Perched on a terrace high above a mountain valley is the charming storybook village of Mürren. From skiing, snowboarding and toboggan in winter to biking and hiking in summer, it’s a paradise for outdoor pursuits. Mürren sits at the heart of Switzerland’s Bernese Alps and in the shadow of the beguiling Eiger, Jungfrau and Mönch mountains.
The zigzagging streets of Mürren’s traffic-free village are ideal to explore on foot. It’s where low-rise chalets double up as boutiques, cafés, restaurants, hotels and lodges. Check out the shop windows, which house rotating exhibitions of the Mini Museum Mürren.
Cable cars and funiculars connect the village with hilltops, hamlets and around 125 miles (200 kilometres) of walking trails. Take the funicular to Allmendhubel for unbeatable views of glaciers and snow-capped peaks. Hike along signposted trails such as the Northface Trail and Blumental Panorama Trail.
Travel by cable car to the summit of 9,750-foot (2970-metre) tall Schilthorn, made famous by the James Bond movie On Her Majesty’s Secret Service. Visit Bond World 007, an interactive museum with original artifacts from the movie. Spot up to 200 peaks from the viewing platforms and rotating restaurant.
Thrill-seekers have the chance to discover the stunning natural scenery on climbing, mountain-biking and paragliding tours. Brave the Klettersteig Mürren-Grimmelwald, a climbing path that clings to a steep rock face. Hike to Trümmelbach Falls, a secluded waterfall accessed via an underground pathway. Board a train bound for Jungfraujoch, and admire the views from the top, at Europe’s highest railway station.
In winter the action turns to Skigebiet Mürren-Schilthorn. Ski, snowboard and toboggan on 32 miles (53 kilometres) of groomed pistes. Go cross-country skiing, snowshoeing and winter hiking. Try ice-skating and play a game of curling.
Getting to Mürren is an unforgettable experience in itself. Drive or catch a train to Lauterbrunnen, from where you’ll board a cable car to Grütschalp before taking a scenic train down to the village. Alternatively, drive to Stechelberg and enjoy a ride on the Schilthornbahn cable car. Be prepared to spin yourself dizzy with the unparalleled and panoramic views.