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SCHYNIGE PLATTE: COMPLETE GUIDE (+ HIKES & RIDGE TRAIL)

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The image shows a girl looking at the Swiss scenery at the top of Schynige Platte.
The image shows a train in Switzerland.

Schynige Platte is a mountain ridge that sits over 2000 meters high.

The majority of people head to the summit to begin a hike, however, there are a number of other things to do and see for those who do not wish to hike.

Whether you’re looking for a scenic train ride, something to eat or an idyllic place to stay, there’s something for everyone.

In this guide, we’ll cover all of the essential information to know before you visit, as well as the best things to do and see.

At the end of the guide, you’ll also find an FAQ.

How to get to Schynige Platte

Schynige Platte railway train from Wilderswill

The image shows Schynige Platte Bahn.

To reach the mountain ridge, most people hop on board the Schynige Platte Bahn.

This is one of Switzerland’s most historic railways that leads a scenic journey over 7 kilometres up the side of the mountain.

Along the way, you’ll catch glimpses of Lake Brienz and Lake Thun below, as well as many excellent views of the surrounding mountains.

The train leaves from Wilderswil station and it’s roughly a 50-minute journey to Schynige Platte.

If you’re coming from Interlaken, then it’s a 40-minute walk or a 5-10-minute journey from one of the train stations.

Timetable

The image shows a boy looking out the window on the train.

The Schynige Platte Bahn runs from the end of May to the end of October.

The first train leaves Wilderswil at 7:25 AM and the last train back down is usually just before 6 PM.

Typically, there are a few trains an hour, however, you’ll want to check the official timetable ahead of your trip.

Tickets

The image shows a boy looking out the window of the Schynige Platte Bahn

There are a few options when it comes to booking tickets and there are some great savings to be had if you’re travelling around Switzerland that you may want to consider.

Most of the below options are bookable through GetYourGuide, which is a reputable platform that we know and love (see those options below).

I recommend having a really good read through these options to see which is best for you ahead of your trip as it really can save you a lot of money.

Either way, be sure to take a copy of your order to the station ticket office to retrieve your ticket/card.

It’s also worth noting that children under the age of 6 can travel for free.

  • Option 1: Schynige Platte Railway Round Trip

    If this is a one-off excursion and you’re not planning to visit any other sites in the area, then this is the ticket that you’ll want to purchase.

    Check prices: Schynige Platte Railway Round Trip
  • Option 2: Swiss Half Fare Pass

    The Swiss Half Fare Pass is valid for 1 month and will give you a 50% discount on all public transport in Switzerland. Although this train ride is not considered public transport, but rather a mountain excursion, you’ll still receive a 50% discount.


    Check prices: Swiss Half Fare Pass
  • Option 3: Jungfrau Travel Pass: Unlimited Transportation Ticket

    If you’re exploring the Jungfrau region for anywhere between 3 and 8 days and you’re planning to tick off all of the major things to do and see, then this ticket will save you heaps of money in the long run.

    You’ll be able to use this ticket to travel on all of the popular train routes and gain access to the most well-known attractions such as this one.

    Check prices: Jungfrau Travel Pass: Unlimited Transportation Ticket

    Option 4: Switzerland: Swiss All-in-One Travel Pass

    If you’re travelling around Switzerland between 3 and 15 days and you’re expecting to get around by public transport and tick off as many attractions as possible, then this ticket will save you some serious money.

    Not only will you get access to public transport, but you’ll also benefit from multiple scenic trains such as Glacier Express.

    A ticket for this alone is almost half the cost of the Swiss All-in-One Travel Pass. In addition, you’ll be able to access over 500 museums and enjoy many other mountain excursions as part of this ticket, or at 50% off.

    For the Schynige Platte Bahn, it is 50% discount.

    Check prices: Switzerland: Swiss All-in-One Travel Pass

By foot (free access)

The image shows a man hiking among the mountains.

Alternatively, you can reach the summit of Schynige Platte by foot.

There are numerous trails across the mountain, however, the best and most direct route is just over 8 kilometres and will take around 3 hours to complete.

It covers 1400 meters of elevation, so it goes without saying that whilst this is a free option, it’s certainly no mean feat.

To hike to the summit, simply put Wilderswil to Schynige Platte into Google Maps and follow the trail.

Things to do at the top of Schynige Platte

Schynige Platte hikes

The image shows the scenery at the top of Schynige Platte.
Schynige Platte

As already mentioned, the reason that most people visit this attraction is to head on a hike.

There are a number of trails to choose from, some of which are circular routes which require you to take the train back down to Wilderswil, and others which finish in a different location.

