Mannlichen Switzerland: Best Excursions 2023
Mannlichen: A Family-Friendly Guide to Exploring the Swiss Alps
Today we’re exploring the stunning Mannlichen, one of our kid’s favorite parts of our last Swiss Apls vacation. Prepare for a journey with breathtaking views, incredible hiking trails, and unforgettable memories!
A Little Bit About Mannlichen
Mannlichen is a prominent mountain peak situated in the Bernese Alps. The summit towers at an impressive 2,343 meters above sea level, offering unrivaled panoramic views of the Jungfrau region. Trust me, the sight of the majestic Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau mountains will leave you speechless!
Getting to Mannlichen
Head to the Grindelwald Terminal or Lauterbrunnen Valley to start your adventure. From either location, you’ll find modern cable cars ready to whisk you away to Mannlichen. The smooth Männlichen Aerial Cableway journey offers some pretty spectacular views along the way, so have your camera ready!
The Royal Ride: A Cable Car Experience Like No Other
For a truly unique experience, don’t miss the Wengen-Männlichen Aerial Cableway with its unique “Royal Ride.” This modern cable car features a rooftop viewing platform, allowing you to marvel at the breathtaking scenery while the cable car is in motion. It’s like you’re flying through the Swiss Alps!
To board the Royal Ride, head to the Wengen cable car station and watch for the cable cars with glass roofs. The ride to Mannlichen takes about 10 minutes, and trust me, the stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys are worth every second.
Booking your tickets in advance can be a good idea, as the Royal Ride can get popular during the high season, but we had no problem walking right on during late May. On one of the trips we had the rooftop to ourselves, as you can see in the video below:
Interlaken Ost Railway Station: Gateway to Mannlichen
The Interlaken Ost Railway Station is a central hub for international trains and is an ideal starting point for your trip. From here, hop on the yellow train of the Bernese Oberland Bahn and enjoy a picturesque ride to Grindelwald or Lauterbrunnen. Alternatively, you can take the scenic InterCity Trains and change at Zurich or Bern.
However, our favorite way to get ton Mannlichen is the cable car from Wengen.
Parking and Public Transportation
If you’re driving, several public car parks are available in Grindelwald and Lauterbrunnen. Check out the Parkhaus Eiger and Parkhaus Sportzentrum for convenient parking options. But if you prefer public transportation, consider investing in a Swiss Travel Pass for unlimited access to trains, buses, and cable cars.
Playground Fun: A Delightful Experience for Kids
What’s a family vacation without a fun playground for the little ones? Mannlichen has got you covered! The playground is near the cable car station and offers a safe and entertaining space for children to play and explore.
During our late May visit, our kids could have spent all day playing on the playground, with temperatures in the 50s.
This delightful play area features swings, slides, and climbing structures designed to entertain and challenge kids of different ages. Majestic mountains surround the playground, so you can let the kids run free while you sit back, relax, and soak up the incredible views.
With the Royal Ride and the playground combination, Mannlichen caters to families looking for a memorable Swiss Alps experience. So, gather your family and embark on an adventure that offers something for everyone!
The Panorama Trail: A Hike to Remember
One of the most popular activities in Mannlichen is the Panorama Trail. This family-friendly hike takes you from Mannlichen to Kleine Scheidegg, offering great views of the surrounding mountain peaks and the Lauterbrunnen Valley. The trail is well-marked and stroller-friendly, making it the perfect place for a leisurely walk with the kiddos.
Royal Walk: Feel Like Royalty
For a more challenging hike, tackle the Royal Walk. Starting at the cable car station, this uphill trail leads you to the Männlichen Summit. The reward? Breathtaking views of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau mountains! You’ll also feel like royalty as you gaze upon the panoramic landscape.
Best Time to Visit
The best time of year to visit Mannlichen is between June and September, when the weather is warm and the hiking trails are accessible. Check the weather forecasts before embarking on your adventure, as clear skies will provide the most spectacular views.
Modern Facilities and Dining Options
During your visit to Mannlichen, you’ll find a range of modern facilities to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience. The Männlichen Gondola Cableway station has restrooms, information points, and a restaurant to refuel before or after your hike. The Panoramic Restaurant at the summit offers delicious Swiss cuisine, allowing you to dine with a view that’s hard to beat!
Mountain Inns: A Cozy Retreat
Along the hiking trails, you’ll come across charming mountain inns that provide a cozy retreat for weary hikers. These inns offer simple but comfortable accommodations, perfect for those who want to experience the true essence of the Swiss Alps.
Snow Sports and More
Mannlichen turns into a winter wonderland during the winter months, attracting snow sports enthusiasts worldwide. With a state-of-the-art snowmaking system and well-maintained slopes, you’re in for a thrilling experience!
Best Places to Stay in Wengen
If you plan a trip to Wengen, you will want to stay in a comfortable and convenient hotel. Here are some of our top picks for the best places to stay in Wengen:
Hotel Silberhorn
The Hotel Silberhorn is a family-run hotel that offers comfortable rooms and stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
The hotel is located in the heart of Wengen and is a great place to stay.
Hotel Edelweiss
The Hotel Edelweiss is a charming hotel in Wengen. The hotel offers comfortable rooms and stunning views of the surrounding mountains. It is a great place to stay to relax and unwind.
Hotel Schönegg
Hotel Schönegg is a 3-star charming hotel located right in the center of Wengen.
With its stunning mountain views, comfortable accommodations, and excellent amenities, the hotel is a popular destination for travelers seeking a relaxing and unforgettable vacation.
Best VRBOs and Other Hotels in Wengen:
FAQs
Q: How long does the train ride from Interlaken Ost to Grindelwald take?
A: The train ride from Interlaken Ost to Grindelwald takes about 35 minutes, and you’ll be treated to impressive views of the surrounding mountains throughout the journey.
Q: What’s the best way to purchase round-trip tickets for the cable car?
A: You can purchase round-trip tickets for the cable car at the Grindelwald Terminal or Lauterbrunnen Valley stations. Alternatively, you can buy them online in advance through the Jungfrau Region website.
Q: Are there any restrictions for bringing a terrain stroller on the hiking trails?
A: The Panorama Trail is suitable for terrain strollers, but the Royal Walk might be challenging due to its uphill nature. If you plan to bring a stroller, ensure it’s well-suited for uneven terrain.
Q: What time does the first train leave Interlaken Ost early in the morning?
A: The first train from Interlaken Ost typically leaves around 6 AM. However, checking the official timetable for the most up-to-date information is a good idea.
In Conclusion
Mannlichen is truly a gem nestled in the Swiss Alps. Its stunning landscape, family-friendly hiking trails, and modern facilities make it the perfect destination for parents and kids. So pack your bags, gather your loved ones, and embark on an unforgettable adventure in the heart of the Bernese Oberland!
Other Switzerland Links: Family Vacation, Lucerne, Swiss Holiday Park, Wengen
