Harder Kulm - everything you need to know in 2025

The Harder Kulm is the local mountain of Interlaken in the Bernese Oberland

5 Highlights at the Harder Kulm

• The viewing platform at the Harder Kulm allows you to see the panorama of the entire landscape from Lake Brienz to the end of Lake Thun and the southern mountain range of the four-thousand-meter peaks.
• Between April and October there are many hiking possibilities around the Harder Kulm.
• Hardermannli is the name of a rock face in the Harder, which led to many legends and myths around the Harder.
• An alpine animal park near the valley station of the Harder cable car is freely accessible at all times.
• The Hohbüel Pavilion lookout point and two barbecue areas are located a few meters above the Alpine Animal Park.

It belongs to the Emmental Alps and lies at 1322 m above sea level. Between Lake Brienz on the left and Lake Thun on the right, the view extends into the Jungfrau region with the Mönch, Eiger and Jungfrau.

At Harder Kulm you can primarily hike, enjoy the view and barbecue. Many visitors enjoy a meal in the restaurant at the Kulm and combine this with the view from the two-lake footbridge.

Mountain railroad to the Harder Kulm

The Harder Kulm is located in the municipal area of Unterseen. The Kulm is reached from the valley station in Interlaken in eight minutes by the Harderbahn. From the Interlaken Ost train station, the Harderbahn station is a ten-minute walk across the Aare River.

The Harderbahn is a standing cable railway, which was inaugurated in 1908. It has the peculiarity that it does not go up in a direct path. It takes a semicircular curve on the mountain and crosses a tunnel.

The Harderbahn runs from mid-April to the end of November.

Train Journey Details:

• Bottom station Interlaken at 567 m a.s.l.
• Top station at 1,322 m a.s.l.
• Track length: 1,447 meters
• Elevation difference: 755 meters
• Average gradient: 64%
• Travel time: 8 minutes

The train operates between April and November. The timetable varies during this period. From about 8 AM to approximately 9 PM, the Harderbahn runs every half hour. Night rides stop at the end of October. From this point, the train operates between around 10 AM and about 5 PM until the end of November.

The train cars were last replaced in 2008. During the ride, you'll get a view of the majestic peaks of Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau. The deep blue Lake Thun and the turquoise Lake Brienz also become visible during the ascent.

You can purchase rides on the Harderbahn either as a single ticket or combined with a return trip.

Swiss Activities Offer:

• Harderbahn Ticket

With the Berner Oberland Pass to Harder Kulm

With the Berner Oberland Pass, you can explore the Bernese Oberland flexibly for 3 to 10 consecutive days. This pass also covers the Harder Railway.

Sights and legends at Harder Kulm

The most popular destination on the Harder Kulm is the viewing platform, also called the Two-Lakes Footbridge. Far below the Kulm, the Hardermannli is recognizable as a face in the middle of the rock.

These excursion destinations can be found on the mountain:

• Viewing platform at the Harder Kulm: Two-Lakes Footbridge
• The Hardermannli and its legend
• Alpine game park below the Harder Kulm
• Hohbüel pavilion and barbecue areas at Harder Kulm

Viewing platform at Harder Kulm: Two-Lakes Footbridge

The viewing platform at Harder Kulm is a popular destination and can be reached quickly from Interlaken. The Zwei-Seen-Steg (two-lake footbridge) juts out pointedly in the direction of the mountains and lakes. Its shape makes it suitable for photographing in three directions.

The Brienzersee is on the left side, with a view extending to Giessbach and its waterfalls to the west behind the lake. To the east, you can see Iseltwald and the area all the way to the Schynige Platte. In the background, the mountains Roteflue (2,296 m a.s.l.) and Loucherhorn (2,230 m a.s.l.) are visible, behind them are the higher peaks Wildgärst (2,891 m a.s.l.), Schwarzhorn (2,928 m a.s.l.), Faulhorn (2,681 m a.s.l.), and Reeti (2,757 m a.s.l.).

The Thunersee can be seen on the right, with the mountains Niesen (2,362 m a.s.l.) and Drunengalm (2,408 m a.s.l.) clearly visible behind it. From the viewpoint, you can observe the excursion boats that travel over the two lakes.

