The Lauterbrunnen Valley (Lauterbrunnental) is one of the deepest in the Alpine chain when compared with the height of the mountains that rise directly on either side. It is a true cleft, rarely more than one kilometer in width, between limestone precipices, sometimes quite perpendicular, everywhere of extreme steepness.

Lauterbrunnen is situated in one of the most impressive trough valleys in the Alps, between gigantic rock faces and mountain peaks. With its 72 thundering waterfalls, secluded valleys, colourful alpine meadows and lonely mountain inns, the Lauterbrunnen Valley is one of the biggest nature conservation areas in Switzerland.

Lauterbrunnen is a glacially carved valley like Yosemite in California, but with significant differences. First, the bedrock here is layered, slightly tilted Jurassic sedimentary rocks while Yosemite is unlayered granite. Second, this valley is noticeably deeper, surrounded by 11,000 foot peaks visible from the valley floor.

The Bernese Alps are a group of mountain ranges in the Western Alps in Switzerland. The part of the Bernese Alps above the Lauterbrunnen valley contains more than 70 waterfalls. The valley of Lauterbrunnen is one of the deepest in the Alpine chain, if you consider the height of the mountains, which rise straight on both sides.

Lauterbrunnen is a very small town (that you can cross on foot in literally five minutes) sitting on a beautiful valley down from the famous peaks of Switzerland including Eiger and Jungfrau. Its unique location makes it a perfect base for many outdoor activities and both challenging and easy hikes.