Switzerland’s World’s Steepest Cable Car: Experience & Travel Tips
High in the Bernese Oberland, Switzerland has once again raised the bar for mountain travel with the opening of the world’s steepest cable car. Rising dramatically from the valley floor to the cliff-top village of Mürren, this engineering marvel doesn’t just shorten travel time — it transforms the journey itself into an unforgettable experience. With gradients that feel almost vertical, the ride offers breathtaking views of sheer rock faces, cascading waterfalls, and the iconic Jungfrau mountain range unfolding below.
High above the dramatic cliffs of the Lauterbrunnen Valley, Switzerland has unveiled a new chapter in alpine travel with the launch of the world’s steepest cable car and the advanced Funifor system connecting Mürren, Birg and Schilthorn. This engineering achievement is not just about speed or gradient; it is about redefining how travellers experience the Alps. As the cable car ascends sharply from the valley floor, sheer rock faces, waterfalls and snow-lined ridges unfold in a breathtaking vertical panorama.
Part of the ambitious Schilthornbahn 20XX project, the new Funifor connection offers a wind-stable, year-round route to some of the Bernese Oberland’s most iconic high-altitude destinations. The journey itself has become a highlight, seamlessly blending cutting-edge technology with raw alpine beauty. With smoother rides and uninterrupted views, visitors can now reach Mürren, Birg and the Schilthorn summit in greater comfort while enjoying one of Europe’s most scenic mountain ascents.
Mürren
Mürren captivates travellers with its peaceful, car-free setting and front-row views of the Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau mountains. Perched high above the Lauterbrunnen Valley, the village feels like a natural balcony overlooking one of Switzerland’s most dramatic landscapes. What draws visitors most is the sense of calm combined with breathtaking scenery—wooden chalets, open walking paths and panoramic viewpoints create an atmosphere where time slows down. Arriving via the modern cable car system enhances the experience, making Mürren both easily accessible and wonderfully untouched.
Birg
Birg is the most dramatic stop along the Funifor route, designed for travellers seeking excitement and unforgettable views. The main attraction here is the famous Thrill Walk, a cliff-hugging pathway that allows visitors to step out onto glass floors and metal grates as the valley plunges below. What truly attracts travellers is the feeling of standing at the edge of the Alps, suspended between rock and sky, while remaining completely safe. The surrounding viewing platforms and terraces add balance to the adrenaline, offering quiet moments to admire the vast alpine panorama.
Schilthorn (Piz Gloria)
Schilthorn delivers an authentic summit experience, combining altitude, views, and cultural significance into one remarkable destination. At nearly 3,000 metres above sea level, visitors are rewarded with sweeping 360-degree views of more than 200 mountain peaks, making it one of the finest viewpoints in the Alps. The rotating Piz Gloria restaurant is a significant draw, offering guests the chance to dine while the scenery slowly unfolds around them. Adding to its appeal is the James Bond legacy, which brings a touch of cinematic excitement to the mountaintop, making Schilthorn equally attractive to nature lovers and pop-culture enthusiasts.
Birg Thrill Walk
The Birg Thrill Walk is not just an attraction but an experience that defines the journey. Built directly into the cliff face, it offers visitors the rare chance to walk above open space while surrounded by towering mountains. What makes it especially appealing is the contrast between fear and fascination—the transparent floors and narrow pathways heighten the senses, while the incredible views keep visitors moving forward. It is one of those moments travellers remember long after the journey ends, often becoming the highlight of their Swiss Alps visit.
Nearby Attractions Beyond the Funifor Route (Separate Access Required)
Allmendhubel
Allmendhubel sits above Mürren and is reached via a separate funicular railway from the village. It is especially popular for its panoramic flower trails, gentle walking paths and family-friendly alpine playground, making it ideal for relaxed sightseeing. Visitors are drawn to its wide-open views across the Lauterbrunnen Valley and surrounding peaks. Still, it is essential to note that Allmendhubel is not accessible via the Funifor cable car and must be visited using its dedicated funicular service.
Gimmelwald
Gimmelwald is a small, traditional mountain hamlet located below Mürren, known for its quiet charm and authentic Swiss alpine lifestyle. What attracts visitors most is its unspoilt setting, rustic farmhouses and peaceful atmosphere, offering a glimpse into mountain life away from busy tourist routes. Access to Gimmelwald is via a small cable car from Stechelberg or by hiking from Mürren, as it is not connected to the Funifor line.
Lauterbrunnen Valley Hiking Trails
The Lauterbrunnen Valley is famous for its dramatic cliffs, waterfalls and scenic walking trails that wind through meadows and forested paths. These hikes appeal to nature lovers and photographers seeking ground-level views of the region’s natural beauty. However, the valley trails begin in Lauterbrunnen village or at nearby valley stations, requiring trains, local cable cars, or walking routes, and are entirely separate from the Funifor cable car experience.
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