When you think of Switzerland, chances are that what comes to mind are the snow-covered peaks where you can zip down on skis or on a snowboard. While its slopes are certainly the biggest attraction of the country, these are certainly not the only outdoor adventure that this destination offers to visitors. A case in point is Schynige Platte, famous for its hiking trail that gives visitors a great vantage point overlooking the Bernese Alps, as well as gorgeous views of a verdant meadow populated by colorful wildflowers. Here is a guide to Schynige Platte, Switzerland, if you plan on going down the road less traveled while you’re in the area.
Things to do / highlights
Hiking
One of the must-tries in Schynige Platte is hiking. This trail is relatively easy, but do note that the path is not paved, so strollers and wheelchairs cannot be brought to the peak. While on your way to the top, you can enjoy views of lush meadows dotted with colorful wildflowers. If you want to stop and smell the flowers, literally or figuratively, there are picnic spots along the trail where you can stop and enjoy the gorgeous views.
At the peak, you’ll be rewarded with fantastic views of the Bernese Alps, as well as Thun and Brienz lakes. A plus: because it’s not a popular trail, you are less likely to encounter groups of people if you take on the challenge in conquering this trail, making this a great option for those who want to avoid crowds. While there are several trails in the area, it is possible that some may be closed at any given point in time, so be sure to check what trails are open before heading out here for your own safety.
Alpine Garden
If you love seeing colorful blooms, be sure to drop by the Alpine Garden, which is home to over 650 species of flowers.
Schynige Platte alphorn players
This region is famous for its alphorns. If you want to give yourself a musical treat, be sure to catch a show featuring the performance of Schynige Platte alphorn players. If you wish, you can have your photo taken as you attempt to play this gigantic instrument yourself.
Paragliding
If you love adrenaline-pumping adventures, head over to Schynigge Platte during summer so that you can try out paragliding in the area.
What to eat
Posted by Jared Osborne on Thursday, 3 October 2019
Berghotel Schynige Platte
Berghotel Schynige Platte is not just one of the oldest in Schynige Platte, it’s one of the longest-running across the Alps. Its luxurious in-house restaurant provides guests with fantastic panoramic views of the Alps from its sun terrace. Most of the items on the menu are traditional Swiss dishes, such as goulash soup, rösti, and älpermagronen.
If you want something light, coffee and cakes, as well as beer, are served here too. If, however, you want something heavier after you’ve spent a long and enjoyable day outdoors, you can try out food items from the smokehouse, including chamois and wild boar. You have the option to choose between picnic-style self-service and à la carte dining. If you’re booked in this hotel, be sure to start your day by enjoying the fantastic breakfast offered at the restaurant.
Travel tips
Train tips
As mentioned earlier, be sure to book your tickets as soon as possible, as these can quickly run out given the limited number of trips per season. If possible, time your journey between 11 am and 2 pm so you can catch a musical performance of alphorn players right at the station.
Photography tips
If you love taking selfies, take the time to find the Schynige Platte Nature Cinema, which you can find along the hiking trail right from the train station, to take Insta-worthy photographs.
Viewing tip
The best views of the surrounding areas can be enjoyed when the day is sunny, so make sure to check the weather conditions before heading to Schynige Platte.
How to get there
Train
This is one tourist draw where the journey itself is as great as the destination. Getting to Schynigge Platte is in itself its own tourist attraction, as you will need to take a cogwheel train, which has been around since the 1890s, to get to this area. The century-old train adds a touch of nostalgia and charm to the journey.
While the train may not be the fastest, you will not mind the leisurely journey, as you will be seeing rugged yet gorgeous landscapes of the Bernese Alps, so be sure not to take a nap on the way. The trip takes roughly an hour. Be sure to check the schedule early so that you don’t miss the train, which operates between May and October.
Car / Taxi
If you want to get to Schynige Platte quickly, you can rent a car or get a cab to take you to the area.
How to book tickets (from USD 77.0)
If you’re planning on taking the cogwheel train to and from Schynige Platte, you have the option of buying your tickets right from the train station in Wilderswil or the other stations along the line, or online.
Schynige Platte Admission
Duration: 1 to 4 hours
Schynigge Platte information
Address: Schynigge Platte, Switzerland
Attraction website: Schynigge Platte
Tourism board website: My Switzerland
History
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