Schilthorn | Interlaken

Schilthorn is a famous mountain peak located in the Bernese Oberland region of Switzerland, renowned for its spectacular panoramic views and as the site of the Piz Gloria restaurant, which was featured in the 1969 James Bond film On Her Majesty's Secret Service. The mountain, which reaches an altitude of 2,970 meters (9,744 feet), is a popular destination for tourists seeking breathtaking alpine views, thrilling activities, and a taste of cinematic history.

Key Features of Schilthorn

Stunning Panoramic Views

• The summit of Schilthorn offers some of the best 360-degree panoramic views in Switzerland. On clear days, visitors can see a vast stretch of the Bernese Alps, including famous peaks such as Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau. The views extend over the Jungfrau-Aletsch-Bietschhorn UNESCO World Heritage Site and all the way to the Lake of Thun.
• The breathtaking vistas from the summit make Schilthorn a popular spot for photographers, nature lovers, and those who enjoy sweeping alpine landscapes.

Piz Gloria - The James Bond Restaurant

• Piz Gloria is a rotating restaurant located at the top of Schilthorn, which was made famous by its appearance in the 1969 James Bond film On Her Majesty's Secret Service. The restaurant rotates 360 degrees over the course of an hour, allowing diners to enjoy uninterrupted views of the surrounding mountains and valleys while eating.
• Inside Piz Gloria, visitors can find a James Bond exhibition, featuring memorabilia from the movie, along with a multimedia display that chronicles the film’s production and the significance of Schilthorn in the Bond franchise.
• The restaurant is a must-visit for film buffs and James Bond fans, as well as those looking to enjoy a meal with some of the most spectacular views in Switzerland.

Cable Car and Access

• Schilthorn is easily accessible by a series of cable cars that connect Stechelberg in the Lauterbrunnen Valley to the summit. The journey involves several stages, including a ride to Gimelwald, then a cable car to Mürren, and finally to the summit of Schilthorn. The entire journey offers spectacular views of the surrounding mountains, valleys, and alpine villages.
• The cable car system, operated by the Schilthornbahn, offers one of the most scenic rides in the Swiss Alps, passing through dense forests, alpine meadows, and high-altitude landscapes. The final ascent to Schilthorn takes visitors from Mürren to the summit, where the views are truly awe-inspiring.

Hiking and Outdoor Activities

• Schilthorn is a popular starting point for several hiking trails that vary in difficulty and duration. The region offers numerous hiking routes for all levels of hikers, ranging from leisurely walks to more challenging alpine treks. Some of the most popular hikes from Schilthorn include:
  • The Schilthorn to Piz Gloria trail: A relatively easy hike that leads from the summit of Schilthorn to the restaurant, offering incredible views of the Jungfrau massif and the surrounding peaks.
  • The Mürren to Schilthorn hike: This more challenging route takes hikers from the village of Mürren to Schilthorn, passing through alpine meadows, forests, and rocky terrain, with stunning views of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau along the way.
  • The Eiger Trail: Although not directly starting at Schilthorn, this popular trail can be accessed from nearby areas and offers an exciting adventure for hikers with an interest in high-altitude alpine landscapes.
• In winter, Schilthorn is also a great destination for skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing. The Mürren-Schilthorn ski region offers a variety of pistes and slopes for skiers of all levels, along with access to other popular winter resorts like Wengen and Grindelwald.

Schilthorn Thrill Walk

• For those seeking a more adrenaline-pumping experience, the Schilthorn Thrill Walk is an exciting and unique experience. Located just below the summit, the walk takes visitors along a suspended cliff walk with transparent floors, allowing for a thrilling experience as you walk along the cliffside with stunning views of the valleys and mountains below. The Thrill Walk is part of the larger Schilthorn adventure park, which offers a variety of exciting outdoor activities and installations for visitors of all ages.

Winter Sports

• Schilthorn is part of the larger Jungfrau Ski Region, which offers over 200 kilometers (124 miles) of ski slopes for winter sports enthusiasts. The ski area is suitable for all levels, from beginners to advanced skiers, and provides access to a range of snow activities.
• Snowshoeing and winter hiking are also popular activities in the area, with various marked routes offering a more tranquil way to explore the snowy landscape.

Cuisine and Dining

• Aside from the famous Piz Gloria restaurant, there are a variety of dining options at Schilthorn and along the hiking routes. These restaurants serve a mix of Swiss alpine cuisine, including hearty cheese fondues, rösti (Swiss-style potatoes), and local meats such as sausages and game.
• For those looking to enjoy a meal with a view, several alpine restaurants along the hiking routes and in the villages below Schilthorn offer outdoor seating, where visitors can relax and take in the beauty of the surrounding Alps.

Nearby Attractions

• Mürren: The car-free mountain village of Mürren is located just below Schilthorn and is a great place to explore before or after visiting the peak. Mürren offers traditional Swiss chalets, stunning views, and a peaceful atmosphere. It’s an excellent base for hiking and skiing.
• Lauterbrunnen Valley: The nearby Lauterbrunnen Valley is known for its stunning waterfalls, including the famous Staubbach Falls and Trümmelbach Falls. The valley is often described as one of the most beautiful in Switzerland, with its steep cliffs and lush meadows.
• Jungfraujoch: Although not directly related to Schilthorn, Jungfraujoch is another major alpine destination in the area and can be reached by train from Grindelwald or Wengen. Known as the “Top of Europe,” Jungfraujoch offers panoramic views and various activities on Europe’s highest railway station.

Best Time to Visit

• Summer (June to September) is the ideal time to visit Schilthorn, especially for hiking and outdoor activities. The weather is mild, and the mountain views are at their clearest.
• Winter (December to March) is perfect for skiing, snowboarding, and other snow sports. The winter season also offers a magical atmosphere, with the mountains covered in snow.

How to Get There

• By Cable Car: The most common way to reach Schilthorn is via a series of cable cars. The journey starts at Stechelberg, which is accessible from Lauterbrunnen by bus, and ascends to the top in several stages.
• By Train: The nearest train station is Lauterbrunnen, which is connected to the larger Swiss rail network and provides easy access to the cable car systems.
• By Car: Visitors can drive to Lauterbrunnen or Mürren (where car access is restricted) and then take the cable car to Schilthorn.

Conclusion

Schilthorn is one of the most iconic peaks in Switzerland, offering stunning views, a rich cinematic history, and a range of outdoor activities for every season. Whether you're a James Bond fan, an adventure enthusiast, or simply looking to enjoy breathtaking alpine scenery, Schilthorn is a must-visit destination in the Swiss Alps.