Destination Guide

Interlaken Travel Guide: Adventure Capital of Switzerland

Explore majestic lakes, sky-high paragliding spots, and local alpine secrets hidden between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz.

By SwissVista Team Updated 2026 6 Min Read

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Nestled comfortably between the emerald-colored waters of Lake Thun and Lake Brienz, Interlaken is widely celebrated as the adventure capital of Europe. Whether you are looking to skydive over the snow-capped Swiss Alps or quietly wander through traditional alpine meadows, this pristine destination offers a seamless blend of high-octane thrills and serene natural beauty.

Table of Contents

Lake Thun Panoramic View Interlaken
The brilliant turquoise waters of Lake Thun
Harder Kulm View Interlaken
Panoramic alpine views from Harder Kulm viewpoint

Top Experiences in Interlaken

1. Paragliding Over Höhematte Park

Nothing compares to sailing smoothly through the crisp mountain air with a panoramic bird's-eye view of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau peaks. Tandem paragliding flights land safely right in the middle of the spacious Höhematte Park, rendering it a spectacular, bucket-list layout for global travelers.

2. Catching the Sunset at Harder Kulm

A quick, charming 10-minute funicular ride sweeps you straight up to the peak of Harder Kulm, Interlaken’s local mountain. The look-out platform hangs dramatically over the valley, offering unforgettable sunset vistas that seamlessly frame both lakes side by side.

Essential Travel Tip

If you hold a valid Swiss Travel Pass, you are entitled to a generous 50% discount on the Harder Kulm funicular railway ticket. Always present your digital pass at the ticket counter prior to boarding.

Editor's Choice for Alpine Hiking Top Recommended Gear
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Osprey Atmos AG 65 Backpacking Backpack

Trekking across high alpine trails around Interlaken demands elite support. Built with a revolutionary Anti-Gravity suspension system, this premium backpack shifts heavy loads away from your lower back while maximizing essential wind ventilation.

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How to Avoid Crowds

Because of its immense popularity, the central hub of Interlaken can easily become crowded during the peak summer months. Escaping the high-volume crowds requires making deliberate, smart travel choices just like the locals do.

Guarded Local Secret

Instead of paying for expensive commercial cruises, board the local passenger boat heading toward the quiet village of Iseltwald early in the morning. Walk along the breathtaking lakeside trail back toward Bönigen. It is completely free, peaceful, and gives you unmatched photographic angles of Lake Brienz without tourists blocking your view.

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Where to Stay & Ride in Interlaken?

Interlaken hotels and train panoramic routes fill up incredibly fast during peak seasons. To secure the best Genius discounts, flexible free cancellations, and live alpine activity passes, we highly recommend checking live availability early.

Find Interlaken Hotels on Klook Book Paragliding & Tours on Klook

Final Thoughts on Interlaken

Interlaken stands proud as the beating heart of Swiss exploration. By mixing classic peaks with quiet lakeside secrets and packing along appropriate, high-quality technical gear, your trip through the Jungfrau region is guaranteed to be seamless, beautiful, and absolutely unforgettable.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Does the Swiss Travel Pass cover Harder Kulm?

Yes, holders of a valid Swiss Travel Pass are entitled to a generous 50% discount on the Harder Kulm funicular railway ticket.

2. How can I avoid crowds in Interlaken?

To escape the summer crowds, take an early morning boat to Iseltwald and enjoy the free lakeside walking trail back toward Bönigen.

Official Interlaken Area Resources: Interlaken Tourism Portal | SBB Federal Transit
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