Your Guide to Visit Switzerland: St. Beatus Caves, Zermatt’s Matterhorn, and Grindelwald

When people think of Switzerland, they often imagine snowy mountains, crystal-clear lakes, and chocolate. While that is true, Switzerland is also full of unique places where history, adventure, and nature come together. If you are planning a trip, you will want to maximize your time and effort. Let’s talk about three locations you should not miss: St. Beatus-Höhlen, Zermatt Matterhorn, and Grindelwald.

These destinations are not only beautiful but also practical to visit, and each offers a different kind of experience. By the end of this guide, you will have a clear idea of what to do, how to prepare, and why these places are worth including in your Switzerland itinerary.

Near Interlaken, on the northern shore of Lake Thun, you will find the St. Beatus-Höhlen caves. These caves are not just about rocks and tunnels; they carry a legendary story. According to local lore, the caves were once home to a dragon that caused fear among the people in the area. The tale says Beatus, an Irish monk, confronted the dragon and brought peace to the locals. Whether you believe the legend or not, it makes the visit even more exciting.

When you visit, the caves stretch deep into the mountain with walkways that make them easy to explore. You will see underground waterfalls, strange rock formations, and winding chambers. The tour is self-guided, which means you can take your time. Make sure to wear good walking shoes since the paths can be slippery. The caves are cool inside, so carrying a light jacket is a smart idea, even in summer.

Outside the caves, there is a museum where you can learn more about geology and the legend of St. Beatus. If you want to enjoy a full day, there is also a restaurant nearby with views of Lake Thun, perfect for a relaxing break. Getting there is simple. You can reach the caves by bus from Interlaken, or if you prefer walking, there is a hiking trail that leads up to the entrance. For more information and schedules, you can check the official St. Beatus-Höhlen website.

The Matterhorn is one of the most famous mountains in the world, and Zermatt is the village that sits at its base. When people see photos of Switzerland, chances are they have seen the Matterhorn’s pyramid-shaped peak. Being there in person is a completely different experience.

Zermatt is a car-free village, which means the air is clean and the streets are peaceful. You can only reach it by train or taxi from the nearby town of Täsch. The train ride itself is scenic and feels like part of the adventure. Once in Zermatt, everything is walkable, and there are plenty of hotels, restaurants, and shops.

The main highlight is getting a closer view of the Matterhorn. You can take the Gornergrat Railway, a cogwheel train that climbs high into the mountains. From the top, you get one of the best views of the Matterhorn and the surrounding peaks. Another option is the cable cars leading up to Matterhorn Glacier Paradise, which is the highest cable car station in Europe. The panoramic views here are incredible, and you can even step into an ice cave carved out of the glacier.

If you enjoy hiking, Zermatt has trails that vary in difficulty. The Five Lakes Walk is popular because it takes you through five alpine lakes, each reflecting the Matterhorn on clear days. For those visiting in winter, Zermatt is also one of the top ski destinations in the world.

Eating in Zermatt can be pricey, but you can balance your budget by grabbing snacks from supermarkets and saving restaurants for special meals. Planning ahead helps you make the most of your time. To learn more about activities and passes, visit the official Zermatt tourism page.

Grindelwald is another must-visit mountain village in Switzerland. Unlike Zermatt, Grindelwald is easier to reach since it connects directly by train from Interlaken. It sits in the Bernese Alps and is surrounded by dramatic peaks like the Eiger. This makes it a favorite for both adventure seekers and casual travelers.

One of the best things to do in Grindelwald is to take the cable car up to First, a mountain that offers activities all year round. Once at the top, you can try the First Cliff Walk, a metal walkway along the mountain edge with amazing views. If you are feeling adventurous, you can rent a mountain cart or trotti bike and ride down the slopes. These are safe but thrilling, and they give you a different way to experience the scenery.

For hikers, Grindelwald is filled with trails. The hike to Bachalpsee Lake is one of the most popular. It takes around an hour from First, and the lake is often called the “blue jewel” because of its reflection of the mountains. This is a great spot for photos and a picnic.

In winter, Grindelwald becomes a hub for skiing and snowboarding. It is part of the Jungfrau region, which offers a wide range of slopes for different levels. Even if you do not ski, you can enjoy sledding or simply relax in the mountain lodges.

Back in the village, Grindelwald has plenty of cozy cafes and restaurants where you can try Swiss food like fondue or rösti. If you want to know more about passes and seasonal activities, check the official Grindelwald tourism site.

Since these places are all in mountainous regions, weather can change quickly. Always check forecasts before your trip. Carry layers, comfortable shoes, and water. Trains and cable cars can get busy in peak seasons, so booking tickets online in advance is a smart move.

Switzerland is known for being expensive, but you can save money with Swiss Travel Passes, which cover trains, buses, and even some boats. These passes make moving around easier and can be cost-effective if you are visiting multiple spots. Grocery stores like Coop and Migros are great places to buy affordable meals.

It is best to base yourself in Interlaken if you are short on time, . From there, you can reach both Grindelwald and the St. Beatus caves easily. Zermatt will take more effort since it requires a train connection, but it is worth including if you can spare at least two days.

If you want to make your planning even smoother, check out this complete Switzerland itinerary from our blog here. It breaks down what to see, how to move around, and how to combine destinations into a well-organized trip.

Switzerland offers a mix of natural wonders and local legends that make traveling here unforgettable. The St. Beatus-Höhlen caves bring a touch of mystery and history. Zermatt gives you the chance to see the Matterhorn, a true icon of the country. Grindelwald offers fun, adventure, and relaxing views all in one place.

By planning smart and using the tips above, you can maximize your time and enjoy a balance of sightseeing, hiking, and cultural experiences. These three destinations give you a taste of everything Switzerland is known for, from legends and caves to snowy peaks and lively villages.

So, whether you are preparing your first trip or already in Switzerland looking for ideas, keep this guide handy. It will help you navigate, save time, and make the most of your adventure in one of the most beautiful countries in the world.

 As always, my thoughts and opinions are my own.

Angie xoxo