The Schynige Platte Railway is one of the most charming journeys in the Jungfrau region. Since 1893, its little trains, some with open-sided wooden carriages, have climbed seven kilometres up from Wilderswil, just outside Interlaken, to the Schynige Platte ridge at 1,967 metres, a ride of around fifty minutes through forests and alpine meadows. At the top, the views are among the best in the region: the Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau line up across the valley, while on the other side you look down on Lake Thun, Lake Brienz and Interlaken between them. The summit station has a mountain hotel and restaurant, and its botanical alpine garden, founded in 1928 and run with the University of Bern, displays hundreds of alpine plant species, with entry included in the train ticket. The railway runs only in summer, roughly from June to late October.
At the top
The alpine garden is a short walk from the station, with paths winding among plants that grow above the tree line, from gentians and edelweiss to alpine roses, each labelled. A panorama trail of varying lengths loops around the ridge, from short strolls to walks of two hours or more, and there is a children's playground and treasure trail. In the season, alphorn players perform at the mountain hotel around the middle of the day, and the terrace restaurant serves hearty regional dishes with the mountains as a backdrop.
Planning a visit
Take a train from Interlaken Ost to Wilderswil, a few minutes away, and change to the Schynige Platte Railway. Allow at least half a day, more if you want to walk. The trains are popular on fine summer days, so buying a ticket in advance or arriving early helps, and the open carriages are cool in the morning, so bring a layer. Rail passes for the region often include or discount the journey. The railway is not suitable for wheelchairs.
For walkers
Experienced hikers can walk from Schynige Platte along the ridge to the Faulhorn and on to First above Grindelwald, a classic high route of around six hours that needs good weather and fitness. Most visitors are happy with the panorama trail and the garden, then a relaxed lunch before the ride back down. Combine the trip with an afternoon on Lake Brienz or in Interlaken's old town for an easy, varied day.
What to expect
The experience
A vintage cog railway ride from Wilderswil to a summit ridge with an alpine garden, panorama trails, a playground and a mountain restaurant.
Best time
A clear summer morning between about June and October, before the clouds build.
How long
About fifty minutes each way, plus one to three hours at the top.
Tips
Go early on fine days, bring a layer for the open carriages, check whether your rail pass covers it and allow time for the alpine garden.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Travellers who want big views and a nostalgic train ride without the cost or altitude of Jungfraujoch.
- Families
- Excellent, with a playground, treasure trail and short walks at the top.
- Couples
- Ride up in the morning, walk the panorama trail and lunch on the terrace.
- Pair with
- A Lake Brienz cruise, Iseltwald or an afternoon in Unterseen.
- Time needed
- Half a day.
Good questions
When does the Schynige Platte Railway run?+
Only in summer, roughly from June to late October, depending on snow.
How long is the ride?+
About fifty minutes each way from Wilderswil.
Is the alpine garden included?+
Yes, entry to the botanical alpine garden is included in the train ticket.
How do I get to Wilderswil?+
By train from Interlaken Ost in a few minutes, or by car.
Is it suitable for children?+
Yes, there is a playground and treasure trail at the top and plenty of short walks.
