If you’re searching for a family-friendly mountain adventure with a twist of cinematic history, Schilthorn in the Bernese Oberland is a must-visit. We spent a full day exploring this iconic peak and its surroundings, and it was one of the highlights of our Swiss travels. From breathtaking alpine views to interactive museums and thrilling walks, there’s something for everyone—making it perfect for families with kids of all ages.
A Touch of Hollywood: The History of Schilthorn
Schilthorn isn’t just famous for its stunning vistas; it’s also a legendary film location. In 1969, the summit’s revolving restaurant became the villain’s lair in the James Bond film On Her Majesty’s Secret Service. Today, you can visit the small Bond World 007 museum free with your ticket. Our kids loved the interactive exhibits, especially pretending to be secret agents on a toboggan and pushing every button they could find. It’s a fun, hands-on way to introduce them to a slice of cinematic history.
Exploring Schilthorn: Views, Telescopes, and a Rotating Restaurant
Once you step out onto Schilthorn’s summit, the panoramic views will take your breath away. On a sunny day, the 360-degree vistas from the Piz Gloria viewing deck stretch across the Bernese Alps, with the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau peaks all in sight. The interactive telescopes were a big hit with our kids—they loved learning the names and heights of the mountains by looking through the scopes. For a unique dining experience, there is a 360-degree rotating restaurant, which completes a full turn every 45 minutes. It’s a fun way to enjoy lunch with ever-changing scenery.
Pro tip: Check the Schilthorn webcam before you go to ensure clear views!
More Mountain Fun: Thrill Walks, Playgrounds, and Waterfalls
The journey to Schilthorn is an adventure in itself, with several stops worth exploring.
- Thrill Walk: At Birg, the cable car station just before the summit, you’ll find the heart-pounding Thrill Walk—a 200-meter pathway clinging to the cliffside. My husband braved the walk, balancing on tightropes and crawling through tunnels, all safely enclosed in netting, while the kids and I enjoyed hot chocolate at the nearby kiosk with a view of the action.
- Mürren and Allmendhubel: Don’t miss Mürren, a charming car-free village where you can stroll through picturesque streets or take the funicular up to Allmendhubel. The alpine playground here is a family favorite, with imaginative equipment and a large terrace restaurant—perfect for a relaxing break while the kids play. For more information on the Allmendhubel playground, click here.
- Mürrenbachfall: If you start your journey from Stechelberg, make time for a short walk to Mürrenbachfall. This spectacular waterfall, plunging 417 meters, is just a 10–15 minute stroll from the parking lot and makes for a fantastic family photo spot.
Planning Your Trip: Tickets and Travel Tips
Tickets for Schilthorn can be purchased online or at any of the stations. To reach Mürren, you have two main options: take the cable car from Lauterbrunnen to Grütschalp, then a scenic train ride to Mürren, or drive to Stechelberg, park in the large paid lot, and take two cable cars (via Gimmelwald) up to Mürren. Both routes are easy and scenic, taking around 10–20 minutes. Discounts are available for Swiss Half-Fare Card and Swiss Travel Pass holders, and children under 6 travel free. Having visited both Jungfraujoch and Schilthorn, our family prefers Schilthorn for its shorter travel time, fewer crowds, and lower cost—not to mention the bonus of visiting the Allmendhubel playground.
Our day at Schilthorn was packed with adventure, learning, and laughter. Whether you’re channeling your inner James Bond, soaking in the alpine views, or letting the kids burn off energy at a mountaintop playground, Schilthorn delivers an unforgettable family experience. With so much to see and do, it’s well worth dedicating a full or half day to exploring this spectacular corner of the Bernese Oberland. We left with happy memories, tired legs, and a camera full of stunning photos—ready to plan our next Swiss adventure!