As 2023 draws to a close, many are crafting their New Year's resolutions, and travelers are no exception, setting their intentions on uncovering distant corners of the world they have yet to see. Bucket list destinations range from cityscapes to rainforests to beaches, however among endless choices, one bucket list destination for 2024 perfect for every kind of traveler is Grindelwald, a quaint and beautiful – yet adventure forward – Alpine village in the Jungfrau Region of Switzerland, a region about 3 hours’ drive from Zurich at the base of the Alps.
In 2024, SWISS Air is adding new routes from Toronto and Washington D.C. to Zurich’s international airport, making it easier and more accessible for North American travelers to get to the picturesque Jungfrau region. This increased connectivity comes as Switzerland is once again considered near the top in 2024 on metrics regarding population happiness and safety.
Culture and local experiences are projected to be major factors in travelers’ decision making in 2024, and the Jungfrau region abounds with Alphorn blowers, traditional cattle herds, incredible skiing, extremely efficient railways, and fondue – what could be more Swiss than that?
The Swiss Alps have historically received much attention for their perennial status as a winter powerhouse – and for good reason. World-class ski conditions, from the quality of the powder to the accepting (and very Swiss) ski culture that encourages visitors to pursue the sport at every skill level, fuel the tourism to the region during wintertime. But the Jungfrau Region is a year-round destination. From a homebase in the charming Alpine village of Grindelwald, visitors can explore every season.
Swiss spring is shoulder season in Jungfrau, between the popular ski season and the temperate summers. Springtime visitors have access to all the adventure activities of the summertime while also catching late ski season and enjoying less crowds. Swiss summers are perfect for thrill seekers: bungee jumps, canyoning, ziplining, and more highlight the region’s adventure activities offerings. Adrenaline junkies from across the globe venture to the region to test their mettle in some of the most beautiful scenery on earth. Fall is a local favorite for the region, as the leaf peeping begins to ramp up and the wellness offerings in cozy alpine chalets feel more deserved. In autumn visitors can find respite at world class spas and Michelin starred restaurants after days well spent hiking the Swiss Alps and photographing fall foliage.
Visitors can find Swiss cuisine favorites throughout Grindelwald, from fondue to raclette and rösti – potato and cheese rule the Swiss winter diet – to international options with cuisine from nearby Italy and France. The small village has a remarkable number of mentions in the Michelin Guide for its exceptionally executed fine dining, from the cozy and inviting Schmitte at Hotel Schweizerhof to the ambitious and confident GLACIER at Boutique Hotel Glacier to the Michelin starred 1910 Gourmet by Hausers. Hungarian chef Dávid Imre Rózsa takes charge in the 1910 Gourmet kitchen, showcasing a technically modern and elegantly minimalist style. His cuisine speaks volumes through its flavors, shining brightest in creations like the dry-aged pike perch paired with Frutigen's Oscietra caviar—an embodiment of the kitchen's strong commitment to utilizing locally sourced ingredients.
Perennial favorite accommodations include Boutique Hotel Glacier and Bergwelt Alpine Design Resort, both boutique luxury hotels situated with views of the Swiss Alps, indulgent spas, and fantastic Après Ski dining options.
