Elopement in Grindelwald
Located at the foot of the Eiger Mountain, the charming village of Grindelwald is one of Switzerland’s most iconic destinations. The Eiger’s North Face, a legendary and imposing landmark, dominates the skyline and can be seen clearly from the village. Below the snow-capped Eiger, the hillsides are dotted with traditional wooden chalets, creating a picturesque and serene atmosphere. Grindelwald has preserved its traditional Swiss alpine charm, with wooden cabins, pastures, and grazing cows and sheep scattered across the valley, offering a peaceful and cozy vibe. Whether in summer or winter, Grindelwald remains one of Switzerland’s most popular travel destinations.
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Here are some of our recommended elopement locations in Grindelwald:
Traditional Wooden Chalet
In recent years, Grindelwald has become increasingly popular among tourists, and the locals sometimes feel that their daily lives are being disrupted. As a result, organizing an outdoor elopement ceremony in the village itself can be challenging. For this reason, we recommend using private venues, such as hotels or traditional chalets. We’ve found a charming traditional wooden chalet with a private lawn in front, perfect for an intimate ceremony for two.
This location offers a stunning backdrop of the majestic Eiger and its glaciers, allowing you to exchange vows in a peaceful and undisturbed setting. If you’d like to add some decorations, this spot is also ideal for customization. Another advantage is that it’s sheltered from the strong winds often found at higher altitudes, making it a comfortable and serene choice for your ceremony.


First Mountain and Bachalpsee
First Mountain has become increasingly popular in recent years due to its adventure activities and stunning views. If you’re dreaming of exchanging vows with the snow-capped mountains as your backdrop, we recommend choosing a less crowded time of day for your Elopement.
Bachalpsee, a small alpine lake located near First Mountain, is one of Grindelwald’s most beloved hiking destinations. Known for its crystal-clear waters, breathtaking alpine scenery, and tranquil atmosphere, Bachalpsee is a magical spot. The lake reflects the surrounding snow-capped peaks and the sky like a mirror, creating a truly enchanting setting.
However, reaching Bachalpsee requires a 50-minute hike from the First cable car station. In the summer heat, hiking in a wedding dress can be quite a challenge. That said, if you’re drawn to alpine lakes, most of them require some hiking to access. What makes Bachalpsee special is its higher elevation, which offers more snow-capped peaks as a backdrop compared to other alpine lakes. For this reason, it’s a fantastic choice for an elopement.
Kleine Scheidegg
Kleine Scheidegg is a famous mountain pass in the Bernese Oberland, accessible by the Wengernalp Railway from Grindelwald Terminal. The journey takes about 35 minutes. At an altitude of 2,061 meters, Kleine Scheidegg is the starting point of the Jungfrau Railway, which leads to the “Top of Europe,” Jungfraujoch.
From Kleine Scheidegg, you can enjoy a breathtaking panoramic view of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau peaks. The sight of these three towering mountains is nothing short of spectacular, making it an ideal location for an elopement. Despite being a popular tourist destination, some spots in Kleine Scheidegg still offers pockets of tranquility, making it a perfect spot for an intimate ceremony.

Choosing the Best Season for Your Elopement in Grindelwald
Grindelwald is a stunning destination for elopements year-round, but each season offers a unique experience. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect in each season to help you decide which one is perfect for your special day:
Spring
In spring, Grindelwald begins to awaken from winter. The snow and ice in the valley gradually melt, and the meadows and forests come back to life. Spring occasionally brings rain or snow. If you’re dreaming of a scene filled with blooming wildflowers, it’s best to wait until late April or early May.


Summer
The classic Swiss scenery that everyone imagines usually comes from summer. In Grindelwald, summer temperatures typically range from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F), with plenty of sunshine. The valley is lush and green, wildflowers bloom on the mountainsides, and alpine lakes like Bachalpsee are crystal clear, reflecting the snow-capped peaks and blue skies. Summer in Grindelwald is perfect for a nature-filled elopement, with a backdrop of vibrant green valleys and majestic mountains.


Autumn
In autumn, Grindelwald is adorned with golden larch trees and red shrubs, painting the valley in warm tones. By this time, the grass at higher altitudes has started to turn yellow, but you’ll also have clearer views of the snow-capped peaks. The light in autumn is softer and more beautiful, making it an ideal time for elopements and photography.
Winter
Generally, the weather in Grindelwald from December to February is quite good. During this time, the entire village is often covered in a dreamy blanket of snow. Many people think winter weddings would be extremely cold, especially outdoors. However, on sunny days, it’s not as cold as you might imagine, even in the snowy landscape. That said, if it’s snowing or windy, holding an outdoor ceremony can be quite challenging.


Tips for Eloping in Grindelwald
- Avoid Peak Season: Summer, especially during the July school holidays, is the busiest time in Grindelwald. The village can get quite crowded and lively during this period. If you prefer a quieter experience, consider visiting during other months.
- Book Early: If you’re planning to visit during the peak summer or winter seasons, we recommend booking your hotel at least three months in advance. Hotels in Grindelwald tend to fill up quickly during these times.
- Parking Challenges: If you’re driving to Grindelwald, parking can be difficult during the ski season weekends or the July school holidays, as all parking lots may be full. We suggest arriving early in the morning or, if you’re staying at a hotel in Grindelwald, parking your car there.
Grindelwald is a dream destination for elopements, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty, privacy, and Swiss alpine charm. Whether you choose a traditional chalet, a serene alpine lake, or a panoramic mountain pass, your elopement in Grindelwald will be an unforgettable experience. Let us know if you need help planning your special day!
Start Planning Your Swiss Elopement Today!
Whether it’s exchanging vows with the Swiss Alps as your witness or saying “I do” by a sapphire-blue lake, Switzerland offers the perfect setting for a one-of-a-kind elopement wedding.
Ready to bring your dream to life? Contact us today for a free consultation!
