LAKE OF THUN
For a perfect “first date” to explore the beauty of the Lake of Thun region, a paddlewheel steamship lake cruise on the “Blümlisalp” ship is a must. It’s a wonderful experience that you’ll want to re-live many times. When planning your trip to the Bernese Oberland, we highly recommend that you purchase a Regional Swiss Travel Pass. The passes give you unlimited travel by Swiss rail, road & waterways, as well as free access to numerous attractions. You can buy the passes at Swiss Railway Stations. Keep in mind that only those of us living outside of Switzerland & Liechtenstein are eligible to purchase them.
Arriving in Thun by train, take a short walk over the Aare River to “Old Town” and just stroll around and enjoy. You’re in for a pleasant surprise. One of the unique features of Thun’s “Old Town” is its picturesque elevated pavements giving you access to great shopping along its cobbled streets. Thun, one of the Zähringer towns of Switzerland, is easily recognized by the medieval castle overlooking the town. Built in the 12th Century, the castle is a great place to visit for adults & kids.
To truly experience and savor the beauty of the Lake of Thun region, you’ll want to set aside a full day for the lake cruise. This way you can get off the ship at ports that interest you without having to rush around fighting the clock. One of the early beautiful spots you’ll see, which for many visitors is one of the highlights of the trip, is the castle at Oberhofen. Built in the early 13th century, it was owned by the Habsburgs- yes, the same Habsburgs that William Tell challenged in Altdorf.
Continuing on your trip you will follow the coastline with a great view over the pyramid-like Niesen mountain, then cross over to Spiez. This cute town is in itself worth a separate visit. Nice beach, good restaurants and a fine Spiezer white wine. Leaving Spiez, you’ll cross the lake again and reach Beatenbucht which will give you access to one of my favorite destinations. Get off the ship and take the funicular to Beatenberg, then from there catch a neat cable car ride to the Niederhorn for a splendid view over the Bernese alps. The view of the famous triumvirate Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau is unforgettable. Once back down from the mountain you can catch the ship again which will take you to Interlaken West and the opportunity to discover more fabulous Bernese Oberland destinations.
Checkout the videos & web sites by clicking on the highlighted links above.
For a perfect “first date” to explore the beauty of the Lake of Thun region, a paddlewheel steamship lake cruise on the “Blümlisalp” ship is a must. It’s a wonderful experience that you’ll want to re-live many times. When planning your trip to the Bernese Oberland, we highly recommend that you purchase a Regional Swiss Travel Pass. The passes give you unlimited travel by Swiss rail, road & waterways, as well as free access to numerous attractions. You can buy the passes at Swiss Railway Stations. Keep in mind that only those of us living outside of Switzerland & Liechtenstein are eligible to purchase them.
Arriving in Thun by train, take a short walk over the Aare River to “Old Town” and just stroll around and enjoy. You’re in for a pleasant surprise. One of the unique features of Thun’s “Old Town” is its picturesque elevated pavements giving you access to great shopping along its cobbled streets. Thun, one of the Zähringer towns of Switzerland, is easily recognized by the medieval castle overlooking the town. Built in the 12th Century, the castle is a great place to visit for adults & kids.
To truly experience and savor the beauty of the Lake of Thun region, you’ll want to set aside a full day for the lake cruise. This way you can get off the ship at ports that interest you without having to rush around fighting the clock. One of the early beautiful spots you’ll see, which for many visitors is one of the highlights of the trip, is the castle at Oberhofen. Built in the early 13th century, it was owned by the Habsburgs- yes, the same Habsburgs that William Tell challenged in Altdorf.
Continuing on your trip you will follow the coastline with a great view over the pyramid-like Niesen mountain, then cross over to Spiez. This cute town is in itself worth a separate visit. Nice beach, good restaurants and a fine Spiezer white wine. Leaving Spiez, you’ll cross the lake again and reach Beatenbucht which will give you access to one of my favorite destinations. Get off the ship and take the funicular to Beatenberg, then from there catch a neat cable car ride to the Niederhorn for a splendid view over the Bernese alps. The view of the famous triumvirate Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau is unforgettable. Once back down from the mountain you can catch the ship again which will take you to Interlaken West and the opportunity to discover more fabulous Bernese Oberland destinations.
Checkout the videos & web sites by clicking on the highlighted links above.