Traveling to the Swiss Alps isn’t complete without experiencing Mount First—a highlight in the Bernese Oberland that offers breathtaking mountain vistas, fun activities, and a sense of adventure. Priced at around $89.66 per person, this ticket grants you a round-trip cable car ride from the charming glacier village of Grindelwald up to 2,168 meters (7,109 feet) above sea level. The experience usually lasts between 1 to 5 hours, giving plenty of flexibility for exploring at your own pace.
What we really appreciate about this trip is the ease of access—you simply hop on the gondola, no guided tour required, and are rewarded with uninterrupted views of the Bernese Alps. Plus, the free time to wander allows for spontaneous adventures like hiking to Lake Bachalpsee or trying out some of the on-top activities like the First Cliff Walk or renting a scooter. The price includes all taxes and the cable car ticket, making it straightforward and transparent.
One potential consideration is that food and drinks are not included, so you’ll want to bring snacks or plan to dine at the First restaurant, which boasts 350 seats and a lovely sun terrace. Also, if you’re aiming for activities like the First Flyer or Mountain Cart, you’ll need to purchase those separately—so this trip is perfect for those who enjoy a laid-back exploration with optional adventure on the side.
This experience suits travelers who love stunning scenic views, flexible exploration, and authentic mountain atmospheres—perfect for anyone wanting a taste of Swiss alpine life without the fuss of guided tours.
Key Points
- Spectacular Views: Uninterrupted vistas over the Bernese Oberland make this a must-see.
- Flexible Timing: You can spend anywhere from an hour to several exploring at your own pace.
- All-Inclusive Ticket: The cable car ride and First Cliff Walk are included, offering great value.
- Activity Options: Exciting activities like scooters and mountain carts are available for purchase.
- Ease of Access: Tickets are electronic, allowing quick entry and skipping long lines.
- Ideal for Adventurers: The region offers easy hikes and fun rides that suit all ages.
A Deep Dive into the Mountain: What to Expect
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Getting There and the Journey Up
The adventure begins in Grindelwald, a picturesque Alpine village renowned for its charm and mountain scenery. The cable car ride itself is a highlight—slowly ascending over glacial valley landscapes with perfect vantage points. Travelers describe the gondola ride as long and leisurely, with one reviewer noting, “over 30 minutes of watching beauty as we slowly rose above the tree line,” which gives you ample time to soak in the panoramic views.
Since the journey is unguided, you can enjoy the tranquility and take plenty of photos. The boarding process is straightforward, especially with electronic tickets that help you avoid lines. Just plan to arrive a bit early during peak times, especially in summer, when the area gets busy.
At the Top: Exploring Mount First
Once you reach First, the options are plentiful—if you’re into hiking, the trail to Lake Bachalpsee is renowned as “the pearl of mountain lakes,” and is a moderate hike that rewards you with awe-inspiring reflections of snow-capped peaks. Reviewers like Jen_B loved the Tottie bike descent, calling it “absolutely easy” even at 65, and saying it’s “much better than the gondola down!”
If you prefer to relax, the First restaurant offers a place to enjoy Swiss cuisine with spectacular views. The First Cliff Walk by Tissot is another highlight—an exhilarating suspension bridge that lets you look straight down into the valley below. The adventure activities such as the First Flyer zip line, First Glider, and Mountain Carts are available for purchase, though they are seasonal and may not operate in winter.
What Makes This Experience Special?
Many reviews praise the stunning scenery—the views are described as “unbelievable,” “gorgeous,” and “beyond expectations.” The length of the gondola ride is often highlighted as particularly impressive, with one reviewer noting “over 30 minutes of watching beauty” from the gondola windows.
The free time at the top allows for spontaneous adventures—whether it’s retracing your walk along trails, renting a scooter, or just soaking up the sun and mountain panoramas. The well-maintained trails and variety of activities mean there’s plenty to do even if you’re not into strenuous hikes.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent value for a scenic transportation and sightseeing experience.
- Uninterrupted panoramic views that are hard to beat.
- Flexible itinerary—spend as much or as little time as you like.
- Easy ticketing process with mobile tickets that help skip lines.
Cons:
- Food and activities are not included, so costs can add up if you try everything.
- During winter, some activities like Mountain Cart and scooter rides are unavailable, limiting options for thrill-seekers.
- No guide included, so you’ll need to do some pre-planning if you want detailed trail info or activity bookings.
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Who Should Consider This Tour?
This tour is ideal for travelers who want to experience Swiss alpine beauty without the constraints of guided tours. If you enjoy scenic gondola rides, independent exploration, and spontaneous outdoor activities, this is a perfect fit. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate stunning views, easy hikes, and relaxing meal options with a view.
It’s also a good choice for families, as children have said that the rides and trails are well taken care of and easy to navigate. Plus, if you’re a bit adventurous, renting a scooter or trying the First Flyer could turn your visit into a memorable adventure.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is included in the ticket price?
Your ticket covers a round-trip cable car from Grindelwald to Mount First and access to the First Cliff Walk. All taxes and fees are included.
Are there activities available at the top?
Yes, activities like the First Flyer, First Glider, Mountain Cart, and trolley bike rides are available for purchase. These activities are seasonal, with some not operating in winter.
How long is the cable car ride?
The gondola ride is approximately 30 minutes, providing plenty of time to enjoy the scenery en route.
Can I buy food at the top?
Absolutely. The First restaurant offers a range of meals and snacks, with a large sun terrace for enjoying the views.
Is there a guided tour?
No, this is an unguided experience—you explore at your own pace.
What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes for walking or hiking, camera gear, and perhaps a jacket if the weather turns cooler at altitude.
Is the ticket easy to access?
Yes, tickets are available electronically, allowing quick entry and avoiding long lines, especially in busy seasons.
Final Thoughts
If you crave breathtaking mountain scenery, independent exploration, and a taste of Swiss mountain life, this Mount First gondola experience offers excellent value. It’s a great way to enjoy panoramic views, explore trails, and relax in a beautiful alpine setting, all without the pressure of guided tours.
For those who love adventure, the option to rent scooters or try the First Flyer adds an extra layer of excitement. Families, solo travelers, and couples will all find this experience fitting—whether they want a leisurely day immersed in nature or an adventurous outing with spectacular scenery as their backdrop.
Just remember to plan ahead if you want to try activities and bring a bit of extra cash for food or rentals. The mountain air, stunning vistas, and relaxed pace make it a memorable Swiss Alps excursion worth considering.