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Trottibiking at Grindelwald First: What Makes It So Unique
Everything You Need to Know Before Trottibiking at Grindelwald First
- Starting Point: The Trottibike adventure begins at Bort station.
- How to Get There: Take the Firstbahn gondola from Grindelwald to reach Bort.
- Descent Height: Riders go down about 566 meters (1,860 feet) from Bort to Grindelwald village.
- Distance Covered: The route spans 5 kilometres (3.1 miles)
- Duration: The ride usually takes 30 to 45 minutes.
- Timing Factors: Duration depends on how fast you go and how many stops you make.
- All riders are provided with helmets for safety during the Trottibike ride.
- The trottibikes are equipped with reliable brakes to ensure a safe descent down the mountain.
- The minimum height requirement for riders is 125 cm (approximately 4 feet 1 inch).
- Smaller Trottibikes are available for younger children to ensure a comfortable and safe riding experience.
- The route includes sections with steep inclines and sharp turns, so riders should be comfortable with downhill riding and maintain control at all times.
- Rental Cost (Kids): CHF 17 for children aged 6 to 15
- Rental Cost (Adults): CHF 21 for adults aged 16 and above
Where to buy tickets:
- Online in advance
- Offline at the Grindelwald Firstbahn valley station
Booking Tip: Tickets may sell out during peak season, so advance booking is highly recommended to secure your spot.
Best Time to Experience
- What to expect: The trails are dry and safe, the alpine meadows are in full bloom, and the views of the Eiger and surrounding peaks are crystal clear. With long daylight hours and mild weather, it’s easy to enjoy a relaxed ride.
- Things to keep in mind: This is the busiest time of year, especially on weekends and school holidays. Midday hours tend to get crowded, and wait times at the gondola can be longer. It’s best to go early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid peak traffic. Advance booking is also recommended, as Trottibike rentals may sell out quickly.
- Suitable for: Families, beginners, and anyone who wants to enjoy the full alpine summer experience—panoramic views, fresh air, and a fun, downhill ride.
- What to expect: The air is cool and clear, the crowds are gone, and the trees turn golden all along the trail. It’s a quiet time to ride through nature, with beautiful mountain views and the soft crunch of leaves under your wheels. The scenery is stunning, especially if you enjoy peaceful moments and fewer people around.
- Things to keep in mind: Days are shorter, so it’s smart to start your ride early. The weather can feel chilly, especially higher up, so wearing layers helps. The light in the morning and late afternoon is perfect for photos.
- Suitable for: This season is great for anyone who enjoys a slower pace-photographers, nature lovers, or those just wanting a calm and scenic ride without the summer rush.
Tips for Any Season
Tips to Keep in Mind
- The Trottibike route starts at Bort middle station and descends about 5 km down to the village of Grindelwald.
- The ride normally takes 30 to 45 minutes, but it could take longer if you take frequent stops along the way.
- Before you start, there is a quick safety talk. Listen carefully—it covers how to use the brakes, steer properly, and what to expect on the path.
- You must wear your helmet at all times for your safety.
- The trail begins off as a gravel road, but then it turns into smooth pavement. It's good for beginners, but you need to be able to stand still and use hand brakes.
- The weather can change quickly in the mountains, so dress in layers. Even on warm days, it can get chilly on the way down.
- Closed-toe shoes with a good grip are a must. Avoid sandals or anything that might slip on uneven paths.
- Trottibikes are available from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. daily, usually until May to late October. Operations will stop during poor weather and in the winter season.
- Mornings are less crowded and offer the clearest views. Arrive early if you want quieter paths and better lighting for photos.
- Before you set off, take a minute to test the brakes; feeling comfortable before you hit the trail makes a big difference.
- If you're traveling with kids, let them explore the alpine playground at Bort before the ride. It’s a fun warm-up and burns off energy.
How to Reach
For Trottibiking at Grindelwald First, follow these steps to reach:
1. Start from Interlaken: Take a scenic train ride from Interlaken Ost to Grindelwald station. The journey takes around 35 minutes and trains run frequently throughout the day.
2 .From Grindelwald Station to Firstbahn Cable Car: Once you arrive at Grindelwald station, you can either:
– Walk to the Firstbahn cable car station (about 10–15 minutes) through the village, or
– Take a local bus that drops you right near the Firstbahn entrance.
3. Take the Firstbahn Gondola: Board the Firstbahn gondola for a scenic ride up to First (top station). The cable car ride takes around 25 minutes and offers stunning mountain views along the way.
4. Stop at Bort for Trottibike Ride: While returning back, get off at Bort—this is the starting point for the Trottibike adventure. Staff will help you with the rental and safety gear.
5. End the Ride in Grindelwald Village: Ride your Trottibike downhill from Bort to Grindelwald village. The ride takes about 30–45 minutes depending on your speed and stops.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is trottibiking at Grindelwald First?
Trottibiking is an adventurous alpine experience popularized in Switzerland that combines the fun of a scooter with the stability and features of a bike. No engine, no pedaling, just effortlessly glide downhill, using gravity to power your ride.
Where can I rent a Trottibike?
You can rent your trottibike from Bort gondola station, a middle station between Grindelwald and Firstbahn. It's advisable to book in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, to ensure availability.
What is the operating schedule?
Trottibiking is typically available during the months from May to mid October. Operating hours go with the Firstbahn cable car schedule, which usually runs from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM and it varies slightly from time to time. However, it's recommended to check the current schedule on the official Grindelwald First website.
Are there any age or height restrictions?
Participants should be at least 10 years and older and 1.40 meters tall. Children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult.
Is Trottibiking safe?
While Trottibiking is generally safe, it requires a basic level of fitness. The trail is designed for trottibikes, but riders should be prepared for sharp turns and uneven terrain. It's recommended to wear appropriate footwear and clothing, and to follow all safety instructions provided.Also, wear your helmet at all times.
Can I take photos or videos during the ride?
Yes, a lot of trottibikers like to take pictures of the beautiful scenery along the way. But safety should always come first. Using a GoPro or similar gadget placed on your helmet is a popular choice, as it allows you to retain both hands on the handlebars.
How much does it cost?
The cost for Trottibiking varies depending on the season and any special offers. As of the latest available information, the price for a Trottibike rental is approximately CHF 25 to CHF 30. This typically includes the scooter rental and helmet. For the most current pricing, please refer to the official Grindelwald First website or contact their customer service.
Do I need a ticket for the Firstbahn cable car?
Yes, a valid ticket for the Firstbahn cable car is required to reach the starting point of the Trottibike trail.
Day Trip to Grindelwald First