The Märchenhotel in Braunwald is a multi-award winning Swiss Family Hotel, and rightly so. Amidst the Märchenhotel’s enchanting ambiance, children’s pure joy and sparkling eyes reveal their discovery of a magical world. From interactive animal petting to syrup fountains, captivating indoor and outdoor playgrounds, and an exciting go-kart track. Every moment is an adventure in this wonderful destination.
If you were to ask the kids, they would go further with our statement – Best Hotel in Braunwald – and say it is the best hotel in the world. I’ll let you be the judge when you stay with kids in Switzerland and book your family holiday at the Märchenhotel in Braunwald.
List of Contents
- 1 How to get to the Märchenhotel in Braunwald
- 2 Why Märchenhotel Braunwald is one of the Best Family Hotels in Switzerland
- 3 What to Expect at Märchenhotel: Pools, Play & Petting Zoo
- 4 Culinary delight at the Märchenhotel Braunwald
- 5 Which room to book at the Märchenhotel in Braunwald
- 6 Things to do around the Märchenhotel in Braunwald
- 7 Conclusion of our stay at the Märchenhotel in Braunwald
- 8 Other things around Braunwald – Glarnerland
- 9 Your Swiss Travel Guide
How to get to the Märchenhotel in Braunwald
The location of the Märchenhotel is in the car free village of Braunwald in the Canton of Glarus. Sitting above Linthal, Braunwald offers great outdoor activities and unmissable views over the surrounding Glarner Mountains.
To reach Braunwald you need to take the funicular Braunwald, which is the only way to get to the village.
It is best to arrive by the Swiss public transport system, as you do not need your car anyway.
Arriving by train
A simple 1h30 train journey from Zürich HB with the S25 brings you to Linthal.
Good to know, if you overnight in Glarnerland you will receive the Glarnerland Pass and all public transfers are included, included the Braunwald Funicular which will take you up to the Märchenhotel.
Arriving by car
An easy drive either from Zürich or Chur along the A3 will bring you to Glarnerland.
Exit 44 (Niederurnen) and follow the main route through Glarnerland direction Linthal and eventually Braunwald Bahn – Funicular.
A large car park is available on site. First day Chf 5.- every extra day Chf 3.- Garage parking is also available. Contact the Braunwald-bahn office for further information.
Braunwald Standseilbahn (Funicular)
Once you have arrived in Linthal the Braunwald Bahn (funicular) will bring you in only 7 minutes up the 600 metres altitude to the car free village of Braunwald.
At the top the Märchenhotel Fary-Shuttle bus was waiting for us with our luggage already loaded.
All very well organised!
Luggage Transport
When you arrive at the Braunwald Valley Station, you can drop off your luggage. They will transport it up the mountain for you. As we had a hotel reservation at the Märchenhotel, they transported it directly to the hotel. This makes travelling so much easier.
Bike Transport to Braunwald
During our latest visit (summer 2025) we travelled with our bikes, and also these where transportet easily up the mountain with the funicular.
Ticket Prices Braunwald Bahn
The Braunwald Bahn one-way ticket costs Chf 7.20 for an adult and Chf 3.60 for children aged 6 to 16.
GA, half tax and the Junior-Card can all be used.
If you travel on a Swiss Travel Pass, the Funicular to Braunwald is included. Please do note, that these offers may change with time.
Why Märchenhotel Braunwald is one of the Best Family Hotels in Switzerland
Our first stay was in 2023 and we were super excited about this stay as we had heard many good things about the Märchenhotel and with its different awards every year, the expectations were high.
Within 5 minutes of our arrival at the hotel, Lucas gave me a massive hug and said, “thank you, Mami, this is the best hotel,” even though we had not yet seen the whole place.
The Märchenhotel in Braunwald has thought about everything and even more. A true kids friendly hotel in the Swiss alps. So the excitement was even greater when we told the kids that we will be going back. Our 2nd stay was during a summer road trip in 2025, and it was once more an incredible stay.
There added even more animals to the delight of our daughter. A new hobbit guinea pic house plus a real bee hotel.
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Here is a quick summary of what you will find. There may be much more but these are the main excitement’s.
- Chickens, rabbits, goats, guinea pics, llamas, and alpacas. All waiting to be petted daily by your kids.
- A fountain that fills your glass with syrup instead of water. Just insert the magic ball. I haven’t found the magic ball that fills your glass with champagne yet.
- A pedal go-kart racing track offers hours of amusement and race time.
- Multiple pools (heated outdoor infinity pool, splash zones, slide)
- Comprehensive childcare (9 h–21 h daily) allowing this most important “me time” in their wellness centre.
