Hint

Intro

«Big Pintenfritz» is one of the longest sledge runs in Europe. The route from Faulhorn, through Bussalp and down to Grindelwald Oberäll is therefore an absolute must for sledging fans. Not forgetting the view: The Schreckhorn, Wetterhorn north face and Eiger mountains create the backdrop for your sledging experience.

Description

The start, which is at around 2600 metres, can be reached by a two-hour hike from First to Faulhorn, via Lake Bachalpsee. If you wish, you can walk to the Faulhorn mountain hotel (closed in winter), which was built in 1830. During the climb, you will have a fantastic view of the imposing north face of Wetterhorn mountain and the majestic Schreckhorn mountain.

Once you have reached the top, there is a reward for your hard work: A unique panoramic view over several areas of Switzerland – and, of course, the rapid descent into the valley. The sledge run from Faulhorn to Grindelwald Oberäll covers a total of around 11 kilometres and more than 1350 metres in depth. This makes «Big Pintenfritz» one of the longest sledge run in Europe. The descent goes much faster, so it’s worth braking now and then to marvel at the Eiger mountain. The sledge run then goes through the snowy forest below Bussalp. With a bit of luck, you might spot some deer at the edge of the forest.

This sledge run’s special name came from a former owner of the Faulhorn mountain hotel. Fritz Bohren, known as «Pintenfritz», used to open the hotel in winter as well. Allegedly, he used to enjoy sledging down to Grindelwald after work to party the night away – back then, there was still no railway in First. How he returned back to Faulhorn again every morning remains a mystery.

An enjoyable tour includes the careful planning of the same. Please inform yourself in advance at the local information center about the route and weather conditions. Depending on the season and weather conditions, this route may be blocked or interrupted

Technical information

Show Technical information content
Start location
Faulhorn
Destination
Grindelwald
Descent
1400 m
Distance
11 km
Technical requirements
Difficult
More information https://www.schweizmobil.ch/en/sledging/route737

Map

SwitzerlandMobility Map: This element is not accessible for disabled people.

Contact

Grindelwald Tourismus
Dorfstrasse 110
3818  Grindelwald

Phone  +41 (0)33 854 12 12
info@grindelwald.swiss
grindelwald.swiss

Quick Facts

Route number

Distance

11 km

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