Jungfrau-Marathon 2026, Interlaken, Switzerland
Overview
The Jungfrau-Marathon is widely celebrated as one of the most beautiful and challenging mountain marathons in the world, set against the backdrop of the UNESCO World Heritage Jungfrau-Aletsch region. Starting in the flat, vibrant town of Interlaken, the course begins with a relatively gentle loop before transforming into a demanding alpine ascent that tests the limits of every runner. Participants climb a staggering 1,953 meters in elevation, navigating through traditional Swiss villages like Lauterbrunnen and Wengen before reaching the spectacular finish line at Eigergletscher.
The 2026 event marks a continuation of a legendary tradition that combines high-performance athletics with the raw beauty of the Swiss Alps. Runners are treated to ever-changing scenery, from the turquoise waters of Lake Brienz to the towering granite faces of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau peaks. The race is famous for its incredible atmosphere, featuring the sounds of Alphorns, traditional Swiss bell ringers, and bagpipes that echo through the valleys to motivate athletes as they tackle the final, steepest kilometers of the mountain.
Event Highlights
- The Eigergletscher Finish: Experience the ultimate high-altitude triumph by finishing your race at 2,320 meters above sea level, surrounded by glaciers and permanent snow.
- The Wall of Wengen: Face one of the most famous sections of the course, a steep and winding climb that leads runners from the valley floor up to the car-free village of Wengen.
- The Moraine Path: Navigate the final technical stretch of the race where the path narrows and the air thins, providing a true test of mountain running grit and determination.
- Alphorn Serenades: Enjoy the traditional Swiss musical greeting as you pass various points on the mountain, creating an iconic cultural experience unique to this event.
Why Attend
Endurance athletes and nature lovers should attend this marathon to experience the pinnacle of mountain running in a region specifically designed for alpine tourism. Unlike city marathons, the Jungfrau-Marathon offers a spiritual connection to the landscape, rewarding the physical struggle of the climb with some of the most breathtaking views on the planet. It is a bucket-list event for any runner who wants to prove their strength against the natural elements while enjoying the world-class organization typical of Swiss events.
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The marathon weekend is also a fantastic opportunity for families and supporters to explore the Bernese Oberland. With the extensive Swiss rail network, spectators can easily take mountain trains to various cheering points, such as Lauterbrunnen or Wengen, and meet their runners at the finish line via the Eiger Express. The inclusive nature of the event, which includes the Jungfrau-Minirun and the Jungfrau-Pararace on Friday, ensures that the entire community is involved in the celebration of sport and perseverance.
Date & Duration
- Event Dates: The marathon weekend takes place on Friday, September 4, and Saturday, September 5, 2026.
- Race Day: The main marathon starts on Saturday morning at 8:30 AM in Interlaken and concludes as the final runners reach Eigergletscher in the afternoon.
Visiting this event? Don’t miss out on these amazing activities and local experiences while you’re here.
Venue / Location
- City and Country: Interlaken, Switzerland (Start) and Eigergletscher (Finish).
- Venue: Start at Hohematte Park, Interlaken; Finish at Eigergletscher Station.
- Google Maps Address: Hoheweg 3, 3800 Interlaken, Switzerland.
Ticket Information
- How Tickets Are Sold: Registration is conducted online through the official race website and usually opens in mid-February; the race consistently sells out within hours.
- Admission Type: Individual entries are available for the Full Marathon, while Friday features the Minirun for children and the Pararace.
- Ticket Pricing: Entry fees are approximately $210.00 to $240.00 (approx. 180 to 210 CHF) depending on the registration phase and included services.
- Free Admission: Spectators can watch the start in Interlaken for free, though mountain railway tickets are required to reach high-altitude viewing points.
- Special Seating or VIP Options: The “Jungfrau-Marathon Supporter Ticket” is available for roughly $95.00, providing friends and family with discounted mountain rail travel and lunch at the finish.