- Kids activity the whole day until 9pm. Including a bouncy castle to ensure they really are tired.
Two tennis courts will ensure you can keep up with your training schedule, and a small-sized football field will make the heart of every little football star beat faster.
The outdoor hotel play area is large and offers many different activities to try out. Even a sandbox is on site where kids can build with blocks and dig big holes.
We were impressed on both of our visits.
What to Expect at Märchenhotel: Pools, Play & Petting Zoo
Don’t think that all the excitement will stop once you enter the hotel. Kids can also climb into the Märlibaum – the fairy tale tree, where every branch offers another activity. The tree was designed in cooperation with Europa Park.
An indoor climbing room also has some exciting features, with kids hiding in the ball pit from their parents.
Child care
So the parents can enjoy their holiday also, the nursery will take charge of your little ones from the morning until 20:15 every day.
Older kids can also find a quiet place there to draw, do some arts and crafts, or simply dive into a book in the comfortable reading corner.
Day and Evening Program
Every day and evening a program of activities are offered at the Märchenhotel. Whether it’s hiking with the llamas, electric car driving, climbing, uni-hockey, circus, disco, or whatever else makes these little hearts pound even faster. There is never a dull moment at the hotel.
And just to top it all off, the Märchenhotel has its own indoor jumping castle. Every evening to the amazement of all, the castle descends from the ceiling. Blink twice and it is ready! While the kids think this is the best ever, we, the parents know that this is their little sleeping pill.
Jungle Pools’, Wellness and Spa – Märchenhotel – Braunwald
Did we mention the fantastic family indoor pool where climbing obstacles are suspended from the ceiling, offering great splashes and acrobatic jumps. This section is open 24/7. Yes, if you can’t sleep, just go for a swim. The outdoor infinity pool closes at 7 PM. Both of these pools are heated to 31.9C.
In the same area, the hotel has not forgotten its younger guests, providing a warm plunge pool at 35C.
And now for the highlight: On the rooftop, there’s a child-free wellness area with a sauna and steam bath, a quiet zone, and a massage room. Standing in the room feels surreal; there is literally no noise. It’s the perfect oasis for spending 45 minutes relaxing and enjoying the breathtaking views over the Glarner mountains.
Culinary delight at the Märchenhotel Braunwald
Before dinner starts, there is a chance for everyone to find their inner calm. At exactly 6PM, it’s story time. The kids go to their private space and listen for 20 minutes to a story told by one of the staff members. During this time, the sommelier will share a different story with us adults. It’s simply perfect to find some calm amidst all the excitement at the Märchenhotel in Braunwald.
While the kids have their own buffet at a slightly earlier time in the kids’ hall, the adults will enjoy a 5-course dinner in the large dining hall starting at 6:45 PM. Of course, children are also welcome here, but most will probably prefer their own space.
Breakfast is served in the same area in a buffet style, and a live station for freshly cooked eggs and bacon.
Throughout the day, the hotel’s restaurant is open and serves everything from small snacks to full meals.
Rest assured, nobody needs to go hungry at the hotel.
Which room to book at the Märchenhotel in Braunwald
If you’re able to afford it, consider booking the 2-story Family Paradies Suite – 1001 Nacht. It’s truly something special, featuring an indoor slide, jacuzzi, sauna, and an epic outdoor terrace for the whole family. However, it does come with a hefty price tag at CHF 1800 per night.
For those seeking more budget-friendly options, normal family rooms can be booked for 4 persons starting from CHF 700 onwards. Additionally, the family rooms Häsli and Geissli are unique rooms with a special goat walkway in front of the window.
Regardless of the time, ( except at night) goats pass in front of your window, making a stay in these rooms a cute experience. Keep in mind that these rooms will be slightly more expensive compared to the normal 4-person family rooms.
Included in all room prices
- 5-Course Dinner menu
- Large breakfast buffet with a live station
- 12 hours of daily kids’ club
- Use of all hotel facilities
- Indoor and outdoor infinity pool
- Child free “Wellness on the top”
While the Märchenhotel in Braunwald might stretch some budgets, the priceless memories made here, both within the hotel and amidst Braunwald’s natural wonders, make it a worthwhile investment.
To afford a stay at such a place, consider making it a special occasion. Instead of buying toys (which the kids often don’t really need), make a stay here their birthday present. Book your stay here, or directly with the Hotel’s booking system.
Things to do around the Märchenhotel in Braunwald
This is one of those hotels where you wouldn’t mind if it rains. The activities within the hotel are fantastic, and a rainy day would just fly by.
