Gelmerbahn in Switzerland offers one of the steepest and most exciting funicular rides in Europe. Surrounded by stunning mountains and lakes, it’s a perfect adventure for nature lovers. If you’re looking for something thrilling and beautiful during your Switzerland trip, a visit to Gelmerbahn will be unforgettable.
If you love adventure, nature, and beautiful mountain views, Gelmerbahn in Switzerland should be on your list. It is one of the steepest funicular railways in Europe, making the ride feel more like a roller coaster than a regular train trip. Located in the peaceful Bernese Oberland region, Gelmerbahn takes you up cliffs to the stunning Gelmersee Lake.
Many travellers add Gelmerbahn to their plans when looking for exciting experiences through Switzerland tour packages. As you ride up, you are treated to magical views of waterfalls, green valleys, and snowy peaks. At the top, the sparkling turquoise lake welcomes you with fresh air and pure beauty. Whether you love hiking, photography, or just enjoying a quiet natural spot, Gelmerbahn offers a little bit of everything.
What are the Key Highlights of Gelmerbahn
- One of Europe’s Steepest Funiculars: With a steepness of 106%, Gelmerbahn gives you an unforgettable and exciting ride straight up the mountain.
- Incredible Views :,As you climb higher, you’ll enjoy breathtaking scenes of waterfalls, rocky cliffs, and green valleys. The landscape looks like a picture postcard.
- Beautiful Gelmersee Lake: At the top of the ride, you reach Gelmersee — a stunning mountain lake with crystal-clear turquoise water. It’s a perfect spot for hiking, relaxing, or having a picnic.
- Great Hiking Trails: You can walk around Gelmersee Lake. The trail is easy and lets you take in the area’s full beauty.
Best Time to Visit Gelmerbahn
The best time to visit Gelmerbahn is between June and October.
During these months:
- The weather is pleasant and perfect for hiking.
- The lake is fully visible without snow covering the trails.
- The funicular operates daily (it closes in the winter due to snow and safety reasons).
If you want fewer crowds and beautiful light for photos, try to visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon. Summer weekends can be a bit busy, so weekdays are usually better for a quiet experience.
Travel Tips for Visiting Gelmerbahn
- Book Your Tickets in Advance:Gelmerbahn is very popular, and seats are limited. Booking online ahead of time is strongly recommended.
- Wear Good Shoes: If you plan to hike around the lake, wear comfortable walking or hiking shoes.
- Bring Snacks and Water: There are no shops at the top, so pack water and some light snacks for your trip.
- Dress in Layers: It can be much cooler in the mountains than in the town, so bring a jacket even on sunny days.
- Hold On Tight:The ride is steep! Make sure to hold onto the handrails during the journey for safety.
- Bring a Camera: The views during the ride and at Gelmersee Lake are stunning — perfect for amazing photos.
