Switzerland Day 7: Jungfraujoch

DAY 7: EXPLORING JUNGFRAUJOCH – THE TOP OF EUROPE

My seventh day in Switzerland was supposed to start with an early morning hike from Männlichen to Kleine Scheidegg, a scenic and relatively easy trail with breathtaking alpine views. However, nature had other plans. When I arrived in Männlichen, I was met with thick fog and extremely low visibility — so much so that I could barely see a few meters ahead. Unfortunately, the trail was closed, and I had to cancel my hiking plans.

MÄNNLICHEN – A FOGGY MORNING

Männlichen is known for its panoramic mountain views, but the thick fog covered everything, making it impossible to see beyond a few meters. While I didn’t get to do the hike as planned, I still took a look around the area before taking the gondola back down.

All Aboard the Männlichenbahn! I believe it would have been a scenic ascent — if only the fog hadn’t beat me to it!

Moo-dy Männlichen Weather... At the summit, I was greeted by the adorable cow-themed playground slide — an iconic spot at Männlichen. Sadly, the heavy fog shrouded everything in mystery, and the hiking trail was closed. Still, this quirky cow structure brought a smile to my face even in the whiteout!

This was the sign that greeted me upon arrival at Männlichen — a clear warning that the Panorama Trail to Kleine Scheidegg was closed due to poor conditions.

Morning fog is common in the Alps, especially in early summer. Even if a trail is open, visibility may vary throughout the day — so checking webcams and weather forecasts helps a lot before committing!

Here are some way to check the trail status, so you don't end up in disappointment like me:

1. Official Jungfrau Website

Visit: https://www.jungfrau.ch

Go to the "Live" or "Operating Info" section

You can check:

• Hiking trail status (whether open or closed)

• Webcams (for visibility or weather at Männlichen, Kleine Scheidegg, Jungfraujoch, etc.)

• Weather forecasts

Direct link to the live area page: https://www.jungfrau.ch/en-gb/live/

2. Männlichen Cableway Website

Visit: https://www.maennlichen.ch

Click on "Summer" > "Hiking" or "Live Info"

It will show which hiking trails are currently open, including the Panorama Trail to Kleine Scheidegg

It also shows the lift operating status and weather

3. Ask at Grindelwald Terminal or Tourist Info

The Grindelwald Terminal (at the base of the Männlichenbahn) or the Grindelwald Tourist Office usually has up-to-date trail information.

The Staff can also advise whether the trail is safe and open for hiking that day.

JUNGFRAUJOCH: THE TOP OF EUROPE

With the hike cancelled, I adjusted my plans and made my way to Jungfraujoch, known as the "Top of Europe."  The journey itself was an adventure — taking the Jungfrau Railway through the Eiger and Mönch tunnels, where the train stops at viewpoints within the mountain, allowing passengers to admire the icy landscapes through windows carved into the rock.

Eismeer station stop (3160 m) — One of the intermediate stops on the way up to Jungfraujoch, offering a quick peek at the icy world beyond the mountain walls.

Upon arriving at Jungfraujoch (3454 m above sea level), one of the first areas I explored was the Alpine Sensation — a whimsical, heartwarming experience that beautifully blends history, imagination, and alpine charm. Stepping into the tunnel lined with glowing edelweiss flowers felt like entering a dreamscape. The exhibit celebrates Switzerland’s mountain heritage and the visionary spirit behind the Jungfrau Railway through a captivating mix of nostalgic music, intricate wooden sculptures, and an enormous snow globe that encapsulates the magic of the Alps. It’s a surreal and enchanting escape, offering warmth and wonder amidst the icy heights. Definitely one of my favourite part of Jungfraujoch!

Wandering through the Alpine Sensation tunnel at Jungfraujoch feels like stepping into a fairytale. Walls adorned with glowing edelweiss flowers lead the way toward a magical showcase of Swiss alpine dreams.

This whimsical installation captures the heart of Switzerland inside a giant snow globe — from scenic trains and alpine peaks to cable cars and playful figurines. It’s charming, nostalgic, and utterly enchanting. I love it so much that I bought its mini snow globe!

A carved wooden figure rests peacefully under the glowing edelweiss, just beside the sign marking Jungfraujoch: Top of Europe (3454 m).

I explored the Ice Palace next — an enchanting world carved deep within the glacier—which I really enjoyed. The tunnels and chambers are filled with beautifully sculpted animals, whimsical figures, and intricate ice carvings, all gleaming under soft light. I couldn’t stop snapping photos — every corner felt like a hidden frozen treasure. Just a heads-up though: the floors are very slippery, so do walk slowly and hold the handrails when you can!

