Some Facts About Harder Kulm
Harder Kulm Top 5 Hidden Secrets
Besides the beautiful views, the Harder Kulm is famous for its legend of Hardermannli. On the cliffs of the Harder mountain, you can see a strange stone face known as the Hardermannli, which looks like the face of a monk. Locals say that, long ago, a monk from Interlaken Monastery behaved badly and chased a young girl into the forest. To escape, she jumped from the cliff to her death, and as punishment for his cruelty, the monk was turned into stone. His face, the Hardermannli, can still be seen in the rocks of the Harder today.
The Alpine Wildlife Park is located at the base of the Harderbahn funicular in Interlaken, just 200 metres from the valley station. Many visitors miss it, but it is worth a stop before the Harder Kulm Interlaken hike. The park is home to the Alpine ibex, a mountain goat with long and curved horns.
These animals disappeared from Switzerland in the 19th century but were reintroduced here after the park opened in 1914. Today, they live in large enclosures with stone slabs and wooden shelters. You can also see a lively marmot colony, which are known for their whistles and playful nature.
A short walk above the Harderbahn valley station takes you to the Hohbüel Pavilion, a quiet lookout point that many visitors never see. From here, you can enjoy wide views over the Bödeli plain, which lies between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz. It is a peaceful spot, which is perfect for a short break away from the crowds. Next to the pavilion, there is a barbecue area that hikers can use to cook, eat, and enjoy the outdoors.
The Hardergrat Ridge Trek is one of the most famous and demanding hikes from Harder Kulm. Starting at the Harderbahn top station, the trail heads northeast through conifer forests before opening into alpine meadows. From here, you can see Interlaken between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz.
The ridge hike is long and steep, covering around 10.6 km in about 5 hours, with 842 metres up and 579 metres down. The path climbs to Suggiture (2,085 m) and continues toward Augstmatthorn (2,137 m), where you may spot wild ibex along the way. Since the trail is very exposed and narrow in places, it is recommended for experienced hikers or those with a guide.
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After the Harder Kulm Interlaken hike, you can explore the Harder Kulm Playground on the summit. It is a perfect spot for families to relax after enjoying the sweeping views of Interlaken, Lake Thun, and Lake Brienz from the viewpoint. The playground also has plenty of space for children to run, climb, and play while parents can sit nearby. Moreover, there are picnic tables, which make it a great place to enjoy a packed lunch with the mountains as your backdrop.
Tips to Keep in Mind While Exploring These Hidden Gems
- Wear Comfortable Shoes: The Harder Kulm hike and the Hardergrat Ridge Trek are challenging, with steep and rocky trails. Hence, you should wear sturdy hiking shoes with a good grip.
- Dress in Layers: Weather in the Alps can shift fast, so you should bring a waterproof jacket and wear layers to stay warm, even if the day starts sunny.
- Check the Weather: You should check the weather forecast before going on a Harder Kulm Interlaken hike, as the mountain weather changes quickly.
- Carry Water and Snacks: While the Panorama Restaurant Harder Kulm serves meals, some trails and picnic spots, like the Harder Kulm Playground or barbecue areas, are perfect for a packed lunch.
- Start Your Journey Early: Popular spots, like the Alpine Wildlife Park and Harder Kulm Playground, can get busy. So, you should begin your hike to the Harder Kulm early in the morning.
- Use the Funicular: The Harderbahn funicular runs every 30 minutes, so check the last return time if you plan to stay for sunset or stargazing.
- Understand Your Capabilities: Beginners should try shorter forest paths near the station or visit calm spots like Hohbüel Pavilion before going on a challenging Hardergrat Ridge Trek.
- Respect Wildlife and Nature: On your visit to the Alpine Wildlife Park, it is advisable not to feed the ibex or marmots and stay on marked trails to protect plants and habitats.
- Travel with Pets: Dogs are welcome on the Interlaken–Harder Kulm route, and they can ride the funicular for free.
Hidden Secrets You Didn't Know About Harder Kulm FAQ's
What lesser-known viewpoints are there at Harder Kulm?
There are several lesser-known viewpoints at Harder Kulm aside from the main Two-Lake Lookout Point. Hohbüel Pavilion is one of the viewpoints, which offers peaceful views over Lake Thun and Lake Brienz, along with picnic and barbecue spots nearby. Moreover, the Two-Lakes Lookout Point provides sweeping lake views far from the crowds, with the majestic Jungfrau, Eiger, and Mönch mountains.
Is there a quiet spot away from the main viewing platform of Harder Kulm?
Yes, the Hohbüel Pavilion is a peaceful location away from the main viewing platform of Harder Kulm. It is less crowded and provides beautiful views of Lake Thun and Lake Brienz. There are also picnic tables and barbecue areas nearby, where you can relax or have quality time with your family.
Are there any historical facts about Harder Kulm most visitors don’t know?
Yes, the story of the Hardermannli is one of the lesser-known historical facts about Harder Kulm that most visitors do not know. According to the legend, the Hardermannli is a rock face of a monk on Harder Mountain who turned to stone due to his misdeeds. Another popular fact is that the Alpine Wildlife Park played a role in reintroducing the ibex to Switzerland after the species disappeared in the 19th century.
Can you access Harder Kulm outside funicular operating hours?
Yes, you can reach Harder Kulm outside the funicular hours by hiking marked trails from Interlaken. The hike is steep and challenging but offers fantastic views of Lake Thun, Lake Brienz, and the Jungfrau region through dense forests and alpine meadows.
Are there hidden hiking trails starting from Harder Kulm?
Yes, there are a few hidden hiking trails that start from Harder Kulm. The most famous one is the Hardergrat Ridge trail, a challenging hike through conifer forests and alpine meadows to Augstmatthorn. There are also shorter woodland paths near the station, which are ideal for peaceful walks.
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