Grindelwald: the Alpine village beneath the Eiger
Grindelwald is one of Switzerland's most celebrated mountain villages, set in the Bernese Alps beneath the Eiger, Wetterhorn and surrounding peaks. First mentioned in 1146, it grew from an alpine farming community into one of the defining centres of European mountain tourism. The golden age of alpinism in the 19th century transformed the village, and the arrival of the road, the Bernese Oberland Railway and later mountain railways connected Grindelwald to a global audience. Today the village remains a major base for hiking, skiing and access to the Jungfrau region.
Population: 4,318 inhabitants (municipal figure, 1 January 2025).
Distance: about 12 miles southeast of Interlaken.
Traditions and culture: Grindelwald's culture is deeply tied to alpine guiding, mountain farming and the long history of Swiss mountaineering.
Highlights: the Eiger north face views, Grindelwald First, Kleine Scheidegg, the Jungfraujoch railway connection, St. Mary's Church and the wider Jungfrau mountain landscape.
Grindelwald
Videos: Grindelwald
Grindelwald in 4K: village walks beneath the Eiger and a guide to First
A second walk through Grindelwald
Premium Walking Tours offers another street-level perspective on the village. Compare the pace and surroundings with the main film if you are choosing where to walk or stay.
Planning the First mountain excursion
Aplins in the Alps focuses on Grindelwald First, reached by cable car from the village. It is a separate outing with mountain viewpoints and activities, rather than another walk through the streets.