Lake Thun, framed by the Bernese Alps and traversed by the Aare, offers a unique interplay of scenic beauty, historical heritage and modern hospitality. Here the alpenglow is mirrored in deep blue water, medieval castles watch over charming lakeside villages, and hiking trails lead to views that take your breath away. Whether you want to enjoy the stillness of the water, discover cultural treasures or exert yourself athletically — wellness on Lake Thun invites you to explore every facet.
Special places on the lake:
- Thun: the “gateway town to the Alps” combines a lively old town with a maritime atmosphere. Highlights are the historic upper lock and the Mühleplatz, a place for cafés and market stalls right by the water.
- Oberhofen: besides its world-famous castle, Oberhofen offers a museum of 19th-century domestic culture and quiet bathing spots.
- Merligen: often called the “garden of Lake Thun”, this place offers not only spa hotels but also access to quiet hiking trails such as the Strättligtal.
- Spiez: the bay of Spiez, surrounded by vineyards, counts as one of the most picturesque spots in the region. Local winegrowers offer tours and tastings.
Sights and activities on Lake Thun
The region around Lake Thun is rich in history, reflected in magnificent castles and historic sites.
- Thun Castle: for more than 800 years this castle has shaped the skyline of the town. The museum shows, among other things, suits of armour and artefacts from the Middle Ages.
- Oberhofen Castle: with its orientally inspired rooms and its park by the lake it is an example of the union of western and eastern 19th-century architecture.
- The St. Beatus caves: these dripstone caves are not only a geological wonder but also part of a local legend: Saint Beatus is said to have defeated a dragon here.
Local events such as the Thunerseespiele festival — open-air theatre with a view of the lake — round off the cultural offering.
Outdoors: hiking, sailing and more
Lake Thun is a stage for experiences of nature that leaves no wish unfulfilled. Hikers, water-sports enthusiasts and nature lovers find a paradise here that suits quiet time out just as well as adventurous excursions.
Hikes and experiences of nature
- The Lake Thun panorama circular trail: the 56-kilometre panorama circular trail is a true highlight for hikers. In five stages the route leads once around the lake and offers spectacular views along the way, for instance from the Sigriswil panorama bridge, which hovers high above a gorge. Particularly impressive is the stretch from Merligen to Sigriswil, which leads through dense forests and past lush meadows with the Stockhorn always in view. Along the way traditional inns invite you to a break with regional specialities.
- The Niesen trek: the Niesen, called the “Swiss pyramid”, is a landmark of Lake Thun. For hikers the ascent of the 2,362-metre summit is a challenge rewarded with a breathtaking view: on clear days the view from the top reaches to the Jura and the French Alps. Alternatively the historic Niesen funicular offers a comfortable way to reach the summit. At the top a charming mountain house with regional cuisine awaits visitors.
- The Weissenau nature reserve: this quiet protected area near Neuhaus is ideal for walks and birdwatching. A wooden walkway leads through dense reed zones right to the shore of the lake. Here nature lovers can observe rare water birds such as the great crested grebe and the long-tailed duck in their natural surroundings.
Water sports
- Sailing: Lake Thun is a dream for sailors. Regular winds make it one of the best inland waters in Switzerland. The sailing schools in Spiez and Hilterfingen offer courses that appeal to everyone from beginners to experienced regatta sailors. A special highlight are the annual Lake Thun regattas, in which local and international teams contest exciting races.
- Diving: underwater Lake Thun reveals an equally fascinating picture. With visibility of up to 25 metres, divers can explore sunken jetties, rock formations and even old pieces of wreckage. Popular dive spots are near Oberhofen and Neuhaus.
- Stand-up paddling and kayaking: for those who want to enjoy the water more quietly there are numerous rental stations for SUP boards and kayaks along the shore. Paddling at sunrise, when the first rays make the surface of the water glitter, is an unforgettable experience.
Cuisine and regional pleasures
The cooking around Lake Thun is as varied as the landscape itself: from traditional dishes of the Alpine region to the light influences of the Mediterranean climate.
- Fish specialities: the whitefish and perch from Lake Thun are a must for gourmets. In the lakeside restaurants of Thun and Spiez they are served sometimes refined with herbs and citrus notes, sometimes classically with potatoes and vegetables — loveliest of all with a view of the water.
- Wine: the vineyards of Spiez are among the northernmost growing areas in Europe and benefit from a unique microclimate. Fruity white wines such as Chasselas and elegant reds such as Pinot Noir are made here. Many winegrowers offer tours and tastings, often with a spectacular view of the lake.
- Regional specialities: the Emmental, only a short drive from Lake Thun, supplies the famous Emmental cheese. Combined with home-made bread it is frequently served in the region's restaurants as a snack or in traditional dishes such as cheese fondue.
- Chocolate: a visit to one of the local confectioners is a must. From hand-made pralines to innovative creations with Alpine herbs — Bernese chocolate craft is world famous.
Spa hotels and hospitality on Lake Thun
Accommodation around Lake Thun ranges from the rustic guesthouse to the luxurious spa hotel. Many of the wellness houses lie on the sunny eastern shore around Merligen, the “garden of Lake Thun” — with the lake in the foreground and the Bernese Alps as a backdrop.
- Spa with a lake view: the exclusive houses on the shore rely on infinity pools above the water, alpine brine baths and herbal massages — recreation with a panoramic view of lake and mountains.
- Historic boutique houses: in the lakeside villages, tradition-rich hotels combine Belle Époque architecture with modern comfort; the most sought-after rooms look directly onto the lake.
- Sustainable hosts: many smaller hotels and guesthouses rely on solar energy, regional supply chains and reusables instead of plastic.
Lake Thun belongs to the varied wellness region of Bern and the Bernese Oberland — which reaches from the UNESCO World Heritage capital via the pre-Alpine lakes to the summits of Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau; there you will also find swimming in the Aare, the sulphur healing bath of Lenk and the premium addresses around Gstaad. Whoever is specifically looking for wellness by the water can browse our topic special wellness by the lake.
Practical tips and travel season: everything you need to know
Lake Thun is not only a paradise for lovers of nature and culture but also an excellently connected destination. Whether you arrive by public transport, by car or by boat — the region is perfectly linked. Here you will find everything you need for planning your trip.
The best travel season: when is Lake Thun at its loveliest?
- Spring (March to May): spring is ideal for everyone who wants to experience nature awakening. The hiking trails are less busy and the blossom in the gardens, such as the castle garden of Oberhofen, is impressive. The water temperatures are still cool, but the clear days offer the best view of the surrounding mountains.
- Summer (June to August): the summer months are the high season on Lake Thun. Swimming, sailing, hiking — all outdoor activities are possible. Particularly agreeable are the mild evenings by the lake, often accompanied by live music in the local restaurants. Summer is also the perfect time for festivals such as the Spiez lake night festival.
- Autumn (September to October): in autumn the vineyards and forests around the lake turn into a sea of gold and red. Temperatures are mild, and the clear light of autumn makes this period ideal for photographers and connoisseurs. Hikers benefit from quieter trails, while wine lovers can witness the grape harvest in Spiez.
- Winter (November to February): the region has its appeal in winter too. Lake Thun is then a place of calm, ideal for a stay in a spa hotel. The nearby ski areas of the Bernese Oberland, such as Adelboden or Grindelwald, are easily reachable by train or car. Christmas markets in Thun and Spiez provide a festive mood.
Getting there: how to reach Lake Thun comfortably
- By train: Swiss railways are known worldwide for their punctuality and reliability, and the region around Lake Thun is no exception. From Bern you reach Thun in only 20 minutes. Direct trains also connect Thun with Zurich, Basel and Geneva, while Interlaken is served by international trains from Germany and Italy.
- By car: the A6 motorway leads directly to Thun, from where smaller roads open up the surrounding villages and sights. Parking is available in sufficient quantity in the towns and at popular destinations such as Spiez or Oberhofen castles. For visitors who want to move flexibly around the region, a hire car is recommended.
- By boat: perhaps the most romantic way to link the places around the lake is a boat trip. Historic steamers such as the “Blüemlisalp” run regularly between Thun and Interlaken and offer a unique perspective on the landscape. Particularly appealing are themed trips, such as a brunch on the water or evening trips with live music.
Local tips: getting the most out of your trip to Lake Thun
- For swimmers and water-sports enthusiasts: the lake is calmest in the morning — perfect for plunging into the clear waters of Lake Thun or enjoying a round of stand-up paddling. The shore areas at Neuhaus and Oberhofen are particularly popular with locals.
- The Bernese Oberland Regional Pass: this pass is a tip for travellers who want to explore the region intensively. It offers unlimited access to trains, buses and many cable cars in the Bernese Oberland. Attractions such as the Jungfraujoch or the Schynige Platte can be reached with it without complication.
- Guided tours: many local providers organise special tours — from walks through the vineyards of Spiez to cultural tours illuminating the history of the region's castles and fortresses.
- Packing tips: even in summer the evenings on Lake Thun can turn cool. A light jacket and comfortable walking shoes are indispensable. For spring and autumn rainwear and layers for changeable weather should be planned in too.