Interlaken, with the Höhematte and the River Aare, lies between both lakes, and in the background, the mountain range of the four-thousanders is visible. The Eiger, Jungfrau, and Mönch can be clearly seen as a trio from the observation platform that juts out far beyond the appendage. A glass panel has been embedded in the platform's floor, allowing a view down to a dense forest. Through the triangular cutout, you can see the thick forest, fields, and meadows.

The Hardermannli and its Legend

The Hardermannli is a rock face in Harder, which is the local mountain of Interlaken. It is located in the middle of the Harder forest and below the viewpoint Falkenfluh. Various myths and tales surround this face with its nose, eyes, mouth, and mustache.

A wandering monk

The monk is said to have pursued a young girl on the Harder, who, out of pure despair, threw herself down the mountain. God's punishment was that the monk would have to look down upon the very spot of his crime for eternity.

Abbot Leonhardus of the Monastery of Interlaken

Leonhardus, who was referred to as the Harder, is said to have been a cruel man motivated by his own advantage. He fell in love with a fisherman's daughter and tried to make her submissive to him. When she became pregnant, she swallowed poison and confessed to her father. The enraged father is said to have split the Harder's skull with an axe. At that moment, there were flashes of lightning and thunder, and stones fell from the mountain. Afterwards, the Harder's face became visible in the rock. It serves as a memorial for the people of Bödelis to the abbot's disgraceful deeds.

The giant Harder

He is said to have not been kind to the forest dwellers, especially the dwarfs. While he was sleeping, the dwarfs took the opportunity to cut off his head. To mark their victory, they hung it up in the rock.

Alpine Game Park below the Harder Kulm

A visit to the Alpine Game Park can be combined with a hike or train ride to or from Harder Kulm. It is located about 200 meters from the valley station of the Harder cable car and is reached via the slightly ascending path to the left of the cable car station.

The game park features several enclosures with ibex, which are now common again in the region (especially on the Augstmatthorn). The ibex was already extinct in Switzerland in the 19th century and was bred and reintroduced in the Alpine Game Park, which opened in 1914. The enclosures are equipped with massive wooden houses and large cairns and stone slabs, the paths are paved and clean.

A marmot colony also resides in the wildlife park. The Alpine Wildlife Park is open daily and free of charge. Admission is free, donations are gladly accepted.

Hohbüel Pavilion and barbecue areas at Harder Kulm

The Hohbüel Pavilion lookout point is located a few meters above. Next to the pavilion is a barbecue area that can be used by hikers. About 50 meters further in the forest is a second barbecue area, which is additionally equipped with wooden benches. The view from both barbecue sites goes over the Bödeli between Lake Brienz and Lake Thun.

Activities at Harder Kulm

The Harder Kulm is in season from mid-April to the end of November. The Harderkulm cable car does not operate outside of these dates.

The most popular summer activities are hikes.

Safety at Harder Kulm: The rock of the mountain is "overturned." This means that the younger layers of rock lie above the older layers. Mainly consisting of chalk sediments, these rocks are prone to significant rockfalls. Caution is especially advised during the snowmelt periods or after prolonged rain. Rockfall nets, protective embankments, and an early warning service ensure safety.

Hikes around Harder Kulm

As a hiking destination, Harder Kulm is reachable from Interlaken in about two and a half hours, and after enjoying a meal with a view, the comfortable return trip with the Harderbahn is assured. Alternatively, you can take the train up and walk down, which shortens the hike to two hours and is very easy since it's all downhill. Just before the valley station, you can plan a detour to the alpine wildlife park.

Hikes starting from the Kulm to nearby excursion destinations or along the Harder Ridge are possible from April to October. The panoramic restaurant at Harder Kulm is open during the operating hours of the Harderbahn in this period.

Hikes to excursion destinations starting from Harder Kulm either begin with a ride up (also to save energy) or include the hike to the Kulm.

Hike to Harder Kulm from Interlaken Ost via Falkenfluh

Belonging to the Emmental Alps, Harder Kulm is located at an altitude of 1,321 meters. A moderately difficult hike takes visitors to Harder Kulm in about 2.5 hours on foot. The route leads from Interlaken Ost train station along the Aare first to the valley station of the Harderbahn. From there, the path winds upwards in several bends, some of which are quite steep, towards the top. The Falkenfluh is first reached through the Bleiki forest.

The Falkenfluh is a viewpoint above the forehead of Hardermannli. Below the railing, the rock drops vertically and provides a view of Interlaken and the mountain range of the four-thousanders with Eiger, Jungfrau, and Mönch to the south. Between Lake Brienz and Lake Thun lies the Bödeli.

The further mountain path is well-constructed and allows for a pleasant ascent over extensive alpine meadows. Here, the view extends over Lake Thun up to Mount Niesen. Passing the observation terrace of the mountain restaurant, the wide path leads to the mountain station of the Harderbahn.

• 4.1 km
• 2:30 hrs
• 759 meters elevation gain
• 4 meters descent

The path is signposted and should not be left for safety reasons. The hiking ticket of the Harderkulm cable car allows for a discounted descent.

Hike to Harder Kulm via Pavillon Hohbüel

A moderately difficult hiking trail leads from Interlaken Ost over Pavillon Hohbüel to Harder Kulm.

The path starts to the left of the valley station of the Harderbahn and leads up through some serpentines. A small road continues to the Pavillon Hohbüel at the end of the road. The Pavillon Hohbüel is an observation platform. In the opposite direction, the path proceeds.

It gradually ascends and follows the slope towards Goldswil. After about two hundred meters, the Harderbahn crosses the hiking path, shortly after that the nature path. Just before Goldswil, the path continues from a clearing along a paved road to Goldswil.

With a view of Burgseewli on the right, the further path turns left from the road into the forest. Now, it turns back in the opposite direction, goes diagonally upwards after the larch grove "Obere Bleiki" and again passes under the railway.

The resting place at an altitude of 1,113 m above Hardermannli is reached. It’s only about twenty minutes on foot to the mountain restaurant from here.

Circular trails on the Harder Kulm

There are several circular trails on the Harder Kulm that are easy to master. Prerequisite are mountain boots with a grippy sole. Mountain sticks make the hike easier.

An official circular trail starts at 1,321 meters above sea level at the panorama restaurant. It starts as a wide and stony mountain path with an incline up to the Hardergrat. The view extends from Lake Brienz over the Bödeli between the lakes to Lake Thun. The summit group of Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau is clearly visible.

The descent is leisurely on a narrow path to the Wanniwald and on the further path to the Elfenweg. Afterwards it goes back to the Harder Kulm. On the way, the circular trail informs about curious incidents and eerie occurrences along the way. The tour is open between April and October. It is listed in the Jungfrau Railways panorama map as Hike 76.

• 2.8 km
• 1 hr.
• 154 vertical meters upwards
• 154 vertical meters down

Another circular trail of about 2.3 kilometers in length leads through the Luegi Forest to a vantage point at 1,437 meters above sea level. The trail starts between the mountain station of the Harder cable car and the restaurant. It takes about one hour and 40 minutes and overcomes 182 hm of ascent.

• 2.3 km
• 1:40 hrs.
• 182 meters of altitude upwards
• 166 meters of altitude down

Trekking tour over the Harder ridge to the Augstmatthorn

This demanding tour starts at the Harder Kulm at the top station of the Harder cable car heading northeast. For inexperienced mountain hikers, a guided hike is recommended. The trail leads through the coniferous forest and climbs steadily. At an alpine meadow, the view of Interlaken and the two lakes against the mountain backdrop is possible.

The further trekking tour over the Hardergrat continues through the forest and then over the ridge, which is pleasant to walk at first. A steep ascent goes towards the 2,085 meter high mountain Suggiture. The path over the ridge is very steep in parts and it is possible to go up here on the hiking trail of the northern grassy flank.

Once further up, an impressive view of Lake Brienz and the entire mountain world is possible. The next destination is the 2,137 m high Augstmatthorn mountain. Ibex can often be seen on this route. The descent is to the northwest to Lombachalp.

