There is nothing like a day out in the mountains. For me, it’s an energising way to recharge the old batteries now we no longer live anywhere near a body of water. Luckily for me, my line of work as a family photographer takes me to the mountains frequently, and I get to show off a little bit of our backyard to visitors and ex-pats alike.
One of my favourite places to take people is to Mannlichen in the Bernese Oberland. The reasons I like this spot are plentiful, so bear with me a couple of minutes while I share just a few of the highlights you and your family can enjoy.
The journey to Mannlichen is an adventure on its own. Located on a mountain ridge between Wengen and Grindelwald, there are multiple ways to make your way there. If you’re the energetic kind, maybe a brisk hike to the summit is in your wheelhouse, I, however, prefer the much more convenient cable cars from either Wengen or Grindelwald. Both rides offer stunning views of the valleys below and the Alps above. If you are making a day off it, I suggest travelling up to Männlichen by train via Interlaken and taking the world’s longest aerial gondola from Grindlewald. On the way down, go down the other side via Wengen and Lauterbrunnen where you hop back on the train to Interlaken.
When you arrive at the top of the Gondola station, why not hike to the Männlichen summit, a short and steep hike worth every gummy bear bribing step. Your reward? Expansive views over Lake Thun, the Bernese Oberland and beyond to enjoy. Once you’ve got that out of your system, I highly recommend stopping off at the Berggasthaus Mannlichen for a yummy lunch and perhaps even a beer on tap. They offer both table or self-service, worth making a reservation in advance during the high season.
Just outside the Berggasthaus is a fantastic playground that keeps both young and old entertained. Made mostly of wood, the playground contains various climbing activities, a bowling lane and a fantastic slide that starts inside a giant cow. Yes, you read that, right!
Hiking down from Männlichen to Grindelwald Photo: Kristin Reinhard
Playground near Holenstein Cable Car station Photo: Kristin Reinhard
In winter, skiing in this area offers plenty of red and blue runs. There is also a long sledge run and winter-hiking path for those of you who don’t ski.
In summer, I highly recommend the 4.5km hike from Mannlichen to Kleine Scheidegg where you can pick up a train back to Grindelwald or Wengen. The walk is easy to do with children who are good walkers, but it is also all-terrain stroller friendly. However, if you are pushing a buggy, it’s a good idea to go with another adult as there are a couple of areas on the track that you might need a little help.
Alternatively, if Grindelwald is your destination, and the kids need a little bit of motivation, consider hiking the themed Lieselotte cow path. The path is easy, it’s all downhill, and there are activities to keep morale high along the way. The trail ends at the playground next to the Holenstein station, where you hop on the cable car to take you back down to Grindelwald. In late summer when the cows are out enjoying the alpine pastures, it’s like striking gold to capture the iconic “cow in the alps” photos.
If you can make it work, consider organising to stay overnight at Berghaus Männlichen – I cannot recommend this enough! While all the tourists make their way back home, you get to stay. The mountain top is all yours! Well, you and the other hotel guests, but no other tourists in sight. Wake up to the clanging of cowbells, and if you are lucky, a magical sunrise, adds to the overall experience — a truly only in Switzerland experience.
About the Author:
Amanda Hilfer
I’m a family and couples photographer based in Switzerland (I still pinch myself that I get to say that!). A true, blue Kiwi at heart, I have spent most of my adult life living abroad and absolutely love that I get to call Switzerland home. I specialise in authentic photos, real connection and unposed moments that result in natural and joy-filled images. Visit Amanda’s Website for more information on her Alpine Photoshoots