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Contact Information
- Email: info@jungfrau-marathon.ch
- Phone: +41 33 827 62 90
- Website: https://www.jungfrau-marathon.ch/en/
- Social Media:
- https://www.facebook.com/JungfrauMarathon/
- https://www.youtube.com/user/JungfrauMarathon
- https://www.instagram.com/jungfraumarathon/
Getting There
- Nearest Airports: Bern Airport (BRN) is 50 km away (approx. 45 minutes); Zurich (ZRH) and Geneva (GVA) are approx. 2 to 3 hours by direct train.
- Public Transport: Swiss Federal Railways (SBB) provides frequent connections to Interlaken Ost and West; the marathon ticket often includes free travel within parts of the region.
- Taxi/Rideshare: Taxis are available in Interlaken but expensive; a transfer from Zurich Airport can cost approximately $450.00 to $600.00.
- Parking: Limited parking in Interlaken; use the designated “Park and Ride” areas outside the center and use the free shuttle buses provided.
- Other Access: On race day, the mountain railways (Wengernalpbahn and Jungfraubahn) are the only way to reach the finish area for supporters and for runners to return to the valley.
Accommodation Options
- Luxury Hotels: Victoria-Jungfrau Grand Hotel & Spa (5-star, 0.2 km, iconic luxury at the start line, approx. $550-900/night); Boutique Hotel Bellevue (4-star, 0.5 km, river views approx. $320-500/night).
- Mid-Range Options: Hotel Interlaken (4-star, 0.4 km, historic hotel near the station, approx. $220-380/night); Hotel Wengen (Located in the car-free village on the course, approx. $180-300/night).
- Budget Stays: Backpackers Villa Sonnenhof (Hostel, 0.3 km, popular with runners, approx. $60-110/night); RiverLodge Interlaken (Hostel/Campsite, 1 km, approx. $50-95/night).
Reviews
- Finishing at the foot of the Eiger north face was the most profound sporting experience of my life; the climb is brutal but the reward is unmatched.
- The organization is typical Swiss perfection, from the precision of the timing to the efficiency of the bag transport from the start to the mountain top.
- Hearing the bagpipes at the top of the steepest climb gave me the chills and the strength to finish the final two kilometers.
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FAQ's
How do I collect my race number and bib?
Bib distribution takes place at the Kursaal Interlaken on the Friday before the race from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM and on Saturday morning from 6:30 AM. You must show your registration confirmation and a valid ID to collect your pack. The pack includes your bib with an integrated timing chip, and you will also receive your official souvenir gift at this time.
What is the time limit for the Jungfrau-Marathon?
The overall time limit to reach the finish line at Eigergletscher is 6 hours and 30 minutes from the start. However, there are strict intermediate cut-off times at Lauterbrunnen (approx. 2 hours 40 mins) and Wengen (approx. 4 hours 10 mins). Runners who do not reach these points within the time limits must leave the race and can take the train back to Interlaken.
How does my luggage get from the start in Interlaken to the mountain finish?
The organizers provide a highly efficient luggage transport service. You can hand in one bag (maximum 5kg) at the start area in Interlaken before 8:15 AM. These bags are transported by train to the finish area at Eigergletscher, where you can collect them after crossing the line to change into warm dry clothes. Ensure your bag is clearly marked with the official tag provided in your race pack.
Is there a specific gear requirement for the mountain sections?
While there is no mandatory equipment list like some ultra-trails, the weather in the Alps can change rapidly. It is highly recommended to carry a lightweight windproof or waterproof jacket, even if it is sunny in Interlaken. Sturdy road running shoes with good grip or light trail shoes are appropriate, as much of the course is on asphalt or well-maintained hiking paths, but the final section is rocky.
Can my family meet me at the finish line at Eigergletscher?
Yes, supporters can reach the finish line by taking the train from Interlaken Ost to Lauterbrunnen or Grindelwald, and then the Wengernalpbahn or the Eiger Express to Eigergletscher. It is strongly recommended to purchase the "Supporter Ticket" in advance, as trains can be very busy on race day and this ticket ensures a smoother journey and a meal at the top.
