How to Get to Schynige Platte

Take the train from Interlaken towards Grindelwald and get off at Wilderswil. The historic cogwheel train to Schynige Platte departs from Wilderswil station every 40 minutes with the last train departing at 4:45pm. The journey to the top takes about an hour with a short stop at midstation Breitlauenen before heading for the summit. The views from the train are breathtaking and are part of the experience so make sure to get a window seat. The whole journey is included under the Berner Oberland Regional Pass.

Schynige Platte Abstract Heaven Train
Sit on the right side of the train to get the best views on the way up.

Best Things To Do at Schynige Platte

Play an Alphorn Instrument

Local swiss alpine horn players put on a show around lunch time and if you are lucky you may even get to have a go yourself! Playing the horns is fun but much harder than it looks, requiring you to blowing slobbery raspberries into the mouthpiece. They clean it after each person but if you are particularly concerned about germs then maybe just enjoy the show from the sidelines.

Alphorn players at Schynige Platte

Hike the Swiss Alps

While the trek up and down the mountain can be very steep, the walks from the Schynige Platte station are much more accessible and the views are breathtaking. Make sure to take good shoes, a waterproof jacket, drinking water and some snacks (the prices at the top are very expensive).

There are numerous trails starting at Schynige Platte

Alpine Gardens

There are over 600 species of alpine flowers growing in the Alpine Gardens just beyond the train station. The winding trails take you through the nooks and crannies of the gardens where you will find beautiful flowers and tranquil seating areas to take in the view. If you are interested in flowers then you should plan to spend at least an hour there as the gardens are exquisite.

Admire the alpine flowers in the Alpine Gardens

Take a Special Family Photo

A family fun activity at Schynige Platte is to take a photo using the giant frame props. There are two on the hillside allowing you to take a pre-framed photo with your loved ones with the amazing mountain scene as your backdrop.

The Swiss Alps make a great backdrop for your family portrait

Scenic Restaurant

There are two restaurants available on this day trip. The first at the midstation Breitlauenen where romantic tables are set along the train tracks with views over Lake Thun below. The second is at the peak at Schynige Platte which is bigger but indoors. Both look over the snow capped mountains and provide a relaxing place to take in the view while you refuel after exploring the alpine gardens or hiking the mountains. They are quite pricey though so if you are travelling on a budget you may benefit from taking your own picnic instead and eating on the hillside.

The romantic view from the rustic café at Breitlauenen

OTHER DAY TRIPS ARE IN THE BERNER OBERLAND REGION

Consider these other day trips in the Bernese Oberland Region: