The Eiger, one of the most famous mountains in the Swiss Alps, is renowned for its dramatic north face and a remarkable engineering feat a long railway tunnel carved straight through its massive rock body. Located in the Bernese Oberland region, this 3,967-meter (13,015 ft) peak forms part of the legendary Eiger-Mönch-Jungfrau trio, overlooking Grindelwald and Interlaken.
Often described as a “mountain with a cave through its body,” the Eiger houses the Jungfrau Railway tunnel, a 7 km (4.3 mile) passage blasted through solid rock, making it a true wonder of human ingenuity piercing nature’s giant.
The Jungfrau Railway: A Tunnel Through the Eiger
Completed in 1912 after 16 years of grueling construction, the Jungfraubahn is one of the world’s most spectacular train rides. The cogwheel railway climbs from Kleine Scheidegg, entering a tunnel through the Eiger and Mönch mountains to reach Jungfraujoch “Top of Europe” at 3,454 meters, Europe’s highest railway station.
Key Highlights Inside the Mountain:
- Eigerwand and Eismeer Stations: Midway stops with viewing windows carved into the infamous Eiger North Face, offering breathtaking panoramas of glaciers and sheer drops.
- The tunnel transformed the inaccessible Jungfrau region into a major tourist destination, with millions riding through the Eiger’s “body” annually.
Why the Eiger Stands Out
- Climbing Legend: The Eiger’s North Face (Nordwand) is one of the most challenging climbs in the Alps, earning the nickname “Mordwand” (Death Wall) due to historic tragedies.
- Engineering Marvel: Workers faced avalanches, rockfalls, and extreme conditions; dynamite blasts created the tunnel without modern machinery.
- Views and Activities: At Jungfraujoch, explore the Ice Palace, observatory, and snow plateau all accessed via the Eiger tunnel.
Visiting the Eiger and Jungfraujoch
The journey starts from Interlaken or Grindelwald. Take the train to Kleine Scheidegg, then board the Jungfraubahn. Round-trip tickets cost around CHF 200-250 (discounts available). Best time: Summer for clear views or winter for snowy magic.
Pro Tip: Book in advance and check weather clouds can obscure views at the top.
Final Thoughts: A Must-See Swiss Wonder
The Eiger isn’t just a mountain it’s a symbol of adventure, with a literal passage through its core connecting visitors to the heart of the Alps. Whether you’re a hiker, train enthusiast, or photographer, riding through this “cave” in the rock is unforgettable.
