Travelers can access some of the most pristine ski conditions on earth from the charming alpine village of Grindelwald, which serves as an ideal homebase and gateway to the region. Grindelwald is just a few scenic hours’ drive from Zurich, which has direct flights to a number of popular American airports, including Dallas, Los Angeles, Philadelphia, Boston, Chicago, Miami, Charlotte, Phoenix, and more. The Swiss Alps have long been renowned for their exceptional snow quality, and the Jungfrau Region is no exception. With over 130 miles of unspoiled ski trails, the region consistently offers fantastic powder. Its high altitude also makes Jungfrau less susceptible to variable snow conditions when compared to the lower peaks found in world-class American ski resorts, such as those in Utah and Colorado.
Jungfrau is an ideal destination for family skiing. On Saturdays in the Jungfrau Region, for every one parent lift ticket purchased, three children aged 6 to 15 can ski for free, making it more accessible for families to ski together. The inclusive culture of Swiss skiing is evident at Jungfrau’s Ski School, where skilled instructors impart essential skiing skills to small groups on the Männlichen peak. The memories of learning to ski on one of the world’s most picturesque mountain peaks will echo in family stories for generations. Furthermore, the family-friendly atmosphere extends to cost considerations. For an elegant ascent, the Jungfrau Railways’ new Eiger Express gondola provides skiers a stylish ride up to the Mannlichen peak with plush seats and heated interiors. It can also accommodate even the biggest of families with its 26-skier occupancy per gondola car.
The region is also exceptionally equipped for those families with non-skiers. Winter adventures range from snow hiking to thrilling bungee jumps off a hanging gondola over picturesque Swiss Alpine lakes to visiting the spectacular Jungfraujoch and Sphinx observatory. The Jungfraujoch – Top of Europe, located at 11,330 feet, is the crown jewel of the area, serving as an observatory and visitor center perched on the edge of the UNESCO World Heritage Site Aletsch Glacier. Replete with restaurants, an incredible Ice Palace, and the perennial Swiss favorite, the Godiva chocolate shop, the Jungfraujoch is a perfect day- or half-day trip from the Alpine lodges of Grindelwald for the whole family to enjoy.
For a truly unique Jungfrau experience, guests can try their hand at tackling Big Pintenfritz, one of the world’s longest sledding runs. It offers over 9 miles of continuous downhill excitement with picturesque vistas.
After a day of skiing, visitors retreat to the cozy alpine lodges in Grindelwald. This charming village is well-known for its Après Ski offerings, with bars and restaurants as well as boutique accommodations that include outdoor spas with mountain views and an abundance of dining options. Visitors can find Swiss favorites throughout the Alpine village, from fondue to raclette to rösti – potato and cheese rule the Swiss winter diet – to international options with cuisine from nearby Italy and France.
Perennial favorite accommodations include Boutique Hotel Glacier and Bergwelt Alpine Design Resort, both boutique luxury hotels situated with views of the Swiss Alps, indulgent spas, and fantastic Après Ski dining options.
