The Jungfrau Region in the Bernese Alps impresses with a unique diversity of plants that extends across several vegetation zones. From dense forests in the valley to barren rocky landscapes at an altitude of over 3,000 metres, a fascinating natural backdrop is revealed here. Characteristic plant species thrive at every altitude and are in full bloom depending on the season. However, climate change is affecting this fragile ecosystem. In this article, we take a look at the different vegetation zones, the best times for plant observations, the influence of climate change and the most beautiful hikes for plant lovers and nature enthusiasts.
The vegetation zones of the Jungfrau Region
Typical alpine and subalpine habitats are rocky steppes, glacier forelands, mountain and nutrient-poor grasslands, larch and Swiss stone pine forests and moors. In the mountain areas, the vegetation is a quarter richer in species than in the lowlands, even on agricultural land.
The flora of the Jungfrau Region is divided into different vegetation zones depending on altitude:
Montane zone (up to approx. 1,500 m)
This zone is characterised by dense mixed forests of beech, fir and spruce. In spring and summer, numerous forest flowers bloom, such as the lily of the valley and the troll flower. Typical places at this altitude are the Lauterbrunnen Valley, Grindelwald, Interlaken and the area around Meiringen and Hasliberg.
Subalpine zone (1,500-2,000 m)
Larch and Swiss stone pine forests dominate here. Alpine roses, gentians and the rare edelweiss thrive on open meadows. This zone includes areas such as Männlichen, Kleine Scheidegg, the high altitudes around Wengen and Mürren as well as the Brienzer Rothorn and parts of the Grimsel Pass.
Alpine zone (2,000-3,000 m)
Above the tree line, alpine mats and rocky meadows characterise the landscape. Hardy plants such as the glacier buttercup and the stemless cinquefoil grow here. Good observation sites are the Jungfraujoch, the Eiger Glacier, the area around the Susten Pass and higher regions on the Grimsel Pass.
Nival zone (from 3,000 m)
There is hardly any vegetation left at these extreme altitudes. Only a few pioneer plants such as the alpine man's shield defy the harsh conditions. This zone includes the highest peaks in the region, including the Mönch, Jungfrau and Finsteraarhorn, as well as parts of the Aletsch Glacier.
Montane zone (up to approx. 1,500m) in Grindelwald
Subalpine zone (1,500-2,000 m) above Mürren
Alpine zone (2,000-3,000 m) on Birg near the Grauseeli
Nival zone (from 3,000 m) on mountain peaks such as the Eiger or the Mönch
Best times of year for plant observations
- Spring (May-June): The first alpine flowers bloom at lower altitudes, while the valleys glow in lush green.
- Summer (July-August): The peak bloom of the alpine flora! Especially at altitudes between 1,500 and 2,500 metres, gentians, alpine asters and many other flowers unfold their full splendour.
- Autumn (September-October): While the first snow is already falling at higher altitudes, the subalpine forests glow in an impressive play of colours.
Grindelwald in mountain spring
Engstlensee in summer
Alpine path towards Grindelwald First in golden autumn
Influence of climate change on vegetation
Climate change is having a noticeable impact on the flora of the Jungfrau Region:
- The tree line is slowly moving upwards, displacing alpine meadows.
- Some highly specialised plant species are coming under pressure as they thrive less well in warmer conditions.
- Winters with little snow change the flowering periods and affect sensitive species.
In the long term, these changes could have a major impact on the region's ecosystem and jeopardise its unique biodiversity.
Hikes in the Jungfrau Region for diverse vegetation
- Schynige Platte - Faulhorn - First: This route is a paradise for flower lovers. A variety of alpine plants bloom here, especially in summer.
Hikes - Jungfrau Region Tourismus AG - Eiger Trail: An impressive hike at the foot of the north face of the Eiger with many high-alpine plant species.
Hikes - Jungfrau Region Tourismus AG - Männlichen - Kleine Scheidegg: A rather easy hike with beautiful mountain meadows full of alpine roses and gentians.
Hikes - Jungfrau Region Tourismus AG - Horizontweg Alpentower - Engstlensee: A beautiful ridge trail with views of many alpine flowers and, at the end, Engstlensee.
Hikes - Jungfrau Region Tourismus AG - Grimselpass - Trübtensee - Sidelhorn: A high alpine hike with fascinating flora and glacier views.
Hikes - Jungfrau Region Tourismus AG
The Jungfrau Region is not only a dream destination for mountaineers and skiers, but also for nature lovers and plant enthusiasts. With the right planning and an attentive eye on the vegetation, a fascinating world of plants can be discovered here.
