Interlaken
Europe's outdoor adventure capital, a base for adrenaline sports and Alpine scenery between the Jungfrau and Harder Kulm.
Overview
Interlaken sits between two lakes, with snow mountains, lakes and glaciers forming spectacular scenery and making it a paradise for extreme sports.
History
Interlaken lies between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz, its name meaning between the lakes, and has long been a route through the mountains. In the 19th century the aristocracy developed it as a summer resort, particularly popular with British visitors. With the building of the Jungfrau Railway at the end of the 19th century it grew into one of Europe's most important mountain tourism centres. Today it is globally known for skydiving, bungee jumping, paragliding and white-water rafting.
Highlights
- •Skydiving from 4,000 metres with the Jungfrau below
- •The three peaks seen from the summit of Harder Kulm
- •Peaceful cruises on Lake Thun and Lake Brienz
- •Cowbells and alpine cheese culture on the Niederhorn
- •A wide range of adventure sports at a world-renowned centre
Practical tips
- •Jungfrau weather changes quickly, so bring warm clothing
- •A Swiss Travel Pass offers good value
Practical information
- Best time
- June to September
- Tickets
- Skydiving about CHF 350 to 400; bungee jumping about CHF 175
- Opening hours
- Town accessible at all hours; adventure sports depend on weather
- Local food
- Cheese fondue, rösti and chocolate
- Getting around
- Mountain railways and cable cars are extensive; a Swiss Travel Pass is worth buying
- Visa
- Switzerland is in the Schengen area and requires a short-stay Schengen visa, with an itinerary, hotel bookings, travel insurance and proof of funds.
Traveller reviews
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