On the left, the almost vertical lines of the cable car.Image: Reto Fehr
The new cable car that connects Stechelberg to Mürren in the Bernese Oberland has been in operation for a few days. I tested it for you and it’s very impressive.
Follow meThe steepest cable car in the world was inaugurated on December 14 in Switzerland. It connects Stechelberg to Mürren in the Bernese Oberland. After experiencing the glass gondola in Grimentz, I wanted to test it for “The Switzerland of Records”. And I have things to tell you.
The Lauterbrunnen Valley in the Bernese Oberland is one of the most beautiful regions in Switzerland. Or at least, certainly the most special ones. The high rock walls almost crush you at first glance. And it’s easy to say to yourself that you’ll never get there. But we all know, these cliffs have been crossed a long time ago. However, until now, the crossing was only done in front of Lauterbrunnen or from Stechelberg by taking a detour via Gimmelwald, with two long (around 1200 meters each) not very steep cable cars.
Since mid-December, it is now possible to go directly up the steep cliff. In 1194 meters of journey, we overcome 775 meters of altitude difference. Or the same elevation gain as before, but over only half of the route. This is only possible with an impressive slope of 159.4%. It almost feels like an elevator. No wonder the cable connecting the cabin to the rope must be 11 meters long, to prevent the cable car from touching it.
The slope of the gondola becomes very evident from the valley station. Usually covered, here it is only protected in the waiting area. You probably think that only the brave without dizziness can make the journey? Don’t worry, it doesn’t feel that extreme. The cabin is spacious and if you position yourself in the middle it really helps. Another tip: stand at the front, near the rock wall.
The departure of the cable car in Stechelberg is from the roof. To completely cover the station, a very tall building would have been necessary.Image: Reto Fehr
The Switzerland of records
In La Suisse des records, we present the records of Switzerland. World and European records, perhaps also a “simple” national mark. From the world’s purest gold to Europe’s highest hiking peak and the world’s first carbon-neutral cable car, there’s room for everything. Ideally, these records are linked to an outdoor experience. If you know of any other records, write to me at [email protected].
If you are not afraid of heights, you can dare to take a look at the depth near the pylon at the edge of the cliff. Especially during the descent, your heart can really skip a beat as you go over the edge and look down.
-A quick look at the station, located approximately 600 meters lower.Image: watson
Looking for a little more adrenaline? From Mürren station, the next cable car takes you to Birg, where you can walk on the “Thrill Walk” along the cliff, on metal gratings – partly on glass or even on a nine-metre suspension bridge. long (with safety net). A fantastic experience.
The “Thrill Walk” can be shortened in winter, and after the glass floor you will have to turn around before you have gone through the crawl tunnel.
On the way from Grütschalp to Mürren with views of the Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau (from left to right, the Jungfrau is hidden by the fir tree)Image: Reto Fehr
If you prefer a more leisurely atmosphere, take a hike from Mürren to Grütschalp. In winter, you can take a wonderful, well-prepared and mostly flat winter hiking trail near Winteregg. It lasts about 1 hour 15 minutes and you will constantly have spectacular views of the mountains with the Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau, or Wengen on the other side of the valley.
No need to go far, let’s enjoy the Swiss landscapes!
In Winteregg or Grütschalp, you can then take the little train back to Mürren. Or go straight down to Lauterbrunnen – but there you will miss the descent with the steepest cable car in the world. And that would be a shame.
Translated from German by Anne Castella
Here is the hiking route:
