This epic ridge hike is one of my all-time favorite hikes in Switzerland. I love the dramatic landscape, super green hillsides covered in wildflowers, and unbelievable views.

If you were considering the infamously dangerous Hardergrat trail that also starts at Brienzer Rothorn, this trail is a much safer alternative with just as spectacular views.

Trail info

This is a one way trail, starting at the top of the Brienzer Rothorn, ending at the Türren-Lungern cable car. It follows the ridge, with a few steep ascents and descents along the way.

Trail: challenging • 11.8km • 6 hours • 330m up, 1060m down
See trail map

It’s a well-built trail, with clear signs, suitable for average hikers. But some sections have steep slopes to one side without a barrier. So best for those with steady footing and comfortable with heights.

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How to get there

The Brienzer Rothorn mountain train leaves from Brienz (Hauptstrasse 149, 3855 Brienz) and takes about 1 hour to reach the top, where the trail starts.

The trail ends at the Turren-Lungern cable car (Wichelstrasse 9, 6078 Lungern). After riding the cable car down, it’s a short walk to the Lungern train station, where you can ride a train back to your starting point.

Tickets

You need to buy two one-way tickets, one for the Brienzer Rothorn railway and one for Turren-Lungern cable car.

It’s best to buy the Brienzer Rothorn ticket in advance as they do sell out. If you take the first train of the day, you get a discount.

If you pay full fare, you’ll pay about CHF 92. But you get a 50% discount with the SBB Half-fare, GA, SBB Day Pass and Swiss Travel Pass. Free with Tell Pass and Berner Oberland Regional Pass.