WENGEN
SWITZERLAND
Wengen is a charming car-free village in one of the most spectacular scenic areas of the Swiss Alps. Nestled beneath the towering Jungfrau, Monach, and Eiger peaks, it provides an unforgettable skiing experience with direct access to the Jungfrau ski area. With Alpine traditional Swiss chalets, cozy accommodations, and an efficient lift system, Wengen is both welcoming and accessible, making it an ideal destination for skiers and non-skiers alike. In this Guide, we’ll explore Wengen’s ski area, ski pass options, accommodation, dining, apres-ski scene, and tips on how to get here.
PLAN YOUR SKI ADVENTURE
Booking a ski trip involves a range of reliable resources to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience. I have listed below our favorite companies we use when we plan our ski holiday.
Ski World– They have been taking customers to the best ski resorts in Europe, the US and Canada for more than 36 years.
Skyscanner– it’s our go to for finding the best flights, we usually start here and usually finish here. They price check over 1,200 sites to help you find the best prices.
Booking.com– for accommodation, we rely on Booking.com for its extensive options and user reviews. We find they have the cheapest rates and offer payment options. In addition, VRBO is another terrific website for all types of accommodations.
Train Travel– to European ski resorts is convenient and scenic, popular trips include Glacier express to Zermatt, the Eurostar from London to the French Alps. We find Omio or Trainline are the best sites for booking trains in Europe.
Car Hire – we usually hire a car it offers us flexibility and convenience, allowing easy access to most resorts. Companies like Discover Cars or Rentalcars.com provide reliable options with winter equipment.
Travel insurance– Don’t ski without it. If you get hurt on the mountain it could cost, you a small fortune if you’re not insured. We use SAFETYWING when my wife broke her ankle a few years ago in Wengen they were terrific.
Ski Equipment. – Bring your own ski gear, its usually cheaper and much better than renting, it ensures you have a perfect fit. Oterrific.wning also saves time and money in the long run. Equipment like Skis, Pants and Jackets, Gloves, Ski-helmets and Thermal underwear” can all be bought online. You can purchase everything you need from Berg’s Ski and Snowboard (USA) or Snow and Rock (UK).
ARC’TERYX – is a go to reliable brand for outdoor adventure and travel, their wide range includes light weight durable, easy to clean travel gear.
For specific resort information- we turn to the resort website, which often provides details on lift passes, equipment rentals, ski school bookings. These resources together make planning our ski trips a lot easier.
Check out our RESOURCE PAGE for more additional planning
Wengen Ski Area
Wengen is part of the larger Jungfrau ski region, which includes Grindlewald, Lauterbrunnen, and Murren. The Jungfrau region offers over 200 kilometers (135 Miles) of ski slopes across three mountains: Mannlichen, Klein Scheidegg, and Schilthorn, each catering to a range of skill levels.
- Varied Terrain: The Jungfrau ski area is a great choice for beginners, as well as challenging terrain for advanced skiers.
- Famous World Cup Race.: The Lauberhorn downhill racecourse, part of the World Cup circuit, is a renowned run in Wengen that attracts expert skiers and thousands of spectators every year.
- Car-Free Village: Wengen’s pedestrian-only streets offer a peaceful, slow pace, authentic alpine village experience – it can only be reached by a 15-minute cog train from Lauterbrunnen.
- Stunning Views: The resort boasts some of the best views of the Eiger, Monch, and Jungfrau mountains, offering a truly scenic skiing environment.
Wear a SKI-HELMET, especially if you’re a beginner or in the snow parks and remember to pack your SKI GOGGLES for Wengen.
Wengen Ski Pass
- Jungfrau Region Ski Pass: This pass provides access to the entire Jungfrau Region, covering Wengen, Grindelwald, and Murren-schilthorn. Includes over 200 kilometers of slopes, 40 lifts, and ideal for exploring the Jungfrau.
- Wengen-Grindelwald Pass: A more limited pass, this pass includes the Wengen and Grindlwald ski areas, offering around 160 kilometers of slopes. It’s ideal if you’re only skiing in the immediate area but still want a variety of slopes.
- Lauberhorn Pass: This pass is perfect for beginners and families looking to stay in the Wengen area without accessing the entire Jungfrau region.
- Top4 season Pass: For season-long access, the Top4 pass covers Wengen, along with Gstaad, Adelboden-Lenk, and Meiringen-Hasliberg. This pass is ideal for frequent skiers interested in exploring multiple resorts across the Bernese Oberland.
Discounts are available for children, teens, Families, and seniors. Ski passes can be purchased at the lift stations or online, where early bird rates are available.
Where to Stay in Wengen
Luxury Hotel
- Hotel Schonegg: offering easy access to the lifts, this traditional Swiss hotel combines luxury and charm with spacious rooms, welcoming staff, and panoramic views.
- Sunstar Hotel Wengen: This hotel combines modern comfort and alpine charm, featuring an indoor pool, spa facilities, and an excellent location near the Mannlichen cable car.
- Beausite Park Hotel: Nestled on the edge of the village, this five-star hotel offers a wellness center, pool, and on-site dining. Its serene location and Matterhorn views make it an ideal spot to relax.
