Questions and answers about train tickets and Guided Tours
What is the Grimselwelt?
Grimselwelt is an interactive experience centered on hydropower, nature, Mountain railways, hiking, and the hospitality industry in the Bernese Oberland. It connects the high-alpine landscape of Grimsel and Susten with the hydropower plants operated by Kraftwerke Oberhasli AG.
Where is the Grimselwelt located?
The Grimselwelt is located in the Hasli Valley in the Bernese Oberland (Canton of Bern) and stretches from its lowest point in Innertkirchen to the Grimsel Pass in the south and the Susten Pass in the east. The Grimseltor in Innertkirchen serves as a central starting point for excursions, Guided Tours, and information.
What is there to do in the Grimselwelt?
In the Grimselwelt, guests can ride on unique industrial railways—Mountain railways built for the construction and maintenance of KWO’s hydroelectric power plants—explore the alpine landscape, hike, tour power plants, and stay overnight at the Grimsel Hotels. This experience combines nature adventures with insights into the use of hydropower. You can find more information on the Grimselwelt fold-out map.
What mountain railways are there in the Grimselwelt?
The Grimselwelt includes the Gelmerbahn, Triftbahn, Tällibahn, Oberaarbahn, Sidelhornbahn, Hospizbahn, Reichenbachfall-Bahn, and Gersteneggbahn. The mountain railways differ in terms of season, use, and starting point for further adventures.
When are the Mountain railways and attractions in the Grimselwelt open?
Operating hours and opening times vary depending on the attraction and season. Guests can find up-to-date information on seasonal dates, operating status, and any restrictions on the Grimselwelt website.
What makes the Gelmerbahn so special?
The open Funicular Railway began operating in 1927 as a industrial railway. Today, it carries 24 passengers from Handeck up 450 meters in elevation to Gelmersee at approximately 1,850 meters above sea level. With a gradient of 106 percent, it is the steepest open Funicular Railway in Europe. The ride takes about 10 minutes. You can find more information about the Funicular Railway here.
Do I need to book tickets for the Gelmerbahn in advance?
We recommend booking online in advance. The Gelmerbahn can fill up quickly, especially when the weather is nice. If you buy tickets on site, you may have to wait a while.
How do I get to the Gelmerbahn?
The Gelmerbahn’s lower station is located near Handeck. The nearest PostAuto stop is “Handegg, Gelmerbahn.” Since parking is limited, we recommend traveling by public transportation.
What kind of clothing and gear do I need for a trip to the Grimselwelt?
In alpine environments, the weather and temperatures can change rapidly. We recommend sturdy footwear, weatherproof clothing, and gear appropriate for your planned outing, including a pack of snacks. A sure footing and a head for heights are required on mountain trails.
Can you tour power plants at Grimselwelt?
Yes. Grimselwelt offers a variety of exciting Guided Tours on the topic of hydropower and of the underground facilities at the Kraftwerke Oberhasli. The available tours, requirements, languages, and booking times are listed with each tour. You can find more information about the Guided Tours here.
Are there any special offers for school classes and groups?
Yes. Selected power plant tours and other group activities are available for school classes and groups. Details regarding group size, minimum age, duration, prices, and booking are listed with each activity. For school groups, we offer a free Guided Tour in Innertkirchen that can be easily combined with a visit to the Aarschlucht Gorge for a full-day excursion.
Where can I buy tickets for Mountain railways and Guided Tours?
Tickets for Grimselwelt activities can be purchased in the online store. Depending on the activity, tickets may also be available at a ticket office or directly at the valley station. The ticket offices are listed on the respective activity page.
Can I change or return a ticket I’ve purchased?
The terms and conditions vary depending on the offer and the ticket. For certain tickets, subsequent changes, exchanges, or refunds are generally not permitted. The booking and cancellation terms and conditions specified at the time of purchase apply.
Where can you stay overnight in the Grimselwelt?
The Hotels offer accommodations in the heart of the Alpine landscape. Guests can find information about the individual hotels, availability, and room reservations on the website under ” Hotel Handeck,” ” Hotel Grimsel Hospiz,” or ” Winter Oasis Grimsel Hospiz.”
What’s the best way to get to the Grimselwelt?
You can get here by public transportation or by car. Please check the current service status as well as road, pass, and weather conditions before you travel.
Which activities at Grimselwelt are suitable for families and children?
Various mountain railways, attractions, and Guided Tours are suitable for families. Since requirements, minimum ages, and trail conditions vary depending on the activity, families should please review the information on the respective activity page before visiting.
What hikes are there in the Grimselwelt?
The Grimselwelt mountain railways provide access to various starting points for hikes in the high-alpine region. The difficulty, duration, trail conditions, and required equipment vary depending on the route. Please research these details thoroughly before your trip so that you’ll be pleasantly surprised.
When is the best time to visit Grimselwelt?
Many mountain railways, hiking trails, and recreational activities are open seasonally. The best time to visit depends on the type of experience you’re looking for. When planning your trip, it’s important to check the current seasonal dates, operating status, and weather conditions.
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