Mt. Rothorn

The ride up to Mt. Rothorn is cool thing to do and only one of two remaining cogwheel steam train experiences left in Switzerland. Starting from across the landing in Brienz, the train slowly makes its way up through verdant forests towards the summit. The longer the ride, the more beautiful are the views over the mountains and Lake Brienz.

Arriving at the top of Mt. Rothorn, you have unforgettable views of the Alps and see over 693 peaks. You will see Lake Brienz and Lake Thun and can see far in all directions. The 7.6km long route takes just over an hour to the Rothorn Kulm station, where you will find a restaurant serving Swiss specialties and a mountain hotel.

If you feel up for it you can also hike up – or down, but the steam train is a fun experience and a great way to enjoy the landscape. Enjoy fabulous hiking trails off the top of the Brienzer Rothorn. There’s lots of choice no matter what your hiking ability. And you can choose from easy 15 minute strolls to full day hikes.

Discounted with Swiss Travel Pass / Free with Bernese Oberland Pass

Holders of a Swiss Travel Pass or a validated Swiss Flex Pass enjoy a 50% discount and holders of the Bernese Oberland Pass can take the Mt. Rothorn excursion for free.

Route to Mt. Rothorn

The steam train to Mt. Rothorn leaves from Brienz which can be reached by train from Lucerne, Interlaken and from Meiringen. You can also reach Brienz via boat from all destinations on Lake Brienz including Interlaken and Giessbach. The start of the ride is just across the station and the landing taking less than 3 minutes.

Duration of Excursion

We recommend at least half a day for the excursion. It takes 11 minutes from Meiringen or 20 from Interlaken to arrive in Brienz. Then it takes just over one hour to get up to the summit.

Timetable

The steam train operates from May (until Planalp) and June (Rothorn summit) until the end of October. There is one train per hour and on peak days in summer and on weekends, a seat reservation is recommended.

Preparation

Good walking shoes, hat and sunglasses and sunscreen are recommended when visiting Mt. Rothorn. Dress in layers or to bring a windbreaker jacket as it can be windy and a bit cooler than down in the valley. Check local weather forecasts and opt for days with clear visibility.

Mt. Rothorn is located where 3 Cantons meet. These are the Cantons of Berne, Lucerne and Obwalden. The Rothorn can also be reached from Sörenberg in the Entlebuch which is part of the Canton of Lucerne.