Nestled high in the Swiss Alps, Mürren is a breathtaking, car-free village that offers a unique experience for travelers. Surrounded by towering peaks and accessible only by cable car, this hidden gem is a must-visit for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and those looking to escape into a peaceful mountain retreat.
In December 2024, I embarked on a journey to Mürren, traveling by train from Geneva to Lauterbrunnen, a scenic gateway to this secluded village. Historically, residents relied on mules to carry supplies up the mountain, but over the years, transport evolved. In 1891, a railway linked Mürren to nearby villages, followed by a cableway in 1965. Now, the world’s steepest cable car, the Schilthornbahn, takes visitors from the valley floor to Mürren in just four minutes, offering breathtaking views along the way.
At 1,638 meters above sea level, Mürren sits on a natural terrace overlooking the stunning Lauterbrunnen Valley. Its remote location has preserved its charm, with wooden chalets, cozy inns, and traditional restaurants lining its small streets. Without cars, the village is quiet and peaceful, making it perfect for leisurely exploration.
Local resident Michael Abegglen recalls how taking the cable car to school was a normal routine. “We have most things we need in Mürren, but for doctors, dentists, or haircuts, we go down to the valley where many of us keep our cars parked,” he explains. The close-knit community makes this village special, with some visitors returning year after year, feeling like part of the family.
Mürren is famous for its winter sports. British skiers discovered the area in the late 1800s, leading to the establishment of the first slalom ski race in 1922. The Kandahar Ski Club was founded in 1924, and by 1930, Mürren had Switzerland’s first ski school. Today, visitors can enjoy 54km of ski runs, and during peak conditions, it’s possible to ski from the Schilthorn summit to Lauterbrunnen.
For those who prefer a slower pace, the village offers plenty of charming experiences. The Hotel Mürren Palace, built in 1874, was once a glamorous destination for celebrities and elite skiers. Today, visitors can still feel its old-world charm. Traditional restaurants serve Alpine cheeses, Swiss chocolates, and warm mugs of glühwein, perfect for chilly evenings.
Beyond winter sports, Mürren is a paradise for summer adventurers. From June to September, visitors can explore flower-filled meadows, go paragliding, or hike scenic trails offering breathtaking views of waterfalls and turquoise lakes. Local trail runner Belinda Bühler describes the mountains as a constantly changing canvas. “Each season brings a different beauty,” she says. “In summer, the air is fresh, and the trails are peaceful.”
For a unique adventure, visitors can take a sledge ride down the Blumental Valley. Inspired by local recommendations, I grabbed a wooden sledge from a rental shop and rode down the same slopes featured in the 1969 James Bond film, “On Her Majesty’s Secret Service.” The experience was thrilling and unforgettable.
Many who grew up in Mürren, like Bühler, only realized the village’s magic after traveling elsewhere. “As a teenager, I thought it was too small. But after seeing the world and returning, I fell in love with it all over again,” she shares.
Mürren is not just a destination; it’s an experience that must be felt. Whether skiing, hiking, or simply soaking in the incredible views, this Alpine retreat is a place where nature, adventure, and serenity come together in perfect harmony.
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