Berghotel Schwarenbach – Mountain Hotel & Historic Alpine Stop Guide

Located directly on the historic Gemmi Pass route, the Berghotel Schwarenbach is one of the oldest mountain hotels in Switzerland. Known for its remote setting, dramatic limestone surroundings, and year-round accessibility, it offers a unique blend of alpine history, hiking, and winter solitude. Unlike SAC huts, Schwarenbach combines comfort with a true high-mountain atmosphere.

• Hotel Overview

  • Location: Gemmi Pass, border of Valais & Bernese Oberland, Switzerland

  • Altitude: 2,060 m

  • Type: Mountain hotel / berghotel (served)

  • Capacity: Hotel rooms + restaurant seating

  • Season: Open most of the year (weather-dependent)

  • Management: Private

• Access & Approaches

  Schwarenbach is exceptionally accessible for its altitude.

  • Main access (summer):

    • From Leukerbad via Gemmi Pass trail

    • From Kandersteg via Gemmi Pass

  • Hiking time:

    • Leukerbad → Schwarenbach: ~3–4 hours

    • Kandersteg → Schwarenbach: ~4–5 hours

  • Elevation gain: ~800–1,000 m (depending on route)

  • Terrain: Well-marked mountain paths, historic pass trails

  • Technical level: Moderate

  In winter, access is usually by snowshoeing or ski touring.

• Facilities & Comfort

  As a berghotel, Schwarenbach offers a high level of comfort for a remote setting.

  • Private and shared rooms

  • Heated indoor spaces

  • Restaurant and dining room

  • Toilets, running water, electricity

  • Winter-ready infrastructure

  This makes it suitable for multi-day stays in both summer and winter.

• Food & Atmosphere

  Food and atmosphere are central to the Schwarenbach experience.

  • Traditional Swiss and Valais cuisine

  • Hearty mountain meals

  • Warm dining room in winter

  • Calm, historic atmosphere

  The hotel is especially appreciated in winter for its isolation and quiet.

• Prices & Booking

  • Price range: Moderate

  • Restaurant: Reservation recommended

  • Accommodation: Advance booking advised, especially in winter

  • Payment: Cash and cards generally accepted

• Best Routes From the Berghotel

  Schwarenbach sits on a major alpine crossing:

  • Gemmi Pass traverse (Leukerbad ↔ Kandersteg)

  • Day hikes on the high Gemmi plateau

  • Snowshoe routes in winter

  • Multi-day hiking itineraries between Valais and Bernese Oberland

  Routes are scenic rather than technical.

• When to Go

  • Summer: June to October — hiking season

  • Winter: December to April — snowshoeing and ski touring

  • Conditions: Weather can change rapidly; winter temperatures are severe

  Winter stays offer a rare high-alpine hotel experience.

• Who Is This Place For

  • Regular hikers

  • Winter hikers and snowshoers

  • History and culture enthusiasts

  • Photographers

  • Travelers seeking comfort in a remote alpine setting

• Practical Tips

  • Book early in winter season

  • Bring warm layers year-round

  • Check weather and pass conditions

  • Plan return routes carefully in bad weather

  • Combine with Gemmi Pass crossing for a full experience

Why This Berghotel Is Worth Visiting

Berghotel Schwarenbach is a living piece of Alpine history. Its strategic position on the Gemmi Pass, year-round operation, and balance between remoteness and comfort make it one of Switzerland’s most distinctive mountain hotels — equally rewarding in summer solitude or deep winter snow.