Adventure in !

Lake Thun (Thunersee)

Why Visit?

Embark on an exhilarating adventure around the stunning Lake Thun, nestled in the picturesque Bernese Oberland region of Switzerland. This azure expanse is not just a feast for the eyes but a playground for thrill-seekers.

Day 1: Arrive in Thun

Start your journey in the charming town of Thun, easily accessible by train from Bern in just 30 minutes. Rent a bike upon arrival and pedal around the lake’s north shore. Make your first stop at Schadau Park to marvel at the Schadau Castle and its breathtaking views of the Alps. Take a dive into the lake from one of the public swimming spots or opt for a stand-up paddleboarding session to gently explore the serene waters.

Day 2: Hiking and Historical Exploration

Head to the historic town of Spiez, a short 10-minute train ride from Thun. Explore the medieval Spiez Castle and its vineyards before hiking the vineyard trail which offers stunning lake views. For adrenaline junkies, paragliding over the lake provides an unparalleled vista of the surrounding mountains and crystalline waters.

Day 3: Sail and Explore Oberhofen

Catch a boat from Spiez to Oberhofen. This scenic 20-minute journey will allow you to appreciate the lake from a different perspective. In Oberhofen, visit the picturesque Oberhofen Castle, jutting out into the lake, and its exotic gardens. The adventure continues with a kayak trip around the castle, weaving through areas unreachable by larger boats.

Day 4: Niesen Mountain - The Swiss Pyramid

Conclude your visit with a funicular ride up the Niesen Mountain for a panoramic view of the entire Lake Thun. Known as the Swiss Pyramid due to its shape, the mountain offers numerous hiking trails that cater to different fitness levels.

Each step of this adventure around Lake Thun combines natural beauty with heart-pounding excitement, providing an unforgettable Swiss experience.

Adventure Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to adventure travelers.

Kleine Scheidegg

Why Visit?

Embark on a thrilling Alpine adventure at Kleine Scheidegg, a breathtaking mountain pass nestled at the foot of the iconic Eiger North Face in the Swiss Alps. This high-altitude hotspot serves as the perfect basecamp for adventure enthusiasts, offering jaw-dropping vistas and heart-pumping activities.

Getting There

Start your journey to Kleine Scheidegg from Interlaken, a picturesque town accessible by train from major Swiss cities like Zurich and Geneva. From Interlaken, take the Bernese Oberland Railway to Lauterbrunnen or Grindelwald. Here, transfer to the Wengernalp railway, a charming cogwheel train that winds through stunning Alpine scenery, reaching Kleine Scheidegg in about an hour.

Day 1: Hiking the Eiger Trail

Kick off your adventure with the famous Eiger Trail. Accessible from Kleine Scheidegg, this trail offers a moderate trek with awe-inspiring views of the Eiger’s notorious North Face. Start early to witness the sunrise illuminating the imposing peaks. The trail ends at Alpiglen, where you can catch a train back to Kleine Scheidegg.

Day 2: Jungfraujoch – Top of Europe

On your second day, take the Jungfrau Railway, the highest railway in Europe, from Kleine Scheidegg to Jungfraujoch. This engineering marvel tunnels through the Eiger and Mönch mountains, culminating at a staggering elevation of 3,454 meters. Explore the Ice Palace, walk the Sphinx Observatory deck, and soak in the panoramic views of the Aletsch Glacier.

Interesting Fact

Kleine Scheidegg is not just a haven for hikers; it"s steeped in mountaineering lore. The 1938 North Face ascent of the Eiger, starting from this very locale, remains one of the most legendary feats in climbing history.

Whether you’re tracing the steps of pioneering climbers or simply soaking in the Alpine splendor, Kleine Scheidegg offers an unforgettable adventure in the heart of the Swiss Alps.

Adventure Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to adventure travelers.

Einstein House (Einsteinhaus)

Why Visit?

Embark on a day filled with intellectual stimulation and vibrant city exploration in Bern, Switzerland, home to the fascinating Einstein House (Einsteinhaus). Situated in the heart of Bern"s picturesque Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, this humble second-floor apartment at Kramgasse No. 49 was where Albert Einstein lived from 1903 to 1905 and developed his Theory of Relativity.

Starting your adventure: Begin your day with an energizing breakfast at one of Bern"s cozy cafes near Zytglogge, the medieval clock tower. From here, weave through the cobbled streets, soaking in the medieval architecture until you reach the Einstein House. It"s a short, scenic 10-minute walk.

Visiting Einstein House: Open from 10 AM to 5 PM, the house has been preserved to reflect its early 20th-century condition, offering a glimpse into Einstein’s personal and professional life during his years in Bern. The highlight is a series of original documents and a film that introduces his groundbreaking theories in a digestible format for non-physicists.

