- Interlaken Switzerland
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Interlaken, whose name translates to “in the middle of two lakes,” is situated between Lake Brienz and Lake Thun, both connected by the Aare River. Due to the very steep terrain surrounding the lakes, easily accessible spots are limited. Here are some insights into the best places to go.
Fed directly by melted glacier water from the mountains, Lake Brienz is the colder of the two lakes. While it can be pleasant for swimming during warm summers, temperatures can fluctuate significantly, especially after heavy rainfall, dropping from a record high of 25°C (77°F) to as low as 14°C (52°F). It’s advisable to check the water temperature before entering.
The easiest access point to Lake Brienz is behind the Interlaken Ost train station, which also serves as a stop for cruise boats. From there, you can follow the Aare River upstream, and it will lead you to Lake Brienz.
Numerous opportunities for swimming are available once you pass the river and reach the lake, marked on the map. These are mostly stone/pebble beaches with easy and safe access. Should the lake water prove too cold, but you still wish to swim near the lake, we recommend visiting The Beach. This swimming area features a pool with warmer water in addition to lake swimming, along with a restaurant and other amenities. There is entry cost of 6 Chf for adutls and 4 Chf for kids
After all that exploring, our suggested route wraps up with a stop at “Sweet Ride” food truck. You’ll find it by Lake Brienz, serving up great coffee and what many say is the best swirl ice cream in Interlaken, all with a fantastic view of the lake. If you don’t want to walk all the way back, another option is the bus stop close to the Sweet Ride, where you can catch buses 102 and 103 back to Interlaken Ost station.
This route is awesome for views, but it can get pretty busy, especially when it’s warm out. If you’re after something a bit more relaxed, just jump on bus 102/103 from Interlaken Ost station to the Bönigen See stop. You’ll still get your Sweet Ride ice cream, but from there, you can wander along the lake. The further you go, the fewer folks you’ll run into!
Lake Thun’s water is renowned for its crystal clarity and emerald-green hue. Importantly, as it’s downstream from glacier water, it maintains a warmer and more stable average temperature of 20°C (68°F), making it a preferred swimming spot for locals.
Getting to Lake Thun from Interlaken center, while not offering a scenic walking path, can be done via two convenient options:
Once at Lake Thun, you’ll find various swimming options.
Follow the main swim area path (red line on our map) from the bus stop to reach the swimming area. You’ll pass through a parking lot where you’ll find Restaurant Neuhaus, known for its local fish dishes. Adjacent to the restaurant is Moutainsurf, a rental service offering everything from paddleboards to boat rentals. Don’t forget to check our map for a secret paddleboard suggestion!
Just past a private beach (5 francs per person), you’ll discover a very similar-looking area that is free – this is the main swimming spot.More Secluded Options
For a more remote experience, consider these two alternatives:
The mentioned locations are the most accessible and nearby swimming spots around Interlaken. If you are a water enthusiast seeking a remote and private swimming experience, possibly including a lakeside barbecue, please contact us through our Personalized trips service. We are ready to plan any type of trip or adventure you envision. All you need to do is reach out!