Below are some of the best routes on offer.

The Panorama Trail

The image shows a mountain ridge and Lake Brienz in the background.

The Panorama Trail is one of the most breathtaking hikes in the region.

It’s only 6 kilometres, yet you’ll find a few steep sections in there which some may consider tricky.

However, these are out of the way early on in the walk, and the remainder of the walk is gentle, aside from one slight incline towards the end.

Regardless of where you are on the route, you’ll be able to see stunning mountains in every direction, and at times, the dazzling blue waters of Lake Brienz and Lake Thun.

Due to this, it’s a well-trodden trail that you’ll no doubt be sharing with many others.

Regardless, this doesn’t hinder the experience and you’ll almost certainly enjoy this hike.

The Flower Trail

The image shows flowers among the mountains in Switzerland.

This trail is also known as the Alpine Garden Route and begins from Breitlauenen Station.

This is the only station between Wilderswil (where you will board the train) and the top of Schynige Platte. You’ll begin the route 3 kilometres from the summit and cover a fair bit of elevation in this time – approximately 500 meters.

However, once you’ve reached the top, you’ll enjoy another 6 or so kilometres of mostly flat terrain – and of course – a section around through the Alpine Garden.

Taking this route is certainly harder than The Panorama trail, however, it’s also cheaper since you’re only taking the train to Breitlauenen.

If you’re looking to save even more money, then you could also return to Breitlauenen and make the walk 12 kilometres rather than 9.

You’ll also benefit from being able to visit the Breitlaunenen Bistro which we talk about later on as one of the best things to do in this area.

Schynige Platte to Faulhorn First

The image shows people walking along the trail at the top of Schynige Platte.

The Schynige Platte to Faulhorn First trail is a challenging yet rewarding point-to-point hike.

You’ll travel 16 kilometres and cover approximately 1000 meters of elevation.

Needless to say, this is a big day for most hikers and will require some careful planning to ensure you make the last cable car in First at 5:30 pm.

Yet, those who are up for the challenge won’t be disappointed, as the views on the trail are outstanding and diverse.

Due to the difficulty, it’s far less busy than the likes of The Panorama Trail, meaning it’s an incredibly tranquil hike through the Swiss Alps.

The Wilderswil Loop

For those looking to skip the train and save some money, then this is the hike for you.

It will be a big day, with approximately 8 kilometres from Wilderswill to Schynige Platte.

You’ll then attach The Panorama Trail onto your first stint which is another 6 kilometres, before heading back down 8 kilometres to Wilderswil via the same route.

With over 1000 meters of elevation on the way up, you’ll need some strong legs.

Equally, the way down is tough on the knees, so we’d highly recommend some hiking poles for this one.

On the plus side, you’ll save a decent chunk of money and you don’t need to worry about making it back for the last train.

However, to be safe, you should ensure that you return to Wilderswil before it gets dark.

Enjoy some food with a view

The image shows the decking area at The Panorama Restaurant.
The Panorama Restaurant – image by The Panorama Restaurant

When it comes to eating you have three options. The first is to grab something from the small cafe on the train station platform and grab a picnic bench.

The second is to head to The Panorama Restaurant and opt for self-service buffet-style food and relax on the large decking area.

The third option is to head to the same restaurant but go for the a la carte menu.

Although it’s part of the same restaurant, you’ll be seated in a separate area and still benefit from being able to dine on the decking, but it will be a more luxurious experience.

Regardless of which option you go for, you’ll enjoy incredible scenery and get a perfect view of the snow-ridden Jungfrau, Mönch and Eiger mountains.

Sleep in a traditional Swiss Hotel

The image shows The Berghotel from the sky.
The Berghotel – image by The Berghotel

The Panorama Restaurant is part of the Berghotel: a traditional Swiss hotel that offers many rooms with idyllic mountain views.

Staying here is an unforgettable authentic experience in Switzerland.

However, since it’s very remote, we’d only recommend staying here for 1-3 nights.

This will allow you to cover most if not all of what’s on offer at the top of Schynige Platte.

It’s also worth remembering that if you were to stay here for the duration of your trip and wanted to visit other towns, villages and attractions, then you’d need to take the 50-minute train down to Wilderswil.

Not only is that incredibly time-consuming but also very expensive.

Watch the traditional Alphorn players

The image shows and alphorn player overlooking the mountains.

If you time it right, then you’ll catch the traditional Alphorn players.

They’re usually based at the end of The Panorama Trail which is just below the restaurant.

You’ll find them playing their horns every day between 11 AM and 2 PM.

