Mount First Gondola Ride from Grindelwald

Experience the Iconic Gondola Ride from Grindelwald to Mt. First for $89.66

This admission ticket offers a fantastic way to explore one of Switzerland’s most breathtaking mountain landscapes. Priced at $89.66 per person, the tour includes a round-trip cable car ride from the charming glacier village of Grindelwald up to Mt. First at 2,168 meters (7,109 feet). With a typical duration of 1 to 5 hours, it’s flexible enough for a quick visit or a leisurely exploration.

The journey takes place in the Bernese Oberland, famous for uninterrupted panoramic views. The cable car ride itself lasts over 30 minutes, providing ample opportunity to soak in the stunning scenery. The ticket also grants access to the First Cliff Walk by Tissot, adding an exciting highlight to the experience.

This unguided adventure suits travelers who enjoy exploring at their own pace. Most visitors book this tour about 22 days in advance, highlighting its popularity. Keep in mind, food and drinks are not included, but the restaurant at the top offers plenty of seats and a sun terrace, making it a convenient spot for a meal.

Key Points

• Round-trip cable car from Grindelwald to Mt. First included in the price
• Uninterrupted panoramic views of the Bernese Oberland scenery
• Free time to explore hiking trails, enjoy activities, or relax at your own pace
• First Cliff Walk by Tissot included, offering stunning perspectives from the cliffside
• Activities available for purchase include First Flyer, Mountain Cart, scooter-bike rides, and more
• Most travelers book the tour 22 days in advance

The Cable Car Journey: From Grindelwald to Mt. First

The trip begins at the Grindelwald-First station, where you board the gondola for a gentle ascent. The cable car ride is a highlight on its own, with over 30 minutes of scenic views as you rise above the tree line. The sunny side of the valley reveals impressive vistas that many describe as awe-inspiring.

This gondola ride is unguided, giving you the freedom to enjoy the journey at your own pace. The departure points are accessible via Google Maps or the Jungfrau Railways website, with the operating hours running from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM daily, from September 2023 through July 2026.

Top Attractions at Mt. First: Cliff Walk and Trails

Once at the top, the First Cliff Walk by Tissot offers a daring yet accessible experience that many find exhilarating. The walk delivers spectacular views over the Bernese Alps, with safety measures in place. The trails at the summit are well-maintained and lead in various directions, making it easy to find your own route.

The Lake Bachalpsee, often called the pearl of mountain lakes, is reachable via hiking trails from Mt. First. The walk to the lake is noted for being easy and the scenery is well worth the effort, according to reviews.

Activities Available for Extra Purchase at Mt. First

While the base ticket covers the cable car and Cliff Walk, several activities can be bought on-site. The First Flyer and First Glider are winter-only options, but during warmer months, you can rent scooter-bikes or Mountain Carts. Reviewers highlight their fun and easy nature, with some mentioning they prefer the toytie bikes back down for a memorable end to the day.

Note that during winter, Mountain Carts and Scooter Bikes are not operated, so plan accordingly if visiting in the colder months.

Dining Options at the Mountain Top

The restaurant at Mt. First boasts 350 seats and a sun terrace with up to 300 seats. Many visitors appreciate the reasonable prices and spectacular views, making it an ideal place to relax after exploring the trails or enjoying activities. The restaurant’s ample seating and scenic setting are often praised in reviews.

Practical Info: Meeting Points, Timing, and Accessibility

The tour departs from Grindelwald, with the boarding station easily found via Google Maps or Jungfrau Railway info pages. The operation hours are consistent: 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM, ensuring flexibility for travelers. The tour is accessible, and service animals are allowed, making it suitable for a variety of needs.

Most travelers find the ticket purchase process straightforward, with electronic tickets allowing quick entry and avoiding lines. The most popular booking window is around 22 days in advance, reflecting its popularity and limited spots during peak seasons.

The Experience: Scenic Wonder and Freedom to Discover

The unguided nature of the tour offers a personalized experience, with the freedom to explore hiking trails, enjoy activities, or simply relax and take in the breathtaking views. Many describe the ride as long and scenic, with over 30 minutes of tranquil ascent providing ample time to admire the snow-capped peaks and verdant valleys below.

The well-maintained trails and wide range of activities make this tour particularly appealing for those who want flexibility and adventure without a guided schedule. The overall experience is often praised as more than enough value for the price, especially considering the stunning scenery.

Real Feedback Highlights: What Travelers Love Most

The most praised aspects include the stunning views from the gondola and summit, the easy and scenic hikes, and the fun activities like the toytie bike. Reviewers often mention the length of the gondola ride—over 30 minutes—as a highlight, offering a peaceful, picturesque journey.

Many appreciate the quality of the trails and the well-maintained facilities, which allow for comfortable exploration. The First Cliff Walk earns special mention as a thrilling yet safe way to experience the cliffs, providing amazing perspectives over the mountains.

Limitations and Tips for Booking

While most reviews emphasize the excellent value and beautiful scenery, some highlight that activities like the Mountain Carts and Scooter bikes are seasonal and may sell out early. It’s advisable to reserve activities as soon as possible during busy periods.

The price is described as “a bit pricey” by some, but most agree that the experience justifies the cost. Children are required to be accompanied by an adult, and most travelers find the tour suitable for all skill levels.

Mount First Gondola Ride from Grindelwald: A Scenic Swiss Adventure

This ticketed gondola ride to Mt. First offers an ideal mix of breathtaking scenery, personal freedom, and adventure options. The stunning ascent promises panoramic views of the Bernese Alps, with a well-maintained trail network and attractions like the First Cliff Walk.

The unguided format allows each traveler to craft their own experience, whether it’s a relaxing day, a hiking expedition, or an adrenaline-filled activity. The restaurant and scenic terrace at the summit provide pleasant spots to unwind, making it a memorable outing.

While activities like Mountain Cart and First Flyer are additional purchases, many find the core gondola experience rich enough to justify the cost. The longer gondola ride and stunning views are frequently praised, confirming this as a worthwhile visit for those seeking nature’s splendor in Switzerland.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does the Mount First Gondola Ride cost?
The ticket is priced at $89.66 per person, including the cable car and the First Cliff Walk.

What is included in the ticket?
The round-trip cable car ride from Grindelwald to Mt. First and access to the Cliff Walk are included. Food, drinks, and activities such as First Flyer or Mountain Carts are not included but available for purchase.

How long does the gondola ride take?
The gondola ascent lasts over 30 minutes, providing ample opportunity to enjoy the scenery and mountain views.

Can I explore hiking trails at the top?
Yes, the trails at Mt. First are well-maintained, and you can explore them at your leisure. The trail to Lake Bachalpsee is particularly popular and considered easy.

Are activities like the First Flyer available year-round?
The First Flyer and First Glider are winter-only activities. Mountain Carts and Scooter Bikes are not operated in winter but are available during warmer months.

What are the opening hours?
The operation hours are from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM, from September 2023 through July 2026.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children must be accompanied by an adult, and the experience is generally suitable for most ages and fitness levels.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, the majority of travelers book about 22 days in advance to secure their spot, especially during peak seasons.

Is there a restaurant at the summit?
Yes, the restaurant offers reasonable prices, scenic views, and ample seating, making it a great place to relax after exploring or enjoying activities.

How accessible is this tour?
The departure station is near public transportation, and the tour is suitable for most travelers. Service animals are allowed.

Is the experience worth the cost?
Most reviews highlight that the stunning views and personal exploration time make it worth the price, despite some noting it’s slightly expensive.