2 adults 2 kids (12yo) and would like to do one of the peaks, based in Wengen. I had planned Shilthorn since it seems more our pace (less touristy, less expensive, shorter train journey/day trip). However, I'm reading reviews of all the construction and wondering if this is a bad idea? Our dates we would consider are June 14-18, so I think it is still before the newly planned closure of the Shilthorn funicular. Other alternatives? We can still pivot back to Jungfraujoch, but it seems rather expensive for what it is.
Posted by
Chicago
3619 posts
I’m not a fan of the Jungfraujoch, so I would always opt for Shilthorn if it is a choice between those two. My favorite in the area though is männlichen. You might get lucky and the panorama trail down to kleine Scheidegg might open before your dates. If not, I would still prefer to go up there.
Posted by
Nashville, TN
1026 posts
Jungfraujoch is not a mountain peak, it’s a saddle in between mountains to view the glacier. Completely different type of experience than Schilthorn.
Less touristy is a term I’d use lightly. It’s still very touristy & busy, but it is less expensive and a more enjoyable trip up to it
The construction will obstruct some views, but not all angles and you can also stop at Birg for additional angles.
- Other alternatives that give lovely views - Mannlichen Royal Walk, Schynige Platte, Brienzer Rothorn, Grindelwald First
Posted by
OP
10 posts
Thank you both very much for the info and suggestions!
Posted by
The Heartland USA
9345 posts
I've done the Jungfraujoch once, and Schilthorn twice. I would always choose the Schilthorn. It takes too much time to get up and down the Jungfrau, and the ride up the Schilthorn is more interesting than a dark tunnel.
Posted by
Moncton NB
1272 posts
For the same reason that the Eiffel Tower has the worst views in Paris (its the only place you can't see the Eiffel Tower), there is nothing to be seen at Jungfraujoch. What you want to see is the Eiger, Monch and Jungfrau, and the place to see those is from the Schilthorn.
I've heard, however, that the cable to the peak is closed for service. Not sure how long. Check other recent posts in this forum. If so, Birg (second station from top) is still very good.
Posted by
Nashville, TN
1026 posts
That is absolutely untrue that there is nothing to be seen at Jungfraujoch. It's a view of the Aletsch Glacier, which is very stunning. It's just whether you want to brave the crowds to see it.
The Schilthorn is not a funicular, it's a funifor cable car and it's not closed. Except for June 23-25 for a quick maintenance issue, it's open 365 days a year.
Posted by
Dublin, Ohio
37 posts
We were there last week. Shilthorn over the Jungfrau. Less crowded, less expensive, better mountain views. There is construction at Murren, Brig, and at Piz Gloria but you can get around it to get the views.