Interlaken & Bernese Highlands
Interlaken is where you come to experience picture book Switzerland.
Lying in the heart of Switzerland, Interlaken is just under 2 hours away from Lucerne and situated right on the Golden Pass Line. The unlimited choices of excursions into the lake and mountain world will make you wish you stayed longer. Mountain rail and cable-ways carry you up to the Alpine summits with spectacular sweeping views. Stroll through Thun’s old town where you’ll meet a stylish lifestyle combined with Swiss charisma. Enjoy the bustling cosy street cafes, lively bars, and shops with a rich tradition which are encircled by the green arms of the River Aare.
Also known as the Adventure capital, get your adrenalin kick in and on the water as well as in the air. Or why not take a cruise along Lake Thun or Lake Brienz? You will feel relaxed by the Mediterranean flair and be whisked away by the unique panorama of the Eiger, Monach and Jungfrau towers that the region nestles between.
Harder Kulm offers the best view of Interlaken, EigerMönch and Jungfrau, as well as the Thun and Lake Brienz. The palatial restaurant and the Two Lakes Bridge viewing platform are an enticing place to spend time.
Heimwehfluh, a historic funicular, provides transport to the vantage terrace with a restaurant, all-weather toboggan run, model railway display and large playground.
Venture to Jungfraujoch and Schilthorn. The rides by rackrailway to the highest railway station in Europe and the cable way to the Piz Glora revolving restaurant, two top mountain experiences in the Bernese Oberland, are unmissable!
Interlaken certainly is the heart of all adrenaline and adventure sports in Switzerland. There’s virtually no limit to what’s on offer in the region! Set your pulse racing with a wild river rafting ride or a spot of canyoning. If the sky’s the limit, then go for paragliding or skydiving as the ultimate thrill.
There’s always a fantastic atmosphere at events and festivals, whether it’s an openair concert in the mountains, customs & traditions, a huge fireworks display, classical concerts or a rock festival.
Schadau Castle was built between 1846 and 1854 for the Neuchâtel banker Denis Alfred de Rougemont. The location of the castle, on the southern banks of Lake Thun where the River Aare flows out of the lake, and with its views of the Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau, is almost as attractive as the architecture itself.
Helpful Information
The best time to visit Interlaken & Bernese Oberland in general is in summer, which is July – September. However, it is very busy during these times. So, shoulder seasons are a good alternative, especially October – November, because the snow hasn't come yet and the weather is usually quite sunny.
During winter, some of the outdoor activities will not be possible, like hiking, however, all the gondolas and trains are running, and the views are still the same, just a bit whiter! Of course, you can also try other winter sports like skiing, snow shoeing, tobogganing, winter walking and ice skating.
