Attractions and Places To See in Interlaken-Oberhasli - Top 20

Interlaken-Oberhasli is rich in natural beauty. You can experience magnificent mountain scenery and panoramic views from the Brienzer Rothorn Summit, or enjoy picturesque views of Lake Thun and the Bernese Alps from Niederhorn Summit. Don't miss the stunning Bachalpsee, a mountain lake reflecting the majestic Schreckhorn, or the impressive Aare Gorge, a 200-meter-deep canyon carved by the Aare River. For a thrilling experience, the First Cliff Walk offers breathtaking views.

Yes, Interlaken-Oberhasli is home to several spectacular waterfalls. The Giessbach Falls plunge approximately 400 meters in 14 tiers into Lake Brienz, with a walkway allowing you to go behind the cascading water. You can also see the Staubbach Falls in Lauterbrunnen, among Europe's highest free-falling waterfalls, and the Trümmelbach Falls, Europe's largest subterranean glacier waterfalls.

The region offers a glimpse into Swiss history and culture. Explore Interlaken's Old Town (Unterseen) with its medieval buildings and 13th-century church tower. You can also visit historic castles like Spiez Castle and Thun Castle, both offering insights into medieval life and panoramic views. The Ballenberg Open-Air Museum showcases traditional Swiss buildings and customs, while the Swiss Woodcarving Museum in Brienz celebrates a traditional craft.

Interlaken-Oberhasli is an outdoor paradise. For cycling, you can explore routes like the Lake Brienz Loop or the Jungfrau-Marathon Route. Hikers can enjoy trails such as the Iseltwald - Giessbach Lakeside Trail or explore the Aare Gorge. There are also numerous running trails, including the Eiger Ultra Trail E16. Find more details on these activities in the dedicated guides for Cycling in Interlaken-Oberhasli, Waterfall hikes in Interlaken-Oberhasli, and Running Trails in Interlaken-Oberhasli.

Many attractions in Interlaken-Oberhasli are suitable for families. The Staubbach Falls and Giessbach Falls are accessible and captivating for all ages. The Aare Gorge offers an exciting walk through a natural wonder. The Bachalpsee is reachable by a comfortable cable car ride and a short hike, making it a great family outing. Additionally, the Ballenberg Open-Air Museum provides an engaging historical experience for children and adults alike.

The best time to visit Interlaken-Oberhasli largely depends on your preferred activities. Summer (June to September) is ideal for hiking, cycling, and water sports on Lake Thun and Lake Brienz, with pleasant temperatures and lush landscapes. Spring and autumn offer milder weather, fewer crowds, and beautiful scenery for exploring. Winter transforms the region into a snowy wonderland, perfect for skiing, snowboarding, and other winter sports.

Many attractions in Interlaken-Oberhasli are well-connected by public transport. Interlaken serves as a central hub with train and bus connections. Mountain railways and funiculars, such as the historic funicular to Harder Kulm or the cogwheel railway to Schynige Platte, provide access to high-altitude viewpoints. Boats operate on Lake Thun and Lake Brienz, connecting lakeside villages and attractions like Giessbach Falls. Parking is generally available at major attractions, though it's advisable to check specific locations in advance.

Beyond the well-known highlights, consider exploring the St. Beatus Caves, a fascinating network of underground caves above Lake Thun. The Lombachalp nature reserve offers one of Switzerland's largest upland moorland landscapes, perfect for tranquil hiking. For a unique experience, the Sigriswil Suspension Bridge provides magnificent views high above the Gummischlucht gorge, and the Handeckfallbrücke Bridge offers stunning views of waterfalls and mountains.

You'll find a range of dining and accommodation options throughout Interlaken-Oberhasli. Many summits like Faulhorn Summit & Mountain Hotel and Schilthorn feature restaurants with panoramic views. Lakeside towns and villages offer various hotels, guesthouses, and local eateries serving traditional Swiss cuisine. Interlaken itself has a wide selection of restaurants, cafes, and hotels to suit different budgets and preferences.

The region offers diverse hiking experiences. Popular trails include the ridge hike from Brienzer Rothorn Summit, known for its magnificent mountain scenery. The path to Bachalpsee from First Cliff Walk is a picturesque and relatively easy hike. For more challenging routes, the Eiger Ultra Trail E16 is a notable option. You can find more detailed hiking routes in the Waterfall hikes in Interlaken-Oberhasli guide.

While many natural attractions in the mountainous terrain may have limited accessibility, some sites offer better options. The Aare Gorge has a well-maintained path that is largely accessible. The Jungfraujoch – Top of Europe, with its railway access and facilities, is generally considered accessible. It's always recommended to check specific accessibility details for each attraction directly before your visit.

During winter, Interlaken-Oberhasli transforms into a prime destination for snow sports. The region boasts numerous ski resorts, including those in the Jungfrau region, offering skiing, snowboarding, and sledding. Winter hiking and snowshoe trekking are also popular, with trails like those found in Lombachalp. Many mountain railways continue to operate, providing access to stunning snowy viewpoints and cozy mountain restaurants.