Schynige Platte

Schynige Platte is a high alpine ridge located at an elevation of 1,967 meters in the Bernese Oberland region of Switzerland. Accessible primarily via a charming, open-carriage cogwheel railway that has been operating since 1893, the journey itself is a major part of the attraction. As the train slowly ascends through forests and alpine pastures, passengers are treated to increasingly dramatic views of the surrounding lakes and peaks.

Upon arrival, visitors are greeted by the daily sounds of traditional alphorn players, adding to the authentic Swiss atmosphere. The summit area features a historic hotel and restaurant, the meticulously maintained Alpine Garden showcasing over 700 species of flora native to the Swiss Alps, and a network of hiking trails ranging from easy panoramic loops to the challenging and famous ridge hike to Faulhorn and First.

Reasons to Visit

• Experience a nostalgic ride on a 19th-century cogwheel railway with vintage wooden carriages.
• Enjoy unparalleled, unobstructed views of the iconic Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau mountain trio.
• Explore the Schynige Platte Alpine Garden, a unique botanical reserve featuring hundreds of high-altitude plant species.
• Listen to live, traditional Swiss alphorn performances held daily near the mountain station.
• Access world-class hiking trails, including the spectacular panoramic route to First.

Things to Avoid

• Avoid traveling up the mountain on heavily overcast or rainy days, as the primary draw is the panoramic view which will be obscured.
• Do not step off the marked paths in the Alpine Garden to protect the rare and fragile plant life.
• Avoid missing the last train down to Wilderswil, as walking down is a long and strenuous descent.
• Do not underestimate the alpine sun; always wear sunscreen even if the air feels cool.

Local Transportation Tips

The primary mode of transport to Schynige Platte is the historic cogwheel railway departing from Wilderswil station. Wilderswil itself is easily reached by a short, 5-minute standard train ride from Interlaken Ost. Once at the summit of Schynige Platte, the area is entirely car-free and explored exclusively on foot via well-maintained walking and hiking trails.

Travel Etiquette

• Always greet fellow hikers on the trail with a friendly 'Grüezi'.
• Yield to uphill hikers if you are descending on a narrow trail.
• Take all your trash with you; leave no trace in the pristine alpine environment.
• Respect the local wildlife and grazing farm animals by keeping a safe distance and not feeding them.

Recommended Age Group

Schynige Platte offers a versatile alpine experience that caters to a wide range of ages, though the high altitude and terrain should be considered.

• Babies (0-2 years): Neutral. The train ride is scenic, but the high altitude (around 2,000 meters) and uneven hiking trails can be challenging for strollers. Baby carriers are recommended.
• Kids (3-12 years): Recommended. Children will love the vintage train ride, the outdoor playground, and the interactive elements of the Alpine Garden.
• Teens (13-19 years): Recommended. The stunning viewpoints provide perfect photo opportunities, and the moderate hiking trails offer a rewarding physical challenge.
• Adults (20-64 years): Recommended. Adults can fully appreciate the botanical diversity, historic railway, and extensive network of panoramic hiking routes.
• Seniors (65+ years): Recommended. The accessible viewpoints near the station and the leisurely paths through the Alpine Garden make it an excellent high-altitude experience without strenuous effort.

Accessibility Level: Medium

• The historic nature of the cogwheel train means that boarding involves steps, which can be challenging for wheelchair users; advance notice to the railway staff is highly recommended for assistance.
• The immediate area around the mountain station and the restaurant terrace is relatively flat and accessible.
• The trails within the Alpine Garden and the broader hiking network are mostly gravel and uneven, making them unsuitable for standard wheelchairs or mobility scooters.
• Accessible restroom facilities are available at the mountain station.

Did You Know?

The Schynige Platte Railway is one of the few remaining routes in Switzerland that still occasionally operates historic steam locomotives for special nostalgic trips, alongside its vintage electric fleet from the early 1900s.

Cool Statistics

• Elevation of the Schynige Platte station: 1,967 meters (6,453 feet) above sea level.
• Year the Schynige Platte Railway opened: 1893.
• Length of the railway track: 7.25 kilometers (4.5 miles).
• Number of plant species in the Alpine Garden: Over 700.
• Maximum gradient of the cogwheel railway: 25%.