5 tips for poor weather

As the saying goes, there’s no such thing as bad weather – only the wrong clothes. The Holiday Region Interlaken may get its share of rain, but that doesn’t need to spoil your holiday in the Bernese Oberland. Quite the contrary, in fact: the weather need not stop you getting the most out of your stay in our region. Here we share 5 great tips for wet and cold days.

There are many inviting wellness hotels around Lake Thun, plus an outstanding wellness alternative by Lake Brienz. The village of Brienz offers hotpots in which you and your friends can unwind in bubbling waters. As if that weren’t enough, you can also savour a delicious cheese fondue from the comfort of your jacuzzi.

Then again, why just relax by the lakes when you can even experience unique wellness options on the actual waters of Lake Thun and Lake Brienz. In Därligen, for example, you can board the Sauna Boat to enjoy a full sauna experience on Lake Thun. In Iseltwald and Brienz, you can also glide across Lake Brienz with your loved ones in a floating HotTug – the perfect way to switch off for a few hours.

Boats ply Lake Thun all year round. When you take the two-hour journey from Thun to Interlaken West, you can admire the imposing mountain backdrop and the majestic castles of Lake Thun. For an even better experience, opt for a culinary boat trip: there’s a Breakfast Boat, Lounge Boat, Fajita Boat and even boat trips where dinner is accompanied by a crime drama or musical entertainment. The choice is as wide as it is popular.

This boat trip takes in the five castles of Lake Thun. You start at Thun Castle, which towers regally above the town of the same name. After casting off, you head towards the 19th century Schadau Castle. Minutes later, you will spot the fairytale outlines of Hünegg Castle on the left bank. The romantic Oberhofen Castle, which dates from the 13th century, is the first castle situated by a landing jetty. Crossing to the other side of the lake, you will spot the venerable Spiez Castle from a distance. It is possible to visit all of the castles, which also have museums that promise to transport you back through the centuries.

If you would like to know how former generations of Swiss actually lived, the Ballenberg Open-Air Museum is just right for you. Discover all of Switzerland in one place. Stroll past houses representing all parts of the country, painstakingly recreated here at the open-air museum. Pet the cute farm animals and try out various crafts – including weaving and butter making – for yourself.

Located next to Schadau Castle, the Thun Panorama presents the oldest surviving cyclorama in the world. The 38-metre circular painting by Marquard Wocher depicts Thun as it was in 1814. Take this 200-year journey into the past before admiring the modern-day charms of the town under your own steam, or on a guided tour.