Spending your holidays close to water, with a view of white mountain peaks and exciting excursion destinations close by. All close to the picturesque old town of Thun as well as the bustling town of Interlaken: this is Merligen. Here you will find the perfect combination of water and mountains. Nature's moods will enchant you whatever the season.
Mediterranean flair in the Bernese Oberland
Right on the water with a breathtaking mountain panorama
The perfect place for an enjoyable holiday close to water
Your destination for water lovers and bons vivants
Zwischen Interlaken und Thun gelegen
You will suddenly ask yourself if you are still in the Bernese Oberland? Of course you are – Merligen has an enchanting position, embedded in a spacious bay on Lake Thun and will captivate you with its Mediterranean charm. Let your gaze sweep across Lake Thun and feel the power of the impressive panorama with the pyramid-shaped Niesen. Breathe in the mild air and feel its effects as you realise you've arrived; Merligen – a holiday destination you're going to love. The quiet village lies on the shores of Lake Thun, at the end of the Justistal valley and on the southern slope of the Niederhorn. It is this combination that gives the holiday destination a Mediterranean climate all year round.
Once you have arrived in Merligen, you can choose from a wide range of holiday activities. Treat yourself to a trip on one of the ships on Lake Thun. You will pass by magnificent castles, churches, villages and landscape. Before you dock in Merligen, you will see the village's landmark: the church on a rocky promontory in the centre of the village. The fresh lake air, the unforgettable mountain panorama, the many water sport opportunities, walking trails and excursions into the untamed picturesque Justistal valley or to the Niederhorn guarantee you the perfect holiday.
If you are standing on the shores of Lake Thun and see a ship in the distance, then take a closer look. Could it be the historical steamship Blüemlisalp? The more than 100-year-old paddle wheel steamer powerfully travels by and just for a moment conjures up an image of the past on the lake. Now we all know why Merligen is called the Lake Thun riviera.
Whether at Merligen’s lido with its heated swimming pool and raft on the lake, directly on the lake shore in a secluded bay or at one of the diving spots: as a water lover you are going to be happy here! Diving, water skiing, wake boarding, wind surfing, swimming or simply sunbathing. What more could you ask for?
The world-famous Camino de Santiago also takes pilgrims through Merligen. Why not walk in their footsteps for a few kilometres or choose a hiking trail that suits you from the extensive range available? You will be rewarded with impressive panoramic views and natural impressions. A trip to the Niederhorn, where you will once more be able to enjoy the unique view of the mountain summits with the legendary Three Peaks, is unforgettable. From the summit, race down to the valley on a scooter. That is something you, your friends and family won't forget for a long time. You’ll be tingling all over and holding your breath as you walk over the panorama bridge in Sigriswil. It is part of the panoramic circular route round Lake Thun and offers you not only an unforgettable view over the lake to the Stockhorn range on the other side, but also a thrill. In terms of activities out of the water, try out one of the many cycle or mountain bike routes around the lake or to the mountains close by.
Did you know that they used to mine marble in Merligen? Today, you can still see marble from Merligen in the church in Thun. You can investigate the marble quarry “Fuchseren” by taking the special trail that leads there. Here you will discover the history of marble from Merligen. In these summer temperatures, it is always a good idea to cool off in the lake. Cool off even more by visiting the St. Beatus Caves nearby. Go right down into the depths of the grotto, investigate the interlaced pathways through the cave, smell the cave air and be amazed at the curious rock formations.
The nearby Justistal valley has a particular attraction in September with the tradition of the “Chästeilet” (cheese dividing), which dates back more than 300 years. The valley is an insiders’ tip all year round for lovers of original, unspoilt nature. In the spring, you really are in the middle of it all as the abundant flora and fauna awake. In the summer, you are tempted to walk across the mountain meadows. In autumn, enjoy the fascinating experience of watching wild game. The pulse of every nature lover will beat faster in winter on a snowshoe tour or while indulging in some cross-country skiing.
Have you fallen in love with the village of Merligen with its Mediterranean flair? Then it is time to sit back and treat yourself to some culinary delights. In the summer, cafés and lounges on the shore of the lake are the perfect place for an aperitif. Traditional restaurants and hotels serve the finest fish dishes for lunch and dinner on their patios or in their gardens. As the sun sets, enjoy a fine drink and savour the realisation that you will be coming back here.
Receive authentic and personal impressions from the locals of the right shore of Lake Thun. Learn from people of different generations about growing up and living in the region and marvel at the view of Lake Thun and its surrounding world of mountains as well as the pristine nature that are waiting for you.
Merligen has just the right accommodation for you, offering everything from simple to luxurious. All holiday accommodation is on the southern slope, ready for you to enjoy a holiday in the sun with a fantastic lake or mountain view. Together with your family, alone, as a couple or with friends: holiday homes and apartments give you independence, you can pamper yourself in a luxurious starred hotel or you can stay in simple pilgrim accommodation and find yourself.
Discover Merligen:
Merligen Tourismus
Seestrasse 294
3658 Merligen
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