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Walking holidays in Bernese Oberland

The Bernese Oberland is a true Swiss masterpiece, where towering peaks, crystal-clear lakes, and charming mountain villages combine to create a stunning landscape. Whether you’re standing in the shadow of the Eiger or cruising along the shores of Lake Thun, every corner of this region seems designed for the perfect snapshot. For those who love adventure, the Bernese Oberland offers plenty of opportunities, from hiking the 500km of trails to experiencing jaw-dropping views from the highest railway station in Europe.

Take the Jungfrau Railway to reach Jungfraujoch, the “Top of Europe,” where you can stand at 3,454 metres above sea level and look out over glaciers and alpine landscapes. Or, if you’re after a more leisurely pace, explore the idyllic towns and villages like Wengen and Mürren, with their pretty streets and panoramic views.

Main image copyright: Switzerland Tourism Sylvia Michel

Beyond walking, the Bernese Oberland offers a wealth of activities that make the most of its stunning landscape. Hop on a boat for a tranquil cruise across Lake Thun, or for an adrenaline rush, try paragliding and soar above the valleys with breathtaking views. Don’t miss the chance to visit the revolving restaurant at Piz Gloria, perched high above the mountains where you can savour a delicious meal while gazing at 360-degree panoramas. For a truly unique experience, take a trip to Jungfraujoch, where you can explore the Ice Palace and walk through a spectacular world of ice sculptures.

The Swiss transport system is renowned for its punctuality and efficiency, and it shines particularly in the Bernese Oberland. Whether you're taking the Glacier Express or the iconic Jungfrau Railway, the scenic train journeys are as spectacular as the destinations themselves. Travel through lush valleys, past crystal-clear lakes, and up to mountain passes where the views are out of this world. These journeys offer an unforgettable way to experience the region’s diverse landscapes, making every trip an adventure in itself.

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Grindelwald Jungfraujoch Ice Palace

Swiss engineering is as good as rumour has it, with trains and cable cars allowing wanderers to easily explore car-free. One of the most famous train journeys include the track that runs all the way up to the Jungfraujoch – not only the highest railway station in Europe but the Jungfrau-Aletsch area is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site – a must-see for all visitors making it the ultimate rail journey through the Eiger and up to 3,454 metres, for breath-taking views including the 14km-long Aletsch glacier and the Ice Palace. 

Pre-book your Jungfraujoch ticket

As well as the incredible views, there's a lot to do at the Jungfraujoch - Top of Europe. Head in to the Ice Palace to see the fascinating glacier from within and some impressive ice sculptures, try some Lindt chocolate in the highest Lindt shop in the world, or head out onto the snow fun park (snow activities payable locally).

This ticket includes travel from your resort - if you've pre-booked a Travel Pass some of your journey may be covered by it so we recommend checking the validity as it may be best to buy the Jungfraujoch supplement locally.

Pre-booked tickets are available from Interlaken, Wilderswil, Grindelwald and Wengen. Tickets are bookable locally from Mürren.

Prices include Swiss Half Fare Card discount.

We act at all times as a selling agent for the suppliers. All excursions require minimum numbers to run and are subject to change. Some excursions may not be available to pre-book in low season but may be available to book locally subject to numbers. Prices will be confirmed at the time of booking. Please see our terms & conditions.

Image: (Copyright: Jungfraubahnen)

To The Schilthorn Mountain

A trip up the spectacular Schilthorn peak above Mürren, famous for being the set of the James Bond film ‘On Her Majesty’s Secret Service’. Visit the museum and enjoy the fantastic views of the surrounding snow-clad peaks. If you have a good head for heights, the 'Thrill Walk' at Birg is an exhilarating metal walkway that clings to the mountain edge, providing an exciting walk and some unbeatable photo opportunities.

Pre-book your Schilthorn ticket

This ticket includes travel from your resort - if you have a Travel Pass some or all of your journey may be covered by it so we recommend checking the validity as it may be best to buy the Schilthorn supplement locally if required.

Prices include Swiss Half Fare Card discount.

We act at all times as a selling agent for the suppliers. All excursions require minimum numbers to run and are subject to change. Some excursions may not be available to pre-book in low season but may be available to book locally subject to numbers. Prices will be confirmed at the time of booking. Please see our terms & conditions.

