Once the winter frost hits, the Bernese Alps get its “White fur coat”. The area is like a scene from a dream with its white horizon, blue sky, and glittering snowflakes. Who can resist the temptation not to go sledding in such places? I remember when I was a kid and my dad used to take us on sledding runs in the Bernese Oberland areas. Even now, it is among my sweetest memories of mine. We wanted to stay out forever, sliding around the snow, crashing into each other, laughing, and having too much fun to handle. My parents would join us too and it all just would make everything even more exceptional. After we got tired, we would go to one of those rustic huts to drink hot chocolate and warm our frozen fingers up.
If you want to create such memories for your children and enjoy winter fun with them, then I definitely recommend visiting locations and sledding runs in the Bernese Oberland area.
Where to sled in the Bernese Oberland?
Faulhorn – Europe’s longest sled run (Grindelwald)
Also locally known as “Big Pintenfritz”, Faulhorn is among the longest slides in Europe. The way up leads from Grindelwald to the First. From there you reach in a two-hour hike, via Bachalpsee the Faulhorn. There the tobogganing fun back to the valley begins. If you love sledding, then this is a definite must-visit location. The track is 11 kilometers long and goes through amazing views of the Triumvirate of Eiger, Jungfrau, and Monch. The sledding road goes through the Bussalp forest, which is an amazing experience.
The start of the track is 2600 meters high from sea level. When sliding down, you get to cover an elevation of 1350 meters.
Eggli Run (Gstaad)
Eggli Run is another great ride from Mt. Eggli all the way to Gstaad. The route is 5 kilometers long and includes the panoramic views of Spitzhorn and Sanetsch. The cable car will take you up to the peak, which is 1557 meters above sea level. From there, you can start sledding down hills. This specific run is especially good for families because it is much safer and easier in comparison to others. The length of the return journey is approximately 20 minutes.
Foxrun Wengeralp (Wengen)
The Fox Run is a popular sledding track in the Swiss Alps, located near the village of Wengen. The track is 5 kilometers long and runs alongside the famous Lauberhorn ski slope, providing stunning views of the surrounding mountain scenery. The track is very varied, with gentle slopes, flat paths and sections through the forest.
The starting point for the Fox Run is at Wengernalp, which can be reached by train. From there, the track runs through a tunnel under the railway, alongside the ski slope, and continues on to the Bumps Lift, and towards Allmend. The track then winds its way down into the car-free village of Wengen.
The Fox Run is a well-maintained and scenic sledding track, but it does require some experience with sledding. Depending on snow conditions, the run ends just above the Wengen train station. Overall, the Fox Run is a thrilling and unique experience that offers a taste of racing on a sled.
Niederhorn Schlittelweg (Beatenberg)
The Niederhorn Vorsass sledge run is a thrilling winter activity located in the Swiss Alps. The sledge run is 3 kilometers long and offers stunning views of Lake Thun and the surrounding mountains. The run begins at the Niederhorn, a popular excursion peak that can be reached by cableway. From the peak, the sledge run starts with a rapid descent, leading over a meadow and through the forest to the Vorsass middle station.
At the middle station, visitors can take the cableway back up to the Niederhorn peak or down to Beatenberg. Depending on snow conditions, the Vorsass-Beatenberg winter hiking trail can also be used for sledding, providing additional opportunities for snow fun.
Overall, the Niederhorn Vorsass sledge run is a unique and exciting winter activity that offers beautiful views and a thrilling sledding experience.
Night sledding in the Bernese Oberland
During winter holidays, the fun spirit of sledding doesn’t fade with the sun. Night sledding gives a spectacular experience beneath the stars on lit tracks. A wonderful fusion of wintertime, the outdoors, and Swiss customs, Night Sledding is for everyone. However, it can get pretty cold at night, so make sure to bring warm clothes. Can you imagine going down on the illuminated tracks while all surrounding areas are dark? White snow, reflects the light, creating an unforgettable picture.
There are numerous sledding runs in the Bernese Oberland where you can get a full night sledding experience.
Bussalp (Grindelwald)
Bussalp is a great destination for night sledding. The sledding run is 5 kilometers long and while going through it at night, it can reveal an amazing night landscape. Even though the City Run is not illuminated, the white snow and night light still provide enough light. Many people bring a headlamp when going there, so, you can also consider this option too. The headlamps can also be rented in the area. When the weather conditions are appropriate, the route from Weidli to Grindelwald village is fun and a very interesting experience. Even at night, you can rent the sled, get the bus, or enjoy a drink at Weidli Bar or Steintor. Don’t forget to eat a delicious cheese fondue at the mountain restaurant Bussalp.
Eiger Run (Grindelwald)
Let’s now explore the beautiful Eiger run, also located in Grindelwald. This run has a gradient of up to 36% and is 5 kilometers long. So, it can get pretty fast. Especially at night, sledding on this route can be a lot of fun. The track is illuminated at night and all this creates a mystique atmosphere. All facilities work at night, and even the Wengernalp Railway is scheduled every half an hour at night. If you get an evening ticket for the Eiger run, then you can go up and sled down as much as you want.
Wiriehorn Schlittelweg (Diemtigtal)
Wiriehorn Schlittelweg is the perfect destination for night sledding. However, only when the weather is good. The run is 5 kilometers long and is great for people of all ages. The Chairlift, which comes in six-seaters work all day and night long. You can follow it to get to the top station. The valley below has pine trees and is located right by the Diemtigtal Nature Park. Make sure to bring the headlamp at night, for extra safety. Before going down, I recommend trying delicious fondue at Berghotel Wiriehorn.
Tschentenalp (Adelboden)
Tschentenalp is a 14-kilometer long, numerous sled runs. All of them come with different difficulty levels. So, this place is perfect for a family. This recreation area is located in the middle of Bernese Oberland and offers a wide range of fun activities. There is a cable car, which only needs 5 minutes to take you up to the top. In addition to sledding, you can also snowboard, or ski there. The sleds can be rented locally and there is actually a wide range of choices for adults and children. Even more, if you are not satisfied with your current one, you can always exchange it and try another one. Night sledding in Tschentenalp is available during peak season, on Wednesdays and Saturdays.
What to bring
No matter if you are sledding during the day or night, you will definitely need some special equipment. The most essential part is that the equipment and clothes must keep you warm. Therefore, make sure to get headgear, gloves, and waterproof clothing. Additionally, wear boots that have good grips and are waterproof, one of the most important attributes is a helmet. When sledding at night, do not forget to bring a headlamp.
Safety Guidelines
- Show consideration for others
- Adapt driving style and speed to your ability
- Overtake with enough distance
- Stop at the edge of the road, keep a lookout for vehicles
- Obey signs and markings
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Summary & Final Thoughts
If you love winter and sledding, then you have to definitely visit Sledding runs in the Bernese Oberland. There, you can get amazing experiences during the day and even at night. The whole family will have a great time and remember the night sledding as a memorable event, so adventure seekers should give it a try.
