Things to Do at Harder Kulm

Complete Guide to Harder Kulm in Interlaken

About Harder Kulm

Harder Kulm is essentially Interlaken's backyard mountain, rising 1,322 meters above the town and offering what might be the most accessible panoramic view in the Swiss Alps. The summit provides that classic postcard perspective of the Jungfrau, Mönch, and Eiger peaks, with Lakes Thun and Brienz stretching out below like blue ribbons. It's touristy, sure, but honestly, it's touristy for good reason - the view genuinely delivers. What makes Harder Kulm particularly appealing is how straightforward it is to reach. A funicular railway, operating since 1908, takes you from Interlaken's outskirts to the summit in about 10 minutes. At the top, you'll find a restaurant, viewing platforms, and that Instagram-famous two-person lookout platform that seems to float above the valley. It's the kind of place that makes you understand why people get obsessed with Swiss mountain views.

What to See & Do

Panorama Viewing Platform

The famous two-person platform jutting out over the valley - it's actually as dramatic as it looks in photos, with unobstructed views of the Bernese Alps and both lakes

Jungfrau Mountain Range

The trinity of peaks - Jungfrau, Mönch, and Eiger - dominates the southern horizon and looks particularly striking during golden hour

Lakes Thun and Brienz

Both lakes are visible from the summit, creating a striking contrast between the deep blue water and surrounding green valleys

Harder Kulm Restaurant

A traditional Swiss mountain restaurant where you can grab a coffee or meal while taking in the views - the terrace seating is worth the wait

Hiking Trails

Several marked trails lead from the summit, including paths to nearby peaks and down through alpine meadows back toward Interlaken

Practical Information

Opening Hours

Funicular operates daily from April to November, roughly 9:00 AM to 9:30 PM (hours vary by season). Winter operations are limited and weather-dependent

Tickets & Pricing

Round-trip funicular tickets cost around CHF 32 for adults, CHF 16 for children. Swiss Travel Pass holders get a 50% discount. Tickets can be purchased at the base station

Best Time to Visit

Early morning (8-10 AM) or late afternoon (5-7 PM) for the best light and fewer crowds. Clear weather days are obviously ideal - check the webcam before heading up

Suggested Duration

Plan 2-3 hours total, including funicular rides and time at the summit. Add more time if you're hiking or dining at the restaurant

Getting There

The Harderbahn funicular sits 10 minutes from Interlaken Ost station. Follow the signs through quiet residential streets, or catch bus line 21 to the 'Harder Bahn' stop if you're hauling heavy gear. Parking fills fast during peak season. The base station has spots available. Walking from central Interlaken takes 15-20 minutes and won't challenge anyone with basic navigation skills. Pretty straightforward route.

Things to Do Nearby

Jungfraujoch
The famous 'Top of Europe' accessible by cogwheel train - significantly more expensive but offers glacier experiences and higher altitude thrills

Lake Brienz
The turquoise lake is perfect for boat trips or lakeside walks, with the charming village of Brienz and its woodcarving traditions at the far end

Trümmelbach Falls
Ten glacier-fed waterfalls inside a mountain, accessible by underground funicular - genuinely impressive and worth the short trip from Interlaken

Schynige Platte
Another mountain railway destination offering alpine gardens and hiking trails, with a more local feel than some of the bigger tourist peaks

Adventure Sports in Interlaken
The town is Switzerland's adventure capital - paragliding, skydiving, canyoning, and bungee jumping are all readily available

Tips & Advice

Check the weather and webcam before going up - clouds can roll in quickly and completely obscure the view

The last funicular down is earlier than you might expect, especially in shoulder seasons, so don't get stranded

Bring layers even in summer - it's noticeably cooler at the summit and can be windy on the viewing platforms

The two-person lookout platform gets busy, but most people don't wait long for photos, so be patient and you'll get your turn