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Schiltorn—Will I be gasping?

Am I likely to get altitude sickness up there?

Posted by
265 posts

It’s possible, but not likely. My two young adult daughters and I went up in May 2019 and had no problem. I have had altitude sickness in the mountains in Colorado. However, we did meet a young couple who were on their way down because they didn’t feel well.

Posted by
531 posts

I went there in October 2019 as part of my tour and I had no problems with this whatsoever... and I lived close to sea level at that time. If you're going during this time, definitely bring the right winter gear, including gloves. I forgot mine and my hands were so cold they were burning.

It's beautiful, and the restaurant and gift shop are cool. Definitely worth it!

Posted by
8252 posts

It is very unlikely that this short time at altitude would have much of an impact on someone not involved in strenuous activity. That said, everyone is different and I suppose anything is possible. One piece of prevention is to drink lots of water as this will really help.

Posted by
6777 posts

There aren't any really strenuous activities that most travellers will do up there, and the elevation is less than 10,000, so I would not worry, unless you have a specific condition that altitude makes worse (in which case, breathlessness is unlikely to be the main symptom).

Posted by
1363 posts

As said above, unless you have a cardiovascular problem, there shouldn’t be an issue.as the Schilthorn’s altitude is 9,744 feet at the peak and you’ll be at 2,700 feet first in Lauterbrunnen before being at 5450 feet in Murren prior to ascending to the Schilthorn.

Posted by
6 posts

The view will take your breath away...I know, not what you meant.

On the way up, depending where you're starting from, the gondola stops and transfers. If you're starting at the very bottom you will be able to feel the affect of the altitude at each stop, Gimmelwald, Birg, etc...Depending on time issues, spending time at Birg is worth it, the thrill walk has some great views, if you're ok with the height.

Posted by
4324 posts

It's quite possible, my wife had issues and we had to leave sooner than desired. Also had to eat a really overpriced lunch in the spinning restaurant, which didn't have the best view.

Posted by
15560 posts

It's not unusual to get altitude sickness, even at 9400'. Take lots of water with and drink it! The most common effects are dizziness and nausea, usually mild. If you feel discomfort that doesn't go away, the cure is simply to descend.

Posted by
4324 posts

Also be aware that you'll be in several cable cars on the way up, they are large but get crowded and can sway in the breeze. For some people this is so not ideal.

Posted by
32171 posts

Unless you have a health condition that might make you susceptible to altitude problems, I doubt that you'll have a problem, especially with a short visit. If you're really concerned about this, you might have a chat with your doctor.

I've been to the Schilthorn a number of times for varying lengths of time, and never had a problem with the altitude. I've spent several hours there looking around and enjoying a fine meal in the revolving restaurant.

However I did have a few mild problems at the Jungfraujoch which is on the other side of the valley at an elevation of almost 12,000 feet. I wasn't "gasping for breath" but found that after an hour or so, moving about and especially climbing stairs required more effort and had to be done slowly.