Grindelwald Gondola Ride to Mount First

A trip to the Swiss Alps isn’t complete without striking views, fresh mountain air, and a dash of adventure. The Gondola Ride to Mount First in Grindelwald offers all of that and more. For $88 per person, you’ll get a round-trip cable car journey to one of the most breathtaking spots in the Bernese Oberland. The ride itself takes around 25 minutes each way, ascending through lush forests and past towering peaks, culminating at a top station where you can walk along the First Cliff Walk and visit the spectacular suspension bridge.

What makes this experience stand out for us is the easy, quick ascent that offers stunning panoramic views and the chance to explore the mountain’s best sights without the hassle of long hikes or complicated arrangements. Plus, the opportunity to book adventure activities like the First Flyer or Mountain Cart directly at the top adds extra fun for thrill-seekers. One potential consideration is that food and activities like the First Glider or Scooter Bike aren’t included in the ticket price, so if you want to fully indulge, it’s worth budgeting for those extras.

This tour suits travelers who love nature, scenic views, and light adventure – whether you’re a family, a solo explorer, or a couple looking for a memorable day in the mountains. If you’re after stunning landscapes and easy access to mountain highlights, this is an excellent choice.

Key Points

• Scenic cable car ride: A 25-minute ascent with breathtaking mountain views.
• Top attractions: The First Cliff Walk and suspension bridge offer thrilling perspectives.
• Flexible schedule: Board the gondola at your convenience, with a valid one-day ticket.
• Additional activities: Adventure options like First Flyer and Mountain Cart** are available but not included.
• Great for all weather: Even if it rains or fogs, many find the experience enjoyable.
• Authentic mountain experience: Convenient access to the most beautiful lakes and hiking trails.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Grindelwald Gondola to Mount First

The Journey Begins at Grindelwald

Starting your day at the Cableway Station in Grindelwald is straightforward. The Firstbahn AG station is well-marked, and the ticketing process is simple—just scan your voucher, and you’re ready to go. The round-trip ticket costing $88 offers a good value for the access it provides. The gondola ride itself is relatively quick, about 25 minutes each way, which means you’ll spend more of your time experiencing the views than waiting in line.

Many travelers appreciate how smoothly the gondola runs, regardless of weather conditions. Tara mentions that even with rain and fog, “the gondola ran smoothly,” and she still managed to enjoy her hike and some views. Several reviews note that the gondolas are not the newest models, with Jennifer describing them as “very old and tired”, but this doesn’t seem to detract from the overall experience.

What to Expect at the Top

Once you arrive at Mount First, the scenery is spectacular. You’ll find the Restaurant, perfect for a quick bite or coffee with a view, and the First Cliff Walk, which offers a thrilling walk along a suspension bridge that’s enclosed for safety. Nicole describes it as “not scary at all” and “wide enough for 2 people”, with “unforgettable views” from the lookout.

The First Cliff Walk is a highlight for many, providing adrenaline and photo opportunities alike. It’s a wide, enclosed walkway that feels safe but still offers the exhilaration of being high above the mountains. The suspension bridge adds a different perspective, allowing visitors to walk across a narrow span suspended over the mountainside.

Adventure Activities — Worth Planning Ahead

While your ticket includes access to the Cliff Walk, other adventure activities such as the First Flyer, Mountain Cart, First Glider, and Scooter Bike need to be purchased separately. As one reviewer pointed out, these activities sold out quickly, emphasizing the importance of pre-bookings if you’re eager to try them.

In summer, these activities become especially popular, offering a fun, adrenaline-pumping way to experience the mountain. Several travelers enjoyed the First Flyer and First Glider, describing them as “worth the money” and “a lot of fun”.

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Scenic Highlights and Hikes

Beyond the Cliff Walk, many travelers love hiking to Bachalpsee, a stunning mountain lake. Veronica called it “the best way to end her visit to Interlaken”, and many use the gondola as a jumping-off point for scenic walks. Even if the weather isn’t perfect, some reviewers found “the views were still breathtaking” despite fog or rain.

