Discover Why ‘The Top of Europe’ is the Ultimate Stylish Adventure You Need

Looking for an unforgettable adventure? Experience the sensation of being at the top of the world, surrounded by stunning Alpine scenery, aboard the new Eiger Express gondola from Grindelwald Terminal to the Eigergletscher station. My journey began with a direct flight to Switzerland via Swiss International Air Lines, leaving me refreshed and ready to explore this remarkable country. As a special guest, I had the pleasure of riding the VIP Eiger Express, featuring eight spacious red leather seats that rotate 360 degrees for panoramic views. At the center of the gondola, a Champagne bar offers a selection of glasses, bubbly, wine, and snacks. Plus, the new Grindelwald Terminal includes a Platinum Lounge where you can enjoy complimentary coffee and light bites while you wait.

Swiss Sustainability

The Eiger Express ranks among the highest cable cars globally and is designed with minimal environmental impact, utilizing an innovative tri-cable system that consumes less energy and requires only seven supports—no need to clear a forest path. The energy generated by the gondola's wheels heats the seats, and heated windows prevent ice and fog from obstructing the views. The cars are also wheelchair accessible, ensuring everyone can enjoy this incredible experience.

The brand-new Grindelwald Terminal boasts numerous restaurants and is built with sustainability in mind, exemplifying Swiss efficiency. Constructed from local wood and materials, it transports between 3,000 and 5,000 people up the mountain every hour, with a seamless flow of gondolas. There are electric vehicle charging stations outside, and a dedicated hydroelectric station powers the cable network and trains, which utilize regenerative braking to save energy.

Breathtaking Views from the Summit

From the Eigergletscher station, you can ski or make a direct transfer to reach the top of Jungfraujoch, famously dubbed 'The Top of Europe.' The journey only takes 45 minutes, with stunning views throughout. At the summit, you're rewarded with even more spectacular vistas that stretch for miles.

Enter the Ice Palace through tunnels carved into the glacier. One of the main attractions is the intricate ice sculptures, including a miniature model of the mountain itself. Experiencing the heart of this living glacier is truly extraordinary. To top it all off, there's a fantastic restaurant at the peak, the Restaurant Crystal, serving traditional Swiss cuisine alongside breathtaking panoramic views.

Alongside a diverse group of Indian and Brazilian travelers, I marveled at the view of the longest glacier in the Alps, despite the fog that afternoon. This location is remarkable for many reasons, and you don't need to be an adrenaline junkie to appreciate it. You can experience a sense of wonder and adventure without taking a single step, while skiers and mountaineers use it as a gateway to explore the glacier and surrounding wilderness. On the return journey, the clouds parted, the sun emerged, and the vistas stretched for miles in every direction—truly breathtaking.

Locally Sourced Delights

Sustainability also distinguishes many local eateries. At the charming Hotel Glacier in Grindelwald, Chef Robert Steuri crafts three-, five-, and seven-course tasting menus using ingredients sourced from within a 20-mile radius of the hotel. The menu includes locally caught fish and employs techniques like fermentation, smoking, and dry-aging to enhance the flavors.

I experienced a similar welcoming atmosphere during my stay at the Victoria-Jungfrau Grand Hotel & Spa in nearby Interlaken, which proudly claims to be 'the Grand Dame of Swiss luxury hotels.' This magnificent 150-year-old hotel combines classical elegance with modern amenities and features an impressive spa that includes a large pool, week-long wellness programs, and products like creams and serums made from Swiss ingredients.

The hotel also offers a hyper-local menu at its new restaurant, Radius, led by Swiss chef Stefan Beer. He sources all ingredients from within 25 miles of the hotel, utilizing the produce from local farmers, fishermen, and beekeepers to create his exceptional dishes. Additionally, there are several excellent dining options in town for authentic cuisine, including Brasserie 17, a vibrant local hub with six beers on tap, and the more upscale dining experience at Hotel and Restaurant Salzano.

Ice Adventures and Serene Lake Excursions in Interlaken

Just a short train ride from Jungfrau, Interlaken is surrounded by stunning landscapes, including Schilthorn and several other majestic mountains. In the summer, it's a popular destination thanks to its picturesque lake, vibrant restaurants, nightlife, and outdoor festivals. However, visiting in winter offers a uniquely special experience—it's an ideal stop for a couple of days if you're skiing in Switzerland. You’ll find the area much less crowded, and there are plenty of excursions to enjoy.

Water lovers can also find excitement here during the winter months. I joined Hightide Kayak School for a tranquil winter kayaking adventure on Lake Brienz. The experience is difficult to capture in words; the entire area, blanketed in a stunning layer of snow, was enveloped in silence. You can see your breath in the crisp air while staying warm in your dry suit. It’s nothing short of a mesmerizing winter tableau as you glide across the lake, passing beneath eagle nests and historic monasteries. On a separate lake cruise on Lake Thun, you can admire five castles, including Oberhofen Castle and Hünegg Castle, dotting the shoreline. It was an unforgettable way to soak in the beauty of this enchanting winter destination.