nterlaken is a popular tourist destination in Switzerland, known for its breathtaking views of the Swiss Alps and its location between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz. It's often referred to as the "adventure capital" of Switzerland, offering a wide variety of outdoor activities like hiking, skiing, paragliding, and boat tours. Visitors can explore the surrounding mountains, including Jungfraujoch, which is known as the "Top of Europe," offering views from one of the highest accessible points in Europe. Interlaken is also a great base for exploring nearby towns like Lauterbrunnen and Grindelwald.
Jungfraujoch (Top of Europe): A must-visit, this is one of the highest accessible points in Europe. You can take a scenic train ride to the Jungfraujoch station and enjoy panoramic views of the Aletsch Glacier and surrounding peaks.
Harder Kulm: A funicular ride takes you to the Harder Kulm summit, where you can enjoy spectacular views of Interlaken, the lakes, and the mountains.
Lake Thun and Lake Brienz: Both lakes offer stunning views and boat tours, and are great for swimming, kayaking, and relaxing by the shore.
Paragliding: Interlaken is known for paragliding, offering thrilling flights over the lakes and mountains. It’s an unforgettable experience for adrenaline junkies.
Schilthorn and Piz Gloria: This revolving restaurant, featured in James Bond’s On Her Majesty’s Secret Service, provides panoramic views of the Alps, including the iconic Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau mountains.
Trummelbach Falls: A series of impressive waterfalls inside the mountains of the Lauterbrunnen Valley, easily accessible by bus or car.
Adventure Sports: Apart from paragliding, Interlaken is known for activities like canyoning, skydiving, and bungee jumping for those looking for more adrenaline-filled adventures.
St. Beatus Caves: Located on the north shore of Lake Thun, these caves offer a mystical experience with impressive stalactites and stalagmites.
Hiking: Interlaken is a hiker's paradise with trails suitable for all levels. Popular hikes include the Schynige Platte for panoramic views, the Harder Kulm trail for stunning vistas of the town and lakes, and the Lauterbrunnen Valley with its incredible waterfalls.
Paragliding: As one of the world’s best spots for paragliding, Interlaken offers tandem flights with instructors, where you can glide over the town, lakes, and mountains. It's a thrilling and memorable way to experience the region.
Boating and Swimming: Take a boat ride on Lake Thun or Lake Brienz, or rent a kayak or paddleboard for a more active experience. Both lakes are known for their crystal-clear waters.
Mountain Biking: Interlaken and the surrounding areas offer some great trails for mountain biking, whether you want an easy ride through the countryside or a challenging trail up the mountains.
Winter Sports: In winter, Interlaken is the gateway to world-class ski resorts. You can enjoy skiing, snowboarding, and tobogganing in nearby resorts like Grindelwald, Wengen, and Mürren.
Jungfraujoch (Top of Europe): Take the cogwheel train to Jungfraujoch, the highest railway station in Europe. The area offers snow year-round and breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks and glaciers.
Canyoning and Rafting: For adrenaline seekers, canyoning through the canyon rivers or white-water rafting in the region’s rivers is a popular activity.
Visit the Trummelbach Falls: These impressive waterfalls, located inside the mountain, are one of the hidden gems in the area. The waterfalls cascade down through the mountains, creating stunning natural displays.
Swiss Fondue: A classic Swiss experience! Try fondue at places like Restaurant Spycher or Berggasthaus First for a delicious and traditional Swiss meal with local cheese.
Rosti: A Swiss-style hash browns dish made with potatoes. Head to Restaurant des Alpes for a delicious plate of rosti paired with Swiss sausages or other alpine specialties.
Swiss Chocolate: You can’t visit Switzerland without trying some Swiss chocolate! There are plenty of chocolate shops in Interlaken, but a visit to Schuh Chocolate is recommended to taste some of the best.
Local and International Cuisine:
Lakefront Dining: Enjoy a meal by the lakeside at Bönigen Restaurant or Lake Brienz Restaurant for spectacular lake views while enjoying Swiss and international dishes.
Swiss Alpine Heritage: Interlaken is deeply rooted in Swiss alpine culture. The region is known for its mountain traditions, including farming, cheese-making, and woodcarving. Many festivals and events celebrate this heritage, such as Swiss Alpine Day and traditional yodeling performances.
Language: While the main language spoken in Interlaken is German (specifically the Bernese dialect), most people also speak English, especially in tourist areas. French and Italian are also widely spoken in Switzerland.
Swiss Hospitality: The Swiss are known for their welcoming nature and professionalism. Swiss hospitality is very formal and polite, with an emphasis on respect and punctuality.
Traditional Festivals:
Outdoor Lifestyle: The local culture is closely connected to the outdoors, with many people participating in outdoor activities like hiking, skiing, and cycling. Locals take pride in the region's natural beauty and enjoy spending time in the mountains and lakes.