An enchanting icy scene of penguins surrounding their igloo.

A closeup of the little penguin peeking out from its icy home.

A frozen gathering of arctic wolves, each sculpture intricately detailed and perfectly preserved in this chilly wonderland.

A pair penguins carved from crystal-clear ice stand facing one another.

The iconic "Jungfrau - Top of Europe" inscription carved in ice.

A surprise appearance! Scrat from Ice Age immortalized in a block of ice, still clutching his acorn haha.

A surreal, almost otherworldly corridor made entirely of smooth ice. Watch your step — it's as slippery as it looks!

As it was foggy and cold outside, I decided to first have lunch at Restaurant Crystal, with large windows offering stunning mountain views. To my delight, the fog cleared just as I sat down, revealing a breathtaking snowy landscape outside. I took my time enjoying a warm meal while watching the shift in light and mist painting a new picture of the Alps.

This was the view right outside the window as I enjoyed my lunch — snow-blanketed valleys and dramatic cloudscapes that shifted every few minutes. A real treat for the eyes and soul.

My meal began with a creamy soup served with pretzel bread. Perfect for recharging at 3454 m above sea level.

A comforting plate of tofu and stir-fried vegetables over rice — warm, hearty, and just what I needed after being out in the cold.

After lunch, I made my way to the Plateau — an open snowy expanse just outside the Jungfraujoch building. Stepping out into the cold, I was immediately enveloped by a wintry world of white. Although the mountain peaks were partially hidden behind a veil of mist, there was something surreal about being surrounded by snow at such a high altitude. The ground was thick with powdery snow, and the air crisp and biting. I walked carefully along the marked path, watching as fellow visitors posed with the iconic yellow Jungfrau sign or simply stood in awe of the vastness around them. Just a note — don’t forget to bring a proper jacket, even in summer! The wind can be strong and it gets really chilly out here. Despite the cold, the experience felt peaceful and otherworldly — like walking through the clouds.

Visitors arriving at the Plateau area at Jungfraujoch.

This view overlooks the snowy terrain with the buildings and observatory peeking through the mist. You can also spot the Sphinx Observatory in the background.

A mystical view of the snow-covered peaks at Jungfraujoch, cloaked in mist and clouds.

Walking through snow at the Top of Europe — visibility might be low, but the experience is unforgettable.

A shot of Jungfraujoch's snowfields.

Snow tubing at Jungfraujoch's Snow Fun Park. This area can be accessed from the Plateau and visitors can engage in activities like tubing, skiing, and snowboarding.

One of the highlights at Jungfraujoch is supposed to be the Sphinx Observatory, one of the highest observatories in the world. A high-speed lift whisks you up to the viewing platform, where — on clear days — you’re treated to panoramic views of the Aletsch Glacier and surrounding snow-capped peaks. Unfortunately, the weather during my visit was foggy, so the famous sweeping vistas were mostly hidden behind thick clouds. Still, it was a special experience to stand at such an altitude. Just nearby, I found the Crash Landing on You photo spot — a cute nod to the beloved K-drama that filmed a scene right here. With heart-shaped signage and a backdrop of snowy white, it’s the perfect place for a K-drama fan photo moment!

Crash Landing On You fans, this one's for you! A heart-shaped tribute to the iconic scene filmed right here at Jungfraujoch.

After a long, chilly day exploring Jungfraujoch, I returned to the hotel and curled up with a hot cup of noodles — a humble yet deeply satisfying dinner. Honestly, with how expensive eating out can be in Switzerland, instant noodles feel almost luxurious. There’s something comforting about slurping spicy soup in a warm room while looking out at the cold alpine night. Not exactly fine dining, but definitely a quintessential experience for any budget-conscious traveller in Switzerland.

A sweet little thank-you chocolate gifted onboard the Jungfrau Railway.

A dreamy blur of purples, yellows, and whites as the train glides past alpine meadows in full bloom.

Cup noodles & latte combo. Comfort food at its finest after a long day in the cold.

ALL IN ALL...

What was meant to be a scenic morning hike from Männlichen to Kleine Scheidegg turned into a foggy detour, but the day was far from a loss. I made my way up to Jungfraujoch — the Top of Europe — and explored its many highlights, from the whimsical Alpine Sensation and slippery Ice Palace to the snowy Plateau and iconic Sphinx Observatory. I even caught the Crash Landing On You photo spot! After a hearty lunch at Restaurant Crystal and soaking in breathtaking views, I ended the day back at the hotel with a warm cup of instant noodles — the unofficial meal of all cost-conscious travellers in Switzerland. A day of highs (quite literally) and heartwarming little moments.

Love,

Shu