Gelmerbahn & Handeckfall Bridge
Ride Europe's steepest funicular and cross a thrilling suspension bridge for unparalleled alpine views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, best light
Gelmerbahn & Handeckfall Bridge
Best Time
Fewer crowds, best light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Ride Europe's steepest funicular and cross a thrilling suspension bridge for unparalleled alpine views.
"A thrilling ride on Europe's steepest funicular with breathtaking views of a turquoise lake!"
🎟️ Book Tickets Online
Secure your spot on the Gelmerbahn by booking tickets in advance on the official website.
🥾 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing some walking and hiking, so sturdy footwear is a must for exploring the area.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Gelmerbahn Funicular Ride
Gelmerbahn Station
Ride Europe's steepest funicular for breathtaking views and an adrenaline rush up to Gelmersee.
Gelmersee Lake
Top of Gelmerbahn
A stunning turquoise mountain lake offering serene beauty and hiking opportunities.
Handeckfall Bridge
Near Handegg
A thrilling suspension bridge offering panoramic views over a powerful waterfall.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Gelmerbahn Tickets in Advance
Prepare for Heights and Thrills
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Book Tickets Online
Secure your spot on the Gelmerbahn by booking tickets in advance on the official website.
🥾 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing some walking and hiking, so sturdy footwear is a must for exploring the area.
📸 Front Row Seats
Try to get front-row seats on the funicular for the most thrilling experience and best views!
☁️ Check Weather Conditions
The Handeckfall Bridge can be slippery in rain or snow; check conditions before visiting.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Book Tickets Online
Secure your spot on the Gelmerbahn by booking tickets in advance on the official website.
🥾 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing some walking and hiking, so sturdy footwear is a must for exploring the area.
📸 Front Row Seats
Try to get front-row seats on the funicular for the most thrilling experience and best views!
☁️ Check Weather Conditions
The Handeckfall Bridge can be slippery in rain or snow; check conditions before visiting.
🚗 Parking Available
There is convenient parking available close to the Gelmerbahn and Handeckfall Bridge.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the stunning natural beauty and thrilling experiences offered by Gelmerbahn and Handeckfall Bridge. The steep funicular ride and the high suspension bridge provide unforgettable adrenaline rushes and breathtaking panoramic views. While some find the ride intense, most agree it's a must-do for its unique adventure and spectacular scenery.
"Stunning!
There is parking very close and it's easy to get to. The crossing is ok, as the bridge is very sturdy."
Mihaela D
"scary high suspension bridge with amazing views"
Abu
"It is a suspension bridge, offering an exhilarating experience as you walk above the waterfall and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
The Handeckfallbrücke is accessible via various hiking trails in the area, making it a popular stop for trekkers exploring the Grimsel region."
Iryna Kabanchuk
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Gelmerbahn is located in Handegg, in the canton of Bern. You can reach it by car, with parking available nearby. It's also accessible via hiking trails in the Grimsel region.
Yes, there is parking available very close to the Gelmerbahn station, making it easy to access.
Absolutely! It's a popular day trip destination, offering a unique adventure with the funicular ride and bridge crossing.
Many visitors opt to drive due to the scenic route and available parking. Public transport options might involve buses to the Handegg area, followed by a walk.
While direct public transport to the exact station might be limited, you can often reach the general Handegg area via bus and then walk to the funicular. Check local Swiss transport schedules.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices can vary, and it's best to check the official Gelmerbahn website for the most current pricing. Booking in advance is highly recommended.
You can purchase tickets online through the official Gelmerbahn website or at the Gelmerbahn station. Booking ahead is advised.
Yes, it is strongly recommended to book your Gelmerbahn tickets in advance, especially during peak season, to guarantee your ride.
Operating hours for the Gelmerbahn typically run from late spring to autumn. Always check the official website for the most up-to-date schedule.
