In the summer of 2023, I traveled to Switzerland, where I had a nice hike down Harder Kulm. If any readers happen to be headed to Interlaken, I recommend not only visiting Harder Kulm for the views, but, if you’re able, to skip the funicular on the way down and hike instead.
Harder Kulm
Harder Kulm is the nearest mountain to Interlaken, and the station at the top is a popular spot for tourists to get some of the best views of Interlaken, the two lakes, and its surrounding mountains. You can take the funicular up (open April to November). The station is close to the Interlaken Ost railway station. At the top, beyond the viewpoints, there is also a restaurant and terrace.
Hiking down Harder Kulm
We chose to hike down instead of taking the funicular back down to Interlaken. The hike is 4.2 km (2.6 miles), but it feels longer because you’re going consistently downhill, checking your footing, and pausing to take in the amazing views. We followed the white-red-white striped marks on the trees to keep to the right path. At a couple of points, the path took us underneath the funicular line – the trail is a series of long switchbacks through wooded mountainside.
I don’t recommend this hike if you don’t have sturdy shoes. Though it’s not that far, and downhill seems pretty easy, the path is uneven in many places. Also bring water, as the hike takes over an hour.
Other Hikes from Interlaken
Harder Kulm to Augstmatthorn – This 14-km (8.7-mile) hike starts at the top of Harder Kulm, taking you along the ridge, with fantastic views of Lake Brienz, Interlaken, and Swiss villages.
Interlaken is a great base for day hikes in Switzerland, but based on my research, most hikes don’t start in the town of Interlaken itself. However, there are easy train/bus connections to smaller villages in the area. And if you’re up for something even more adventurous than a hike, there’s a skydiving outfit in the next town over – I jumped with them and had an amazing experience.
