My top 5 Waterfalls in the Swiss Alps
Switzerland is full of stunning waterfalls, but these are my personal favorites, each with its own unique charm and setting.
Fabian Samir Ben el Warda
Switzerland
Berglistüber Wasserfall
Activity level: 1/5 – very easy walk
Estimated time: 5–10 minutes
Best time to visit: Spring–Autumn
Location: Near Linthal, Glarus, Switzerland
The Berglistüber waterfall is located in the rear Glarus valley, where the Fätschbach plunges from about 1 200 m to 720 m in dramatic drops. One of the most beautiful waterfalls in Switzerland, it even allows a short walk behind the curtain of water (though some sections may be restricted) and offers fascinating views of 150 million‑year‑old limestone formations.
My personal tip:
Plan a short stop here, even just five minutes gives you an unforgettable natural spectacle.
Iffigfall
Activity level: 2/5 – easy to moderate hike
Estimated time: ~2.5 hours (one way to Iffigenalp)
Best time to visit: Spring–Autumn
Location: Lenk im Simmental, Bern Region, Switzerland
The Iffigfall, with a drop of over 100 meters, is located in the Gelten‑Iffigen nature reserve. The wild stream flows through steep forest slopes and a rocky gorge, culminating in a natural “ion bath” basin where the spray of the waterfall charges the air. A rewarding hike leads you to this powerful and atmospheric spot.
My personal tip:
Arrive early in the day — the rushing water and potential rainbows make this waterfall especially magical in the morning light.
Cascata La Froda
Activity level: 1/5 – very easy walk
Estimated time: 15–20 minutes walk from village
Best time to visit: Early Summer–Autumn
Location: Sonogno, Valle Verzasca, Ticino, Switzerland
The Cascata La Froda stands 70 meters high at the end of the Valle Verzasca. From the village of Sonogno it’s an easy flat walk (15–20 minutes) to this dramatic waterfall, making it accessible yet striking. Along the path you’ll pass stone houses and rustic Ticino scenery.
My personal tip:
Bring friends or family, this waterfall is perfect for a relaxed outing. Don’t forget a dip in the pool at the base if weather allows!
Cascata di Foroglio
Activity level: 1/5 – very easy walk
Estimated time: 20–30 minutes
Best time to visit: Late spring–autumn
Location: Foroglio, Valle Bavona, Ticino, Switzerland
In the remote and stunning Valle Bavona of Ticino, the Cascata di Foroglio plunges about 110 meters from sheer rock into a gorge below
The picturesque stone‑house village of Foroglio sits right beside the waterfall, making the view especially dramatic — historic architecture meets wild alpine nature. Access is very easy: from the village you’re just a few minutes’ walk away from the falls. The entire setting—valley, village, falling water—is deeply rooted in alpine tradition such as transhumance and simple mountain life.
My personal tip:
This is a perfect stop for a quick photo break or relaxing moment. Visit in early summer for full water flow, or in autumn when the valley light adds depth to the scene. Stay long enough to experience the sound of the plunging water and the stillness of the surrounding stone village — you’ll leave with more than just a snapshot.
Leuenfälle
Activity level: 1/5 – very easy walk
Estimated time: 10 minutes (to viewpoint)
Best time to visit: Spring–Autumn
Location: Alpstein, Appenzell, Switzerland
The Leuenfall sees the Berndlibach crashing down 34 meters into a forested gorge in the Alpstein. A short ten‑minute detour from the trail is all it takes to reach this dramatic spot.
My personal tip:
Visit in early evening to enjoy the golden glow on the water and forest, perfect for a quiet nature moment.
Looking for things to do?
Go check out my guide for the best free things to do as well as itineraries and travel tips to make your trip unforgettable.