Niesen
Intro
The near-perfect pyramid shape of this mountain has inspired many an artist to depict it, including Ferdinand Hodler (1909), Paul Klee (1915) and Cuno Amiet (1926). It takes just 30 minutes to reach the 2,362m summit of the pyramid on the funicular railways from Mülenen.
Views over the Bernese Alps as far as Lake Thun and the Simmen Valley are truly amazing, and even more spectacular as viewed from the transparent glass pavillion.The new building is considered an extremely successful annex to the historic mountain restaurant, built some 50 years before the funicular railway. Guests staying at the Berghaus Niesen Kulm enjoy spectacular sunrises and sunsets too.
Things are a bit tougher for contestants in the traditional Niesen race - on the world’s longest stairway made up of 11674 stairs. Other than during this race, use of the steps along the railway line is not permitted.
At the end of the 19th century, plans were to construct a rack railway from Wimmis to the Niesen. However, no cash was available so the decision was made to develop a means of transport with funicular rail in two sections.
Altitude: 2362m
Accessibility: Train to Mülenen, funicular rail in two sections to Niesen
View: Over Lake Thun, Dreigestirn in the Bernese Oberland, Simmen and Kander Valleys
Attractions: Glass pavillion and sun terrace with views of the Alps, the famous Niesen fox story, story tale rides for children and Niesen cultural highlights
Culinary aspects: Breakfast buffets, culinary evening cruises, special full-moon dinners
Overnight stays: 11 cosy double rooms in the Berghaus
Groups: Restaurant with140 indoor places, sun terrace with 180 places
Season: Middle of April to middle of November
Swiss Travel Pass/GA: Reduced rate mountain rail ascent with the Swiss Travel Pass/GA travelcard.
Buy your tickets on arrival at the station.
Special comments: Annual Niesen Step-race
