Grindelwald First Gondola & Cliff Walk Tickets

The Grindelwald First gondola ride to Mount First

Grindelwald First is one of the most popular mountain trips in the Swiss Alps. The gondola leaves from the valley station in Grindelwald village, a short walk from the railway station, and climbs for about 25 to 30 minutes to First at around 2,168 metres. Along the way the meadows and farms shrink beneath you while the north face of the Eiger comes into view.

If you are searching for Grindelwald First gondola tickets, this round-trip ticket lets you go up whenever you wish and come down when you choose. Many travellers ask whether Grindelwald First is worth visiting. It is an excellent choice on a clear day, with big views, a simple layout and options for every level of energy.

The First Cliff Walk

The First Cliff Walk is the star attraction next to the top station: a walkway of steel that hugs the rock wall high above the valley, ending in a viewing platform and a suspension bridge. Your ticket gives access to it, so there is nothing extra to buy for the path itself, although it can get busy on sunny days.

The best time to visit the Cliff Walk is in the morning or late afternoon, when the light is soft and the crowds thin. Walk slowly, look down through the grid floor if you are confident with heights and enjoy the sense of walking on the mountain face. The views over the Grindelwald valley and the glaciers are spectacular.

Hiking to Bachalpsee lake and the mountain views

From First, a well-marked path leads to the Bachalpsee, a small lake reached in about an hour on foot at an easy pace. On a calm, clear day its surface mirrors the Wetterhorn and Schreckhorn, which makes it one of the most photographed spots in the Bernese Oberland.

Shorter options include walking a few minutes from the top station to the terraces and picnic areas with views of the Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau. Good shoes and a light jacket are all you need, and you can return to the gondola whenever you like. The mountain restaurant at the top serves food and drinks, but they are not included.

Weather, opening times and how to get to Grindelwald First

The First gondola runs from the morning until late afternoon, and the exact timetable changes by season, which is why the booking panel shows the time window for your date. Mountain weather matters: cloud or wind can hide the views and close some paths, so check the forecast and choose a clear day.

Getting to Grindelwald is simple: take the train from Interlaken Ost to Grindelwald, about half an hour, then walk to the gondola station. Adventure activities such as the First Flyer, the Mountain Cart, the First Glider and the Scooter Bike are extra and can be booked at First. Bring warm layers, as it is much cooler at the top than in the valley.