Mid-Range
- Hotel Belvedere: A historic hotel with cozy rooms and Matterhorn views, HOTEL BELVEDERE offers mid-range comfort and convenience just a short walk from the ski lifts.
- Hotel Silberhorn: located right next to the Wengen train station, HOTEL SILBERHORN offers comfortable rooms, a wellness center, and easy access to both the village and slopes.
- Hotel Alpenrose: Known for its warm ambience, friendly service, and excellent food.HOTEL ALPENROSE delights with an authentic alpine experience and stunning mountain views.
Budget-friendly
- Valley Hostel: located in nearby Lauterbrunnen, this HOSTEL offers a budget-friendly stay with both dormitory and private room options, ideal for travelers on a tight budget.
- Hotel Berghaus: This charming budget hotel offers simple yet comfortable rooms with easy access to the slopes.
- Alpine Village Chalets: If you’re seeking apartment style accommodation, these chalets provide self-catering options with basic facilities at a reasonable price.
I always carry a DAY BACKPACK when skiing, as well as a WATER BOTTLE, it keeps me hydrated all day long on the slopes.
Where to Eat in Wengen
Here are some popular choices for on the mountain and village dining.
On the Mountain
- Restaurant Mannlichen: Located at the top of the Mannlichen Lift, this restaurant offers incredible views and hearty Swiss dishes, making it a perfect lunch spot on the slopes.
- Brandegg: Situated halfway down the slopes, Brandegg serves traditional alpine fare with a warm ambience, known for its delicious apple fritters and scenic views.
- Berghaus Grindelwaldblich: This cozy mountain hut serves Swiss classics rosti and fondue, with a prime location near the lauberhorn.
In the Village
- Da Sina pizzeria: A casual option with a variety of pizzas, pasta, pasta dishes, and other Italian favorites, Da Sina is a popular choice for family-friendly dining in Wengen.
- Chez Meyer’s: For fine dining, Chez Meyer’s at the Hotel Regina offers gourmet dishes with locally sourced ingredients.
- Restaurant Eiger: Located in Hotel Eiger, this upscale restaurant offers a refined menu featuring Swiss specialities, an extensive wine list and impeccable service.
Apres-Ski and Nightlife
Wengen apres-ski scene is very laid back, compared to other European resorts, there are still some lively spots to unwind after a day on the slopes.
- Tanne Bar: In the heart of the village, Tanne Bar delights with a laid-back vibe, with a variety of cocktails and craft beers, a cozy fireplace and live music.
- Rocks Bar: Known for its friendly vibe and lively crowd, Rocks bar is a popular choice among skiers looking to enjoy a drink after a day on the slopes.
- Crystal Bar: A cozy bar with an intimate atmosphere, Crystal Bar is a great spot for wine and cocktails in a relaxed setting.
How to Get to Wengen
By Plane
The closest airports to Wengen are:
Zurich International Airport ( approx. 3 hours by train)
Bern Airport (approx. 2 hours by train)
Geneva International Airport ( approx. 3 hours by train)
Compare and BOOK YOUR FLIGHT
By Train
Most visitors reach Wengen by train, from Zurich, Bern, or Geneva, trains connect through Interlaken and lauterbrunnen, the latter of which is the final transfer point. The Wengenalpbahn train transports passenger from Lauterbrunnen to Wengen, delighting with a scenic journey through the alps. You can BOOK YOUR TRAIN HERE.
By Car
Cars are not allowed in Wengen, but visitors driving can park in Lauterbrunnen’s parkinf facilities and continue by train. The Lauterbrunnen-Wengen operates regularly, providing easy access. For Flexibility and convenience compare these car rentals DISCOVER CARS or RENTALCARS.com
Ski Lifts
Getting to Switzerland’s best ski resorts couldn’t be easier than with Ski-Lifts, offering both airport and train station transfers. Private transfers are a popular choice, as you will not be sharing with others or waiting at the airport as your driver will be waiting for you on arrival.
RESORT ACTIVITIES
- Jungfraujoch – Top of Europe
Take the train to Jungfraujoch, Europe’s highest railway station, and enjoy stunning views, an ice palace, and year-round snow. - Winter Hiking and Snowshoeing
Explore Wengen’s well-maintained winter hiking and snowshoeing trails, offering breathtaking views of the Lauterbrunnen Valley and surrounding peaks. - Tobogganing
Experience the thrill of tobogganing on the scenic runs, such as the route from Wengernalp to Wengen village. - Ice Skating and Curling
Visit the outdoor ice rink in Wengen for skating or try curling, a traditional alpine winter activity. - Cable Car to Männlichen
Ride the cable car to Männlichen for panoramic views and enjoy a relaxing day in the snow without needing skis.
*Handy Tip*
Make sure you have TRAVEL INSURANCE before hitting the slopes.
Wengen’s peaceful, car-free village, excellent ski-terrain, and scenic alpine charm make it one of the best destinations for a relaxing winter holiday. From stunning mountain views to top-tier accommodations and dining, with reliable snow and diverse slopes for all ski levels, Wengen provides an inviting location for skiers and non-skiers looking to enjoy the stunning Jungfrau region.
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