Bachalpsee
Iconic alpine lake in Switzerland, famous for its mirror-like reflections of the Schreckhorn and Finsteraarhorn peaks.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Serene, fewer crowds, best reflections
Bachalpsee
Best Time
Serene, fewer crowds, best reflections
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic alpine lake in Switzerland, famous for its mirror-like reflections of the Schreckhorn and Finsteraarhorn peaks.
"The water of the lake is a stunning crystal-clear blue, reflecting the snowy peaks like a painting."
Book First Cable Car Tickets
Skip the lines by purchasing your Grindelwald First cable car tickets online in advance. :admission_tickets:
Wear Sturdy Hiking Shoes
The trail can be rocky in parts; comfortable, supportive shoes are a must for a pleasant hike. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Bachalpsee Reflections
Bachalpsee
Witness the iconic mirror-like surface reflecting the majestic Schreckhorn and Finsteraarhorn peaks. A photographer's dream!
The Hike from Grindelwald First
Trail from Grindelwald First to Bachalpsee
An accessible, scenic trail offering breathtaking alpine vistas with minimal effort. Perfect for a rewarding day hike.
Alpine Meadow Scenery
Surrounding Bachalpsee
Immerse yourself in vibrant alpine meadows dotted with wildflowers, offering a peaceful and picturesque natural setting.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Bachalpsee
Getting to Bachalpsee: Cable Car Recommended
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book First Cable Car Tickets
Skip the lines by purchasing your Grindelwald First cable car tickets online in advance. :admission_tickets:
Wear Sturdy Hiking Shoes
The trail can be rocky in parts; comfortable, supportive shoes are a must for a pleasant hike. :athletic_shoe:
Pack Snacks & Water
There are no food facilities at Bachalpsee, so bring your own provisions. :apple: :water_wave:
Check Weather Forecast
Mountain weather changes rapidly. Be prepared for sun, wind, and potential rain. :cloudwithrain:
Tips
from all over the internet
Book First Cable Car Tickets
Skip the lines by purchasing your Grindelwald First cable car tickets online in advance. :admission_tickets:
Wear Sturdy Hiking Shoes
The trail can be rocky in parts; comfortable, supportive shoes are a must for a pleasant hike. :athletic_shoe:
Pack Snacks & Water
There are no food facilities at Bachalpsee, so bring your own provisions. :apple: :water_wave:
Check Weather Forecast
Mountain weather changes rapidly. Be prepared for sun, wind, and potential rain. :cloudwithrain:
Go Early for Solitude
Arrive before 9 AM for a peaceful experience and the best chance for calm waters and reflections. :sunrise:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Bachalpsee for its breathtaking beauty, with many describing the reflections of the surrounding peaks as 'out of this world' and 'like a painting.' The accessible hike from Grindelwald First is a major highlight, offering stunning alpine vistas. However, some note that the weather can change rapidly, and crowds can be significant during peak times.
"My early morning visit to the Bachalpsee was a truly serene and peaceful experience.It was rather cloudy on my visit. Arriving before the crowds, the trail offered a rare sense of solitude and tranquility, with only the sound of nature to accompany the walk.
The destination makes every step worthwhile. As you crest the final hill and the lake comes into view, you are greeted with one of the most breathtaking scenes in the entire region. The water of the lake is a stunning crystal-clear blue ."
Jas Mine
"Bachalpsee in Grindelwald, Switzerland is worth the hike. Visited in June, took about an hour each way.
The lake was calm and perfectly reflected the snowy peaks when we arrived. Clouds rolled in quickly on our way back, and we got caught in the rain just minutes before reaching the gondola.
Buy tickets for First ahead to skip lines. No food at the lake, so bring snacks.
Highly recommend for anyone visiting the region looking for a peaceful, crisp-air view that feels close enough to touch."
noel medina
"A peaceful alpine dream. The still waters of Bachalpsee reflect the snow-capped peaks like a painting. Just a short hike from First, but it feels like stepping into another world. Unforgettable."
Kwangho Hwang
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most popular route is to take the cable car from Grindelwald to First. From the First station, it's a relatively easy, well-marked hike of about 45 minutes to an hour to reach Bachalpsee. Some visitors choose to hike the entire way from Grindelwald, which takes approximately 3 hours and is considered more challenging. +1
The hike from Grindelwald First to Bachalpsee is generally considered easy to moderate. The path is well-maintained, though it has some uphill sections and can be rocky towards the end. It's suitable for most fitness levels, especially when starting from First.
You cannot drive directly to Bachalpsee. The nearest accessible point by car is Grindelwald, from where you would take the cable car to First or begin your hike. Parking is available in Grindelwald.
The most convenient way to reach Grindelwald First is by taking the gondola lift from Grindelwald village. This offers stunning aerial views as you ascend. 
Hiking directly from Grindelwald to Bachalpsee is a longer endeavor, typically taking around 3 hours one way. This route is more strenuous than the hike from First.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is no entrance fee for Bachalpsee itself. However, you will need to purchase tickets for the Grindelwald-First cable car if you choose that option to reach the trailhead.
You can buy tickets for the Grindelwald First cable car at the ticket office in Grindelwald village or, for convenience and to potentially skip lines, purchase them online in advance through the official Jungfrau Railways website.
The operating hours for the Grindelwald First cable car vary seasonally. It's best to check the official Jungfrau Railways website for the most up-to-date schedule, especially if you plan to visit outside of peak summer months.
Discounts may be available for children, seniors, or with certain travel passes like the Swiss Travel Pass. It's advisable to check the Jungfrau Railways website or inquire at the ticket office for current offers.
