If you're looking for a truly unforgettable adventure, the Swiss Bernese Alps are the perfect destination. This post will walk you through my experience, sharing the highlights, must-see spots, and helpful tips so you can fully enjoy the magic of this stunning region. From crystal-clear lakes to exhilarating mountain walks, you'll get a feel for the beauty and excitement that make the Alps so special. Whether you're planning your own trip or just curious, I hope this inspires you to discover everything the Swiss Alps have to offer.
When I traveled to Switzerland for work, I was fortunate enough to take a break from the city and explore the stunning Bernese Alps. This day trip became one of my favorite highlights, especially since I visited in August, a month with perfect weather and fewer crowds. It was a wonderful escape before my family trip to Italy. There were so many scenic, beautiful views.
I opted for a local guide for a private tour with my group of four coworkers, which offered a guided journey through some of the most iconic spots in the Jungfrau region. The eight-hour day trip, starting at 7 a.m. and ending by 3 p.m., was ideal, allowing me to make the most of my work trip to Zurich. I took this adventure with a few coworkers, and it was truly an unforgettable experience.
The Swiss Alps in August: Perfect Weather, No Crowds
If you're wondering about the weather in the Swiss Alps during August, let me tell you, it was absolutely perfect! The temperature was comfortably warm, and we were greeted with clear skies and sunshine. The air was crisp, and the views were spectacular, making it the best time to explore the region without the hustle and bustle of peak tourist season. There were moments when we felt like we had the mountains all to ourselves, which made the experience even more special.
During my visit, the days were warm but not too hot, with temperatures ranging from the low 60s to mid-70s Fahrenheit (around 15-25°C). The air was crisp and refreshing, especially at higher altitudes, and the skies were mostly clear, offering unobstructed views of the stunning mountains and valleys. This time of year is perfect for outdoor activities, as the snow has melted from the lower trails, but you can still see patches of snow on the higher peaks. Best of all, early August isn't as crowded as the peak summer months, so you can enjoy the beauty of the Alps without the large tourist crowds. (If you are headed to Italy as part of a connecting trip, there are definitely crowds in Italy during this time.)
Understanding the Geography of the Bernese Alps: Interlaken, Jungfrau, and Surrounding Regions
The Bernese Alps are a vast and diverse region in Switzerland, and it can be a bit confusing to understand how the different areas are connected. One of the key areas is Interlaken, a popular town nestled between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz. Interlaken serves as a gateway to the Jungfrau region and the Bernese Oberland, making it an ideal base for tourists looking to explore the surrounding mountains, valleys, and villages. This area is known for its outdoor activities, from hiking and paragliding to relaxing by the lakes.
The Jungfrau Region, on the other hand, refers to the broader alpine area that includes iconic peaks like the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau. It also encompasses charming mountain villages such as Lauterbrunnen, Grindelwald, Mürren, and Wengen. This region is often considered the heart of the Bernese Alps, with its stunning vistas and picturesque landscapes. Unlike cities like Zurich or Interlaken, which are more bustling with tourists, the Jungfrau area is all about nature and serenity.
Understanding the distinction between the city-like atmosphere of Interlaken and the more secluded Jungfrau villages will help you plan your trip based on the type of experience you're seeking—whether it’s adventure or tranquility.
I walk through the tour of our Jungfrau day specifically so that you get a chance to understand what its all about.
Starting the Journey: Lake Lungern
We kicked off our journey with a visit to Lake Lungern, a breathtakingly serene lake located about an hour from Zurich.
On the way to the Bernese Alps, we made a quick stop at a gas station called Raststätte Knonaueramt AG, located just off the A4 Autobahn near the town of Affoltern am Albis, about 20 minutes outside Zurich. You’ll see “My Stop” outside the building, and it’s a well-known rest area for travelers heading into the mountains.
The location, right off the autobahn, made it an easy and convenient place to grab coffee and snacks for the road, which was full of winding turns as we made our way into the Alps. The gas station had a great selection of food, from freshly baked pastries to local Swiss chocolate, providing a perfect break before continuing on our scenic drive.
As we arrived, the glassy surface of the water mirrored the surrounding mountains, creating a picture-perfect setting. Our private guide took us to several viewpoints around the lake, each offering stunning panoramic views that had me reaching for my camera at every turn.
The stillness of Lake Lungern was so calming, and the cool breeze added to the peaceful atmosphere.
If you're looking for a moment of tranquility before heading deeper into the Alps, this is the place to find it.
Lauterbrunnen: The Valley of 72 Waterfalls
From Lake Lungern, we made our way to Lauterbrunnen, one of Switzerland's most picturesque mountain villages.
Known as the "Valley of 72 Waterfalls," the village is surrounded by towering cliffs from which waterfalls cascade down in every direction. Walking through Lauterbrunnen was like stepping into a storybook, with the sound of rushing water providing a calming backdrop.
We had time to explore the quaint streets, browse the shops, and grab a quick snack. But the real magic came when we ventured into the valley, where the towering waterfalls created a truly majestic atmosphere. Lauterbrunnen felt like a hidden gem, far from the crowded tourist hotspots, and it was refreshing to enjoy the village at our own pace.
