Does your heart race at the thought of winding paths and endless mountain views?
Tucked high in the Bernese Alps, far above the valley floor, Bachalpsee is one of the most epic and cinematic locations for an intimate elopement or pre-wedding photoshoot in Switzerland.
How to get there?
Start in Grindelwald – from here, a scenic 25-minutes gondola ride takes you up to First, a mountain station at 2,168 meters.
From First, it’s a 1 hour hike to the first point by Bachalpsee. The path is wide, clear and not too steep – just enough to make you feel like you’re walking into a dream. If we take photos during the walk, we need to add extra time. If you’re willing to walk a little further along the trail (about 25 minutes), you’ll discover quieter spots with dramatic mountain views, peaceful meadows, and no tourists around. These hidden corners are where the magic truly happens – and where your elopement or pre-wedding photosession becomes a deeply personal experience.
Elevation gain: Around 200 meters – perfect for couples in wedding outfits with good shoes. Reaching the higher viewpoint requires an additional climb of around 70 meters in elevation.
✨ The best time to visit is from June until around October 25th. During this period, the gondola is open, and the lake is not covered with snow, allowing for the best views and access to hiking trails and outdoor activities.
The best time? Stay until the last light
The most magical moments at Bachalpsee happen after the crowds are gone.
Most tourists leave around 4:30 p.m. (summer time) to catch the last gondola down from First. But if you’re willing to stay until sunset, the reward is huge – a quiet lake, glowing light, and absolute stillness. It’s like having the entire Swiss Alps to yourself. ✨ But there’s a trade-off: if you stay past the last gondola, be ready for a 3-hour walk back down to Grindelwald. It’s a long but safe trail – and perfect if you want to end your day with an adventurous hike under the stars or twilight sky. Total elevation drop: around 1,100 meters. Trekking down takes approx. 3-3.5 hours, depending on pace and stops (flashlights are a must).
Or maybe sunrise? Which time is the best for Your Elopement
If you’re dreaming of a cinematic, quiet, and emotional elopement at Bachalpsee, avoid the daytime crowds. There are two perfect options:
🌅Stay until sunset – mentioned in the previous section. It’s peaceful, powerful, and deeply intimate. Be prepared for a 3-3.5 hour downhill hike back to Grindelwald (around 1,100 m elevation drop). But the solitude and silence? Absolutely worth it.
🌄Wake up before sunrise. Book a night at Berggasthaus First. This way, you can hike to the lake before the first cable car starts running – and witness the calm & magic of the morning.
Why Bachalpsee?
This is one of the most beautiful and epic places in Switzerland that you will remember for the rest of your life.
But it’s more than just a scenic view – it’s a place where your love story becomes part of the landscape. A wedding photoshoot at Bachalpsee offers something truly unforgettable .
The reflection: The lake often turns into a natural mirror – doubling the peaks in the background and giving photos an otherworldly look. The mirror effect most often occurs early in the morning and from around 5/6 p.m.
Could this be the lake where your love story blooms?
If you’re drawn to wild landscapes, quiet beauty, and moments that feel suspended in time – Bachalpsee might be your perfect place.
I’ll help you plan the timing, light, and all the little details – so all you have to do is show up and be present.
📩 Let’s plan your Alpine elopement or pre-wedding adventure together.