However, Braunwald is also a fantastic adventure playground away from the hotel. Here’s what we did during our stay at the Märchenhotel.
Gumen Via Ferrata (Klettersteig)
As a family that enjoys climbing, we were excited to try out the new family-friendly Via Ferrata at the Gumen station.
This Via Ferrata offers a great introduction to mountain activities, even if you’re new to climbing and Via Ferratas. However, I would recommend having some experience beforehand or going with a guide if it’s your family’s first time trying this activity.
There’s also a climbing section further up if that’s more your style.
Plan for a morning for this activity, as you’ll be on the Via Ferrata for about 1 hour and 15 minutes.
Read more and find out how to get to the Braunwald Climbing & Via Ferrata area
Hiking along the Zwerg Bartli’s adventure trail (Dwarf theme Trail)
At the Gumen mountain station, you’ll find the start of the theme trail “Zwerg Bartli – Erlebnisweg.”
This fantastic family hiking trail will lead you through pastures, into canyons, dark and slightly spooky caves, and finally to a fun water play station.
Along the way, 8 adventure stations provide more insight into the story of this adorable little dwarf from Braunwald. The trail features several BBQ stations where wood is provided – all you need to bring is your sausages.
Plan for around 3-4 hours if you complete the full trail, and more time if you plan to have a barbecue.
Read more about Zwerg Bartli’s Theme Trail and find out how to shorten the route.
Tree Rope Adventure Park – Seilpark Braunwald
If time allows during your hike along the Zwerg Bartli’s theme trail, consider making a stop at Rindenhüttli, where you’ll find a great BBQ station and the Adventure Rope Park (Seilpark Braunwald). The ziplines of the treetop adventure park encircle this station.
As you head down the road to the Grotzenbühl Gondola, you’ll see the start of the park just before you reach it. On the terrace of the restaurant, you’ll find the equipment rental.
This is a new activity in Braunwald, and its location is perfect. Children as young as 4 years old can enjoy this thrilling adventure, while older kids from 8 years old can tackle the bigger circuit that offers several long ziplines as well. In total, there are 4 circuits available, and it’s required for two persons to go together.
You can access the Adventure Park by cable car from Braunwald. Take the Hüttenberg – Grotzenbüel gondola, which can be reached on foot from Braunwald Bahn in 15 minutes.
During our second stay we came up with our bikes a great alternative.
For more information, check out Seilpark Braunwald – Rope Park.
Conclusion of our stay at the Märchenhotel in Braunwald
Both our stays at the Märchenhotel in Braunwald (2023 and 2025) where truly magical experiences. Fair to say, that it is one of the Best Swiss Family Hotels in Switzerland. From the enchanting fairytale hotel to the captivating activities, this charming region offers a wide range of adventures for the whole family. No wonder Braunwald is part of the Kinderregion.ch.
Beyond the hotel’s walls, Braunwald boasts its own adventure playground. After enjoying the activities, we experienced, we’re left eager to explore even more of this breathtaking region in Glarnerland Süd.
Overall, our family holiday in Braunwald was a harmonious blend of adventure, relaxation, nature, and enchantment. This unique experience will undoubtedly remain in our memories for a long time.
Other things around Braunwald – Glarnerland
Here are just a few things to do when staying in Braunwald and the Glarnerland region. Nothing is really far and can easily be done whilst having one base.
Alternatively check out our 6 day Glarus Itinerary for your next holiday.
- Hike Limmernsee to Muttsee Hut – The famous Instagram viewpoint.
- Visit Ämpächli Kids Paradise in Elm
- And step into the Giants footprints in the Riesenwald – The Giant Forest
Roadside stops such as the Berglistüber waterfall and the shore of Klöntalersee are always a nice add on to your trip.
Your Swiss Travel Guide
If you need more Swiss travel suggestions make sure you browse through our website.
Find great Swiss Travel Itineraries, Swiss Travel Inspirations, or any Swiss Travel Advice. We make it easy for you to travel Switzerland. Furthermore, you find honest Hotel reviews to ensure your good night’s sleep.
I hope that the information provided here will prove useful when booking a stay at the Märchenhotel Braunwald.
If I have left anything out, please ask your questions in the comments below and share your experience. So that other readers can join in the conversation and benefit from your queries and stories as well.
Note: This trip was in cooperation with the Märchenhotel and kinderregion.ch thank you again! However, you can always be assured that the recommendations are our honest tips and reviews as always.
Thank you & Never Forget to Explore
