The Most Spectacular Alpine Villages Around Interlaken
Interlaken isn’t just a quiet town—it’s a gateway to some of Switzerland’s most breathtaking alpine villages. Think wooden chalets, towering mountains, and endless trails offering everything from adrenaline-pumping adventures to peaceful mountain escapes. If you love stunning landscapes, traditional Swiss charm, and postcard-worthy views, check out these five incredible villages near Interlaken.
1. Lauterbrunnen
In all the Alpine villages to visit, you should start with Lauterbrunnen. This village looks like a Swiss postcard come to life: green meadows, wooden chalets, cows with bells, and towering cliffs. But what makes it truly special? Waterfalls—72 of them!
The Staubbach Falls, right in the middle of the village, is a must-see. But for something even more impressive, visit Trümmelbach Falls, where powerful waterfalls crash through the inside of a mountain.
Lauterbrunnen is also the starting point for trips to Mürren and Wengen, making it the perfect base for an alpine adventure.
- Hiking in Lauterbrunnen
- What to do in Lauterbrunnen
- Top 5 Waterfalls Around Interlaken
- Trümmelbach fälle
2. Mürren
At 1,600m above Lauterbrunnen Valley, Mürren is a peaceful, car-free village with unbeatable views of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau mountains. It’s a place where time seems to slow down.
Take a quiet walk through its charming streets, sip coffee on a terrace with a jaw-dropping view, or ride the cable car to Schilthorn for a taste of James Bond history (yes, this is where On Her Majesty’s Secret Service was filmed!).
Getting to Mürren is an adventure in itself! Take the cable car from Lauterbrunnen to Grütschalp, then hop on a scenic cogwheel train to reach the village.
- 2 days trip in Mürren, Switzerland
- Day trips from Interlaken
- Schilthorn – What to do, what to see
- Schilthorn - Piz Gloria
3. Wengen
Like Mürren, Wengen is car-free, but it’s also higher up and sunnier, sitting above Lauterbrunnen with breathtaking valley views.
Wengen is famous for hosting the Lauberhorn downhill ski race, one of the most exciting ski events in the world. In winter, it’s a skier’s paradise, while in summer, it’s a fantastic base for hikes like the Eiger Trail or a trip up to Jungfraujoch (Top of Europe).
Compared to Mürren, Wengen gets more sunshine, making it the perfect spot to sit on a terrace with a cold Swiss beer and soak in the views.
4. Grindelwald
If you’re looking for a lively mountain village packed with adventure, head to Grindelwald. Nestled at the foot of the mighty Eiger, this place is a dream for outdoor lovers.
Here, hiking isn’t just a simple walk—it’s an alpine challenge! Try the famous Eiger Trail, hike up to the stunning Bachalpsee, or, for the truly brave, tackle the Schreckhorn Hut Trail—one of the most demanding hikes in the region.
Grindelwald is also home to First Cliff Walk, a thrilling suspension bridge with jaw-dropping views, and the Grindelwald-First zipline, where you can fly over the mountains like an eagle.
- Top Hikes Around Grindelwald
- Top things to do in Grindelwald
- Full apres ski experience in Grindelwald
- The most beautiful lakes around Interlaken
- Beautiful Swiss Villages under the snow
5. Bonus villages
Switzerland is home to many picturesque villages offering a charming and authentic experience. Here are some of the most breathtaking villages to visit that are less well-known or further than Interlaken
Zermatt: Nestled beneath the iconic Matterhorn, Zermatt is a car-free village and a gateway to fantastic alpine adventures, including skiing and hiking.
Gimmelwald: A tiny, rustic village in the Lauterbrunnen Valley, Gimmelwald is perfect for hikers and nature lovers seeking tranquility.
Appenzell: Known for its charming wooden houses and unique traditions, Appenzell provides a glimpse into Switzerland’s rural culture.
Lucerne: While a larger city, Lucerne has a charming Old Town and serves as a gateway to exploring the nearby Swiss mountains and lakes.
Tell us which one caught your eye the most