Image: (Copyright: BENEDETTA BARBANTI)

Interlaken Ship On Lake Brienz

One of the best places to relax around Interlaken is undoubtedly aboard one of the cruises - book a culinary cruise for an extra special treat, and gaze at the view while you enjoy lunch on board. The shores of Lake Thun, with castles, vineyards, and the St. Beatus caves invite you to hop off and explore along your route.

On Lake Brienz, take a boat to the impressive Giessbach waterfalls, or all the way to Brienz, at the opposite end of the lake to Bönigen. Here you'll find the Brienzer Rothorn steam train which takes you high into the mountains, for - you guessed it - more incredible views.

Pre-book your cruise on Lake Thun or Lake Brienz

Spend a day cruising with this ticket, valid for one day on your choice of either of the lakes, Thun, or Brienz. Upgrade to 1st class for seats on the top deck!

Prices include Swiss Half Fare Card discount.

We act at all times as a selling agent for the suppliers. All excursions require minimum numbers to run and are subject to change. Some excursions may not be available to pre-book in low season but may be available to book locally subject to numbers. Prices will be confirmed at the time of booking. Please see our terms & conditions.

Image: (Copyright: Switzerland Tourism)

Take the charming cogwheel railway up to Schynige Platte at 2,000 metres and visit the wonderful Alpine garden with some 600 different Swiss alpine plants including Edelweiss and Enzian.

You'll need plenty of time to admire the view from the top of the Schynige Platte. In one direction, the peaks of the Jungfrau, Mönch, and Eiger dominate the skyline, and in another, the bright blue waters of Lake Thun and Lake Brienz glisten in the sun. It's the starting point for many great walks, or if you're keen on a more relaxing visit, enjoy lunch in the panorama restaurant and a live Alphorn concert (daily between 11am - 2pm by the railway station). Children will love the playground and treasure hunt. 

Pre-book your Schynige Platte ticket

Ticket will include travel from your resort to Wilderswil and return travel on the cogwheel railway up to Schynige Platte.

Pre-booked tickets are available from Interlaken, Wilderswil and Wengen. Tickets are bookable locally from Grindelwald and Mürren.

Prices include Swiss Half Fare Card discount.

We act at all times as a selling agent for the suppliers. All excursions require minimum numbers to run and are subject to change. Some excursions may not be available to pre-book in low season but may be available to book locally subject to numbers. Prices will be confirmed at the time of booking. Please see our terms & conditions.

Harder Kulm viewing platform

A 15-minute funicular from Interlaken to the spectacular Harder Kulm viewing platform - a sight not to be missed - look down on Interlaken, Lake Thun and Lake Brienz.

Pre-book your Harder Kulm ticket

Pre-booked tickets are available from Interlaken and Wilderswil.

Prices include Swiss Half Fare Card discount.

We act at all times as a selling agent for the suppliers. All excursions require minimum numbers to run and are subject to change. Some excursions may not be available to pre-book in low season but may be available to book locally subject to numbers. Prices will be confirmed at the time of booking. Please see our terms & conditions.

Kandersteg Oeschinensee

Prepare for jaw-dropping beauty! With its crystal-clear turquoise waters and the mountains in the background, Lake Oeschinen is one of the most beautiful lakes in the Alps and makes for some amazing photos! Hire a rowing boat and drift lazily from the shore, linger lakeside for something to eat in one of the restaurants or huts, or try the 750 metre toboggan run with a drop of 150 metres! There's some beautiful walking up here too - take one of the higher trails towards Unterbergli or Oberbergli mountain huts to enjoy spectacular views of the lake from above.

Image: (Copyright: Switzerland Tourism)

Hidden in the forest near Kanderstag is the the deep blue lake of Blausee was formed by a huge rockfall 15,000 years ago and is now part of Blausee Nature Park, where you can switch off and enjoy some time in nature. Take a peaceful wander around the lake and woodland paths, or head out onto the water on a glass-bottomed rowing boat. There's a gourmet restaurant for refreshments and a play area for the kids, too.

Zoom down the incredible 750-metre-long mountain coaster at the Oeschinen mountain station and create unforgettable memories. Children aged three to eight can brave the ride accompanied by an adult, and older children can take it on themselves, but who will go the fastest?