Niesen — Local services in Reichenbach im Kandertal

Administratively, the summit is shared between the municipalities of Reichenbach im Kandertal to the southeast, and Wimmis to the west and north. Both municipalities are in the canton of Bern. The summit can be reached easily by using the Niesenbahn funicular from Mülenen (near Reichenbach). The construction of the funicular was completed in 1910. Alongside the funicular is the longest stairway in the world, with 11,674 steps. It is only open to the public once a year for a stair run event. Originally the mountains name was Yesen. «An Yesen» transformed to Niesen. Yesen is yellow gentian and still flowers on the Niesen to this day. Because of its shape, the Niesen is often called the Swiss Pyramid.The Niesen may have influenced some modernist paintings by Paul Klee, in which an abstracted pyramidal...

I went up from Mulenen station. The trail panel says 5h, but it you are somewhat trained, it can take you way less (I needed 3h30). The path is well tracked and does not have technical passages. I hiked up on May 18th, and there was no snow. I came down on the other side, reaching Willmis. The trail is less used but still well tracked. Some patches of snow were there, but easy to cross. Very scenic hike! Few notes: you can go up with a train from Mulenen. At the top, there is a restaurant with a spectacular view over the valleys. For snow conditions, check the webcams,...

During my second visit to Switzerland during an early winter we visited Niesen.

The experience of Climbing up in Cable car is a remarkable experience. You will enjoy the nice view of green valley, Forest and river.

And at the top of the mountain it is a different feel and different world. Especially for someone like me from a costal country.

Tips : Check online for seasonal offers for ticket. Be prepared with winter clothing. Food cost is bit high at top, you can bring your own food and...