The Handeckfall Bridge itself is generally accessible without a separate fee, as it's part of the natural landscape and hiking routes.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The Gelmerbahn is Europe's steepest funicular, offering a thrilling, rattling ride with incredible panoramic views as it ascends to Gelmersee.
At Gelmersee, you can enjoy the stunning turquoise lake, take a leisurely walk around its shores, or embark on longer hikes in the surrounding Alps.
The Handeckfall Bridge is a high suspension bridge, which can be thrilling for some. However, it's described as very stable and safe, offering amazing views.
The bridge offers spectacular panoramic views of the powerful Handegg waterfall, the surrounding mountains, and valleys.
Children can ride the Gelmerbahn, but it's an intense experience due to the steepness. Parents should assess their child's comfort with heights and motion.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture stunning shots from the funicular itself, the shores of Gelmersee, and the Handeckfall Bridge overlooking the waterfall.
Early mornings or late afternoons offer beautiful light for photography, with fewer crowds. The turquoise color of Gelmersee is particularly vibrant in sunlight.
Yes, the Handeckfall Bridge is an excellent spot for photography, providing unique angles of the waterfall and the surrounding landscape.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive mountain scenery and the waterfall. A telephoto lens can be useful for details.
Drone regulations can vary. It's essential to check local rules and regulations regarding drone usage in the area before flying.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The walk around Gelmersee provides a calmer activity, and the Handeckfall Bridge, while high, is very stable, offering impressive views without excessive danger. Ensure children are supervised closely, especially near the water and on the bridge. Pack snacks and drinks as options at the top might be limited. Comfortable shoes are essential for everyone, as there will be walking involved. Consider the weather, as rain can make the bridge slippery. The overall experience is memorable and exciting for families looking for something beyond the typical tourist trail.
⛰️ Hikers and Nature Enthusiasts
The Handeckfall Bridge is a fantastic stop on many hiking routes in the Grimsel region, offering a unique perspective of the powerful waterfall. Combine the funicular ride with a day of exploring the numerous hiking trails that branch out from the lake or the bridge area. Remember to carry a map and be prepared for changing mountain weather.
📸 Photography Buffs
Experiment with different angles from the funicular, the bridge, and the lake's edge. The early morning or late afternoon light can create magical shots. A wide-angle lens is highly recommended to capture the grandeur of the landscape. Be mindful of the weather, as dramatic skies can add to the mood of your photos.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Gelmerbahn: Europe's Steepest Funicular
For the most exhilarating ride, aim for the front row seats. This offers unobstructed, heart-racing views as you ascend. Be prepared for the sheer drop and the feeling of being suspended above the landscape. The journey takes about 12 minutes, providing ample time to soak in the dramatic scenery of the Bernese Alps.
+1Booking tickets in advance is crucial, as this popular attraction can fill up quickly, especially during the summer months. The funicular operates seasonally, typically from late spring to autumn, so always check the official operating schedule before planning your visit.
+1Exploring Gelmersee and Its Surroundings
Visitors can enjoy a leisurely walk around the lake, taking in the incredible alpine vistas. For the more adventurous, there are opportunities for longer hikes in the area, allowing you to delve deeper into the natural beauty of the Swiss Alps. The trails offer varied terrain and spectacular viewpoints.
Remember to wear comfortable hiking shoes as the terrain can be uneven. The area is perfect for photography, with the vibrant lake color and dramatic mountain backdrops providing endless opportunities for memorable shots.
The Handeckfall Bridge: A Thrilling Vista
Despite its height, the bridge is described as very stable and safe, providing a secure footing for visitors. Walking across it allows you to feel the spray of the waterfall and appreciate the raw power of nature. The panoramic views from the bridge are truly breathtaking, encompassing mountains and valleys.
This bridge is easily accessible and often combined with a visit to the Gelmerbahn, making it a perfect addition to your itinerary. It's an ideal spot for photography, offering unique perspectives of the waterfall and the alpine scenery.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit