JUNGFRAUJOCH

The top of Europe... An unmissable excursion, defined by many superlatives: Imagine reaching the highest peak in Europe: the Junfraujoch, the highest station in Europe, which rises to 3545 m, by taking the longest rack railway in Europe of 19 km... The view to the top, when it is clear, is breathtaking. This high altitude excursion requires a good half day because you have to take several trains and take the time to do the route to the top and enjoy the view. The Jungfrau railway, the Jungfraubahn, is a UNESCO Alpine World Heritage Site and is the pride of the region. It is the highest in Europe and for a hundred years it has achieved the feat of connecting all the cities in the region to a European summit. Up there, it's another world, that of eternal snow, perpetual cold (take warm clothes!) and an almost constant sun. An experience not to be missed! Titanic work was necessary to allow this line (see box). The Jungfraujoch site houses a research laboratory in geology, climatology, physics, meteorology and astronomy. On site, you can enjoy chocolate or try your hand at snowtubing by riding a tire on the Snow Fun Park trail (May to October).

The Jungfraujoch Observatory. Once you reach the top at 3454 m, the observatory is a real attraction! Beyond the view of the entire surrounding alpine range, the circular route includes an ice gallery with carved animals that will delight families - including the squirrel and its Ice Age hazelnut! - a 360° panoramic screen replicating the view from the top, a collection of miniatures, watch and souvenir shops, and various observation terraces, including a 360° terrace on the Sphinx rock. If the weather conditions allow it, there is a fun park with luge and skiing, all free of charge, and a short walking tour.

The hiking trail is open from April to the end of May and from July to the end of September. It is precisely the one you absolutely must borrow with good hiking boots to get out of the noisy crowd rushing to make selfies at the top. Even in summer, the route is snow-covered, but it is marked and packed by the guardian of the Cabane de Monchsjoch, the ultimate goal of this 45-minute round trip, both on the way back. You will arrive laminated because at such an altitude walking burns a lot of energy! Walk slowly to be gentle. On arrival, you can enjoy a spectacular view of the entire Aletsch glacier.

The Ice Sea at an altitude of 3,160 m extends in front of you during your panoramic stop at Eismeer station. It is always very impressive to see these ice blocks overlapping to form this blue and translucent sea.

The Ice Palace, which covers the old galleries dug by mountain guides, takes you on a journey of discovery of ephemeral works such as an eagle, a penguin... A special and unprecedented dimension for an art gallery made of ice.