Ski resorts
Grindelwald: skiing beneath the Eiger and where to stay
The Eiger North Face right above the village, trains climbing towards the Jungfraujoch and slopes with views you will never forget. This is Grindelwald, and the hotels that put you in the middle of the postcard.
There are few places where the mountains feel as close as they do in Grindelwald. The mighty North Face of the Eiger rises almost directly above the village, and when the morning sun strikes the peaks, they glow gold and pink. It is a sight that makes even seasoned mountaineers stop and stare.
Grindelwald lies in the Bernese Oberland, at the heart of the Jungfrau region, and it is as much an experience as a ski resort. You can ski with views of some of the Alps’ most famous peaks, take the train up into the mountains and end the day in a village where traditions are still alive.
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Beneath the Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau
The Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau are three of the most famous mountains in the Alps, and from the slopes of Grindelwald you see them from every angle. The Eiger Express gondola whisks you up towards the glacier, and from here the railway continues towards the Jungfraujoch, often called the Top of Europe.
The village has kept its charm, with timber houses, small shops and restaurants serving Swiss classics.
The slopes of Grindelwald
The First and Kleine Scheidegg-Männlichen ski areas offer runs for every level, with long, wide descents and stunning views. From Kleine Scheidegg you can also ski on towards Wengen, and the region has many kilometres of groomed pistes.
Grindelwald is also known for sledging, with long toboggan runs that offer a completely different way to experience the mountains.
A day in Grindelwald
The day might start with a trip up to First, where the morning sun warms you and the view of the Eiger is spectacular. After lunch you can take the Eiger Express towards Kleine Scheidegg and ski the long runs beneath the North Face.
In the afternoon it is time for coffee and cake in one of the mountain restaurants, before you take the train or ski down to the village as the light fades behind the peaks.
When is the best time to visit Grindelwald?
The season usually runs from December to April. January and February often bring wintry conditions, while March offers more sunshine and longer days. Christmas week and half term are popular, so book early.
Skiing with children in Grindelwald
Grindelwald suits families well, with ski schools, gentle runs and activities such as sledging and mountain railways. Many children find the train ride up the mountain as exciting as the skiing. Choose a hotel near the station or the lifts to keep daily life simple.
Food and evenings in Grindelwald
Evenings in Grindelwald are calm and atmospheric. Restaurants serve fondue, raclette and rösti, and many hotels have a spa and mountain views. After dinner you can stroll through the village, where the lights of the timber houses glow against the snow and the Eiger stands like a dark wall against the stars.
Getting to Grindelwald
The nearest airports are Zürich, Bern and Basel. From there you take the train to Interlaken and on to Grindelwald. The train is an easy and beautiful way to travel.
Where to stay in Grindelwald
Stay in the village with views of the Eiger, or close to the lifts for ski-in/ski-out access. Here are three hotels we would happily choose.
Bergwelt Grindelwald: ski-in/ski-out and spa
A design hotel with ski-in/ski-out access, a spa and ski storage.
Book your stay: See rooms at Bergwelt Grindelwald
Belvedere Swiss Quality Hotel: views and spa
A hotel with two restaurants and a spa, with mountain views.
Book your stay: See rooms at Belvedere Swiss Quality Hotel
Eiger Mountain & Soul Resort: in the village
A hotel with two restaurants in the centre of Grindelwald.
Book your stay: See rooms at Eiger Mountain & Soul Resort
Want to compare? See all our ski resorts or read about skiing in Zermatt.
Frequently asked questions about skiing in Grindelwald
Where should I stay in Grindelwald?
Bergwelt Grindelwald offers ski-in/ski-out access and a spa, Belvedere has two restaurants and mountain views, and Eiger Mountain & Soul Resort sits in the centre of the village.
What is the Jungfraujoch?
The Jungfraujoch is a railway station high in the mountains, often called the Top of Europe. From Grindelwald you can travel by train and gondola towards the Jungfraujoch.
Is Grindelwald good for families?
Yes, Grindelwald has ski schools, gentle runs, sledging and mountain railways that children often love.
How do you get to Grindelwald?
Fly to Zürich, Bern or Basel and take the train to Interlaken. From there, trains run on to Grindelwald.