Push your limits with ski-tour to stunning corners of the Bernese Alps

Thrill-seekers will find endless inspiration as they explore the alpine peaks, crystalline waterfalls, and lush, sweeping valleys of the Jungfrau region.  Mountain, air, and water, the region offers ample opportunity for adventurers to push themselves to their limits. The sheer variety of activities on offer in the Jungfrau region has secured it the reputation as Switzerland’s number one destination for adrenaline-junkies, with hiking, climbing, skiing, sledding, abseiling, and paragliding, all available within a relatively short distance of each other. 

The opportunity for downhill fun here is boundless, with three world-class ski resorts offering more than 200km of downhill piste runs, and ski lifts reaching as high as 2,950m. 

At the centre of the action lies the charming mountain village of Grindelwald, whose gingerbread style chalets and thriving nightlife are emblematic of Alpine enjoyment. 

Conveniently located near all three of the iconic trio of peaks, made up of the Eiger, Jungfrau, and Monch, Grindelwald is an ideal base for those looking to explore the area. Not only is it home to a number of accredited ski schools, but also a host of tour operators with exciting offers to expand your adventure experience. 

For those looking for a new perspective of this stunning region, ski touring provides a unique way to explore the peaks and valleys that makeup its distinctive landscape. This novel and challenging sport combines elements of Nordic and alpine skiing, and allows skiers to traverse both up and down slopes of varying inclines. Special bindings are used so that skiers can easily switch between a fixed heel and free heel position, enabling a seamless transition between climbing and downhill skiing. 

Not only is ski touring an invigorating workout, but also provides some of the most varied views of the Alpine area. Rather than being locked to one small section of snow slopes, touring leads you along azure lakes, through thick evergreen forests, past rugged peaks, and sweeping valleys. 

For a classic ski tour adventure in the Bernese Alps, an excursion from Grindelwald to the stunning Rosenlaui Valley is hard to beat. 

Grindelwald Sports is the number one tour operator in the region, and has a fantastic two day guided ski tour between the two points. 

The excursion is led by a qualified mountain or aspirant guide, who will meet the small group in Grindelwald village. On the first day the group will ascend 2890m of the Wildgärst on skis, enjoying panoramic views over the wintery peaks and troughs which surround it. The Lake Brienz is particularly stunning, with its azure shores and extensive bird population.

The group will then descend to the Rosenlaui valley, where they will stay overnight at the Hotel Schwarzwaldalp.

The Rosenlaui Valley is a treasure trove of natural wonders. Nestled at the foot of the Engelhörner, Dossen, Wellhorn and the Wetterhorn, it enjoys a privileged location near some of the most unique natural features anywhere in the Bernese Alps. 

Its biggest draw is the legendary Rosenlaui Glacier Gorge, an epic natural rock formation carved into the cliffs by the Weissenbach River. The gorge is characterized by a series of crashing glacial waterfalls, secluded grottos, and towering limestone cliffs, which bear deep lacerations from unrelenting fresh water currents rushing over their surface. 

A secure path leads visitors through the gorge, past numerous whirlpools, and to the peak of the ascent. 

Not far from the gorge is the pretty hamlet of Rosenlaui, where lush pastures roll off into the distance, and the sound of cowbells drift melodically on the gentle alpine breeze. 

This area is known for its romanticism, and every year attracts bubbles of love struck honeymooners seeking a taste of Swiss intrigue. 

Dinner at the hotel is included, as is breakfast the next morning.

After a solid night’s rest, the group will begin the journey back to Grindelwald. The return leg will involve a 2659 ascent of Gemsberg, a pretty peak not far from Grindelwald First. This section is more relaxed than the outward journey, with wide open terrain and views back towards Grindelwald. The sense of accomplishment will be ripe as you descend the last section to Grindelwald village.

This ski tour requires a good level of physical fitness, and at least an intermediate level of skiing and climbing. Although most of the climbing involved is relatively untaxing, you will be covering a large distance, and will need plenty of endurance to make it to your end goal. 

Advanced ski-tourers will find this offers a fantastic warmup route for some of the more arduous tours later in the season, and beginners will find it a welcome challenge as a debut tour.