Villages Gimmelwald
Gimmelwald is a tiny, untouched mountain hamlet clinging to the cliffs above Lauterbrunnen Valley. Often described as a “hidden gem,” this car-free village charms with its simplicity, authenticity, and dramatic alpine setting. Traditional farmhouses, cows in alpine pastures, and breathtaking views make Gimmelwald feel like a living postcard. It’s the perfect stop for slow travelers and those seeking a connection to real Swiss mountain life. Popular among backpackers, hikers, and nature lovers, Gimmelwald offers peace, inspiration, and access to a network of alpine trails.
Gimmelwald is one of the most authentic and peaceful villages in the Swiss Alps. Perched at 1,367 meters on a steep slope in the Lauterbrunnen Valley, this car-free hamlet offers a glimpse into a slower, simpler way of life. Unlike its more developed neighbor Mürren, Gimmelwald has remained a traditional farming village where hay still dries on wooden racks and goats graze freely on the meadows.
The village consists of a handful of rustic chalets, a local cheese cellar, a small schoolhouse, and welcoming guesthouses. It’s beloved by backpackers and off-the-beaten-path travelers for its charm, affordability, and sense of community. Rick Steves, the American travel writer, famously called it one of his favorite spots in Europe—and once you’ve visited, you’ll understand why.
The true magic of Gimmelwald lies in its surroundings. Towering cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and lush alpine meadows frame every view. From here, hikers can access panoramic trails leading up toward Mürren, down to Stechelberg, or along the thrilling via ferrata route that clings to the cliffside. Despite its remoteness, the village is easily reached via the Schilthornbahn cable car or by hiking from Mürren.
Gimmelwald offers no luxury resorts or shopping streets—just natural beauty, warm hospitality, and the sense that time has stopped. It’s ideal for day-trippers who want to experience unspoiled alpine life or for those looking to disconnect completely in a landscape that inspires quiet wonder.
Whether you’re pausing here during a hike or staying overnight to breathe in the mountain air, Gimmelwald captures the heart like few other places.
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