Top 13 Waterfalls around Spiez
Waterfalls near Spiez offer diverse natural experiences within the Bernese Oberland. Situated on Lake Thun, Spiez provides access to both local cascades and significant waterfalls in the wider region. The landscape features gorges, cave systems, and river confluences where water flows create notable formations. These natural sites are often part of established hiking routes, providing opportunities for exploration.
Best waterfalls around Spiez
- The most popular waterfalls include Waterfall in front of the Beatus Caves, a waterfall that is nestled against the rocks at the entrance to the St. Beatus Caves. It offers views over Lake Thun and is freely accessible.
- Another must-see spot is St. Beatus Caves, a cave system featuring impressive waterfalls within its illuminated paths. Visitors can explore a kilometer of paths through stalactite formations and halls, encountering these underground cascades.
- Visitors also love Cholerenschlucht Gorge, a gorge with countless waterfalls and pools. The gorge offers a scenic experience with steep cliffs and winding paths, and some barbecue areas are available.
- Spiez is known for its diverse waterfalls, including those found within cave systems, flowing over sills, and cascading through gorges. The region offers a variety of waterfall types to see and explore.
- The waterfalls around Spiez are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 300 upvotes and over 600 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: June 24, 2026
St. Beatus Caves
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According to legend, a fire-breathing dragon lived here in the Middle Ages. Saint Beatus approached him with the cross and called on the Holy Trinity, whereupon the dragon threw itself with a roar into Lake Thun and drowned. Saint Beatus is said to have lived here in the cave until his death. Today, the grave of Saint Beatus and a replica of his cell can be viewed at the cave entrance. Part of the Way of St. James runs below the caves.
Further information is available at beatushoehlen.swiss/de.
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Waterfall in front of the Beatus Caves
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St. Beatus Caves Parking Lot
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Cholerenschlucht Gorge
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Zulgschwelle
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Popular around Spiez
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Tips from the Community
The upper part is more demanding than the lower
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Parking is subject to a fee... you can pay conveniently with Twint, for example... and it is right at the entrance
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That was really mega beautiful
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At the Zulgspitz, the Zulg, which rises high up at the Grüenebergpass, flows into the Aare. It flows down over two sills, which creates an interesting picture.
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Discover the Aare and the cycle paths between Thun and Bern by bike 😎
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Very suggestive point on the Thunersee tour route. It is the access to the caves from which a spring flows. The visit to the caves is subject to a fee. However, the uphill path to reach the entrance to the caves is freely accessible. Recommended for the view of the lake from above, the visit to the waterfalls formed by the spring (explanatory panels that tell the state of the fresh water reserves present in Switzerland). Once at the top, the structure from which you access the caves is also a restaurant/bar with a beautiful view of the lake. You can do a circular tour by going up on one side crossing the structure and going down on the opposite side.
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The Beatushöhlen restaurant 🍽️ is the perfect place to round off your visit to the Beatushöhlen. Enjoy delicious Swiss specialties 🧀🥩 and international dishes 🍝 in a breathtaking setting right on Lake Thun 🌊. The terrace offers a wonderful panoramic view of the lake and the surrounding mountains 🏔️ - ideal for relaxing and enjoying the scenery after visiting the caves. The friendly service and cozy atmosphere make your visit particularly pleasant 😊.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are some notable waterfalls directly in and around Spiez?
Directly in and around Spiez, you can visit the Waterfall in front of the Beatus Caves, which offers views over Lake Thun. The Cholerenschlucht Gorge features numerous waterfalls and pools within a scenic canyon. Additionally, the Zulgschwelle presents an interesting visual where the Zulg river flows over two sills into the Aare.
Are there any unique or hidden waterfalls worth visiting near Spiez?
Yes, beyond the external cascades, the St. Beatus Caves themselves feature impressive waterfalls within their extensive underground system. You can explore a kilometer of illuminated paths through huge stalactite formations and gorges, encountering these unique subterranean cascades.
What should I know before hiking through the Cholerenschlucht Gorge?
The Cholerenschlucht Gorge is wonderfully beautiful but can be quite steep and potentially slippery. Good shoes are highly recommended. If the ground is damp, it's often easier to hike from bottom to top. The gorge offers barbecue areas for resting amidst its countless waterfalls and lush greenery.
How can I reach the St. Beatus Caves and its waterfalls?
The St. Beatus Caves are easily accessible. There is a dedicated parking lot available. Public transport options also serve the area, allowing visitors to reach the caves and the waterfall at its entrance.
When is the best time to visit the waterfalls around Spiez?
Visiting the waterfalls around Spiez is generally pleasant during spring, summer, and autumn. For popular spots like the Waterfall in front of the Beatus Caves, it's recommended to visit early in the morning or on a weekday to avoid larger crowds, especially during peak season.
Are there family-friendly waterfalls or activities near Spiez?
Many waterfalls near Spiez are suitable for families. The path to the Waterfall in front of the Beatus Caves is freely accessible and features informational panels. The St. Beatus Caves offer an illuminated path suitable for exploration. The Zulgschwelle also provides a nice spot, often with barbecue areas, for a family outing.
What outdoor activities can I do near these waterfalls?
The region around Spiez offers various outdoor activities. You can find numerous running trails, including lakeside paths with views of Spiez and Lake Thun. For cyclists, there are scenic road cycling routes and challenging MTB trails that explore the surrounding hills and valleys.
What do visitors enjoy most about the waterfalls around Spiez?
Visitors particularly appreciate the natural beauty and the impressive power of the water. The scenic hiking opportunities, such as those in the Cholerenschlucht Gorge, and the unique experience of exploring underground cascades in the St. Beatus Caves are highly rated. The views over Lake Thun from locations like the Waterfall in front of the Beatus Caves are also a major draw.
Are there any other significant waterfalls in the wider Bernese Oberland region accessible from Spiez?
Yes, the Bernese Oberland, easily accessible from Spiez, is home to many famous waterfalls. These include the multi-tiered Giessbach Falls, the iconic Staubbach Falls in Lauterbrunnen Valley, and the unique Trümmelbach Falls, which are glacier waterfalls inside a mountain. The Engstligen Falls, Switzerland's second-highest, and the historic Reichenbach Falls are also within day-trip distance.
Can I find amenities like restaurants or cafes near the waterfalls?
Yes, for instance, near the Waterfall in front of the Beatus Caves, there is a restaurant nestled against the rocks, offering wonderful views over Lake Thun. The St. Beatus Caves complex also includes a restaurant. Some areas, like the Cholerenschlucht Gorge and Zulgschwelle, even feature barbecue areas.
What kind of natural features can I expect to see around the waterfalls near Spiez?
The waterfalls around Spiez are set amidst diverse natural landscapes. You'll encounter deep gorges with steep cliffs and lush greenery, such as the Cholerenschlucht Gorge. There are also impressive cave systems with stalactite formations and underground cascades, like the St. Beatus Caves, and river confluences where water flows over sills, as seen at the Zulgschwelle.
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