They’re super still when they’re playing which actually makes it hard to tell if they’re real!

Either way, it’s a very special moment if you manage to catch the alphorns being played with snow-capped mountains in the background.

Visit the Schynige Platte Botanical Alpine garden

The image shows flowers from the botanical alpine garden.

The botanical alpine garden is less than half a kilometre from the train station and is filled with over 750 different species of plants.

These are used for multiple reasons, including for medicinal purposes and to protect endangered species.

You’ll find many information boards as you explore the garden, however, it’s also possible to request a guided tour to gain further detail about what’s grown here and why.

  • Request a guided tour: info(at)alpengarten.ch

Explore Lily’s treasure hunt

Lily’s treasure hunt is a great way to keep children engaged when exploring Schynige Platte.

Upon collecting your tickets from the station, children will be offered a booklet containing various puzzles which they’ll need to crack by finding the correct answer from different stations around the area.

Once they’ve conquered them all, they’ll need to figure out the word which unlocks the treasure chest in the restaurant, where they will receive a prize.

Discover the Alpine play area

The image shows the alpine play area at the top of Schynige Platte.

The alpine play area is another great way to keep kids entertained whilst adults explore the parts of the area which are less interesting to children.

Plus, how often do you get to enjoy a playground with mountain views!

Relax on the wooden deck chairs with a view

Dotted around the area are wooden deck chairs.

They’re usually perched on the edge of the trail in a spot with views that are hard to beat.

If you need a quiet 5-minutes from exploring, then resting here is pretty epic.

Take the perfect picture

The image shows a girl sitting on the wooden picture frame.

As you head along The Panorama Trail, you’ll spot a couple of super-sized frames.

Sometimes they’re referred to as the ‘nature cinema‘ – and what a place to watch the world.

If you arrive at the first one and it’s busy with people waiting to take a picture then don’t wait in the queue.

Head to the next one which is just a few minutes further along the path and you’ll likely have it all to yourself.

Check out the 5 bells

The image shows the 5 bells at the top of Schynige Platte.

Next to the first nature cinema frame, you’ll see 5 bells which dangle from a piece of wood.

These are nothing more than a picturesque sight, but feel free to give them a ring too!

Drive the old train

Not many people know that you can actually experience getting the Schynige Platte Bahn ready for service, as well as actually being the driver.

You’ll get to look the part by throwing on the overalls and popping on the hat, before learning how to get this old train moving.

It’s a full experience that lasts around 3 hours, with a break for coffee.

Your tutor won’t let you leave empty-handed – they’ll ensure you disembark the train with a plethora of things to remember your experience, including the hat which you put on at the very start.

  • To book, simply email: info@jungfrau.ch

Simply ride the Schynige Platte Bahn

The image shows the Schynige Platte Bahn.

If none of the above activities appeals to you and you’re much more interested in sitting back and relaxing whilst looking at some lovely scenery, then simply riding the Schynige Platte Bahn is an option for you.

You can expect this excursion to take around two hours.

Stop for some cake at Breitlauenen Bistro

On your way to the summit, you’ll pass Breitlauenen Bistro which is located on the Breitlauenen station platform approximately 3 kilometres from Schynige Platte summit.

If you’re travelling by foot, then be sure to swing by here.

If you’re travelling by train, then hop off the train either on the way up or down to enjoy a slice of cake!

Schynige Platte trips based on cost

The image shows cows on the hillside in Switzerland.

The cost of visiting Schynige Platte will very much depend on how you plan on travelling there and what activities you want to take part in.

Below are some suggestions suitable for every budget.

Free

The image shows The Panorama Trail at the top of Schynige Platte.
  • Hike from Wilderswil to Schynige Platte and back: this may take longer, but the views from the summit will be even sweeter once you arrive.
  • Activities: most of the activities at the summit are free – for example, you can embark on one of the many hikes, visit the botanical alpine garden and get some great pictures from super-size photo frames in the nature cinema.
  • Lunch: taking a packed lunch with you is another way to avoid spending money. Whether you’re eating your sandwich which you bought at home or whether you’re eating from the al fresco menu in The Panorama Restaurant, the views will be just as great.

Budget

The image shows cows grazing in the grass.
  • Get the train to and from Breitlauenen Station: if you hate the thought of a huge hike to the summit, but think you can handle a short 3 kilometres, then getting the train to Breitlauenen Station is a great option. You’ll still get to enjoy riding on the historic train, yet you’ll pay less than if you were to take the journey to the summit.
  • Activities: most of the activities at the summit are free – for example, you can embark on one of the many hikes, visit the botanical alpine garden and get some great pictures from super-size photo frames in the nature cinema.
  • Lunch: instead of eating at The Panorama Restaurant, head to the small cafe on the platform of either Breitlauenen or Schynige Platte station. These both offer cakes, snacks and drinks to keep you going for your trip.

