Wheelchair-Friendly Adventures in !

Lake Thun (Thunersee)

Why Visit?

Exploring Lake Thun by Wheelchair: A Day Trip Itinerary

Morning: Arrival and Stroll along the Promenade

Begin your adventure at Thun, easily accessible by train with accessible platforms from major Swiss cities like Bern and Zurich. Upon arrival, head towards the lakefront where you can breathe in the fresh Alpine air along Thun’s wheelchair-friendly promenade. Marvel at the panoramic views of the Bernese Alps reflecting off the serene waters of Lake Thun.

Mid-Morning: Schadau Park and Schloss Schadau

Continue to Schadau Park, just a short roll from the city center. This beautifully manicured park offers wide, paved pathways perfect for wheelchairs and boasts stunning lake views. Visit the fairy-tale Schloss Schadau, which is accessible and offers a restaurant with a spacious terrace overlooking the lake. Don’t miss the chance to indulge in a coffee while enjoying the scenic backdrop.

Lunch: Lakeside Dining

For lunch, choose one of the accessible restaurants along the promenade offering traditional Swiss cuisine. Enjoy dishes like raclette or rosti while soaking up the views.

Afternoon: Boat Cruise on Lake Thun

Post-lunch, board an accessible boat cruise from Thun’s Schiffstation. These boats are equipped with ramps and accessible restrooms. Glide across the lake, disembarking at picturesque spots like Spiez or the medieval town of Oberhofen. Explore Oberhofen Castle’s accessible parts and its stunning gardens.

Late Afternoon: Return to Thun

Return to Thun by boat and enjoy some leisure time around the town, perhaps picking up some local chocolate or handicrafts as souvenirs.

Evening: Sunset by the Lake

Conclude your day by watching the sunset by the lake. The promenade offers the perfect spot for an unforgettable view as the sun dips behind the peaks.

A day by Lake Thun is not just a journey through stunning landscapes, but also an accessible escape into the refreshing tranquility of Swiss nature.

Wheelchair-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to wheelchair-friendly travelers.

Kleine Scheidegg

Why Visit?

Embark on an unforgettable journey to the breathtaking Kleine Scheidegg, nestled in the heart of the Swiss Alps, with this wheelchair-accessible itinerary designed for optimal comfort and awe-inspiring views.

Start Your Adventure

Begin your day at Interlaken, where you can catch the specially equipped Bernese Oberland Railway from the Interlaken Ost station. Enjoy the scenic ride as you ascend through charming villages and lush landscapes. The trains are equipped with wheelchair lifts and designated spaces for wheelchairs, ensuring a comfortable journey to Lauterbrunnen.

Change at Lauterbrunnen

In Lauterbrunnen, switch to the cogwheel train operated by the Wengernalp Railway. This train also accommodates wheelchairs and takes you directly to Kleine Scheidegg. The journey offers panoramic views of the iconic Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau mountains, making every moment picturesque.

Explore Kleine Scheidegg

Arriving at Kleine Scheidegg, located at an elevation of 2,061 meters, you"ll find well-paved paths that allow easy navigation around the area. Visit the quaint eateries and shops. Don’t miss the historic Hotel Bellevue des Alpes, which has been hosting guests since 1840 and offers accessible facilities upon request.

Panoramic Views and Loop Trails

Take advantage of the accessible loop trail that offers stunning views around the station. The trail is smooth and manageable, providing a perfect vantage point to admire the majestic peaks surrounding you.

Dining with a View

Conclude your trip with a meal at the restaurant at Kleine Scheidegg, which offers an accessible dining area. Enjoy authentic Swiss dishes as you gaze out over the landscapes that inspired legends.

Return Journey

When you"re ready, head back down using the same train services, which provide a reliable and comfortable return to Interlaken, marking the end of your spectacular Alpine adventure.

This wheelchair-friendly tour to Kleine Scheidegg not only offers accessibility but also ensures a full experience of the Swiss Alps" grandeur without any hassle.

Wheelchair-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to wheelchair-friendly travelers.

Einstein House (Einsteinhaus)

Why Visit?

Discovering Einstein"s Legacy: A Wheelchair-Friendly Journey Through Einsteinhaus

Morning: Arrival and Exploration at Einsteinhaus

Begin your day in the picturesque city of Bern, where the cobbled streets tell tales of history and innovation. Head to Kramgasse No. 49, the heart of the medieval city center, for your visit to Einsteinhaus. This humble flat on the second floor was once the home of Albert Einstein during his time working at the patent office, from 1903 to 1905. It’s here that he developed the Theory of Relativity!

The building is equipped with a stairlift, ensuring easy access for wheelchair users. Start your tour early to enjoy the serene ambiance before the crowds. Explore the meticulously preserved rooms that have been restored to reflect the period of Einstein’s stay. Each room offers informative displays in multiple languages, making the experience both educational and engaging.

Lunch Break: Café Zeitgeist

For lunch, roll down to Café Zeitgeist, just a few meters from Einsteinhaus. This quaint café offers a wheelchair-accessible entrance and a menu of delicious local and international dishes, perfect for refueling.

