Best things to do in Lauterbrunnen

Hike around some of Switzerland's most dramatic landscapes at Lauterbrunnen Valley Waterfalls, which plunge down overhanging rock faces created by natural forces over thousands of years. A huge draw for adventure seekers from around the globe, the lush valley features 72 thunderous waterfalls, some of which carry 20,000 l (5,280 gal) of water per second. When Goethe visited the valley in 1779, the majestic falls moved him so deeply that he returned home to write one of his best-known poems, "Spirit Song Over the Waters." Discover this untamed glacial valley by trekking around some of its world-famous trails, or hop on the scenic rack railway linking the region's half-dozen mountain villages.

Discover spectacular views of an icy Alpine wilderness at the very top of Europe by visiting Jungfraujoch, the continent's highest train station. Nearly two million people travel to this winter wonderland each year, lured by its panoramic views of mountains and glaciers, skiing, and snowboarding. Opened in 1912, the Jungfrau railway line passes through a tunnel that took several thousand workers over a decade to drill. The station sits 3,454 m (11,330 ft) above sea level, with the Sphinx viewing house providing sweeping vistas of the largest glacier in the Alps, a World Heritage Site. The adjoining commemoration hall displays memorials to miners who died building the railway and features a giant and incredibly detailed snow globe. Saunter through the Ice Palace, a year-round frozen hallway featuring ice sculptures. Dine in one of several panoramic restaurants, pick up a box of Swiss chocolates, and test your golfing skills in a hole-in-one challenge above the glacier. No matter the time of year you're visiting, don't forget your camera, sunglasses, and sunscreen.

Hike around the massive subterranean Trümmelbachfälle, which cascade down a narrow slot canyon carved out by natural forces over thousands of years. Illuminated and accessible to visitors by a tunnel elevator, the World Heritage-listed falls drain the melting snow and ice from three glaciers, carrying up to 20,000 l (5,200 gal) of water per second. The water crashing down the tight canyon walls generates a constant mist in the air and makes the walking paths extremely slippery, so be sure to wear a waterproof jacket and sturdy shoes with non-slip soles. Once you tire of the cave-like tunnels, hike to nearby Lauterbrunnen, an unspoiled village nestled between the walls of a sheer-sided valley.

Take a scenic walk along Montreux Lakeside, which hugs the bank of Lake Geneva. The lakeside path extends from Vevey to Villeneuve. An easy walk, the trail impresses with views across the lake to Chillon Castle. Follow the path long enough and you'll find yourself at the 11th-century castle. Notice animal sculptures created out of leaves and flowers that line the path. If there's time, take a minute to feed the swans at the lake.

Dotted with wooden chalets and surrounded by green meadows and snowy mountains, Lauterbrunnen Village offers an endless list of alpine activities, including helicopter flights over the mountain peaks. This typical alpine village--and the main gateway to the Jungfrau--is set against the picturesque backdrop of numerous waterfalls tumbling down steep cliffs. After a stroll down the main street or the riverside promenade, reward yourself with a hearty Swiss meal at a sunny outdoor cafe with a mountain view. Apart from hotels, restaurants, and souvenir shops, the village boasts a swimming pool and a mini-golf course.

Linking the summits of Wengen and Mannlichen, Luftseilbahn Wengen-Mannlichen offers a pleasant ride with panoramic views of nearly endless mountain ranges. Originally opened in July 1954, the cable car has been upgraded and rebuilt several times. The newest version travels 1,656 m (5,436 ft) in just five minutes, gaining 947.5 m (3,109 ft) in altitude. If the view from the cable car isn't enough, the top of the lift connects with the Grindelwald-Mannlichen gondola cableway in just a short walk.

Rumored to have been the inspiration for Johann Wolfgang von Goethe's poem, "Song of the Spirits over the Waters," Staubbach Waterfall stands nearly 300 m (984 ft) tall. The second-highest waterfall in the country, it is known for the spray of water in every direction due to the winds in the area. Walk the path up to the waterfall and go behind it for a view of the entire valley through the falls. Information boards offer the historical and scientific background of the area. Be sure to wear appropriate gear, as mist from the fall spreads far, and watch your step on the slippery paths.

Inscribed on the World Heritage List, Aletsch Glacier represents the largest glacier in the Alps, spanning 23 km (14 mi) in length. In order to protect the natural beauty of the area, only some parts of the glacier are accessible to tourists. You can access some of the popular vantage points by cable car, which allows for breathtaking views of awe-inspiring peaks.Or youc an take in the spectacular panorama by joining a guided tour, which are offered by many professional touring companies.

A mountain overlooking Lake Geneva, Rochers-de-Naye straddles the range separating the lake from the valley of the Sarine. Even at 2,042 m (6,699 ft) tall, the summit is easily reachable from Montreux. You can board a train to the summit station, which climbs as high as 1,968 m (6,457 ft), and then finish the ascent on foot. Or, start from Col de Jaman and complete the two- or three-hour hike to the peak. At the top, take time to look into a fenced-off marmot habitat to catch a glimpse of the mountain creatures.