Exploring Lauterbrunnen Valley: Waterfalls, Villages, and Alpine Charm
Train Lucerne → Interlaken (~2 hrs)
I took a train from Lucerne to Interlaken and the ride took me about 2 hours. When I first stepped into the Lauterbrunnen Valley, it felt like I had walked straight into a storybook.
Nestled between towering cliffs and snow-capped peaks, the valley is often called the “land of 72 waterfalls” and it’s easy to see why.
Every direction you turn, there’s a ribbon of water cascading down sheer rock faces, feeding the green meadows below. It’s no wonder this place inspired Tolkien’s Rivendell.
If you’re planning a visit, here’s how I explored Lauterbrunnen Valley and the highlights I think you shouldn’t miss.
Staubbach Falls: The Valley’s Iconic Waterfall
The first sight that caught my eye as I entered the village of Lauterbrunnen was Staubbach Falls.
At nearly 300 meters high, it’s one of the tallest free-falling waterfalls in Europe, and it dominates the view of the valley.
I walked up to the small viewpoint trail, where you can feel the mist brushing against your face on a windy day.
In the late afternoon, the sunlight often creates rainbows in the spray, a photographer’s dream.
👉 Tip: The best view of Staubbach Falls is actually from the opposite side of the valley, where you can capture the waterfall with the church steeple in the foreground.
Trümmelbach Falls: A Hidden World Inside the Mountain
If Staubbach is graceful, then Trümmelbach Falls is raw power.
This series of ten glacier-fed waterfalls crashes through the inside of the mountain, and you can access them via tunnels and walkways.
Walking inside, I could hear the roar of the water before I even saw it.
The force of the glacial meltwater is incredible with up to 20,000 liters per second during peak season.
It’s dark, damp, and a little eerie, but it made me appreciate the valley’s wild side.
👉 Wear sturdy shoes; the steps can be slippery. And bring a jacket, because the spray is constant!
Mürren & Wengen: Villages Above the Valley
One of my favorite parts of exploring Lauterbrunnen was taking the cable car up to the car-free village of Mürren.
Perched high above the valley, it feels like time has slowed down.
Wooden chalets with flower-filled balconies line the streets, and the views of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau mountains are jaw-dropping.
Equally charming is Wengen, another car-free village accessible by train. It has a slightly larger feel than Mürren, with more restaurants and hotels, but still keeps its alpine character.
Both villages are perfect for wandering around, enjoying the fresh air, and soaking up panoramic views.
👉 If you’re short on time, pick Mürren for its quiet charm; if you want more dining options, Wengen is a great choice.
Hiking Trails & Photography Stops
No trip to Lauterbrunnen Valley would be complete without lacing up your hiking boots. I followed the flat Lauterbrunnen to Stechelberg trail, which runs along the valley floor. The entire walk took me about 1.5 hours.
Along the way, I passed meadows, streams, and countless waterfalls tumbling down the cliffs.
For a more challenging hike, I recommend the route from Grütschalp to Mürren, which offers sweeping views of the valley and the surrounding peaks.
👉 Bring your camera, almost every bend reveals a postcard-worthy scene.
Dinner & Overnight
Evening: Dinner in Lauterbrunnen or Interlaken.
Overnight: Interlaken/Lauterbrunnen.
Where to Stay: Valley or Mountain Villages?
Deciding where to stay in Lauterbrunnen can be tricky, but here’s what I learned:
- In the valley (Lauterbrunnen village) – Best if you want easy access to trains, buses, and cable cars. Great for flexibility if you’re planning day trips to Interlaken, Jungfraujoch, or Schilthorn.
- In the mountains (Mürren or Wengen) – Best if you want a peaceful alpine escape with unforgettable views right outside your window. The trade-off is that you’ll rely on cable cars or mountain railways to get in and out.
Personally, I stayed in the valley for convenience, but I spent enough time in Mürren to know I’d love to sleep there next time.
Final Thoughts: Why Lauterbrunnen Valley Stole My Heart
Lauterbrunnen Valley is more than just a stop on a Switzerland itinerary, it’s a place that feels alive with nature’s power and beauty.
Between the thundering waterfalls, the charming car-free villages, and the endless hiking trails, it offers the perfect mix of adventure and serenity.
This place is truly the one you see on postcards. If you’re traveling through Switzerland, give yourself at least a full day here (ideally two) to really soak it all in. Trust me, this valley has a way of making you want to stay longer than planned.
