Interlaken Ski Holidays

Why choose Interlaken

Skiing in Interlaken

Skiing here means access to the 211km Jungfrau Ski Region, with terrain spread across Wengen, Grindelwald and the surrounding mountains. From Wilderswil, it’s around 25 minutes by train to the Eiger Express gondola, where ski storage keeps things simple.

Once you’re up high, expect wide cruising runs, jaw-dropping views of the Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau, and plenty of variety for different ability levels.

Beginners

New to skiing? You’ll start your day with a scenic train ride from Interlaken Ost to Grindelwald, where the Bodmi Arena beginner zone offers gentle nursery slopes. Once you’ve found your ski legs, graduate to the marked slow run at Männlichen for longer, confidence-building descents.

Intermediates

Intermediates are particularly well catered for. Think long, wide blues and reds with some of Switzerland’s most iconic mountain scenery as your backdrop. Kleine Scheidegg is a great pick for sheltered, tree-lined runs, while Oberjoch serves up cruisy pistes with unbeatable views.

Advanced

For advanced skiers, the headline act is the legendary Lauberhorn downhill – the longest World Cup run in the world. Starting near Kleine Scheidegg, this 4.5km course is a must for confident skiers. There’s also the challenging Black Rock run from Eigergletscher and more black terrain on the Mürren side, accessed via the world’s steepest cable car from Stechelberg.

Snowboarding

The Jungfrau area suits boarders with a bit of experience under their belts, as there are some flatter connecting sections. Freestylers should head to Grindelwald’s White Elements snow park for a half pipe and larger features, while Oberjoch has a smaller park that’s ideal for practising first tricks.

Longest run

The Inferno route from Schilthorn to Lauterbrunnen stretches an impressive 15km, dropping over 2,000m from 2,970m. Allow around 45 minutes to enjoy this epic descent through changing terrain and scenery.

Ski passes and lessons in Interlaken

Lift passes cover the full Jungfrau Ski Region, giving access to all 211km of pistes. A 6-day area pass offers excellent scope for exploring everything from Wengen’s classic runs to Grindelwald’s modern lift network.

Ski schools operate across the region, particularly in Grindelwald and Wengen, with group and private lessons available for adults and children. If you’re staying in Interlaken or Wilderswil, simply factor in the short train ride when planning lesson times.

Snow conditions in Interlaken

The main ski season runs from December to March. The Jungfrau area benefits from high-altitude slopes over 1,800m, which helps maintain reliable snow cover through the winter months.

January is typically the coldest month, with temperatures averaging around -5°C – ideal for preserving snow. March brings milder days (up to 5°C) and sunnier slopes, making it a great choice if you prefer bluebird skiing. Christmas, New Year and February half term are livelier, while January and March often offer better value and quieter pistes.

Travelling to Interlaken

Getting here is refreshingly straightforward thanks to Switzerland’s rail network.

Approximate transfer times:

• Geneva – around 3 hours 20 minutes by rail and bus (1–2 changes)
• Zurich – around 2 hours 30 minutes by rail and bus (2 changes)

Once you arrive, public transport makes getting between Interlaken, Wilderswil and the ski lifts seamless.

Ski accommodation in Interlaken

Choose from great-value hotels and guesthouses in Wilderswil, with Interlaken’s shops and restaurants just minutes away by train. It’s an ideal base if you want peaceful village surroundings after a day on the slopes, without sacrificing access to the Jungfrau Ski Region.

Staying here gives you flexibility – ski all day, then decide whether it’s lakeside dining, lively bars or a quiet village evening that suits your mood.

Après ski in Interlaken

For classic mountain après-ski, head to Grindelwald before catching the train back. Expect slope-side bars and a lively atmosphere.

In Interlaken itself, Hauptstrasse is the place for late-night drinks, while the lakeside offers a more relaxed setting. For something completely different, try a Floating Fondue or Raclette Raft on Lake Brienz – enjoying Swiss cheese and chocolate surrounded by mountain views is about as unique as après gets.

Family ski holidays in Interlaken

Interlaken works brilliantly for families. The Bodmi Arena beginner zone in Grindelwald provides a safe, dedicated learning area, and ski schools offer lessons for all ages.

Off the slopes, there’s plenty to keep non-skiers entertained too – from swimming pools and leisure centres to horse-drawn carriage rides and winter walking paths. The easy transport links also mean less stress getting everyone to and from the mountains each day.

Ski holidays for groups in Interlaken

Planning a ski trip with friends? Interlaken offers the best of both worlds – serious skiing in the Jungfrau region by day, and varied nightlife and dining by night.

Groups can split by ability on the mountain and still meet easily for lunch or après. With a wide choice of bars, international restaurants and traditional Swiss spots, there’s something to suit every taste and budget.

Activities off the slopes in Interlaken

When you fancy a break from skiing, there’s no shortage of things to do.

Snow activities:

• Paragliding
• Tobogganing
• Winter walking trails

Other activities:

• Art galleries and local museums
• Cinema
• Christmas markets (seasonal)
• Helicopter rides
• Horse-drawn carriage rides
• Swimming pool and leisure centre

Interlaken’s lakeside setting also makes it ideal for scenic strolls, especially along the Lake Brienz promenade.

Other information

Eating out: Traditional Swiss dishes like fondue and raclette are widely available, alongside international cuisine. Marktgasse is packed with tempting spots, and restaurants along Lake Brienz combine great food with waterfront views.

Nightlife: Head to Hauptstrasse for the liveliest bars, or enjoy relaxed drinks in town before returning to Wilderswil. For full-on après vibes, spend an extra hour in Grindelwald before hopping on the train back.

Ski holidays in Interlaken offer something refreshingly different – world-class Swiss skiing paired with culture, lakes and a real town atmosphere. If you’re looking for a ski break with variety, value and unforgettable scenery, this corner of the Bernese Oberland delivers.