Gelmerbahn Bernese Oberland
Europe's steepest open funicular offering a thrilling 106% incline ride to the stunning turquoise Gelmersee.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Clear skies, fewer crowds
Gelmerbahn Bernese Oberland
Best Time
Clear skies, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Europe's steepest open funicular offering a thrilling 106% incline ride to the stunning turquoise Gelmersee.
"The most amazing experience of my life and definitely a bucket list item."
🎟️ Book Tickets in Advance
Tickets often sell out! Book online ahead of time to guarantee your ride and avoid long waits.
💺 Front Row for Best Views
Sit in the front row of the funicular for the most dramatic and unobstructed views during your ascent.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Steep Funicular Ride
Handegg
Experience Europe's steepest open-air funicular with a 106% incline. It feels like a slow-motion roller coaster!
Gelmersee Lake Views
Top of the funicular
Marvel at the stunning turquoise waters of Gelmersee lake, surrounded by dramatic alpine scenery.
Gelmerbahn Suspension Bridge
Near Gelmersee
Walk across a swaying suspension bridge offering breathtaking panoramic views of the gorge and waterfalls.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Ahead for the Steepest Ride
Fear of Heights? Proceed with Caution
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Book Tickets in Advance
Tickets often sell out! Book online ahead of time to guarantee your ride and avoid long waits.
💺 Front Row for Best Views
Sit in the front row of the funicular for the most dramatic and unobstructed views during your ascent.
⏰ Check Last Train Times
Be mindful of the last train times for both ascent and descent to plan your visit accordingly.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
If you plan to hike around Gelmersee, sturdy walking shoes are essential for the trails.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Book Tickets in Advance
Tickets often sell out! Book online ahead of time to guarantee your ride and avoid long waits.
💺 Front Row for Best Views
Sit in the front row of the funicular for the most dramatic and unobstructed views during your ascent.
⏰ Check Last Train Times
Be mindful of the last train times for both ascent and descent to plan your visit accordingly.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
If you plan to hike around Gelmersee, sturdy walking shoes are essential for the trails.
😨 Not for Acrophobics
If you have a fear of heights, this steep ride might be challenging. Consider this before you go.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
The Gelmerbahn is widely praised as an unforgettable, bucket-list experience, with many calling it the most amazing ride of their lives. Visitors rave about the thrilling steepness and the stunning alpine views of Gelmersee. Some note that it can be overrated due to social media hype, but most agree the experience is worth the price and the journey.
"The views during the hike and the funicular ride were breathtaking. Nature was in full display. We saw beautiful green mountains, sparkling lakes that reflected the clear sky, and we could hear distant waterfalls. This made the experience magical. Even though we had to wait a little for the funicular, it didn’t matter because the scenery was too lovely to mind the delay.
The Golmersee hike tested our stamina. The paths were twisty and rocky, challenging us at every step. But for those who took on the challenge, it was worth it. Each step brought us closer to amazing views and hidden natural spots, giving us a rewarding sense of achievement.
There is a small shop to buy tickets, snacks, and drinks. The toilets are clean too."
Bee T
"Amazing experience. You should buy tickets in advance
For us it was last moment decision so we could buy one way only
On the other hand, it was a nice walk down the mountain"
Kаteryna M
"Amazing experience
The rail itself is a bit scary but it worth to ride it.You can see stunning view. After the train ride, you can enjoy 2hour hikes.
Since the train is limited, it is less crowded in the hiking area."
Koki Ishii
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Gelmerbahn is located in Guttannen, near Grimselpass in the Bernese Oberland. If you're driving, there's free parking available a short walk from the base station. Public transport options involve trains to Meiringen and then a bus to Handegg.
Yes, there is free parking available. It's a short 10-minute walk from the parking lot to the funicular's ticket counter.
You can reach the area via public transport. Take a train to Meiringen and then a bus towards Grimselpass, alighting at the Handegg stop.
The closest village is Guttannen, and the funicular base is at Handegg. It's often accessed as part of a trip through the Bernese Oberland region.
The Gelmerbahn operates seasonally, typically from June to October. The road leading to it may also be subject to seasonal closures or construction.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tickets for the Gelmerbahn typically cost around 20 CHF for a round trip. It's advisable to check the official website for the most current pricing.
Yes, booking tickets in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak season, as they can sell out quickly.
The Gelmerbahn operates seasonally, usually from June to October. The last train up is typically around 4:26 PM, and the last train down is around 5:12 PM. Always check the official schedule.
While you can buy tickets at the counter, it's strongly advised to book online in advance to avoid long queues or disappointment if it sells out.
No, the Gelmerbahn is a seasonal attraction and is typically only open during the warmer months, usually from June to October.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The Gelmerbahn is a steep, open-air funicular ride offering incredible views of the alpine landscape and Gelmersee. It's known for its 106% incline, making it feel like a thrilling, slow-motion roller coaster. 
At the top, you can enjoy the views of Gelmersee, walk around the lake, or hike. There's also a suspension bridge nearby offering more dramatic vistas.
Yes, there's a moderate circular hike around Gelmersee, approximately 4.7 km long, taking about 1.5 to 2 hours to complete.
The Gelmerbahn's steep incline can be intense for those with a fear of heights. Many find it thrilling, but it's not recommended for everyone. +1
The funicular ride itself takes about 12 minutes to ascend to Gelmersee.
📸 📸 Photography
The front row of the funicular offers unparalleled views for photos. The suspension bridge and the shores of Gelmersee also provide stunning backdrops.
Morning light often provides clear skies and fewer crowds, while late afternoon offers beautiful golden hour lighting.
Absolutely! The open-air nature of the funicular makes it perfect for capturing panoramic shots of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive mountain scenery. A phone camera is also sufficient for most visitors.
Generally, there are no specific restrictions on personal photography. However, always be mindful of other visitors and safety guidelines.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚗 Road Trippers & Drivers
This makes it an accessible attraction for road trippers looking for an adventurous detour. Remember to check for any road closures or construction, especially outside the main summer season. 📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Consider visiting during the golden hour for softer light and fewer crowds. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Thrill of the Gelmerbahn Funicular
+1Many visitors describe the ride as a bucket-list item, with some admitting to screaming out of excitement or a touch of fear. The sensation of ascending at such a steep angle, with the valley floor dropping away below, is truly unforgettable. For the best experience, securing a spot in the front row is highly recommended, as it offers the most direct and immersive views.
It's important to note that while exhilarating, the steepness can be intense for those with a significant fear of heights. However, for most, the adrenaline rush combined with the spectacular scenery makes the Gelmerbahn a must-do activity in Switzerland.
Exploring Gelmersee and Its Surroundings
From the top station, you have several options. A popular choice is the hike around Gelmersee, a moderate loop trail of about 4.7 km that takes roughly 1.5 to 2 hours. This trail offers continuous scenic views of the lake and the surrounding peaks.
Alternatively, for those seeking more adventure, the Gelmerbahn Suspension Bridge is a short walk away. This pedestrian-only bridge spans a dramatic gorge, swaying gently in the wind and providing awe-inspiring panoramic views of waterfalls and the turquoise waters below. Allowing ample time at the top is crucial if you wish to fully enjoy the lake and its surroundings. Visitors recommend allocating at least 2-3 hours to explore the area, whether it's for a leisurely walk, photography, or simply soaking in the magnificent alpine atmosphere.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit