Last Updated on 9 June 2025 by Vanessa
Look beyond the mountain views, hiking routes, chocolate, and cuckoo clocks. The small village of Gimmelwald in the Canton of Bern in Switzerland is all about… cats.
Let’s explore Gimmelwald and its feline population
Why is Gimmelwald famous?
Nestled in the heart of the Swiss Alps, Gimmelwald is a small village that embodies the essence of alpine beauty and tranquility.
This tiny mountain village has deep roots in traditional Swiss farming, and it shows. Wooden chalets and weathered barns still stand proud, scattered across the hills like something out of a storybook.
There’s no traffic, no big hotels, and definitely no crowds. That’s part of the magic. And that quiet authenticity is what makes it so special.
The soft clang of cowbells echo across the valley. Cows graze lazily in the meadows. And cats lounge in the sun. It’s peaceful here.
This hidden gem in the Bernese Oberland region is perched on a scenic plateau – 1,365 meters (4,478 feet) above the Lauterbrunnen Valley.
Its proximity to iconic alpine landmarks (including the majestic Jungfrau, Mönch, and Eiger) and its position within the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Jungfrau-Aletsch Protected Area make it a must-visit destination.
Yet it is still one of Switzerland’s best-kept secrets, mainly due to the lack of road connection and its inaccessibility by car.
Gimmelwald is also a must-see destination for cat lovers. With just over one hundred inhabitants, one wouldn’t expect to see many felines in this place. But don’t be mistaken; cats are almost everywhere you go in this sleepy village.
One of Gimmelwald’s cats even managed to become an international news item, when a hiker got lost in the mountains, and a nifty little cat showed him the way back to civilization.
What to do in Gimmelwald?
There’s no shortage of activities to enjoy in Gimmelwald, though the large number of cats stand out as the top draw. Here are four things to do there, most of which also include our furry friends.
Hiking
Gimmelwald is a hiker’s paradise. It offers a variety of trails for all levels of experience, especially the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Jungfrau-Aletsch region, which includes the famous North Face Trail to the Schreckhorn Hut and the Flower Trail to the Allmendhubel.
Adventure sports
If you’ve ever dreamed of soaring over the Alps, paragliding here is an absolute must. Floating high above the mountains, you’ll get a bird’s-eye view of the cliffs and green valleys that make this region so unforgettable.
Visiting in winter? Nearby ski resorts like Mürren and Schilthorn offer skiing and snowboarding, with slopes for every skill level and some of the best snow in the Bernese Oberland.
Exploring the alpine flora and fauna
Gimmelwald is bursting with alpine life. If you hike through the meadows and mountain paths, you’ll spot wildflowers like edelweiss, gentians, and alpine roses. They’re everywhere in summer, and they’re stunning.
Keep your eyes peeled for mountain wildlife, too. Apart from all the cats, Ibex, chamois, and marmots call Gimmelwald home as well. If you’re lucky, you might spot one peeking out from behind a rock or scampering along a ridge.
Consider joining a guided nature walk. The local guides know these mountains like the back of their hand and can point out unique plant species, explain how the landscape formed, and tell you where the animals like to hang out. It’ll give you a whole new appreciation for the delicate balance of this alpine ecosystem.
Eating
You can’t leave Gimmelwald without tasting your way through some of Switzerland’s best traditional food. Think hearty, cheesy, melt-in-your-mouth deliciousness—perfect after a long hike or a cold day on the slopes.
Here’s what you have to try:
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Swiss Cheese: This region takes its cheese seriously. Sample local varieties like Emmental and Gruyère, either at a farm stand or straight from a cheese shop.
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Swiss Chocolate: No explanation needed. Whether it’s bars, pralines, or truffles, the rich, velvety texture of Swiss chocolate is reason enough to carry an extra backpack.
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Fondue: Gather around a bubbling pot of melted cheese (usually Gruyère + Emmental) and dip in bread cubes. Pair with a glass of wine It’s cozy, communal, and totally satisfying.
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Raclette: Imagine scraping hot, melty cheese over a plate of boiled potatoes, pickles, cured meats, and onions. Simple, rustic, and ridiculously good.
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Rösti: Think of this as Swiss-style hash browns—crispy, golden, and often topped with cheese or herbs. It’s the kind of comfort food that hits the spot after a day outdoors.
Nearby destinations
Even though the village is tiny, Gimmelwald is the kind of place you could easily want to stay in for several days. With its traditional wooden chalets, flower-filled balconies, and breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. you’ll just want to soak up the atmosphere and spend quality time with the local cats.
However, you’re also perfectly placed to explore some of the most iconic sights in the region. So when you’re ready to venture out, here are a few unforgettable day trips and nearby spots worth adding to your itinerary:
Schilthorn
One of the most iconic attractions near Gimmelwald is the Schilthorn, which is accessible via cable car. Rising to an elevation of 2,970 meters (9,744 feet), the summit of Schilthorn offers panoramic views of over 200 mountain peaks, including the famous Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau.
