The Mürren - Gimmelwald trail is a scenic route in the heart of the Bernese Oberland, Switzerland, connecting two charming villages ,Mürren and Gimmelwald. This easy trail offers stunning views of the Swiss Alps and takes about 1 hour to complete.

🥾Trail Overview:

Trail Conditions: The trail is generally well-maintained, with some gravel and dirt paths. It’s a downhill walk from Mürren to Gimmelwald, making it accessible to all fitness levels, including families with children and beginner hikers.

Distance: Roughly 2.8 km (1.7 miles)

Elevation Change: About 150 metres (500 feet) descent

Duration: 30-45 minutes, depending on pace

Difficulty: Easy, family-friendly

🚡Starting Point:

You can start in Mürren, accessible via a cable car from Stechelberg or by train from Lauterbrunnen.

🗓️Best Time to Hike: Late spring through early fall offers the best trail conditions and clear views. In winter, parts of the trail might be snow-covered, though the walk can still be done if prepared for icy paths.

🌼Views and Scenery:

The trail offers stunning views of some of the Alps' most famous peaks, including the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau. The scenery includes lush meadows, wildflowers in summer, and panoramic alpine landscapes that feel like a true Swiss postcard.

Highlights Along the Trail

🏚️Charming Alpine Villages:

Mürren is a car-free village with traditional Swiss chalets and stunning views, known for its tranquil atmosphere. Gimmelwald, smaller and more rustic, is equally charming and maintains a strong sense of Swiss authenticity.

🌸Alpine Flora and Fauna:

In spring and summer, you’ll find wildflowers, while fall brings vibrant foliage. There’s a chance to spot wildlife, including marmots, birds, and occasionally ibex.

📸Photo Opportunities:

With panoramic mountain views and classic Swiss landscapes, the trail offers numerous spots for photography, particularly of the three iconic peaks.

Cafes and Restaurants in Mürren:

☕️Cafe LIV:

A cosy spot in Mürren known for its fresh pastries, coffee, and light bites. This cafe offers beautiful views and is a favorite for hikers looking to start or end their day with a treat. (Also vegan options)

🏔️Hotel Eiger Restaurant:

Located in the heart of Mürren, this restaurant at the Hotel Eiger serves a mix of Swiss and international cuisine. Their terrace offers excellent mountain views, and it’s a great spot for a hearty meal before or after hiking.

🫕Stägerstübli Restaurant:

This traditional Swiss restaurant serves local dishes like fondue, rösti, and other alpine specialties. The cozy ambiance and warm Swiss decor make it an ideal spot to relax after hiking.

🍲Hotel Alpenruh Restaurant:

Offering authentic Swiss cuisine, Hotel Alpenruh’s restaurant has a welcoming, rustic vibe. Known for its hearty mountain dishes and panoramic views, it's a lovely spot to savour local flavours with a view.

📝Cafes and Shops in Gimmelwald:

🍺Pension Gimmelwald:

Known for its welcoming atmosphere, Pension Gimmelwald is a guesthouse that serves coffee, beer, and light snacks. It’s a perfect resting spot with a relaxed ambiance and a small outdoor seating area for hikers passing through.

🧣Honesty Shop:

A unique feature of Gimmelwald, this self-service store offers a range of locally made products, souvenirs, and snacks. Operated on an honor system, visitors leave payment in a box, making it a charming and authentic stop.

🍕Mountain Hostel Gimmelwald:

This hostel also has a small bar and snack area where hikers can enjoy a beer or a quick snack. With its social atmosphere, it’s a favorite spot for hikers and backpackers to gather, especially in the evenings.

Tips for Dining and Shopping on the Trail

Bring Cash:

Some places, especially in Gimmelwald, may only accept cash due to their small-scale operations.

Timing:

Both Mürren and Gimmelwald have limited hours, especially during the off-season, so it’s a good idea to check in advance, especially for dinner plans.