Mid-range

The image shows Lake Brienz from the Schynige Platte Bahn.
  • Get the train to and from Schynige Platte: getting the train to and from the summit is an experience in it self. Be sure to check out the different ticket options which we mentioned earlier to ensure that you’re getting the most for your money.
  • Activities: most of the activities at the summit are free – for example, you can embark one of the many hikes, visit the botanical alpine garden and get some great pictures from super-size photo frames in the nature cinema.
  • Lunch: head to The Panorama Restaurant to enjoy the buffet-style food on the terrace. This won’t be as expensive as the a la cart menu, but you’ll still get to enjoy eating good quality food on the terrace.

Luxury

The image shows a hiking trail at the top of Schynige Platte.
  • Get the train to and from Schynige Platte: getting the train to and from the summit is an experience in itself. To make it even more memorable, you might want to consider the train driving experience too.
  • Activities: Whilst many of the activities are free, these can be enhanced. For a super special trip, why not get your own tour of the botanical gardens and spend the night in the traditional Berghotel?
  • Lunch: head to The Panorama Restaurant and enjoy the a la carte menu served either inside or outside with magnificent views.

FAQ

The image shows a girl hiking along a trail in the Swiss Alps.
Schynige Platte

When is the best time to visit Schynige Platte?

The best time to visit Schynige Platte is between the end of May and the end of October.

Not only is this when the weather conditions will be suitable, but this is also when the train operates.

July and August will likely be very and very busy, so if you prefer to hike when it’s quieter then we’d recommend avoiding these times. We did this hike in July and it was 33 degrees.

We got the train around 10 AM and the trail was busy, however, we managed to get on the train as soon as we arrived.

The return journey at around 2 PM was much busier and there were some people who had to wait for the next train which was 30 minutes later.

Where should you buy tickets for Schynige Platte?

Our go-to platform for tickets for any excursion is GetYourGuide.

They’re a reputable platform that makes it really easy to see what activities are available in the area. It also means we can be super organised and not have to rush around or queue to get tickets on the day.

The image shows cows grazing in the grass at the top of Schynige Platte.

What’s the weather like?

The weather at the top of Schynige Platte is usually great in the summer months.

Being higher up, it’s slightly cooler than it is in Wilderswil and Interlaken, but you don’t need to consider packing extra layers.

We’d always recommend checking the weather before heading out to do any hiking in Interlaken, as it can quickly turn into a storm at any moment.

Our favourite app to check the weather is Accuweather.

This not only shows you a weekly and hourly forecast but a live radar too. From our experience, this is way more accurate than any other app out there.

Additionally, it’s always worth checking the live webcam to get a real-time view of what’s actually going on at the summit.

What clothes should you wear for a trip to Schynige Platte?

During the summer months, you can expect the temperature at the summit to be a few degrees lower than at the base.

As such, summer hiking gear is advised.

If you’re heading on The Panorama Trail then you shouldn’t need to bring hiking poles unless you’re not particularly sturdy on your feet.

However, if you’re heading on one of the other trails which has significant elevation then you’re in for a challenge and hiking poles may be of use.

Schynige Platte Vs Harder Kulm

The image shows the Harder Kulm viewpoint over Interlaken.

The difference between the two is quite big.

Harder Kulm is a viewpoint thats lower down and can be reached with a 10-minute funicular railway or hike.

Once you’re at the top, you can also go on to hike along the Augstmatthorn ridge.

Although this is super impressive and definitely one to do while you’re in Switzerland, Schynige Platte offers more diverse and impressive scenery.

Explore Switzerland further

The image shows Lake Oeschinensee.
Lake Oeschinensee

We’ve spent many weeks in Switzerland over the years.

For those who love the outdoors, it’s impossible not to fall in love when you visit.

During our latest trip here, we spent just over a month exploring the Jungfrau and Appenzell regions. These are some of the best hiking destinations the country has to offer.

Below are some of our other guides which may be of use if you’re considering visiting the area.

Explore the Jungfrau Region further

Explore the unbelievable Appenzell Region

  • Schäfler ridge hike / an impressive snake-like trail around the rugged mountains in Appenzell
  • Seealpsee hike / a waterfall trail to one of the most accessible lakes in the area

Stay Wild Travels.

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