Things to see and do in Bernese Oberland
The Bernese Oberland impresses with majestic peaks, emerald green lakes, and idyllic villages that combine Alpine tradition with breathtaking nature. Whether hiking in the Jungfrau region, marveling at the waterfalls in Lauterbrunnen, or exploring Interlaken between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz, here you can feel the power and tranquility of the Alps. The Bernese Oberland is ideal for active vacationers, nature lovers, and anyone who wants to experience the Alpine panorama in all its facets.
A Gate to Paradise travel expert will help you plan your dream trip to the Bernese Oberland and integrate the region harmoniously into your individual itinerary – authentic, well thought-out and tailored to your personal travel pace.
St. Beatus Caves
One of the most spectacular cave systems in Switzerland
Lauterbrunnen
Visit Switzerland's fairytale village
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Every journey is unique. That’s why we don’t view your plans as a static package, but as a meticulously crafted design made up of exclusive elements, which we tailor perfectly to your personal needs. The result is a bespoke itinerary that remains just as flexible as your wishes once you’re there.
If you already have an itinerary in mind or have made some initial bookings, we’ll pick up exactly where you need us. We refine your existing vision through a professional travel audit, checking the logic and quality, and supplement your planning with hand-picked hotels or hidden gems not found in any guidebook. From the initial inspiration to the curated playlist playing in the background, we refine your plans in a modular, uncompromising way, with a love of detail.
Practical information for your trip
Whether the Swiss Travel Pass is worth it depends largely on how you travel. If you want to see a lot of Switzerland in a short time and travel regularly between cities and regions, the pass can be very practical and often also financially advantageous. It gives you unlimited use of trains, buses and boats, so you don’t have to worry about buying individual tickets every time. In addition, many museums are included and numerous mountain railways – including those in the Bernese Oberland – are at least discounted.
If, on the other hand, you are staying mainly in one region, for example several days in the Bernese Oberland around Interlaken, Grindelwald or Lauterbrunnen, a regional pass such as the Bernese Oberland Pass may be cheaper and better suited to your needs. Another alternative is the Swiss Half Fare Card, which gives you a 50% discount on almost all routes and many mountain railways – this is particularly worthwhile if you are only planning individual but more expensive journeys.
In short: the Swiss Travel Pass is particularly worthwhile if you are travelling a lot of longer distances across Switzerland and want maximum flexibility. If you are travelling more regionally or only making a few trips, there are often cheaper options.
In the Bernese Oberland, one dreamlike lake follows another – each with its own unique character. Lake Oeschinen near Kandersteg is particularly spectacular. Nestled in a steep mountain backdrop, its waters glow in an intense turquoise, while surrounding rock faces and waterfalls create an almost dramatic scenery. On clear days, the landscape here seems almost unrealistically beautiful.
Lake Brienz is completely different, but equally impressive. Its almost Caribbean-like blue colour is created by glacier water and gives it a special radiance. It seems calmer and more unspoilt – perfect for a boat trip or simply to sit on the shore and enjoy the colours.
Lake Thun combines an alpine backdrop with Mediterranean flair. Castles, small villages and gentle shores give it an elegant, almost romantic atmosphere. Especially in the evening, when the sun disappears behind the mountains, it unfolds its full magic.
Those who prefer something smaller and more fairy-tale-like will love Lake Blausee. Its deep blue, crystal-clear water lies quietly between forest and rocks and has an almost mystical effect – a place that seems more like something out of a picture book than reality.
High up in the mountains, finally, lies Lake Bachalpsee. On windless days, the peaks of the Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau are reflected in the water – a sight that is particularly unforgettable in the morning light.
There are many hikes in the Bernese Oberland that are also suitable for beginners – with moderate altitude differences, clear paths and magnificent views.
The panoramic trail from Männlichen to Kleine Scheidegg is particularly popular. The route is wide, well signposted and technically easy, while the view of the Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau accompanies you throughout. The mountain railway saves you the strenuous climb and still allows you to enjoy the authentic high alpine feeling.
The trail to Bachalpsee above Grindelwald is also very relaxing. From the First, a well-maintained hiking trail leads to one of the most beautiful photo spots in the region in about an hour. The route is manageable and ideal if you want to experience the alpine landscape without planning a long tour. There are also easy trails around Lake Oeschinen near Kandersteg. The lakeside trail is particularly suitable for beginners and offers constantly changing views of the turquoise blue water and the surrounding rock faces.
If you prefer an even shorter route, there is a leisurely circular trail through a small nature park at Blausee. The route takes less than an hour and is perfect for a relaxed walk. Another easy option is the Aare Gorge near Meiringen: you can hike through the narrow gorge along the river on safe footbridges – spectacular, but without much effort.
