Lake Thun with surrounding mountains and green meadow in summer.

Lake Thun

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14 reasons why you should visit Lake Thun

  • Lake Thun is the largest lake in the canton of Bern. All around the lake are the majestic mountains of the Bernese Oberland. The lake is fed by many water sources in the mountains and thus always has deep blue water.

  • On Lake Thun there is a wide range of boat trips to get to know the lake better. Historic paddle steamers, such as the "DS Blüemlisalp", invite you to take a leisurely trip on the glittering lake. Enjoy round trips with great panoramic views from the decks and cross-country trips with modern passenger ships. The best way to travel is with the day ticket for Lake Thun.

  • If you need to cool down in summer, you can jump into the cool water at one of the many beaches or lakeside baths. Besides the well-known bathing places there are some "bathing secret tips". The hidden bathing bays include, for example, the Seewiese Gwatt, the Wallrain Spiez or the lido Krattigen.

  • Due to its special location, strong winds often blow across the lake. This makes Lake Thun a real paradise for windsurfers and sailors. On boat and board, water sports enthusiasts dash across the cool water. There are many surf and sailing clubs where you can improve your skills in various courses.

  • Lake Thun is also well suited for many other water sports. You can discover the green shores of the lake by kayak and SUP. Various kayaks and boards can be rented for this purpose. Alternatively, you can join a guided tour of the lake and not only improve your skills, but also discover hidden beaches.

  • At the western end of Lake Thun is the town of Thun. The late medieval old town invites you to stroll around. In the Obere Hauptgasse you will discover the famous Hochtrottoirs and on the Mühleplatz you will find some cozy cafes and restaurants. To get to know the city better, there is an exciting selection of city tours in Thun.

  • Interlaken is one of the most famous tourist hotspots in Switzerland. The city is situated between the lakes of Thun and Brienz. The town is a starting point for a wide range of winter and summer activities. These include ski slopes, hiking trails and adrenaline-pumping activities such as paragliding.

  • Spiez is a small town on Lake Thun. Stroll along the beautiful lakeside promenade, visit the historic Spiez Castle or learn about the local wine culture at the Wine Museum. The easiest way to reach this cozy town is by one of the modern passenger ships.

  • Around the lake there are five fascinating castles: Thun Castle, Spiez Castle, Schadau Castle, Hünegg Castle and Oberhofen Castle. These historic buildings fascinate with rich history and beautiful architecture. In summer they are often surrounded by blooming gardens.

  • The Niederhorn is one of the many great peaks of the mountain panorama around Lake Thun. At 1950 m above sea level, you can enjoy a great 360° view of the surrounding mountains and the deep blue Lake Thun. From the summit there are great hiking trails for every fitness level. Alternatively, you can enjoy an adrenaline-filled descent down to the valley on a scooter-bike.

  • The distinctive summit of the Stockhorn is easily recognizable from afar. Visitors reach the almost 2200 m high mountain via two cable cars. Directly next to the mountain restaurant, an accessible tunnel leads to the Stockhorn north face. In the middle of this rock face is a viewing platform that offers a breathtaking view into the Aare valley.

  • Lake Thun can be easily circumnavigated on foot. This multi-day hike leads in four stages around the deep blue lake. Starting in Thun, the route goes via Sigriswil, Interlaken and Spiez around the lake. On the 63 km long trail you hike over breathtaking bridges, through idyllic towns and villages and always enjoy the fantastic view of the lake.

  • The Beatus Caves, located directly above the lake, stretch for 14 km. They are a great experience for young and old. In the cave are numerous beautiful rock formations, which have formed over millions of years. With innovative lighting, these structures come even more to the fore.

  • In the small village of Sigriswil there is a 340 m long suspension bridge. From this panoramic bridge you can look over Lake Thun to the Niesen and the famous peaks of Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau. This bridge is also a starting point for numerous hikes in the region.

Bernese Oberland Pass on Lake Thun

With the Bernese Oberland Pass you are flexible. It is valid for trains, boats and most mountain railroads in the Bernese Oberland. It allows you to travel by public transport throughout the Bernese Oberland on 3 to 10 consecutive days. You also receive attractive discounts and benefits from around 40 bonus partners.

ThunerseeBeatenbucht-Seestrasse (Foto: Schweiz Tourismus)
ThunerseeBeatenbucht-Seestrasse (Foto: André Meier, Schweiz Tourismus)