Harder Kulm, often referred to as "the top of Interlaken," is a breathtaking mountain peak situated in the Bernese Alps of Switzerland. With its magnificent panoramic views, rich natural beauty, and a fascinating blend of Swiss culture and history, Harder Kulm has become a popular destination for tourists from around the world. Rising 1,322 meters (4,337 feet) above sea level, this majestic mountain offers an unforgettable experience for adventurers, nature enthusiasts, and those seeking a tranquil escape in the heart of Switzerland.
Harder Kulm in a Nutshell
Handy information
| ⏰ Suggested Duration: | 2-6 hours |
| ☀️ Best Time to Visit: | June to September / During sunset |
| 🎟️ Harder Kulm Ticket: | €20.44 |
Must-see at the Harder Kulm
- Observation deck
- Panorama Restaurant
- Two Lakes Bridge
Things to know
Funicular railway constructed in: 1908
Observation deck height: 1,322 meters
Restaurant: Panorama restaurant
Opening Hours and Address
Harder Kulm, Harderstrasse 14, 3800 Interlaken
City - Switzerland
Get Directions
What to expect at Harder Kulm?
- Witness the iconic peaks of the Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau that serve as Switzerland's most recognized skyline.
- Take a thrilling cable car ride through picturesque alpine landscapes.
- Discover the attraction's rich history dating back to the 19th century.
- Experience an array of fun activities like tobogganing, snow tubing, and hiking trails.
Recommended Harder Kulm Tickets
Harder Kulm History
Over the years, this mountain has played an important role in Swiss history, serving as a place of worship, a strategic military point, and more recently, a popular tourist destination.
In the early 19th century, Swiss pioneers built the first Alpine hotel on Harder Kulm, which attracted a steady stream of visitors seeking respite from urban life. By the end of the century, the mountain offered visitors a funicular railway to reach the peak, and it soon became the quintessential spot to experience panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
The importance of Harder Kulm is not limited to tourism alone; it played an instrumental role during World War II as a strategic lookout point for the Swiss military, who closely monitored the nearby borders with Germany and Austria.
Highlights of Harder Kulm
1Funicular Ride
To reach Harder Kulm, visitors can take a funicular railway, which is the oldest mountain railway in Europe. The funicular ascends from Interlaken to the summit of Harder Kulm, providing a scenic journey through lush forests and steep cliffs.
2Harder Kulm Panorama Restaurant
At the summit, visitors can indulge in delicious Swiss cuisine at the Harder Kulm Panorama Restaurant. The restaurant offers a fantastic dining experience with its terrace offering spectacular views. It's a great place to relax, enjoy a meal, and soak in the breathtaking surroundings.
3The Two Lakes Bridge
The Two Lakes Bridge of Harder Kulm is a spectacular vantage point that offers stunning views of the Swiss Alps. The bridge is located at an altitude of 1,322 meters (4,336 feet) and offers panoramic views of the Thun and Brienz Lakes, as well as the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau mountains.
4Winter Sports
During the winter season, Harder Kulm becomes a hub for winter sports. Visitors can enjoy skiing, snowboarding, and sledding on the slopes. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced winter sports enthusiast, there are options available for all skill levels.
5Hiking and Nature Trails
Harder Kulm serves as a starting point for several hiking and nature trails. The popular "Hardergrat" trail, known for its challenging terrain, starts from the summit and offers stunning views along its ridge. There are also easier hiking trails that allow visitors to explore the surrounding natural beauty.
Best Time to Visit Harder Kulm
The best time to visit Harder Kulm is during the summer months of June to August. The weather is pleasantly warm, the trails are accessible, and the Alpine garden is in full bloom. This peak season allows you to fully enjoy outdoor activities like hiking and paragliding.
Crowds can be bigger on weekends and holidays, so try to visit on a weekday morning for a peaceful and enjoyable experience.
Harder Kulm Opening Hours
- Opening Hours: April 17 - November 28 | 9:00 am - 5:00 pm
- Closed during the months in between November to April.
Getting There
Begin your journey in Interlaken, which is well-connected by train and bus services from major Swiss cities like Zurich, Bern, and Geneva. Harder Kulm can’t be reached by car, bus, or train but only through funiculars.
Start at Interlaken Ost Train Station: Begin your journey at Interlaken Ost Train Station, which is well-connected to various cities in Switzerland.
Cross the Aare Bridge: Exit the train station and cross the Aare Bridge, which is located nearby. This bridge provides a scenic walkway with beautiful views of the river.
Reach the Harderbahn Valley Station: After crossing the Aare Bridge, you will arrive at the Harderbahn valley station. The valley station is the starting point for the funicular ride to Harder Kulm.
Take the Funicular: Board the Harderbahn funicular, which will transport you to the summit of Harder Kulm. The funicular ride offers stunning panoramic views as it ascends to the mountain peak.