Interactive and Insightful: After touring his home, engage further with Einstein’s genius by heading to the Historical Museum of Bern, just a 15-minute walk away. The museum features an Einstein Museum section that delves deeper into his scientific contributions and their impact on modern science.

Stretch your legs: Post-museum, grab a light lunch and then bike or stroll along the River Aare. The route offers stunning views of the city and is a perfect way to reflect on the day’s intellectual journey.

Dinner and Reflection: Conclude your day with dinner at one of the traditional Swiss restaurants in Old Town, reflecting on the profound impact Einstein had on our understanding of the universe. Bern’s blend of history, culture, and science makes it a unique backdrop for adventure lovers and intellectual explorers alike.

Adventure Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to adventure travelers.

Bern Cathedral (Bern Minster)

Why Visit?

Embark on a spirited adventure through the historic heart of Bern with a visit to the awe-inspiring Bern Cathedral, the tallest cathedral in Switzerland. Your journey begins as you step into the medieval Old Town of Bern, a UNESCO World Heritage site, with its charming cobblestone streets and unique covered arcades.

Getting There

Bern is well-connected by train from major Swiss cities like Zurich, Geneva, and Lucerne. From Bern station, the cathedral is just a 10-minute walk. Stroll along the Spitalgasse, turn onto the enchanting Kramgasse with its famous Zytglogge (Clock Tower), and proceed straight until you reach Münsterplatz.

Bern Cathedral (Bern Minster)

Begin your exploration at the Bern Minster, a magnificent example of Late Gothic architecture. Construction began in 1421, and the cathedral stands as a testament to the city"s rich history. Don’t miss the intricate Last Judgment sculpture over the main portal, depicting over 200 figures.

Climb the Tower

For those craving a physical challenge, ascend the 344 steps to the top of the cathedral’s spire. At 100 meters, it offers a breathtaking panorama of the Aare River looping around the city, the distant Alps, and the rooftops of Old Bern. The climb is steep and narrow but rewards adventurers with one of the best views in the city.

Explore the Surroundings

After descending, explore the surrounding area with a visit to the enchanting Rose Garden for a different perspective of the cathedral and a tranquil spot to reflect on your visit. Alternatively, kayak along the Aare River for an exhilarating end to your adventurous day.

Interesting Fact

The cathedral’s spire, completed only in 1893 due to funding problems, is a reminder of Bern’s slow but steady historical growth, reflecting its role as the de facto capital of Switzerland.

This blend of architectural marvel, panoramic views, and physical activity makes Bern Cathedral a must-visit for adventure lovers exploring Bern.

Adventure Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to adventure travelers.

Thun Castle (Schloss Thun)

Why Visit?

Adventure awaits in the historic heart of Switzerland, where the majestic Thun Castle (Schloss Thun) stands as a sentinel over the charming town of Thun, just a 30-minute train ride from the capital, Bern. Embark on this exhilarating day trip that combines medieval history with stunning Alpine scenery.

Morning: Arrival and Ascent to Thun Castle

Start your day early by catching a direct train from Bern to Thun, a picturesque journey along the Aare River. Upon arrival, navigate through the quaint cobblestone streets of the town center to reach the castle, perched on a hill offering panoramic views of the town and the Bernese Alps. Built in the 12th century, Thun Castle"s towering spires and robust fortifications are a striking example of medieval Zähringen architecture.

Castle Tour and Tower Challenge

Enter the castle to explore the historical museum housed within. The museum"s collection spans from the Roman era through the 19th century, highlighting the region"s rich history. Adventure seekers will be drawn to the Knights Hall, one of the best-preserved representations of secular Gothic architecture in Switzerland. The real challenge, however, lies in conquering the castle"s towers. Climb the steep, narrow staircases to the top for a breathtaking view that stretches over Lake Thun and into the mountains. It’s a rewarding workout with a view that is hard to beat!

Afternoon: Lake Thun and Panoramic Hike

Descend from the castle and head towards Lake Thun for a refreshing lunch by the lakeside, enjoying traditional Swiss cuisine at one of the local eateries. Post lunch, take a short bus ride to the nearby mountains for an afternoon hike. The area around Thun is dotted with trails that offer varying levels of difficulty, each promising lush landscapes and stunning vistas.

Evening: Return to Bern

Wrap up your day with a leisurely train ride back to Bern, filled with memories of medieval towers, Alpine views, and the serene beauty of Lake Thun. Make sure to catch a sunset from the train for a perfect end to your adventure-filled day.

Adventure Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to adventure travelers.