While you’re up there, grab a bite at the Piz Gloria, a revolving restaurant made famous in the James Bond film On Her Majesty’s Secret Service. It’s probably the only place you’ll eat fondue while spinning through snowy mountain views like a secret agent.
Jungfraujoch
For a bucket-list-worthy experience, take a day trip to the Jungfraujoch, Europe’s highest train station.
You can reach the summit by boarding the Jungfrau Railway, which you can book here. By the way, getting there is half the adventure, because the Jungfrau Railway winds through alpine tunnels and delivers snow-covered peaks, even in summer.
Once at the top, you can visit the surreal Ice Palace and soak up some of the most awe-inspiring scenery you’ll ever lay eyes on.
Trummelbach Falls
This one’s wild. Just outside Lauterbrunnen, Trümmelbach Falls are a series of roaring glacial waterfalls hidden inside a mountain.
You can walk through a network of tunnels and platforms carved into the rock, feeling the thunder of the falls echo all around you. It’s raw nature at its most dramatic.
Via Ferrata Mürren
If you’re craving adventure, you can test your skills on the Via Ferrata Mürren, a heart-pumping climbing route built into the cliffside. With cables, iron rungs, and ladders to guide you, it’s accessible even if you’re not a pro climber.
The payoff? Unreal views over the Lauterbrunnen Valley and an adrenaline rush you won’t forget anytime soon.
Mürren
Just a cable car ride from Gimmelwald, Mürren is a stunning car-free village with traditional Swiss architecture and panoramic views that rival anywhere in the Alps.
Mürren is accessible by cable car and offers a range of outdoor activities such as paragliding or mountain biking (explore the options here).
Grab a meal at the Allmendhubel revolving restaurant while you’re at it—it’s a view worth lingering over.
Grindelwald
Grindelwald is a picturesque mountain village that offers a range of activities and attractions – from hiking and mountain biking to skiing and snowboarding.
Don’t miss the chance to ride the First Cliff Walk, a suspension bridge offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.
Interlaken
Nestled between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz, Interlaken is all about action. Think skydiving, canyoning, river rafting, and more. But even if you’re not here for the thrills, you’ll love the lakeside cafés, boutique shops, and stunning mountain backdrop.
Short on time? Book an Interlaken Highlights Tour to make the most of your visit.
Lauterbrunnen
This peaceful valley village is surrounded by steep cliffs and dotted with 72 (!) waterfalls. One of the most well-known is Staubbach Falls, which drops nearly 300 meters from a cliff above the village.
It’s a great place for a relaxed walk through the valley or a visit to one of the local farms. Lauterbrunnen is also a convenient starting point for exploring nearby attractions like Jungfraujoch, Trümmelbach Falls, and the mountain villages of Wengen and Mürren.
Best time to visit Gimmelwald
Gimmelwald is beautiful all year round. When to go depends on what you’re looking for.
- Summer (June–August): This is the most popular time to visit. Expect mild weather, blooming wildflowers, and green alpine meadows. Daily highs sit between 15°C and 25°C (59°F to 77°F), perfect for hiking, paragliding, or just relaxing outdoors. You’ll also see plenty of cats sunbathing around the village in summer.
- Fall (September–November): Autumn brings cooler air and beautiful colors to the valley. Temperatures drop to 5°C–15°C (41°F–59°F), and the trails are quieter. It’s a peaceful time for hiking and taking in the changing landscape.
- Winter (December–February): Snow transforms Gimmelwald into a quiet alpine village. While the village itself is car-free and low-key, nearby resorts like Mürren and Schilthorn offer excellent skiing and snowboarding. Temperatures range from -10°C to 5°C (14°F to 41°F). Even the village cats don’t mind the snow.
- Spring (March–May): Spring is quiet and calm. Flowers start to bloom, and the days slowly get warmer, with temperatures between 5°C and 15°C (41°F to 59°F). It’s a great time for those who prefer fewer crowds and a peaceful atmosphere.
Best way to reach Gimmelwald
Gimmelwald is secluded, and reaching it is an adventure in itself. Here are the best ways to get to this idyllic destination:
- The nearest international airport to Gimmelwald is Zürich Airport (ZRH). This is well-connected to major cities worldwide (Check out the cheapest flights here.).
- From Zürich, take a train to Interlaken Ost.
- From Interlaken Ost train station, take a scenic train ride to Lauterbrunnen.
- Once in Lauterbrunnen, take the aerial cableway to Grütschalp.
- From Grütschalp, take another cable car down to Gimmelwald.
Get your Swiss All-In-One Travel Pass (train, bus, and boat) here!
Conclusion
Loved your virtual time in Gimmelwald? Share this article with fellow travelers and help others discover this hidden gem in the Swiss Alps.
Cat pictures by Matthew Craven
For those who love quiet villages, cats, and a twist of suspense
If you love quiet villages and cats, Clowders is an ideal read to bring along on your trip to Switzerland. This supernatural thriller is set in a small European village that is teeming with cats—except that in Clowders, it is cursed. Every time a cat dies, nine human lives are claimed.
If you’re in the mood for a chilling story that stays with you long after you close the book, Clowders is a gripping choice for your mountain getaway.
