Gelmersee circular hike
Short facts
- start: Handegg, valley station Gelmerbahn
- destination: Handegg
- medium
- 8,96 km
- 3 hours
- 199 m
- 1895 m
- 1401 m
- 80 / 100
- 40 / 100
best season
The hike begins with a breathtaking ride on the steepest open funicular in Europe. After the ascent the hike around the Gelmersee begins. Along the lake, original streams and huge rock slabs invite you to linger. After circumnavigating the lake, the hike continues to Kunzentännlein. To get back to the starting point you follow the old mule track.
General information
Directions
Gelmerbahn (Handegg) - Lake Gelmer - Chüenzentennlen - Handegg Stäfelti - Säumerstein - Widmannshöhe - Handegg
Safety Guidelines
Equipment
- The solar radiation is increased in the mountains. Sunscreen with a high protection factor, a sun hat and sunglasses with UV protection should definitely be carried in your luggage.
- Also in summer and when the «starting weather» is fine, warm clothing and a raincoat must be included. The layer principle with different layers of clothing is recommended.
- Charged mobile phone
- Pocket pharmacy
- Beverages
Tip
Extend the hike and experience the hospitality of the Gelmerhütte.
Getting there
There are different ways to reach the region by car. The fastest way from Basel and Geneva is via Berne. The fastest route from Zurich is through Lucerne and the Brünig Pass. The pass is open in summer and winter.
From the south, the route goes over the Grimsel or Susten Pass into the region. Both passes are only open in summer. Alternatively, you can take the Simplon Pass and then Lötschberg car transport.
Parking
There are uncovered parking spaces on the Grimsel Pass.
Public transit
Thanks to its central location in Europe, Switzerland is served by international trains from over 12 countries. Within Switzerland, Intercity trains run directly from Basel and Lucerne to the Jungfrau Region. Travellers from Zurich have to change in Berne. The trains run every half hour.
Maps
Additional Information
Weather

This tour is presented by: Jungfrau Region Tourismus AG