Yes, it is possible to hike to Bachalpsee directly from Grindelwald, but it's a significantly longer and more strenuous trek, taking about 3 hours each way.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The main attraction is the stunning natural beauty of the lake and its reflections of the surrounding peaks. You can walk around the lake, take photos, enjoy a picnic, and simply soak in the alpine atmosphere.
The classic photo spot is along the shore of the lake, capturing the reflections of the Schreckhorn and Finsteraarhorn. Continuing along the path on the right side of the lake offers elevated views and different perspectives.
Bachalpsee can get quite crowded, especially during peak season and on weekends. Visiting early in the morning or on a weekday can significantly reduce the number of people.
While not guaranteed, you might spot local alpine wildlife such as marmots or various bird species in the meadows surrounding Bachalpsee.
Swimming in Bachalpsee is generally not recommended due to the cold water temperatures and the lake's role as a natural reservoir. The focus is on enjoying the scenic beauty from the shore.
🍽️ 🍎 Food & Dining
No, there are no food or drink facilities directly at Bachalpsee. It's essential to bring your own snacks and water for the hike.
You can find dining options in Grindelwald village before or after your trip. The Grindelwald First station also has a restaurant and cafe where you can get refreshments.
Pack plenty of water and high-energy snacks like sandwiches, fruit, nuts, and energy bars to sustain you during the hike and while enjoying the scenery.
Yes, the meadows around Bachalpsee offer beautiful spots for a picnic. Find a comfortable place to sit and enjoy your packed meal with a view.
Yes, the Grindelwald First station has a restaurant and a cafe where you can purchase meals, snacks, and drinks before or after your hike to Bachalpsee.
📸 📸 Photography
Early morning offers soft light and fewer crowds, ideal for capturing the lake's reflections. Late afternoon can provide beautiful golden hour light.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive mountain scenery and lake. A polarizing filter can enhance the reflections and sky.
The most popular composition involves the reflection of the Schreckhorn and Finsteraarhorn in the calm waters of Bachalpsee. Experiment with different angles from the shore.
Be mindful of the weather, as clouds can quickly obscure the peaks. Also, respect other visitors and avoid blocking popular viewpoints for extended periods.
Drone regulations can vary. It's crucial to check local rules and restrictions regarding drone usage in national parks and protected areas before flying.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1Once at the lake, kids will love exploring the open meadows and marveling at the reflections. It's a great opportunity for them to connect with nature. Remember to pack plenty of snacks and drinks, as there are no facilities at the lake. Consider bringing a small backpack for them to carry their own water bottle. The entire experience, from the cable car ride to the hike and the breathtaking views, makes for a memorable family outing.
🚶 Budget Travelers
Once you reach the lake, the experience is free! Pack your own food and water from a local supermarket in Grindelwald to avoid pricey on-mountain options. This allows you to enjoy a picnic with a million-dollar view without breaking the bank. Visiting on a weekday can also sometimes mean slightly lower prices for accommodation in Grindelwald compared to weekends.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Bring your wide-angle lens to capture the vastness of the alpine scenery. A tripod can be beneficial for low-light conditions or long exposures to smooth out any water movement. Don't forget a polarizing filter to enhance the sky and water. Exploring different angles from the shore and the path leading away from the lake can yield unique compositions. Be prepared for changing weather, as dramatic skies can add incredible mood to your photos.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Journey to Bachalpsee: From Grindelwald to First
+1Upon arrival at the First station, you'll find yourself at an altitude of 2,168 meters (7,113 feet). This is where the main hiking trail to Bachalpsee begins. The path is well-maintained and clearly signposted, making it accessible for most hikers. The journey from First to Bachalpsee is approximately 2.5 kilometers (1.5 miles) and takes about 45 minutes to an hour, depending on your pace and how often you stop to admire the scenery.
+1For those seeking a more challenging experience, it's possible to hike directly from Grindelwald to Bachalpsee. This route is considerably longer, taking around 3 hours one way, and involves a more significant elevation gain. While rewarding, it requires a higher level of fitness and more time commitment.
Bachalpsee: A Photographer's Paradise
To capture the best shots, consider visiting during the golden hours – shortly after sunrise or before sunset. The soft, warm light can dramatically enhance the colors of the landscape and the reflections. A wide-angle lens is highly recommended to encompass the grandeur of the mountains and the vastness of the alpine scenery. A polarizing filter can also be beneficial for deepening the blue of the sky and enhancing the clarity of the reflections.
Beyond the classic reflection shot, explore different vantage points. Walking along the path to the right of the lake offers elevated perspectives and can provide unique compositions. Remember to be patient; the weather in the mountains can change rapidly, so keep an eye on the sky for dramatic cloud formations that can add depth and mood to your photographs.
The Bachalpsee Experience: What to Expect
Upon reaching Bachalpsee, the primary activity is simply to soak in the magnificent views. The lake's crystal-clear blue water, set against the backdrop of snow-capped peaks, is truly awe-inspiring. You can walk around the lake, find a comfortable spot to sit, and enjoy a picnic lunch with an unparalleled vista. The tranquility of the location, especially if you visit early or on a weekday, is a significant draw.
It's important to be prepared for the mountain environment. The weather can be unpredictable, so packing layers, including a waterproof jacket, is advisable. Comfortable hiking shoes are essential due to the rocky sections of the trail. While there are no facilities at the lake itself, the journey and the destination offer a rewarding and unforgettable experience for nature lovers and hikers.
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