In the Swiss Alps above the Haslital valley, the Gelmerbahn (Gelmer Funicular) is an open-air railway that climbs to the turquoise Gelmersee in about 12 minutes. Its steepest section reaches a 106% gradient. Built in 1926 as a works railway for hydropower construction, it now runs as a seasonal attraction with limited seats.
Key takeaways
- The Gelmerbahn is the steepest open passenger funicular railway in Europe (max. 106% gradient).
- As of 2026-01-26, adult tickets are CHF 40 return / CHF 20 single; children (6–15) are CHF 20 return / CHF 10 single.
- The 2026 season is scheduled for 6 June to 25 October, with different daily operating hours by month.
- Online booking is strongly recommended; tickets are time-specific and generally cannot be changed, exchanged, or refunded.
- Expect steep stairs and uneven access at the valley station, and arrive early to collect your timed tickets.
Ticket prices for Gelmerbahn
Ticket prices can change from season to season, so always double-check before you travel. As of , the official prices listed by the operator are:
- Adults: CHF 40 return / CHF 20 single
- Children (6–15): CHF 20 return / CHF 10 single
If you only want a one-way ride (for example, ride up and hike down), choose a single ticket. Note that the Gelmerbahn has no ticket sales point at the top station, so buy any descent ticket in advance.
Operating season and hours
Opening dates and hours are set each year and can change. For 2026, the Gelmerbahn is scheduled to run from 6 June to 25 October 2026.
- June, September, October: 09:00–16:00 (last ascent 15:48; last descent 16:00)
- July, August: 08:36–16:48 (last ascent 16:36; last descent 16:48)
Because this is a mountain area, weather can affect service. Check status updates close to your visit if conditions look uncertain.
Availability and reservations
Capacity is limited to 24 passengers per journey. In good weather, popular time slots can book out quickly. The operator recommends booking online in advance to avoid long queues and sold-out rides.
Location and getting there
The valley station is at Handegg on the road to the Grimsel Pass, and it can be reached by car or by PostBus (stop: “Handegg, Gelmerbahn”). Parking is limited, so public transport is often the easier option. During construction works, access may involve steep stairs and a short walk from the car park/PostBus stop.
How to purchase Gelmerbahn tickets
The simplest way to secure a seat is to book online for a specific date and time. Start with the operator’s official information page and follow the “buy tickets” option: official Gelmerbahn tickets and info (Grimselwelt).
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Open the official Gelmerbahn page and choose “buy tickets”. |
| 2 | Select your travel date and the time slot(s) for ascent and (if needed) descent. |
| 3 | Choose the correct fare (adult or child 6–15) and pay online. |
| 4 | Arrive early and exchange your voucher for timed tickets at the valley ticket office (no later than 15 minutes before departure). |
| 5 | Board at your booked time. Keep your tickets for inspection. |
Tickets are valid only for the date and time printed on them. Changes, exchanges, or refunds are usually not allowed, so pick your time slot carefully.
Group visits and discounts
If you’re travelling as a group, bookings are available on request. Because group terms (and any discounts) can vary by season and availability, contact the operator in advance for the most accurate information.
Special offers and packages
From time to time, the operator and local partners offer seasonal deals (for example, guest cards or discounts across Grimselwelt railways). Because promotions change, check the official pages close to your travel dates instead of relying on older posts.
Tips for a smooth Gelmerbahn trip
- Book early: time slots can sell out fast in peak summer weather.
- Arrive with buffer time: plan to collect your timed tickets at least 15 minutes before departure.
- Plan for stairs: access to the valley station is via stairs and may include temporary paths (allow extra time; around 20 minutes on foot from parking/PostBus during works).
- Dress for the mountains: weather can change quickly around 1,850 m; sturdy shoes and a jacket help.
- Bring provisions: there are no catering facilities at the top station.
Planning your Gelmerbahn adventure
The Gelmerbahn is a short ride, but most visitors combine it with time at Gelmersee—whether that’s a lakeside walk, photos, or a longer hike in the mountain scenery. With the 2026 timetable and prices in mind, booking ahead and arriving early are the simplest ways to make the experience smooth and memorable.
FAQs
What is the Gelmerbahn?
The Gelmerbahn is an open-air funicular-style railway near Handegg in the Bernese Oberland. It climbs to Gelmersee with a maximum gradient of 106%, making it Europe’s steepest open passenger funicular.
When does the Gelmerbahn operate?
It is a seasonal railway. For 2026, the published operating period is 6 June to 25 October 2026, with longer daily hours in July and August.
How much do Gelmerbahn tickets cost?
As of 2026-01-26, the listed fares are CHF 40 return / CHF 20 single for adults, and CHF 20 return / CHF 10 single for children aged 6–15.
Do I need to book Gelmerbahn tickets in advance?
Online booking is strongly recommended, especially on sunny summer days when seats can sell out. Tickets are time-specific and are usually not refundable.
Where do I collect my ticket if I book online?
Bring your voucher to the valley station ticket office and collect your timed tickets no later than 15 minutes before departure to keep your booked seats.
Is the Gelmerbahn suitable for strollers, wheelchairs, or dogs?
Access is via stairs, so it is not wheelchair accessible and not suitable for strollers. Dogs are permitted; small lap dogs travel free, while larger dogs (shoulder height 30 cm+) are charged at the child fare.