During April, some travelers enjoyed playing in the snow at the top, adding a seasonal touch to the scenic experience. For those looking to extend their day, the area offers enough trails and sights to fill a few hours comfortably.

Practical Tips for Visitors

• Booking in advance is highly recommended. Many reviews mention long waits if tickets aren’t pre-purchased.
• Weather can vary quickly in the mountains. While many still enjoy the ride in fog or rain, clear days will give you the most spectacular views.
• The gondolas are small (max 4 people), which some travelers appreciate for comfort and intimacy.
• Food and souvenirs are available at the top, with a restaurant and gift shop to browse after your walk.
• The return ride is just as scenic as the ascent, so plan to sit on the right side of the gondola on the way up and the left on the way down for the best views.

The Reviews Speak for Themselves

The overall rating of 4.6/5 from 486 reviews shows how well this experience resonates with visitors. Many praise it as “worth every dollar” and note that the views are unforgettable, even on days with less-than-perfect weather. Veronica sums it up well: “It was the best way to end my visit to Interlaken.”

Alicia emphasizes that “the experience is worth it”, and Karen points out that, “there’s lots to do up on the mountain, but you need a few hours.” Notably, several mention the staff and organization as very professional, making the day enjoyable and hassle-free.

Who Is This Tour For?

This experience is perfect for anyone who wants a snapshot of the Swiss Alps without extensive hiking or expensive tours. It’s excellent for families, solo travelers, or couples looking for a memorable day with minimal effort. If you’re keen to try adventure activities, just remember to book early. For those simply wanting spectacular views and a relaxing day in nature, this ride provides plenty without the need for strenuous hiking.

The Sum Up

The Grindelwald Gondola Ride to Mount First offers a fantastic blend of scenic beauty and light adventure. It’s a convenient and accessible way to experience the stunning Swiss Alps, especially with the spectacular Cliff Walk and shimmery lake views. The price point is reasonable considering the views and experience you receive, and pre-booking helps skip long queues.

While weather can influence the visibility, many travelers find that even foggy or rainy days add a different kind of charm to the mountains. The experience is well-organized, with helpful staff and enough activities to keep everyone engaged.

This tour is best suited for nature lovers, photo enthusiasts, and those seeking a low-stress way to enjoy the mountain scenery. If you’re after adventure, breathtaking vistas, and the opportunity to explore a mountain in comfort, this is a fantastic choice.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the gondola ride and Cliff Walk are generally suitable for children, though parents should supervise near the suspension bridge for safety.

Can I do this tour in any weather?
You can, but the experience may be less spectacular in fog or rain. Many reviews mention that even with poor weather, the ride is enjoyable, but clear days will give you the best views.

How long does the entire experience take?
From boarding the gondola to returning, expect around 1 to 2 hours, depending on how long you spend at the top.

Are activities like First Flyer included in the ticket?
No, activities such as the First Flyer, Mountain Cart, and others are extra costs and need to be booked separately.

Is it necessary to book tickets in advance?
Yes, especially during peak times, to avoid long waits and ensure availability for popular activities.

Can I buy food at the top?
Yes, there’s a restaurant and souvenir shop where you can grab a drink or a snack while enjoying the mountain views.

What if I want to hike from Mount First?
Many use this as a starting point for hikes like the one to Bachalpsee, which is a highlight for nature lovers. The gondola provides easy access to these trails.

How accessible are the gondolas?
The gondolas are small but generally accessible for most travelers. Enclosed for safety, they provide a comfortable ride with great views.

What should I wear?
Layered clothing is advised, especially since weather can change quickly. Don’t forget your camera to capture the mountain scenery.

Can I combine this with other tours?
Absolutely. Many travelers add on day trips to Jungfraujoch or Lauterbrunnen, making Grindelwald a great base for exploring the Bernese Oberland.

In summary, the Grindelwald Gondola to Mount First is a rewarding experience that combines stunning scenery, light adventure, and easy access. It’s an ideal choice for those wanting an authentic taste of the Swiss Alps without breaking the bank or overexerting. Whether the weather cooperates or not, the views and atmosphere make it a worthwhile outing that’s likely to leave you with lasting memories.

You can check availability for your dates here: