Golden-orange landscapes, sparkling lakes, softly snow-capped mountains… When autumn looks as beautiful as it does in the Holiday Region Interlaken, there’s no need to lament the end of summer. Better yet, there are lots of fantastic, bucket-list-worthy ways of experiencing all these autumn scenes. We’re talking kayaking, hiking, biking and even a floating caravan – yes, you read that correctly.
Read on for our top picks of unmissable active experiences to seek out in the Holiday Region Interlaken this autumn. For more autumn inspiration, head straight to www.interlaken.ch/en.
There are few better ways to fully immerse yourself in the Bernese Oberland’s autumn splendour than by hopping in a kayak and paddling on gorgeous Lake Brienz. As well as the satisfaction of gliding over the glistening, turquoise waters, you’ll also be treated to a first-class mountain view.
Measuring 23 kilometres, the Aletsch Glacier is a mighty sight and is found within the Alps’ first UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Jungfrau-Aletsch-Bietschhorn region. So, hiking over this incredible landmark is a must when you’re in the area. Better yet, make the most of this unique landscape and turn your hike into a two-day tour. No previous hiking experience is necessary and you’ll get to appreciate the stunning views of the surrounding icy landscape before spending the night at a traditional mountain hut.
For a big taste of rural Swiss scenery at its finest, hike out to the Blueme tower, a viewpoint that’s perfectly positioned for pristine vistas. Begin your journey in the village of Sigriswil before crossing all 340 metres of the award-winning Sigriswil suspension bridge to Aeschlen. After following trails, ascending and descending hills, and soaking up the joys of being out in nature, you’ll arrive at Blueme (click through below for a detailed route). Your reward for all that hard work – crowned by climbing the 16-plus metres of the tower’s spiral staircase – is an unrivalled panoramic view out across the Jura mountains, the Bernese Alps and Lake Thun. If you need to refuel after your hike, there’s a fire pit awaiting a barbecue at the foot of the tower, complete with picnic benches.
Now you’ve covered hiking, it’s time for some biking. Hop in the saddle and pedal your way around this circular route of shimmering Lake Brienz. Beginning at Interlaken Ost railway station, the route winds through scenic ascents before crossing two suspension bridges, passing all kinds of varied and beautiful sights as you go. After some mild off-road sections to mix things up, another ascent near the end of the loop, towards Axalp, is steep but exciting, and you’re never too far from a superb view of those enticingly blue waters.
When is a caravan not a caravan? When it’s actually a boat, as is the case with the Sealander, a compact caravan trailer that doubles-up as an electric boat. These innovative vessels can be found bobbing on the gentle waters of Lake Thun, where passengers can sit back and admire the verdant pastures of the Bernese Oberland. These seriously clever vehicles also come equipped with all the mod-cons needed for the perfect day out, including kitchenette, fridge, toilet and speakers. So, crack open a bottle of something as you glide over the water and enjoy the nautical life for a few hours.
The best way to take advantage of all that the Holiday Region Interlaken has to offer is plant yourself in it for a good few days and nights, allowing yourself time to enjoy all those experiences in full. Give yourself the perfect base by staying at the three-star Jungfrau Hotel Restaurant, the ideal starting point for any number of epic journeys out into Grindelwald, Wengen, Mürren and beyond – including all the activities mentioned above. The hotel itself is enclosed by snow-capped mountains, and rooms are bright, modern and perfectly cosy for relaxing in after a day of exertion. Click through below for details of a special hiking package, which includes overnight stays with half-board, free travel on all mountain railways, parking and taxes.
