Summer at Schilthorn: Adrenalin and Relaxation for families
View. Thrill. Chill. The Mürren – Schilthorn is one of Switzerland’s most spectacular hiking regions that promises breathtaking vistas, adrenaline-fuelled experiences and ultimate relaxation in the enchanting mountain landscape.
A cable car connects the Lauterbrunnen Valley from Stechelberg with the picturesque car-free mountain villages of Gimmelwald and Mürren, which ascend to the middle station at Birg that leads to the 2,970-metre-high Schilthorn summit.
VIEW from Schilthorn peak
The Piz Gloria sits 2,970 metres above sea level, surrounded by more than 200 alpine peaks and embedded in an unspoilt mountain environment. The instantly recognisable building takes pride of place on the Schilthorn summit and offers a breathtaking 360° view of the Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau-peaks, which align with the Bernese and Valais-Alps.
Enjoy a delicious table-served meal and panoramic views at the 360° Piz Gloria Restaurant as it rotates on its axis in 45 minutes. The culinary delights range from simple snacks to regional dishes. Particular highlights include the James Bond Brunch, which is served daily until 2 pm, the 007 Burger or the Piz Gloria afternoon platter.
Read more about the Schilthorn peak
On the track of James Bond
Did you know that The Schilthorn was the main filming location for “On Her Majesty’s Secret Service” from October 1968 to May 1969″? James Bond’s arch-nemesis Blofeld’s headquarters are located at the revolving summit restaurant called “Piz Gloria” – a name the restaurant still carries to this day. Visitors can dive right into the action in Bond World, the interactive exhibition dedicated to the movie. It features seven key scenes, along with film-related trivia.
A relaxing interlude after the hustle and bustle of Bond World is available at the integrated Bond Cinema. In addition to scenes from the classic James Bond film, the 12-metre-wide, curved screen shows aerial footage of the magnificent mountain landscape.
Discover more about Bond World
THRILL – Spine-tingling sensations at Birg
The Birg station offers the most authentic thrilling experience; perched majestically on the rock massif, standing at 2,677 metres above sea level – around 1,000 metres above the village of Mürren.
Built as an extension of the spacious sun terrace, the Skyline Walk observation deck is suspended over the vertical abyss, with panoramic vistas and exhilarating views into the void. Constructed from steel and reinforced glass with a grated floor, its angular design blends seamlessly into the landscape.
This adventure begins on the opposite side of the terrace, where the steel structure descends into the perpendicular walls of the imposing rock massif. The steel structure clings to the rock before swerving under the observation deck and cableway to end below the cable car station. There is also a crawl-through tunnel, glass-bottomed floor, rope and cattle grid to add to the spine-tingling experience.
Find out more about the Birg station
More THRILL on the via ferrata
Love an adrenaline rush? Don’t miss the Mürren-Gimmelwald via ferrata. This excellently secured “iron way” covers a distance of over 2.2 kilometres. Walk across a tight rope with rushing water below you, climb down steep ladders, zip line across a ravine, and more.
This is an incredible experience and a great way to discover new heights 600 metres above ground, always secured safely with a rope.
CHILL-ing family moments on the Allmendhubel
Those seeking a relaxing holiday in Mürren’s area will find it on the nearby Allmendhubel mountain. 1907 metres above sea level, the top family destination is accessible by funicular within four minutes. At the cosy panorama restaurant Allmendhubel with its spacious sun terrace, adults can tuck into a delicious meal while children play in the Flower Park adventure playground.
This expansive play meadow offers a wealth of facts about the flora and fauna of the Alpine region. Children can explore a marmot burrow, fly with butterflies, milk cows and even make cheese here. Solid timber structures imitate the shape of giant flowers and oversized insects. Its colourful and imaginative design transforms this playground into a spectacular world of wonders.
Head to the water labyrinth for a fun and refreshing experience – not just on hot summer days. Who will reach the finish line the fastest without getting splashed? The water is constantly changing direction making this a challenge only the quickest can complete!
In addition to the Flower Park, visitors will find the Flower Trail. This floral-themed trail winds through Allmendhubel in about 20 minutes along a wide path suitable for strollers, providing children and adults with a whimsical introduction to alpine flowers, meadows, and herbs. Admire over 150 species, including gentians, alpine roses and edelweiss.
Find out more here.
All pictures with copy right: Schilthorn cableway Ltd