Nestled majestically within the renowned Bernese Alps, the Eiger stands as an iconic sentinel of the Swiss landscape. Reaching an impressive height of 3,967 metres (13,015 ft), this formidable peak gazes down upon the picturesque valleys of Grindelwald and Lauterbrunnen in the heart of Switzerland's Bernese Oberland. Its position, just north of the principal watershed and the border with Valais, makes it a prominent feature in the region, drawing the eyes of countless visitors to its rugged beauty and storied history.

Geographical Grandeur and Iconic Presence

The Eiger isn't merely a standalone giant; it forms the easternmost point of a magnificent ridge crest, stretching westward across the Mönch and culminating in the majestic Jungfrau, which soars to 4,158 metres (13,642 ft). This breathtaking trio creates one of the most emblematic and instantly recognizable panoramas in the entire Swiss Alps, a vision of snow-capped peaks and vast glaciers that has captivated artists and adventurers for centuries. While its northern flank plunges more than 3,000 metres (10,000 ft) dramatically into the verdant depths of the Grindelwald and Lauterbrunnen valleys, its southern side presents a stark contrast, facing the immense, icy expanses of the Jungfrau-Aletsch area—a UNESCO World Heritage site and the most glaciated region in the Alps. But perhaps the Eiger’s most famous and fearsome attribute is its imposing North Face. Known variously as the Eiger-Nordwand, Eigerwand, or simply the Nordwand, this colossal wall of rock and ice rises almost 1,800 metres (5,900 ft) from its base, making it the biggest and arguably most legendary north face in the Alps. It looms powerfully over the quaint resort of Kleine Scheidegg, situated at the foot of the eponymous mountain pass connecting the two primary valleys, a silent testament to nature's raw power.

A History Forged in Ascents and Legends

The allure of the Eiger has beckoned mountaineers for generations, promising both unparalleled triumph and unimaginable peril. The mountain's first successful ascent, a less heralded but significant achievement, occurred on August 11, 1858, when a team comprising Swiss guides Christian Almer and Peter Bohren, alongside the intrepid Irishman Charles Barrington, conquered its west flank. However, it was the formidable Eiger North Face that truly cemented the mountain’s legendary status in the annals of climbing. Revered as the "last problem" of the Alps, its sheer, unforgiving rock and ice presented one of the most challenging and dangerous ascents imaginable. It wasn't until 1938 that an Austrian-German expedition finally triumphed over the Nordwand, a feat that captured global attention. Yet, the Eiger's narrative is also deeply intertwined with tragedy. Since 1935, a staggering sixty-four climbers have perished attempting to conquer its North Face, a grim toll that tragically earned it the chilling German nickname Mordwand, or "murder(ous) wall"—a hauntingly apt pun on its proper designation, Nordwand. These harrowing tales of human endurance and sacrifice have been extensively publicized, cementing the Eiger's place in both climbing lore and popular culture as a symbol of both profound challenge and ultimate respect for nature's power.

Accessible Wonders: The Jungfrau Railway Experience

While the perilous summit of the Eiger remains the domain of only the most seasoned and experienced mountaineers, the mountain offers a unique and accessible experience for visitors eager to witness its grandeur firsthand. A remarkable feat of engineering, the Jungfrau Railway carves a tunnel deep within the mountain's core, ascending from Kleine Scheidegg towards the awe-inspiring Jungfraujoch, nestled between the Mönch and the Jungfrau. This incredible railway journey leads to Europe's highest railway station, providing an unparalleled perspective of the alpine world. Along its route, two internal stations, Eigerwand and Eismeer, were cleverly integrated directly into the rock face at approximately 3,000 metres (9,842 ft). These stations once offered intrepid travelers the chance to disembark and peer through large viewing windows carved into the mountain itself, offering breathtaking, close-up vistas of the infamous North Face from the Eigerwand station (situated behind the Nordwand) and the vast glacial landscapes from the Eismeer station (positioned behind the south face). It's worth noting, however, that since 2016, the Eigerwand station is no longer regularly served, though the Eismeer stop continues to provide a spectacular opportunity to experience the heart of the Bernese Alps from within.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Eiger

What is the Eiger?

The Eiger is a prominent 3,967-metre (13,015 ft) mountain located in the Bernese Alps of Switzerland, famous for its challenging North Face and stunning views over the Grindelwald and Lauterbrunnen valleys.

Where is the Eiger located?

It is situated in the Bernese Oberland region of Switzerland, part of the greater Swiss Alps mountain range, specifically overlooking Grindelwald and Lauterbrunnen.

How tall is the Eiger?

The Eiger stands at an elevation of 3,967 metres, which is approximately 13,015 feet.

What is the Eiger North Face?

The Eiger North Face, also known as the Eiger-Nordwand or simply the Nordwand, is an almost 1,800-metre (5,900 ft) high wall of rock and ice. It is considered the largest and one of the most dangerous north faces in the Alps, infamous for its climbing challenges and numerous tragedies, which led to its nickname, Mordwand.

Can tourists visit the Eiger?

While the summit is only accessible to expert climbers, tourists can experience the mountain's interior and panoramic views via the Jungfrau Railway. This railway tunnels through the Eiger, offering access to the Eismeer station with its viewing windows into the glaciated south face. The Eigerwand station is no longer regularly served.

What is the Jungfrau Railway?

The Jungfrau Railway is an impressive mountain railway that runs mostly through tunnels inside the Eiger and Mönch mountains, connecting Kleine Scheidegg to the Jungfraujoch, Europe's highest railway station. It provides a unique way for visitors to access the heart of the Bernese Alps.