Discover Interlaken: A Mountain Retreat in the Bernese Oberland
By the early 19th century, Interlaken in the Bernese Oberland had already established itself as a renowned destination, celebrated for its breathtaking mountain scenery. Esteemed figures such as Johann Wolfgang von Goethe and Felix Mendelssohn traversed these majestic landscapes, captivated by their beauty.
Interlaken’s growth as a premier tourist destination was further bolstered by the completion of the Bernese Oberland Railway in 1890 and the Jungfrau Railway in 1912. Today, it is recognized as an important vacation spot and an international convention center, making it an ideal starting point for a multitude of excursions.
With over 45 mountain railways, cable cars, chair lifts, and ski lifts, visitors have access to an impressive 200 kilometers of ski pistes and a comprehensive network of hiking trails. Excursion ships, including historic paddle steamers, gracefully navigate the waters of Lake Thun and Lake Brienz, offering scenic views and enjoyable experiences.
From the Interlaken Ost railway station, travelers can embark on journeys to the Jungfrau region, heading towards Grindelwald and Lauterbrunnen. Convenient connections are available to the railways leading to Mürren, the Schilthorn, and the Jungfraujoch via Kleine Scheidegg. A fleet of boats, including one historic paddle steamer on each lake, provides delightful cruises on Lakes Thun and Brienz.
Interlaken is also situated along the renowned “Golden Pass” panorama route, which extends from Montreux on Lake Geneva, past the luxurious resort of Gstaad, to Interlaken, and onward across the Brünig Pass to Lucerne.
Just ten kilometers away, on a sunny south-facing slope, lies Beatenberg-Niederhorn, a paradise for paragliders. For hiking enthusiasts, an extensive network of trails offers exploration opportunities, while the Niederhorn serves as a natural habitat for ibexes, chamois, and marmots.
Interlaken truly embodies the allure of the Swiss Alps, inviting both adventurers and leisure seekers to immerse themselves in its stunning landscapes and rich history.