• 10.6 km
• 5 hrs.
• 842 vertical meters upwards
• 579 vertical meters down

Trekking tour over the Hardergrat to the Augstmatthorn

This demanding tour starts at the Harder Kulm at the top station of the Harder cable car heading northeast. For inexperienced mountain hikers, a guided hike is recommended. The trail leads through the coniferous forest and climbs steadily. At an alpine meadow, the view of Interlaken and the two lakes against the mountain backdrop is possible.

The further trekking tour over the Hardergrat continues through the forest and then over the ridge, which is pleasant to walk at first. A steep ascent goes towards the 2,085 meter high mountain Suggiture. The path over the ridge is very steep in parts and it is possible to go up here on the hiking trail of the northern grassy flank.

Once further up, an impressive view of Lake Brienz and the entire mountain world is possible. The next destination is the 2137 m high Augstmatthorn mountain. Ibex can often be seen on this route. The descent is to the northwest to Lombachalp.

• 10.6 km
• 5 hrs.
• 842 vertical meters upwards
• 579 vertical meters down

Events at Harder Kulm

At Harder Kulm, there are regular culinary offerings. Events are held irregularly, including folklore evenings with alphorn players and accordion music at the Two-Lakes Bridge. Three event rooms in the restaurant can be used for family or corporate celebrations.

Harder Kulm by Night

From April 18 to October 26, 2025, the Harderbahn offers nightly rides that enable guests to experience the sunset from Harder Kulm. The return trip to Interlaken takes place within ten minutes.

In addition to the ascent and descent, an aperitif and dinner (excluding drinks) are included at the Panorama Restaurant Harder Kulm. The ascent can be made with the combo ticket starting at 5:40 PM.

Lunch at Harder Kulm

Guests can enjoy lunch at the Panorama Restaurant with breathtaking views of the Berner Oberland. A variety of dishes are available, from regional specialties to seasonal options. The restaurant's terrace offers a unique atmosphere.

Harder Sunntig-Zmorge (Sunday Brunch)

This special brunch takes place every Sunday from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM at the Panorama Restaurant on Harder Kulm. Guests can expect a diverse selection of cold and warm breakfast and brunch specialties, including homemade delights. The brunch is paired with an impressive view of the Berner Oberland and the surrounding peaks, making the experience even more unforgettable.

Restaurant on the Harder Kulm

The panorama restaurant on the Harder Kulm has a red tiled roof and a matching pointed turret.

The restaurant has a large sun terrace that offers a similar view to the viewing platform.

The restaurant has:

• 80 seats on the first floor
• 55 seats in the hall 1st floor
• 130 seats in the modern new building

The new building is equipped with presentation technology and can be rented exclusively.

The restaurant can be reached via the Harderbahn, on foot or by car. The restaurant is open during railroad operating hours.

The warm cuisine consists mainly of Swiss and Italian dishes. An attraction is the 650 g cordon bleu offered in the restaurant. Burger and children's menus are also available.

Groups of 15 or more receive meals by advance order. Group menus and group delight menus are available in separate menus.

Climate and weather at Harder Kulm

The Harder Kulm reaches 1322 m above sea level and, seen over the year, hardly differs from the climate in Interlaken. The pleasant temperatures start with the decrease of cloud density in April/May and end around October. This is also the period in which the Harderbahn and the restaurant at Kulm are open.

In summer the warmest temperatures reach about 24°C, the coolest are 14°C at night. The nights here get very cold (0-7°C) from December to mid-February. In January and February you have to expect high probability of precipitation, in summer it is rather low.

Location and Getting to Harder Kulm

Harder Kulm is located above Interlaken. Interlaken is situated in the mountainous Bernese Oberland in central Switzerland and is easily accessible by train and car from all directions.

If you're driving from Lucerne, you can reach Interlaken via the A8 motorway in about an hour. The shortest route from Geneva takes approximately 2.5 hours via the A1 motorway. From Bern, the journey along the A6 motorway takes around fifty minutes to reach Interlaken.