Interlaken

Whether you're an avid skier dreaming of fresh tracks, a family looking for a memorable winter escape, or an international traveler seeking a seamless Swiss adventure, Interlaken offers the perfect blend of excitement and relaxation. It's a place where every panoramic view feels like a postcard, and every activity promises an unforgettable memory. So, buckle up, because we're about to uncover why Interlaken should be at the top of your Swiss travel list, especially if a ski trip is what you’re after.

Awesome Things to Do in Interlaken

While Interlaken shines as a base for winter sports, it's truly a year-round destination bursting with activities for every kind of explorer. From serene lake cruises to heart-pounding paragliding, there’s never a dull moment.

• Harder Kulm, Top of Interlaken: Just a quick funicular ride from Interlaken Ost train station, Harder Kulm offers a spectacular panoramic view of Interlaken itself, the two shimmering lakes (Lake Thun and Lake Brienz), and the iconic trio of peaks: Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau. It's a must-do for that perfect Instagram shot or simply to soak in the incredible Swiss Alps scenery. 
• Lake Brienz and Lake Thun: These two pristine lakes flank Interlaken, each with its own charm. Hop on a boat cruise on Lake Brienz for turquoise waters and charming lakeside villages, or explore Lake Thun with its historic castles dotted along the shore. In warmer months, you can swim, paddleboard or simply relax by the water. Even in winter, a crisp lake cruise offers unique perspectives of the snow-covered landscape.
• Lauterbrunnen Valley: Often called the "valley of 72 waterfalls," Lauterbrunnen is one of the prettiest towns near Interlaken and a true natural wonder. Just a short train ride away, you can witness the Staubbach Falls cascading down sheer rock faces or explore the Trümmelbach Falls, a series of glacier waterfalls hidden inside the mountain. It’s an ethereal, inspiring place that feels like stepping into a fairytale.
• Schynige Platte: For a truly classic Swiss experience, take the historic cogwheel railway up to Schynige Platte. This journey offers stunning views and leads to an Alpine garden showcasing over 600 species of high-altitude plants. It's a fantastic spot for a half-day trip to appreciate the natural beauty and fresh mountain air.

Discover the Enchanting Heart of the Town

Stroll along the Höheweg, Interlaken's main street, which is lined with hotels, shops, and restaurants, and offers clear views of the Jungfrau mountain. You can pick up some delicious Swiss chocolate, browse for souvenirs, or simply enjoy the lively atmosphere. It truly feels like a vibrant hub, full of travelers from all corners of the globe sharing their love for the mountains.

Get Your Adrenaline Pumping

Interlaken is world-renowned for its outdoor and thrill-seeking activities, making it a dream destination for adventure seekers.

• Paragliding: Soar above the town, lakes, and surrounding peaks with a tandem paragliding experience. It’s an exhilarating way to see the landscape from a birds-eye view, feeling the wind on your face as you glide silently over the Bernese Oberland. It's truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
• Canyoning and Rafting: In the warmer months, the glacial rivers offer fantastic opportunities for canyoning (rappelling, sliding, and jumping through gorges) and white-water rafting.
• Winter Wonderland Activities: Beyond skiing, winter in Interlaken offers ice-skating rinks, snowshoeing trails, and speedy sledge descents through a winter wonderland. It’s perfect for families or those looking for a different kind of snow fun.

Expert Skiing

From Interlaken, you can easily reach Mürren-Schilthorn, famed for the steep, challenging runs used in the Inferno Race and the breathtaking black runs like the Kanonenrohr. Grindelwald’s Lauberhorn and the tough descents off Eigergletscher station offer exhilarating challenges for confident skiers. Need more adventure beyond marked trails? There’s abundant off-piste and backcountry skiing, with guided tours to explore deep powder stashes around the Eiger and Jungfrau peaks. While there isn’t night skiing in this area, the sheer variety of terrain, epic vertical drops and dramatic alpine scenery certainly make up for it.