Lauterbrunnen
Lauterbrunnen
Lauterbrunnen is a small village tucked away in a stunning Swiss valley, famous for its 72 waterfalls that cascade down dramatic cliffs on either side of the valley. The most impressive is Staubbach Falls, which drops nearly 300 meters from the overhanging rock face above the town. This place inspired J.R.R. Tolkien's vision of Rivendell in The Lord of the Rings after he visited in 1911.
The area serves as an excellent base for exploring the Jungfrau region, with easy access to cable cars and trains that connect to Mürren, Wengen, and ultimately to Jungfraujoch – known as the "Top of Europe." The traditional Swiss buildings with their flower-decorated balconies create a perfect postcard setting against the backdrop of snow-capped peaks.
Beyond its natural beauty, Lauterbrunnen has a rich history of alpinism and farming. Local farmers still maintain the centuries-old tradition of moving their cattle up to higher pastures during summer months. The area is also popular with adrenaline seekers – it's a world-famous base jumping location where experts leap from the cliffs with wingsuits or parachutes. In winter, the valley transforms into a wonderland with opportunities for skiing, snowboarding, and sledding in the surrounding mountains.
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Things to do in Lauterbrunnen
Top things to do in Lauterbrunnen by holidaystoswitzerland.com
Where to stay in Lauterbrunnen
Best hotels in Lauterbrunnen:
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Hotel Hornerpub (budget hotel)
Hotel Hornerpub, here you can see the famous Staubbach waterfall cascading down the cliffs from some of the rooms. The pub downstairs is a popular hangout for both locals and travelers, with a nice selection of beers on tap.
The rooms are simple but comfortable, with wooden furnishings that give them a rustic Swiss chalet vibe. Some have private bathrooms while others share facilities, but everything is kept super clean. The staff are friendly and happy to give tips on hiking trails and other things to do in the area.
One of the best things about this place is the location. It's an easy walk to the train station and you're surrounded by those stunning mountain views as soon as you step outside. For the price, it's hard to beat if you want to experience the magic of Lauterbrunnen without breaking the bank.
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Hotel Silberhorn (luxury hotel)
Hotel Silberhorn in Lauterbrunnen is steps from the train station, it's super convenient for exploring the area. The rooms are comfy and clean, with amazing views of the surrounding mountains and waterfalls.
The hotel has a cool winter garden where you can relax and take in the scenery through big windows. There's also a sun terrace if you want to soak up some rays while enjoying the fresh mountain air. For food, the restaurant serves up tasty Swiss dishes and has a great breakfast buffet to fuel up before a day of hiking or skiing.
With its perfect location and warm atmosphere, Hotel Silberhorn is an awesome home base for adventures in Lauterbrunnen. Whether you're hitting the slopes or just want to chill and enjoy the alpine views, it's got everything you need for a great mountain getaway.
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Hotel Staubbach (medium range hotel)
Hotel Staubbach is a spot in Lauterbrunnen with stunning views of the famous waterfall and valley. The historic building dates back to the 1890s but offers modern comforts like free Wi-Fi. Rooms are simple but cozy, some with private bathrooms and others with shared facilities.
The location can't be beat - it's an easy walk to restaurants and shops in town, plus you're surrounded by amazing hiking trails. The breakfast gets great reviews, with plenty of options to fuel up before exploring. Staff are super friendly and helpful with local tips.
While there's no on-site restaurant for dinner, the hotel does offer drinks for purchase. And the panoramic vistas more than make up for any lacking amenities. It's the perfect home base for taking in the natural beauty of the Swiss Alps.
Best hostels in Lauterbrunnen:
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Valley Hostel (hostel)
Valley Hostel in Lauterbrunnen is a fantastic spot for budget travelers wanting to soak in the stunning Swiss Alps scenery. Located just a 5-minute walk from the train station, it offers easy access to hiking trails and mountain excursions. The hostel has a laid-back vibe with a mix of dorms and private rooms, all with incredible views of the surrounding mountains and waterfalls.
One of the best features is the large shared kitchen and dining area, perfect for cooking meals and mingling with other guests. The staff are super friendly and helpful with local tips. While the facilities are basic, everything is kept clean and tidy. With its unbeatable location and wallet-friendly prices, Valley Hostel is an ideal base for exploring this breathtaking corner of Switzerland.