What’s new in Jungfrau – Top of Europe for Summer 2017
Welcome to summer in the Jungfrau, the natural wonderland in the heart of the Bernese Oberland, Switzerland. In 2017 visitors will not only experience the incredible scenery and unique and diverse array of natural attractions amidst the mighty Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau massif, but there is a whole host of new attractions to enjoy.
This summer holidaymakers and adrenaline junkies can ramp up the fun factor with a new Top Mountain Adventure Ride to Grindelwald, First Glider; enjoy whiskey tasting with sunset views from Harder Kulm; and benefit from more savings and accessibility with the Jungfrau Travel Pass and Adventure Card. Plus with faster, better trains that shorten the journey time to and from the Jungfraujoch, along with a new and direct bus services, what lies at the “Top of Europe” is now even easier to reach than ever.
NEW: Better trains for increased quality and productivity to the Jungfraujoch
Jungfrau Railways has modernised the three-section railcars, currently used to transport holidaymakers throughout the scenic Jungfrau Region. Upgrading the fourth generation of trains in the over 100-year history of the Jungfrau Railway has guaranteed a safer and more superior experience while allowing higher speeds to be achieved on the section between Kleine Scheidegg and the Jungfraujoch – Top of Europe shortening the roundtrip by 30 minutes. Plus, in order to guarantee a smooth and pleasant trip without waiting, Jungfrau Railways is now offering seat reservations for travellers between Kleine Scheidegg – Jungfraujoch – Kleine Scheidegg.
The Jungfraujoch –Top of Europe experience truly is a highlight of every trip to Switzerland. This popular excursion to the highest train station in Europe (at 3454m) offers guests an impressive all-round winter experience, from the picturesque train journey which carves up through the Eiger, to the ‘Alpine Sensation’ tour which illuminates the fascinating history of the railway and walks guests down through to the heart of the glacier and an ‘ice palace.’
New Direct Bus Service
If trains are not your thing, how about taking the bus? From 1 July 2017, Jungfrau Railways is offering a direct bus service from Zurich airport, Zurich and Lucerne central stations. Visitors can experience an exciting and unforgettable day trip as a high point of their Swiss holiday. The Jungfrau bus is available to book now. Additional information at www.jungfrau.ch/shop/en/bus/ticket
New Top of Adventure experience – First Glider
Starting summer 2017, The First Glider is a giant 800m zip line. Thrill-seekers sit in a secure harness, shaped as an eagle, and soar from Grindelwald First to Schreckfeld, reaching speeds of up to 84km per hour. From here, they can hop on the First Mountain Cart and hurtle along the track to Bort where the Trottibike scooters will be waiting to race from Bort to Grindelwald.
Those looking for more adrenaline-fuelled fun can purchase an ‘Adventure Card’ which includes the Gondola journey, First Mountain Cart experience, First Cliff Walk, First Flyer, Trottibike scooter ride and the NEW First Glider at Grindelwald First – Top of Adventure.
Adventure Cards cost 91CHF (£63) for adults and 60CHF (£42) for children aged 10-15 years. Available from May to October 2017. Activities subject to weather conditions.
New restaurant at Harder Kulm
The Harder Kulm Panorama Restaurant is now open in the evenings until October with the last rail descent extended to 9.40pm. Located high up at 1,322m on Interlaken’s ‘home’ mountain, the restaurant terrace and vantage platform offers impressive views of the world-famous Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau peaks, providing an ideal location for a sunset drink of special ‘ice beer’ or whiskey and a traditional Swiss bite to eat.
The Art Nouveau-style Panorama Restaurant resembles a small castle and is a spectacle in itself with its turrets, restaurant and lofty halls. The funicular railway is a five-minute walk from Interlaken Ost station and takes just 10 minutes to the top or…if holidaymakers are feeling energetic they can join the growing number of locals and fitness enthusiasts and trail run to the top. There are evening trips every day from 14 April to 22 October 2017.
This summer, Harder Kulm will also be adding a NEW restaurant that will feature a stylish, modern design with seating for 120 guests who can enjoy folk music and entertainment throughout the evening.
Extended Jungfrau Travel pass benefits
The Jungfrau Travel Pass allows visitors to travel as often as they like for the duration that suits them from 3-6 days, an excellent solution for visitors who want to stay in the region longer. Why not check out the spectacular Eiger Glacier, or explore the beautiful heights of Schynige Platte, a well-known starting point for walking tours and the nostalgic cog railway? The pass for 5 and 6 days includes a boat trip on Lake Thun and Lake Brienz and offers FREE travel with the Swiss Travel Pass on Schynige Platte Railway. All Jungfrau Travel pass holders also benefit from a 50% discount to visit Jungfraujoch – Top of Europe.
The Jungfrau Travel pass costs from 180CHF (£127) per adult for a 3-day 2nd class pass.
For more information and to book tickets in advance visit: www.jungfrau.ch