How long does the train ride take to Brienzer Rothorn?

About one hour from Brienz to the summit on the steam train.

How long is the train ride to Schynige Platte?

Around 50 minutes from Wilderswil to the summit on the cogwheel train.

Is Brienzer Rothorn included in the Jungfrau Travel Pass?

No. Brienzer Rothorn is operated by a different company, so it’s not covered by the Jungfrau Travel Pass. However, it’s included in the Berner Oberland Pass and the Tell Pass.

Is Schynige Platte included in the Jungfrau Travel Pass?

Yes! Schynige Platte is fully included in the Jungfrau Travel Pass and the Berner Oberland Pass.

Can I hike between Brienzer Rothorn and Schynige Platte?

Not directly. While both mountains are on the same general ridge system, there’s no standard hiking trail linking them directly. However, some people hike from Grindelwald First past Bachalpsee to Schynige Platte — a very long 6+ hour hike.

Is Brienzer Rothorn open in winter?

Both Brienzer Rothorn is mainly summer a excursion. The steam train to Rothorn runs from June to October. However, the cable car from Sörenberg to Rothorn operates in winter too (except during November and spring closures).

Brienzer Rothorn vs Schynige Platte - Which One Should You Visit?

Planning a trip to the Jungfrau Region and can’t decide between Brienzer Rothorn and Schynige Platte? From epic train rides and panoramic views to unique vibes at the summit, these two mountain excursions might look similar at first glance — but they’re very different experiences once you’re there.

As a Swiss local, I’m here to help you figure out which one fits your travel style, schedule, and budget. Here’s everything you need to know.

What Makes Brienzer Rothorn Special

Brienzer Rothorn sits above Lake Brienz and is famous for one thing: the steam train ride that takes you to the top. It’s not part of the Jungfrau Railways network, which means it’s less commercialized — and you’ll actually spot some locals along the way.

The steam train climbs over 1,600 meters in about an hour, chugging past Swiss chalets, forested slopes, and eventually emerging above the tree line into pure alpine silence. It’s an experience in itself — noisy, slow, and completely unforgettable.

Once you’re at the top:

Walk to the summit (10-15 minutes, slightly steep) for wide-open views of Lake Brienz and the Central Swiss Alps.
Hike along the ridge, either toward Planalp or further toward Brünig Pass.
Grab a meal at the mountaintop restaurant.
Simply enjoy the peace and the views.

👉 Pro Tip: Brienzer Rothorn is perfect if you want a full-day trip that you can combine with a Lake Brienz boat ride, a stop at Giessbach Falls, or a visit to Iseltwald.

Why Schynige Platte is Different (and Worth It)

Schynige Platte, on the other hand, is a classic of the Jungfrau Region — but still feels underrated. It’s part of the Jungfrau Railways network and is easier to integrate into other trips around Interlaken. The cogwheel train starts in Wilderswil and takes about 50 minutes to climb to the top.

The train ride itself is a highlight:

The first part winds through forest.
Later, views open up over Interlaken, Lake Thun, Lake Brienz, and even early glimpses of glaciers.
Sit on the right-hand side for the best views on the way up.

At the summit:

Explore the Alpine Flower Garden with hundreds of alpine plant species.
Take the easy Panorama Trail for front-row views of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau.
Hike further to the Oberberghorn viewpoint for spectacular 360-degree panoramas.
Enjoy live alphorn music (usually between 11 am and 2 pm) for that classic Swiss touch.

👉 Pro Tip: Schynige Platte works well as a half-day trip. You can be back in Interlaken by mid-afternoon — perfect if you’re on a tighter schedule.

How to Get There

Getting to Brienzer Rothorn

From Interlaken: Take a train to Brienz (about 20 minutes).
From Brienz station, it’s a short walk to the Brienz Rothorn Bahn.
By car: Parking is available in Brienz.
Boat option: Highly recommended! Take the train to Brienz in the morning, and return to Interlaken by boat across Lake Brienz. Stop at Giessbach Falls or Iseltwald along the way.
Hiking: You can hike part of the way up by getting off at Planalp.

Getting to Schynige Platte

Start in Wilderswil (10 minutes from Interlaken by train).
The Schynige Platte Bahn departs from the same station where you arrive.
By car: There’s parking available in Wilderswil.
Hiking alternative: Hardcore hikers sometimes do a full-day route from Grindelwald First past Bachalpsee to Schynige Platte — but it’s a serious 6+ hour hike.

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Hiking Beyond the Basics

Both Brienzer Rothorn and Schynige Platte are great starting points for longer alpine hikes. But be cautious:

Many longer routes include alpine trails marked white-blue-white, instead of the standard red-white-red.
If you’re not experienced, don’t venture off official trails — some areas are exposed and dangerous.
For wildlife lovers: the Harder Ridge near Schynige Platte is one of the best places in Switzerland to spot ibex. You might even see them without hiking far if you’re patient.

👉 Local Warning: From Brienzer Rothorn, it’s tempting to try hiking all the way along the Harder Ridge to Harder Kulm. I strongly advise against starting that route from Rothorn. The trail is unofficial, exposed, and has sadly claimed lives.

Prices and Travel Passes

Brienzer Rothorn

Full-price return ticket: CHF 96
With Half Fare Card or Swiss Travel Pass: CHF 48
Seat reservation: CHF 8 (recommended in high season)
Berner Oberland Pass and Tell Pass: fully cover the ride (seat reservation still extra)
Tickets: https://brienz-rothorn-bahn.ch/en/fahrplan-preise/

Alternative route:

From Sörenberg (cable car) instead of Brienz.
Return ticket: CHF 55
No steam train on this side, but a good local option.
Tickets: https://shop.soerenberg.ch/en/tickets

Schynige Platte

Full-price return ticket: CHF 64
With Half Fare Card or Swiss Travel Pass: CHF 32
Fully included in:
- Jungfrau Travel Pass
- Berner Oberland Pass
- Top of Europe Pass
No seat reservation needed in most cases.
Tickets (affiliate link): https://gyg.me/rKmbSd5A

Best Time to Visit

Both Brienzer Rothorn and Schynige Platte are summer-only excursions:

Trains usually run from early or mid-June to mid- or late October.
Schynige Platte opens slightly earlier than Rothorn most years.
Always check live webcams and weather before you go — visibility makes all the difference.

👉 Brienzer Rothorn’s cable car from Sörenberg runs in winter too, except during typical Swiss shoulder-season closures in November and spring.

So… Which One Should You Pick?

If you want a full-day experience, love steam trains, and want to combine your mountain trip with a boat ride on Lake Brienz — go for Brienzer Rothorn. Just remember: from Rothorn, you don’t get the classic Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau views.

If you’re looking for big mountain views, a shorter trip, and easier logistics, Schynige Platte is your mountain. It’s less crowded than other Jungfrau spots and delivers those iconic views without the crowds.

Or… just be like me and do both if you have the time!

Planning Your Swiss Adventure?

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Check out my Switzerland Travel Guides — written by a Swiss local who actually knows the mountains, the hidden spots, and the real best places to eat, hike, and stay.

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