Overview
At 2,076m, Schynige Platte is reached by a retro cogwheel train running since 1893. The summit features an Alpine botanical garden with over 600 wildflower species, a treat for nature lovers. Views encompass the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau alongside both Lake Brienz and Lake Thun, and several well-groomed hiking trails fan out from the top. The 6-hour hike to First is considered one of the finest Alpine treks. Train return about CHF 66 (free with Swiss Travel Pass). Board at Wilderswil station east of Interlaken; about 52 minutes up.
Opening Hours
Train: 07:25-17:25 (June-October; schedule varies by season).
Travel Tips
The train runs only June-September. The wildflower garden peaks in June-July; take time to explore before or after your hike.
Hotels near Schynige Platte
Hotels and guesthouses in Interlaken, Schynige Platte, Interlaken
Other attractions in Interlaken
Jungfraujoch
Europe's highest railway station at 3,454m, with sweeping views of the Aletsch Glacier and Alpine snowfields.
Lake Thun
A quintessentially Swiss scene of emerald water framed by Alpine peaks.
Harder Kulm Viewpoint
Interlaken's 'rooftop' — a viewpoint overlooking the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau peaks and both lakes.
Lake Brienz
An Alpine lake renowned for its striking turquoise water, with the Giessbach Falls and Brienz village nearby.
Trümmelbach Falls
Hidden glacial waterfalls inside a mountain — meltwater from the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau crashes down ten tiers.
Lauterbrunnen Valley
A U-shaped valley where 72 waterfalls cascade from cliffs — said to have inspired Tolkien's Rivendell.
Grindelwald First
An Alpine viewpoint featuring the 'First Cliff Walk' over a precipice, facing the Eiger North Face.