Lantern Path (Laternenweg) at Oeschinensee, Kandersteg

A winter walk that makes your eyes shine

Above Kandersteg, the Oeschinensee lantern path transforms the mountain into a fairy-tale setting. Once night falls, small lights line the trail that connects the upper station of the cable car to the lake. The atmosphere is gentle, almost silent, with the snow crunching underfoot and the stars when the sky is clear. A simple, accessible, and truly refreshing outing for families from the Romandy region.

What your children will discover

Here, hiking becomes a game. Following the line of lanterns, spotting shadows in the forest, listening to the sounds of the night: everything stimulates curiosity. The youngest gain confidence in the dark, while the older ones learn to manage their pace and help each other. It’s also a great opportunity to observe the snow, the crystals on the branches, and sometimes, the frozen lake at the end of the path.

What to expect on site

The route begins at the upper station of the Oeschinensee cable car. The path is prepared in winter and marked by lit lanterns on certain evenings of the season. Expect about 30 to 45 minutes of walking to the lake (the same for the return), depending on the children's age and the state of the snow. The walk is more calm and sensory than athletic, but it takes place on winter terrain: good shoes are essential.

On the practical side, the path is free. You only pay for the lift access to go up and down. No need to book for the walk itself, but check the cable car schedules and the days the lanterns are lit before you go. In case of bad weather or risk, the route may be partially closed.

Before you go

• Recommended age: from 3 years old for walking a bit (carrying possible for the smallest). Ages 6–12 love it.
• Duration: 1 h 15 to 2 h in total, with photo breaks and snacks.
• Level: easy, but on packed snow; good soles are recommended and possibly mini-crampons for adults.
• Reservation and prices: no reservation for the path; cable car tickets according to current rates. Check online for winter opening hours.
• Stroller: not recommended. Prefer a baby carrier or a sled to pull.
• Public transport: train to Kandersteg, then about a 15–20 minute walk or local bus to the starting station. By car, parking at the cable car.
• What to bring: warm layered clothing, gloves, hat, scarf, waterproof shoes, headlamp (just in case), hot drink, and a small snack. Cold cream if it's windy.
• Safety: marked and maintained path, but remains an alpine winter environment. Keep children close to you. Avoid in bad weather, strong winds, or reported avalanche risk.
• Best season: in winter, when the lanterns are lit and the snow is well present.

In terms of development, this outing nourishes motor skills (balance on snow), self-confidence (night walking), curiosity about nature in winter, and cooperation among siblings.

Parents' tips

• Arrive in the late afternoon to enjoy the sunset before the lanterns.
• Dress the children one layer less than you think... and keep an extra layer in the bag.
• Bring a lightweight sled: useful to motivate the return.
• Prepare a thermos of hot chocolate for a break by the lake.
• Check the last descent cable car before you leave, especially on weekdays.

Useful information

• Address: Oeschistrasse 50, 3718 Kandersteg (Oeschinensee cable car – departure)
• Official website: https://www.oeschinensee.ch
• Phone: +41 33 675 11 18
• Email: [email protected]
• Hours: according to the winter opening of the area and lantern lighting days (variable). Check the website before your visit.
• Ideal weather: cold and stable weather, clear sky or light snow. Avoid foehn, storms, or rain.
• Access: paid parking at the starting station; by train to Kandersteg, then on foot (15–20 min) or local bus to the cable car.

Why we recommend it

Because it’s a simple and memorable experience. The mountain by night, but gently, at a child's level. We love the sensory aspect, the freedom to go at one's own pace, and the feeling of having a little adventure together. It’s also a great entry point into winter hiking, without much logistics.

Want to go?

An evening on the Oeschinensee lantern path, and you return with rosy cheeks and sparkling eyes. For more ideas for family outings in Romandy, create your Kidora account or subscribe to our newsletter.