Via Ferrata Around Interlaken – An Adventure Seeker’s Guide
Are you an adventure seeker? Is hiking not thrilling enough for you? If you dream of being high up in the mountains, navigating narrow ledges, and taking in epic views, then via Ferrata (literally “iron paths”) in the Interlaken region might be your thing!
WHAT'S A VIA FERRATA?
Think of a Via Ferrata as a cliffside playground for grown-ups. There’s no direct English translation, but it’s essentially a rock-climbing route set up with metal cables, bolts, and ladders that keep you attached to the mountain. With just a harness, helmet, and two carabiners clipped to a steel cable, you can scale sheer walls, cross open-air bridges, and climb metal rungs hundreds of meters up!
And here’s the best part: it’s free! You’ll just need to rent gear (usually around 40 CHF for the full kit).
Pro Tip: Via Ferratas aren’t just hiking trails—some sections involve intense climbing and dizzying heights. If you’re feeling uncertain or are afraid of heights but still want a thrill, consider booking a guided tour for some professional support (only available for Mürren Via Ferrata).
Top Via Ferratas Near Interlaken
Here’s a rundown of some of the best via Ferratas near Interlaken, perfect for every adrenaline junkie’s bucket list:
1. Mürren (K3) – Moderate Difficulty
One of the most popular via Ferratas, the Mürren route is a 2.2 km journey rated K3 (out of K6 for difficulty). This isn’t just a climb; it’s an adventure with jaw-dropping views, including two spots where you’re hanging over a 600m drop! Starting in Mürren and ending in Gimmelwald, this route is mostly downhill and takes about 3 hours.
2. Rotstock (K2) – Moderate
Located near the Eigergletscher station, Rotstock offers some of the highest-altitude views you can reach without needing serious climbing skills. This 2.6 km loop gains 260m in elevation, and you’re rewarded with unbeatable 360° alpine views. The way back down isn’t a via Ferrata, but some ropes on steeper sections help keep it safe.
3. Kandersteg (K4) – Difficult
Close to the stunning Lake Oeschinen, the Kandersteg route is the most challenging on this list, rated K4. With a 350m elevation gain and a mix of vertical walls and pole crossings, this one is only for those confident with heights. Kandersteg is calling your name if you’re ready for a full adrenaline rush.
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Where to rent your Via Ferrata gear? (and Costs)
There are sports shops around Interlaken where you can rent all the necessary gear to do a Via Ferrata in Interlaken, typically costing 40 CHF for a harness, helmet, and carabiners. Shoes are an extra 20 CHF, and some shops might insist on them if you show up in sneakers (for safety). Here are some places to grab your gear:
- Mürren: Rent at Intersport Mürren or Intersport Lauterbrunnen if you’d rather carry the gear up yourself.
- Rotstock: Intersport at Eigergletscher station has rentals ready to go.
- Kandersteg: Several local shops offer rentals, so you’re covered.
Reminder: Via Ferratas gets busy in peak season, especially after rain, as shops pause rentals for safety reasons. Give them a call to reserve your gear in advance—no prepayment required, and you get it for the whole day!
Whether you’re a first-timer or a Via Ferrata regular, the Interlaken area has an adventure for you. Grab your gear, trust your carabiners, and get ready for a mountain experience you won’t forget!
