bar: As the name suggests, it's not just about the cocktails; skiers can refuel with a shot of caffeine before diving into the evening.
- Weidlibar: A charming spot with a sun terrace.
Nightclubs
- Mescalero Club: A hotspot for night owls, Mescalero pulsates with energy, offering a mix of music, dance, and signature cocktails.
- Platinum Club: Epitomizing luxury nightlife, this nightclub promises a night of glamour, groovy beats, and elite crowds.
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Grindelwald resort map
Download Grindelwald resort map here
- Tourist office website: Grindelwald
- Tourist office phone: +0041. 33 8541212
- For visa & passport travel advice, visit here