Sit back, relax, and savor the 10-minute funicular ride to Harder Kulm. Take in the picturesque landscapes and anticipate the breathtaking vistas awaiting you at the summit.
Insider Tips to Visit Harder Kulm
- Enjoy a hearty meal at the Harder Kulm Panorama Restaurant, known for its Swiss cuisine and picturesque view.
- Take the chance to see the sunset from Harder Kulm, it's visually breathtaking.
- Adventure enthusiasts can go paragliding from Harder Kulm, it’s a thrilling experience.
- To avoid crowds, plan a visit on weekdays or early in the morning, and purchase tickets online to skip the line.
- Take a hike to the iconic Hardergrat Ridge trail that offers a challenging mountain experience with stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
- Do not forget to click several photos as Harder Kulm is an excellent place for nature photography with its numerous landscapes, flora, and fauna.
- Plan to spend at least half a day exploring Harder Kulm and its surrounding area thoroughly.
- Those with Swiss Travel Passes can enjoy free admission to Harder Kulm, making it a must-visit attraction on your Swiss itinerary.
Restaurants Near Harder Kulm
This restaurant is located at the top of Harder Kulm, offering stunning panoramic views of Interlaken. Try their famous Rösti dish or enjoy a traditional Swiss cheese fondue.
Distance From Harder Kulm: Located at the top
Located just a short walk from the Harder Kulm railway station, Schuh is a cozy and atmospheric place that offers traditional Swiss cuisine. The Swiss cheese soup or the Swiss-style veal and mushroom ragout are must-tries.
Distance from Harder Kulm: 5 minute walk
Situated at the foot of Harder Kulm, this Italian restaurant serves amazing wood-fired pizzas and homemade pasta dishes. The cozy ambiance and warm service are sure to charm you.
Distance from Harder Kulm: 10-minute walk.
Places to Stay Near Harder Kulm
Things to Do Near Harder Kulm
Just a 30-minute boat ride from Interlaken, Lake Brienz is renowned for its crystal-clear turquoise waters, surrounded by lush green forests and towering mountains. Embark on a relaxing boat tour on Lake Brienz to fully immerse yourself in its serene atmosphere. Cruise along the tranquil waters, enjoying panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and charming lakeside villages.
Located 14 km from Harder Kulm, this UNESCO World Heritage site offers breathtaking views and activities such as skiing, dogsledding, and ice skating. Known as the "Top of Europe," Jungfraujoch offers breathtaking panoramic views, awe-inspiring glaciers, and a range of attractions that showcase the beauty of the Swiss Alps. Upon reaching Jungfroujoch, you will be greeted by the triumvirate of iconic peaks: Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau. Get your tickets to Jungfraujoch , the top of Europe with round trip transfers.
A beautiful natural wonder just 7 km from Harder Kulm, boasting fascinating underground caves and waterfalls to explore. Venture deep into the labyrinth of the St. Beatus Caves and marvel at the awe-inspiring rock formations that have been sculpted by nature over millions of years. Admire the stalactites and stalagmites, as well as the intricate patterns and shapes that adorn the cave walls.
15 km from Harder Kulm lies this impressive castle, offering an insightful peek into Switzerland’s medieval history. Ascend the castle's tower for a bird's-eye view of Thun and the breathtaking scenery that unfolds around Lake Thun. From the top, gaze out over the terracotta rooftops of the town, the shimmering lake, and the majestic Swiss Alps in the distance.
17 km away, these glacier-fed falls are a thrilling sightseeing experience with elevator access to the falls. Trummelbach Falls provides several viewing platforms strategically placed throughout the tunnels, offering different perspectives of the falls. From these vantage points, you can marvel at the power and beauty of the cascades as they plummet down the cliffs.
FAQs
To reach Harder Kulm, you have to take a 10-minute cable car ride from Interlaken to the top of Harder Kulm.
The best time to visit Harder Kulm is during the summers (June to September). In summer, you can enjoy pleasant weather, clear views, and the beauty of the surrounding nature.
Yes, you can enjoy hiking, paragliding, and even have a meal at the restaurant with a panoramic view.
The funicular ride from the valley station to the summit of Harder Kulm takes approximately 10 minutes. The duration may vary depending on the number of visitors and any stops along the way.
Yes, the cable car ride and the hike up to the top of Harder Kulm are both child-friendly.
We suggest planning for 2-6 hours to fully enjoy the views and activities.
Yes, there are several hiking trails near Harder Kulm that offer stunning views and opportunities to explore the surrounding mountains and lakes. The Alpenrosenweg trail is particularly popular, showcasing beautiful alpine flora.
Yes, there is a restaurant at Harder Kulm that offers delicious Swiss cuisine. The restaurant provides panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and lakes, allowing you to enjoy a meal while taking in the breathtaking scenery.
