Best canyons around Thunersee are found in a region defined by Lake Thun and the surrounding Bernese Alps. This area features a landscape of valleys, forests, and significant geological formations. The natural environment provides opportunities for exploring various gorges and ravines carved by rivers. These formations offer diverse experiences, from accessible trails to more rugged terrain.
Last updated: June 28, 2026
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You have to carry the bike onto the bridge
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The upper part is more demanding than the lower
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That was really mega beautiful
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Deep views on a well-secured bridge:
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Wonderful view of the Kander Gorge
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A very cool bridge.
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The Choleren Gorge, which was created by the erosion of the Cholerbach. With steep cliffs, thundering waterfalls and winding paths, it offers hikers and nature lovers a spectacular experience. Wooden bridges and stairs enable safe exploration of this fascinating natural setting. The name "Cholerenschlucht" is probably related to traditional charcoal burning. The Choleren Gorge used to be known for its charcoal kilns, where charcoal was produced. The name "Choleren Gorge" could thus refer to this historical activity. A second theory is that the term comes from the Latin word "colera" which means "bile" or "anger" and could refer to the wild waterfalls and the impressive nature of the gorge. A third theory holds that the name comes from the old Swiss German word "chole" meaning "little stream" or "little river".
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Actually still romantic and wild, unfortunately cars can drive up to the Pochtenresti.
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For a family-friendly experience, consider the Wild and romantic Suldtal, which offers an exciting hiking trail along the river with high mountain slopes and dense forests. Another option is Justistal, a wildly romantic valley known for its alpine pastures and suitable for family outings.
Yes, the Strättligsteg footbridge over the Kander River offers adventure and nature with views over the Kander. The Cholerenschlucht Gorge features wooden bridges and stairs for safe exploration, though good shoes are recommended due to potentially slippery paths. Additionally, the Gummischlucht gorge is crossed by a spectacular suspension bridge, part of the Lake Thun Panorama Trail, offering exhilarating views.
The gorges around Thunersee showcase diverse natural beauty. You can find thundering waterfalls and winding paths in the Cholerenschlucht Gorge, high mountain slopes and dense forests along the river in the Wild and romantic Suldtal, and deep riverbeds like the Kander Gorge seen from Hanissteg. The region is characterized by valleys, forests, and significant geological formations carved by rivers.
For those interested in canyoning, the Interlaken area, adjacent to Lake Thun, is a prime location. There's a beginner-friendly local canyon just a five-minute drive from Interlaken, offering abseiling, sliding, climbing, and jumping into water basins with guides ensuring safety. For experienced adventurers, the Chli Schliere Canyon is known as one of Switzerland's most wild and rugged, providing a more intense challenge.
Many gorge trails around Thunersee are considered intermediate difficulty. For example, the Cholerenschlucht Gorge can be quite steep and slippery, especially when wet, so good shoes are recommended. It's often easier to hike through it from bottom to top. Other areas like the Strättligsteg footbridge and Hanissteg offer views from bridges, which are generally more accessible.
Yes, the region offers numerous hiking opportunities. The Wild and romantic Suldtal features an exciting hiking trail along the river. You can find more detailed hiking routes, including those near the gorges, in the Hiking around Thunersee guide, which includes trails like the 'Beach trail and mountain forest near Spiez'.
Beyond exploring the gorges, the Thunersee region offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can find challenging routes for Mountain Hikes around Thunersee, such as the 'Harderkulm Hut – Harder Kulm loop'. For cyclists, there are scenic Road Cycling Routes around Thunersee, including loops with views of Lake Thun and the Jungfrau.
When hiking in the gorges, especially in areas like the Cholerenschlucht Gorge, it is highly recommended to wear good, sturdy shoes. The paths can be steep and potentially slippery, particularly if the ground is damp or wet. Layered clothing is also advisable to adapt to changing weather conditions.
The Aare Gorge (Aareschlucht) is a renowned natural attraction in the Bernese Oberland, known for its 1.4-kilometer length and depths of up to 200 meters. While a bit further afield from the immediate Thunersee area, it offers an exciting nature experience with a path safely traversable on footbridges and through tunnels in about 45 minutes.
Yes, the Justistal, a wildly romantic valley, is famous for its annual cheese festival (Chästeilet) which takes place in autumn. This event celebrates the region's alpine pastures and traditional cheese production.
Visitors appreciate the pure adventure and nature offered by spots like the Strättligsteg footbridge. The Cholerenschlucht Gorge is loved for its wonderfully beautiful scenery, countless waterfalls, and the romantic green of the gorge. The overall appeal lies in the diverse experiences, from accessible trails to more rugged terrain, and the stunning natural beauty.
Yes, the Cholerenschlucht Gorge offers several barbecue areas, inviting visitors to pause and linger amidst the beautiful natural surroundings.


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