Schilthorn – Birg: Skyline Walk and Thrill Walk
The next highlight of our trip was ascending to Schilthorn – Birg, sitting at 8,700 feet above sea level.
We took the cable car up, which in itself was a thrilling ride offering sweeping views of the Swiss Alps.
At the top, we did the Skyline Walk—an exhilarating experience that lets you walk along a transparent platform, suspended over the valley below.
Looking down at the landscape from such a height was both awe-inspiring and slightly terrifying in the best way possible.
But that wasn’t all—next up was the Thrill Walk, a high-altitude cliff walk.
Walking along this path, I felt like I was hovering above the world, with the Alps stretching out as far as the eye could see. Both activities offered a unique perspective on the mountains, one that you simply can’t get from the ground.
Our tour guide had delicious cheeses as a snack!
Murren and Gimmelwald: Swiss Alpine Villages
After the excitement of Schilthorn, we descended to the charming villages of Murren and Gimmelwald.
Murren is a car-free village that boasts panoramic views of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau mountains. Here, we wandered the narrow streets, stopping for a quick coffee and soaking in the alpine air. It was a quiet retreat from the busier areas, allowing me to truly appreciate the beauty of the Swiss countryside.
If you have the time, I highly recommend taking the 45-minute walk from Murren to Gimmelwald, another peaceful mountain village that’s even smaller and more remote. Gimmelwald offers an authentic Swiss experience with traditional chalets and alpine meadows stretching as far as the eye can see.
Mürrenbachfall and Iseltwald: Waterfalls and Lakeside Beauty
Continuing on, we made our way to Murrenbachfall, Switzerland’s tallest waterfall. Standing beneath it, watching the water cascade down from such great heights, was a humbling experience. The sheer force of nature on display was breathtaking.
Next up was an amazing beautiful little town. Iseltwald, a picturesque village on the shores of Lake Brienz, felt like stepping into a postcard.
The peaceful atmosphere, combined with the stunning views of the turquoise lake surrounded by towering mountains, made it one of the most serene stops on our trip.
We found a perfect picnic area right by the water, where we enjoyed a Swiss Raclette while soaking in the breathtaking scenery. The lake was calm and inviting, and it’s a popular spot for swimming, with crystal-clear waters that are perfect for cooling off after a day of exploring. Iseltwald is truly a hidden gem, offering a mix of relaxation, scenic beauty, and the chance to take a dip in the refreshing alpine waters.
Owiland: A Quick Stop for a Snack
Before wrapping up the day, we made a quick stop at Owiland to stretch our legs and grab some food. This small spot provided a perfect pit stop before heading back to Zurich. I appreciated the chance to take a breather and reflect on the day's adventures before our driver dropped us off at our hotel.
A Glimpse Into Traditional Swiss Wrestling: Stumbling Upon Schwingen in August
During my trip to Switzerland, I happened to stumble upon one of the smaller regional Schwingen events, a traditional Swiss wrestling competition. Schwingen is an age-old sport where two men, wearing special belts, try to bring each other to the ground in a sawdust ring. Although the major Eidgenössisches Schwing- und Älplerfest happens only every three years, smaller regional tournaments are held annually, and I was lucky to catch one of these during my August visit.
I didn’t get the chance to attend the event in person, but I found it fascinating to watch it being televised at local convenience stores. Seeing how engaged the locals were—cheering for their favorite wrestlers—gave me a glimpse into the cultural significance of this tradition. It wasn’t just a sporting event; it was a celebration of Swiss heritage, and even though I wasn’t at the actual venue, witnessing it on TV alongside the locals made it a memorable cultural experience.
Why You Should Visit the Swiss Alps in August
After spending the day immersed in the beauty of the Swiss Bernese Alps, I can’t recommend visiting in August enough. The weather was ideal—warm enough for outdoor activities but cool enough to enjoy the alpine air. Plus, the smaller crowds meant we had ample time to explore without feeling rushed.
If you're planning a trip to Switzerland, whether for work or leisure, taking a day trip to the Bernese Alps is an absolute must. It’s the perfect opportunity to escape the city and experience the natural beauty that Switzerland is famous for.
For me, this day trip was the perfect prelude to my family vacation in Italy. The Swiss Alps offered a refreshing break from my work schedule in Zurich and gave me memories that will last a lifetime.
Ready to book your own adventure? I’ve put together a detailed itinerary of our Bernese Alps trip, including the exact private day tour we booked and all the cost details. If you sign up for my email newsletter, I’ll send you an email with the full itinerary and a link to the exact tour we took, so you can plan your own seamless and unforgettable experience.
I highly recommend checking out the Best of the Bernese Alps Private Day Tour for a stress-free adventure.
Final Thoughts
I hope this review inspires you to visit the Swiss Alps, especially during the quieter month of August. If you're a nature lover or just looking for an escape from city life, this trip is for you!
More Switzerland Posts
- Bernese Alps in August (with Itinerary and Private Tour Recommendation)
- Zurich Tourist Trap Restaurants Rated
- Zurich Itinerary TIps and Tricks