Afternoon: Historical Bern and Einstein Museum

Post-lunch, take a leisurely stroll (or roll) through the historic streets of Bern. The city is remarkably wheelchair-friendly, with accessible pathways and marked crossings. Make your way to the Bern Historical Museum, which is about a 15-minute ride on the accessible tram system from the city center. Here, delve deeper into Einstein’s scientific contributions at the Einstein Museum section, an engaging and barrier-free exhibit.

Evening: Reflections by the Aare River

Conclude your day with a soothing visit to the banks of the Aare River. The promenades are wheelchair-accessible, offering breathtaking views of the river and the city — a perfect spot for reflection on the incredible journey through Einstein’s life and legacy in Bern.

Day"s End: Return to Your Hotel

Return to your accommodation using Bern’s accessible public transportation, brimming with new knowledge and beautiful memories from your day exploring Einsteinhaus and beyond.

Wheelchair-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to wheelchair-friendly travelers.

Bern Cathedral (Bern Minster)

Why Visit?

Discover the Majestic Bern Cathedral: A Wheelchair-Friendly Itinerary

Morning: Arrival and First Impressions

Begin your day at Bern Cathedral, located in the heart of Bern"s Old Town, easily accessible by public transport. The best way to reach here is by taking the tram to the "Zytglogge" stop, which is equipped with low-floor trams making it convenient for wheelchair users. From there, the cathedral is just a short, wheel-friendly stroll away through the cobblestone streets, offering a glimpse of the medieval city"s charm.

Mid-Morning: Explore Bern Cathedral

Arrive at Bern Cathedral, the tallest cathedral in Switzerland, standing as a magnificent example of Gothic architecture. The main entrance is wheelchair accessible, and once inside, you"re greeted by the awe-inspiring nave. Though the bell tower climb is not accessible, there"s plenty to admire at ground level, including intricate stained glass windows and the beautifully carved Last Judgement portal.

Lunch: Riverside Refreshments

For lunch, head to the nearby accessible restaurant along the river, where you can enjoy traditional Swiss cuisine with a view. The paths are smooth, and the area is known for its relaxing ambiance and beautiful scenery, perfect for a leisurely meal.

Afternoon: A Stroll by the Aare River

Post-lunch, enjoy a leisurely and accessible promenade along the Aare River. The paths here are well-maintained and flat, suitable for wheelchairs and scooters, offering picturesque views of the river and the historical buildings lining its banks.

Late Afternoon: Reflection and Relaxation

Conclude your day with some quiet time back at the cathedral"s serene courtyard, accessible from the side entrance. It"s a perfect spot to reflect on the day"s sights and sounds.

Departure

The nearby "Zytglogge" tram stop offers frequent returns to various parts of the city, ensuring a smooth and convenient end to your day at the Bern Cathedral.

Visit Bern Cathedral for an accessible and unforgettable experience that seamlessly blends history, culture, and natural beauty.

Wheelchair-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to wheelchair-friendly travelers.

Thun Castle (Schloss Thun)

Why Visit?

Discover the Majestic Schloss Thun: A Wheelchair-Friendly Guide

Morning Arrival

Begin your enchanting day at Thun Castle, a medieval marvel that towers over the picturesque town of Thun. Arrive by taking the accessible bus route from Thun station, a journey that offers scenic views and a smooth ride, making sure to check the SBB (Swiss Federal Railways) website for the latest on accessible transport options.

Once at the castle, which is perched on a hill, utilize the well-maintained wheelchair ramp leading up to the entrance. Tickets can be purchased at the lower gatehouse, which is equipped with an accessible ticket counter.

Exploring Schloss Thun

Constructed in the 12th century, Schloss Thun is a testament to medieval might and architectural ingenuity. The castle"s historical museum is accessible via a modern elevator, ensuring that everyone can explore the artifacts and exhibitions spread across its five floors. Each floor unveils the rich history of the Bernese Oberland, featuring everything from knight"s armor to historical tapestries.

Don’t miss the castle"s grand hall, known as the "Rittersaal," accessible and offering an awe-inspiring glimpse into medieval life. Large windows provide panoramic views of Thun and the sparkling Lake Thun.

Lunch and Leisure

For lunch, head to the castle"s café, which has an accessible dining area. Enjoy traditional Swiss cuisine while soaking in the stunning views of the Alps.

Afternoon Stroll

Post-lunch, take a leisurely stroll around the castle grounds. The pathways are wheelchair-friendly, allowing you to admire the well-preserved architecture and the lush, surrounding landscapes.

Departure

Conclude your tour by heading back to Thun station via the accessible bus service, reflecting on a day steeped in history and beauty. Make sure to check the bus schedules in advance to plan a smooth return.

Schloss Thun stands not just as a monument of the past but as a beacon of accessibility, promising an unforgettable experience for all visitors.

Wheelchair-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to wheelchair-friendly travelers.