Exploring Lake Thun, Spiez, and Interlaken: A Relaxed Day in the Bernese Oberland
After days of mountain adventures, today was all about slowing down and soaking in the serene beauty of the Swiss lakes and towns. Our goal: a scenic Lake Thun cruise, followed by stops in Spiez and Interlaken for leisurely exploration. Here’s how our day unfolded and what you can expect if you’re planning a similar trip.
Starting the Day: Lake Thun Cruise
We began by taking a train to Interlaken Ost and then walking to Interlaken West, where the Lake Thun cruise departs. Though I had hoped for a lakeside stroll, the walk led us through a bustling main road lined with shops instead. Once at the dock, we spotted the cruise ship and purchased our tickets directly onboard, including return train tickets from Thun to Interlaken West.
Why Cruise Lake Thun?
Lake Thun is a glacial lake with a striking turquoise hue caused by “rock flour” particles reflecting light. A cruise on the lake offers breathtaking views of the surrounding Alps, charming villages, and historic landmarks like Oberhofen Castleand the St. Beatus Caves.
- Highlights of the Cruise:
- Panoramic views of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau peaks.
- Picturesque stops at lakeside towns like Spiez and Oberhofen.
- A relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere with seating options in first and second class.
(We opted for second class, enjoying a picnic on the open-air deck while soaking up the views.)
The 2-hour cruise ended in Thun, where we disembarked to explore the town.
Discovering Thun: Gateway to the Bernese Oberland
Located at the northwestern tip of Lake Thun, Thun is a charming town that blends medieval history with modern Swiss flair. The River Aare, flowing from the lake to Bern, adds to the town’s scenic appeal.
Top Things to Do in Thun:
- Thun Castle:
This 12th-century castle is Thun’s most iconic landmark. The tower houses a museum showcasing 800 years of regional history, including a restored knights’ hall. Don’t miss the panoramic views of the town, lake, and mountains from the castle tower.
(Tip: Use the elevator in the parking building to avoid climbing stairs.)
- Stroll Along the River Aare:
The riverside promenade offers a serene setting for a leisurely walk, with quaint bridges and charming cafes along the way.
- Explore the Old Town:
Thun’s Old Town is full of cobblestone streets, medieval architecture, and boutique shops—a delightful area to wander.
- Visit Nearby Attractions:
Thun Panorama: A 360-degree painting depicting the town and surrounding landscape.Thun Art Museum: Featuring Swiss art from the 19th and 20th centuries.
After exploring Thun, we hopped on a train to Spiez, our next stop.
Spiez: A Fairytale Lakeside Town
Spiez is a postcard-perfect town located on Lake Thun’s shore, surrounded by vineyards and framed by the majestic Alps. We first glimpsed Spiez from our EuroCity train from Milan and instantly fell in love.
Top Things to Do in Spiez:
- Spiez Castle:
This well-preserved medieval castle dates back to the 13th century and offers stunning lake and mountain views from its gardens. - Schlosskirche:
A beautiful 11th-century church next to the castle, known for its serene ambiance and historic charm. - Lakeside Promenade:
A leisurely walk along the promenade reveals breathtaking views of Lake Thun and the surrounding peaks. - Vineyards and Wine Tasting:
Spiez is famous for its vineyards, which produce some of Switzerland’s finest wines. Wine tours and tastings are a must for enthusiasts. - Outdoor Activities:
Hiking and water sports like kayaking and paddleboarding are popular in Spiez.
We explored Spiez aboard the little Lido train, a convenient and fun way to see the town without tiring ourselves out.
Ending the Day in Interlaken
Our final stop was Interlaken, a lively town nestled between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz. Known for its adventure sports and scenic beauty, Interlaken is a hub for travelers exploring the Jungfrau region.
Top Things to Do in Interlaken:
- Harder Kulm:
A funicular ride takes you to the “Top of Interlaken,” offering sweeping views of the town, lakes, and surrounding mountains. - Adventure Sports:
From paragliding to skydiving, Interlaken is an adrenaline junkie’s paradise. We watched paragliders gracefully land in Höhematte Park, a vast green space in the town center. - Explore the Town:
Interlaken’s streets are lined with shops, cafes, and restaurants, including several offering halal and Asian cuisine. - Visit the Lakes:
Both Lake Thun and Lake Brienz are easily accessible for boat cruises, kayaking, or simply relaxing by the water.
Final Reflections
Today marked the end of our incredible journey through the Jungfrau region. From the turquoise waters of Lake Thun to the medieval charm of Thun and Spiez, and the vibrant energy of Interlaken, this region is a treasure trove of experiences.
While we couldn’t fit everything into our itinerary (hello, Schynige Platte, Wengen, and Allmendhubel!), these unfinished adventures give us all the more reason to return. If you’re planning your own trip, make sure to leave room for a little spontaneity—it’s often the unplanned moments that leave the deepest impressions.
