Top 5 Spots for a Marriage Proposal in Grindelwald and Zermatt

• Why it’s special: The dramatic scenery and secluded platform create an intimate setting.
• Best time: Summer for clear skies or winter for a snowy winter proposal Swiss Alps vibe.
• Tip: Arrive early to avoid crowds and ensure a private moment.

• Why it’s special: The Matterhorn adds a once-in-a-lifetime backdrop to your proposal.
• Best time: Late afternoon for sunset shots or winter for a magical snowy scene.
• Tip: Dress warmly, as it can be chilly at 3,089 meters!

To get from Zermatt to Gornergrat, take the Gornergrat Bahn, a scenic cogwheel train. Here’s how:

Starting Point: The Gornergrat Railway valley station is directly opposite the main Zermatt train station (Zermatt GGB). It’s a short walk across the road.

Train Journey:

The train ride takes about 33 minutes to cover the 9.3 km distance, climbing 1,469 meters to Gornergrat (3,089 m above sea level).

Trains run every 24-48 minutes depending on the season, with the first train departing Zermatt at 7:00 AM and the last train from Gornergrat typically around 6:37 PM (summer schedule, until October 19, 2025).

From October 20 to November 2, 2025, trains run every 35 minutes, with the last descent at 6:37 PM.

From November 10 to December 28, 2025, trains operate every 60-120 minutes, with the last descent at 4:24 PM.

Check the exact timetable at gornergrat.ch as maintenance closures occur (e.g., November 3–9, 2025).

Tickets:

A round-trip ticket costs approximately CHF 132 in summer (May–October) and CHF 96 in winter (November–April).

• Why it’s special: The tranquil lake and alpine views create a dreamy, intimate atmosphere.
• Best time: Summer or early autumn for vibrant colors and mild weather.
• Tip: Hike early in the morning for solitude and soft morning light.

To get to Lake Bachalpsee (Bachsee) from Grindelwald, follow these steps:

1. **Take the Cable Car to First**: Start at the Grindelwald Firstbahn cable car station, located near the center of Grindelwald. The cable car takes you to the First summit station (First, 2168 m). The ride takes about 25 minutes, passing intermediate stations like Bort and Schreckfeld. A round-trip ticket costs  77 CHF, though prices may vary (check with [Grindelwald-First] for current rates). If you have a guest card from your accommodation, you may get discounts on local transport, including buses to the cable car station.

2. **Hike from First to Bachalpsee**: From the First summit station, follow the well-marked hiking trail to Lake Bachalpsee. The trail (part of routes 1 and 4) is about 3 km one way and takes roughly 40-60 minutes. It’s a moderate hike with a gentle incline, suitable for most fitness levels, offering stunning views of the Bernese Alps, including Wetterhorn. The path may cross small streams or forested areas, and the lake sits at about 2265 m above sea level.

3. **Return Options**: You can return to First the same way (another 40-60 minutes) and take the cable car back to Grindelwald. Alternatively, continue hiking to intermediate stations like Bort (about 12 km total from Bachalpsee, with a 700 m elevation change) and take the cable car from there.

The Grindelwald Firstbahn cable car operating hours vary by season. Based on the most recent information:

– **Summer (May 9, 2025 – September 15, 2025)**:
– First ascent: 8:00 AM
– Last ascent from Grindelwald: 5:30 PM
– Last descent from First: 6:00 PM

– **Autumn (September 16, 2025 – November 3, 2025)**:
– First ascent: 8:00 AM
– Last ascent from Grindelwald: 5:00 PM
– Last descent from First: 4:30 PM

– **Winter (December 16, 2025 – January 12, 2026)**:
– First ascent: 8:00 AM
– Last ascent from Grindelwald: 3:45 PM
– Last descent from First: 4:15 PM

– **Winter (January 13, 2025 – April 1, 20245)**:
– First ascent: 8:00 AM
– Last ascent from Grindelwald: 4:15 PM
– Last descent from First: 4:45 PM

– **Spring (April 2, 2025 – May 8, 2025)**:
– First ascent: 9:00 AM
– Last ascent from Grindelwald: 4:00 PM
– Last descent from First: 4:35 PM

• Why it’s special: It’s less crowded than Gornergrat but equally stunning.
• Best time: Summer for wildflowers or winter for a cozy winter proposal Swiss Alps mood.
• Tip: Bring a blanket for a cozy proposal picnic setup.

• Why it’s special: The trail’s rugged beauty appeals to thrill-seeking romantics.
• Best time: Late spring to early autumn for safe hiking conditions.
• Tip: Choose a clear day for the best views and vibrant photos.