Wonderfully invigorating and heartwarming
Snowflakes flutter silently down, transforming the Holiday Region Interlaken into a fairytale landscape of pure white. Immerse yourself in an atmospheric winter landscape and hike well maintained winter trails through idyllic alpine landscapes and frigid forests. In frozen mountain streams, ice crystals sparkle in the warming winter sunlight as you enjoy wonderfully panoramic views of the snowy peaks of the Bernese Oberland.
Extensive network of well maintained hiking trails of all degrees of difficulty
Striking views of the surrounding mountain peaks as well as lakes Thun and Brienz
Rustic, homely mountain cabins and restaurants serving Swiss specialities
220 km of winter trails in the Holiday Region Interlaken
Various recommended tours available online with GPS data
Snowy landscapes and frozen streams make for an atmospheric scene as time and again, frosty mountain peaks shine through between icy forests and mountain cabins. Silence and tranquillity reign: all you hear is the snow crunching beneath your feet. Well-maintained, romantic winter trails and paths lead you through an unspoilt natural idyll. The Interlaken holiday region has 220 km of hiking trails to explore, and they are equally enjoyable even without the snow. Discover the prettiest winter trails of the Bernese Oberland.
Sun-drenched Beatenberg has a wide selection of hiking trails. The combination of snowy peaks and panoramic views of glistening Lake Thun is both unbeatable and unique. One particularly spectacular route leads from Niederhorn to Waldegg. At almost 2000 meters above sea level, you traverse the ridge on a well maintained path where the views stretch to the renowned Three Peaks of the Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau. Next you hike down into the valley, passing through a magical pine forest and on to the tranquil Alp Chüematte before reaching the village.
Diemtigtal Nature Park enchants visitors with its fairytale snow-laden forests, homely villages and vast alpine landscape. Nine winter trails lead through this winter wonderland. The Grimmialp, for example, is a 4 km circular course with a winter mood to savour. This straightforward tour takes approximately 90 minutes. If you prefer tackling a longer hike, the Springenboden winter trail is ideal. Be enchanted by a picture-perfect landscape on this three-and-a-half-hour winter hike.
The pretty winter trail begins in Grön, near Sigriswil; running parallel to the cross-country ski track, it features a gentle climb beside the Grönbach. Throughout your hike, water sparkles with crazy ice formations while the stream bed is adorned by stones covered in snow crystals. From the Hindersberg mountain cabin, the sight of the floor of the Justis valley is superb. Enjoy the expansive views of the alpine landscape as far as the Sichle. The inviting winter trail then heads the same way back to the starting point.
The tranquil village of Habkern makes the ideal starting point for a 4-kilometre winter trail. The circular route leads from Habkern to Säge before heading back; on the way you pass attractive wooden houses and enjoy wonderful views of the alpine landscape. Just a few hundred metres away as the crow flies is the icy moorland of the Lombachalp – and a winter hikin trail snakes through this enchanting nature reserve. Stop at the Jägerstübli for a traditional Chäsbrätel (grilled cheese on crusty bread).
When the valley fills with thick fog, there is a good chance of warm winter sun in Aeschi, where around 12 kilometres of well prepared and signposted winter trails await in a wonderfully natural idyll. Discover a beautiful circular route running from Aeschi to Aeschiried and back to Aeschi. The winter trail, which takes around 2 hours, promises views of the glimmering Lake Thun, the pyramid-like Niesen and the Central Plateau.
Do you prefer a less demanding winter ramble? An unhurried walk round the circular path at Kleiner Rugen in Matten (near Interlaken) is sheer balm for the soul. It is also worth discovering the peaceful lakeside paths running alongside lakes Thun and Brienz. The majority of paths are easily accessible in winter. One beautiful winter trail starts at Interlaken and follows the River Aare to the Weissenau nature reserve adjacent to Lake Thun.
The turquoise tones of Lake Brienz are particularly strong in winter; in direct sunlight, the lake resembles a giant emerald. The snowy mountains surrounding the lake are reflected in its mirrored surface. The best place from which to view the lake at this time is a winter trail on the Axalp. This compact, family-friendly winter sports area is just 35 minutes from Brienz by postbus or car. From the Axalp, a chair lift transports you up to Windegg, where the trail starts. The descent follows a well maintained path back to Axalp.
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.
On any winter walk, good equipment is vital to protect against the wind, cold, ice and snow. Remember to wear layers of clothing and make sure you can protect yourself from the cold even during breaks on icy and snow-covered paths. Check the weather in advance, and look at current webcam images of your destination. In mountain climates, the weather can change fast – good preparation and the right gear is essential at any time of year.
Warm, functional and breathable clothing
Well insulated, waterproof shoes with a good grip
Waterproof and windproof jacket
Hat, gloves and scarf
Backpack containing food, hot drinks and a first aid kit
Sun protection (sunglasses, sun screen and lip guard)
Remember a smartphone for emergencies and photos to remember
Hiking poles with baskets
Experience unforgettable winter holidays full of natural beauty. Satisfy your winter wanderlust on stunning winter trails in the Bernese Oberland. There are many charming hotels, hostels, holiday apartments and even winter camping sites around lakes Thun and Brienz. Book your stay now.
Discover the atmospheric winter hikes in the Holiday Region Interlaken: