Hiking the Alps: To the top of Schynige Platte

The hike from Wilderswil (pronounced “vilders-ville”) to Schynige Platte (pronounced “shin-ni-guh plaht”) starts at the Wilderswil train station. When facing the station with your back to the trains, turn left and cross the tracks to follow signs for Schynige Platte. You’ll pass through a cobbled square with a fountain (you can fill up your water bottles here) and then you’ll cross an old wooden bridge. Once you cross, turn right and then left beside the church to follow the signs upward. The rest of the path is well marked as easy to follow.

About 2/3 of the way up, you’ll come to a train station. If you’re worn out, you can catch the train here to get to the top. If you’re still feeling good, the walk continues up the hill across from the station.

For this hike, it’s important to bring plenty of water. Normally on the Swiss trails you’ll find tons of fountains along the way, but not on this trail. You’ll need to carry enough for the whole hike and then can refill in the bathrooms at the top.

In addition to bathrooms, the top has a number of nice easy flower trails, the trailhead for a longer hike along some breathtaking ridges (toward First), a couple restaurants, a panoramic terrace, and a little playground.

Hiking time: 3 – 4 hours
Difficulty: moderate to hard

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All photos taken with my brand-new Sony a6000.