Themed paths and adventure trails in the Holiday Region Interlaken

One genuinely well-kept secret for nature lovers and families is the Lombachalp. The mystical moorland of the nature reserve will take you by surprise. At the Jägerstübli restaurant, you can rent a research set containing everything you need to study nature up close. Close to the imposing Alpine landscape is the sun terrace of Beatenberg. Here the Beatus trail imaginatively links absorbing natural experiences with legendary tales. A play castle, dragon’s den and even a ship will delight your children.

In the Holiday Region Interlaken, children become real treasure hunters high above Lake Thun in Aeschi or on the banks of Lake Brienz in Bönigen. Grab a treasure map from the respective tourist office, then follow clues that will lead you through flowery fields and around forests on your way to the treasure. Open the chest with a numerical code that is revealed as you proceed from stage to stage – then claim a well-earned reward. The treasure trails are suitable for children of all ages and take 1 to 3 hours to complete.

The left bank of Lake Thun has several surprising themed paths. For those who like to combine nature with art and culture, the choice in Krattigen and Aeschi will amaze you. One particular highlight is the sculpture trail, a walk that confronts you with artworks that will make you smile and make you think. Music and culture await in Thun. On a melodious tour, explore the old town of Thun in a new and sensory way.

Also in the Bernese Oberland, the well-known Jakobsweg trail leads from the Brünig Pass to Amsoldingen, revealing true gems of nature against an unparalleled mountain backdrop along its 65 km length. The route comprises various stages. The section from Interlaken to Merligen is particularly attractive. The pilgrim’s path takes you from Interlaken and along the Aare, passing through the nature reserve of Weissenau and on to Neuhaus via wooden walkways. The path then winds westwards along Lake Thun, passing the energy centre of the St. Beatus caves before terminating at the palm-filled village of Merligen.

Another experience for the senses awaits at the Spiez vineyard. A short walk through the staggeringly beautiful heritage site is a true pleasure. Leave your cares behind and enchant your senses as you discover the diversity of the vines. Awaken your senses at six experience stations and learn more about the wine-growing year and nature from 12 information boards. Along the way, why not stop and enjoy a picnic on one of the inviting benches. The views of Spiez Castle, the bay of Spiez, Lake Thun and the surrounding peaks are simply unforgettable.

At the Diemtigtal Nature Park, you can explore nature on a range of themed paths. On the Swiss wrestling trail Springenboden, you can learn more about the popular national sport, or find out all there is to know about traditional construction methods on the Diemtigtal House Trail. Adventure trails where kids can play and have fun are great for families. The "Grimmimutz" adventure trail leads you and your family to entertaining activity posts. Meanwhile the "Gwunderwasser" is a playground based on the theme of water.

Water plays an important role across the Holiday Region Interlaken – a point impressively underlined on the Brunnenweg in the pretty village of Matten, near Interlaken. This path recounts the story of the fountains, offers food for thought and underlines the importance of water. To experience the natural power of water at first hand, follow the three waterfalls trail, a varied hike that leads from Bönigen to Brienz via Iseltwald.

Two themed paths are devoted to the solar system and the relative sizes of the various planets. The SIRIUS path starts at the observatory of Schwanden (above Sigriswil) and follows well-developed hiking trails. The other Planetary Path is located in Ringgenberg-Goldswil. Both provide astonishing facts about the universe while delivering superb views of the surrounding lakes and mountains.

This inviting circular path leads you 4 km through the welcoming village of Schwanden, near Brienz. Enjoy spectacular views of Lake Brienz and the surrounding mountains on a hiking trail that features wooden sculptures on the theme of «life». The project, realised in 2004 in partnership with the Brienz School of Woodcarving, established an easily accessible route that people of all ages can enjoy.

Experience the magic of the Christmas story at many sites in the holiday region of Interlaken. The Christmas trails will surely get you in the festive mood, so take a moment to savour an atmospheric winter stroll. All of the fairytale paths are illuminated, and especially enchanting after dark. Be guided by the candlelight, the stars and the Christmas mood.