From skiing and tubing to hiking, climbing and sailing, the wild mountainous scenery of this alpine resort town offers a variety of summer and winter pursuits.
Interlaken is an alpine resort sandwiched between two lakes and surrounded by snow-covered mountains. Ski, hike, sail and bike through the Swiss wilderness. Thrill-seekers come to try canyon jumping, paragliding, whitewater rafting and skydiving. In the town, find bars, restaurants, museums and shops.
Ski and snowboard down the pistes of Interlaken’s multiple ski areas. There are four winter resorts within easy reach of the town. Jungfrau Skiing Region is one of the most popular in Switzerland and has more than 125 miles (200 kilometers) of runs. Children and beginners can enjoy the 9 miles (15 kilometers) of slopes at the Brienz-Axalp Family-Friendly Ski Resort. Go cross-country skiing, glacier trekking and snow tubing. Try night sledding on Niederhorn’s peak.
Interlaken is a year-round resort and so there are also plenty of outdoor adventures during the summer. Hike along mountain trails that pass by waterfalls, lakes and through alpine villages. Enjoy a walk along the shores of Lake Brienz and Lake Thun. Cruise across either body of water on a half-day or full-day steamer excursion. Go for a swim and then picnic by the water’s edge. Rent a mountain bike or electric bike for a ride through the mountainous scenery. There are paved footpaths suitable for wheelchairs and strollers.
Head into town to try fondue in a gourmet restaurant, shop for souvenirs and visit the 12th-century monastery. For evening entertainment, watch a live band, go to the cinema or see if your luck’s in at the Interlaken Casino.
Reach Interlaken by flying into Bern-Belp Airport, about 33 miles (54 kilometers) away. From there you can travel by bus, rental car or taxi into Interlaken. The town is small enough to be navigated on foot. Local bus services connect to nearby towns and villages.
Interlaken is about an hour’s drive away from Bern, the Swiss capital, and within easy reach of Jungfrau Park, a theme park that opens during the summer.
