Switzerland may be geographically small, but it is mammoth in many other proportions, especially in terms of all that it offers. The country’s beguiling charm, pristine beauty, quaint medieval villages, and a heady dose of alpine air are enough to attract even the most resisting of travellers. Capturing this very beauty of Switzerland is Lake Thun with its emerald waters, set against a backdrop of silhouettes of the Bernese Alps, proudly showcasing themselves amidst the lake’s typically Swiss environs. It is just about the most magical destination to spend time, losing oneself in the allure of the bucolic setting and frame-worthy views. We’ve put together a guide to Lake Thun, Switzerland that you can use to make yours a wholly amazing day there.
Things to do / Highlights
Hike the Panorama Trail and stroll the lake's shores
Approximately 56 km (35 mi) long, the Panorama Trail is among the easiest and perhaps one of the prettiest hikes around Lake Thun. Six suspension bridges cross foaming streams and deep ravines, offering some breathtaking views that you can stop to admire as much as you like. The lake is surrounded by a wealth of greenery and scintillating views, so hikes and strolls here are rewarding. Plus, you can stop and spend extra time at certain spots. You can also stroll along the lake’s shores, as there’s a paved walkway that you can use.
Take a Lake Thun boat cruise
Cruise the lake and see forested hills and impressive castles from the water - this is another worthy activity you can go for. The boat tour that attracts the most tourists is the one from Thun to Interlaken, which passes through Spiez, St. Beatus Caves, and other spots. This is about two hours long and you can even hop off at one of the spots midway. The sunset boat cruise on Lake Thun is also amongst the top-rated activities here. Invest in a Swiss Travel Pass and you can enjoy unlimited boat rides, among other perks like train journeys and museum admissions. These are available anywhere from 240 to 830 US dollars, depending on the number of days and whether you go first or second class.
Enjoy water activities
Lake Thun’s waters are great for water sports, hence its popularity amongst windsurfers, sailors, and stand-up paddlers. If you’d like to know season-wise, spring’s best for canoeing, autumn for stand-up paddleboarding, and winter for kayaking. Water skiing, surf ski paddling, and wakeboarding are a few other activities you can enjoy.
Catch the sunrise
Rise early and catch sight of the beautiful sunrise over Lake Thun - you will be awestruck by the scenic landscape. There are plenty of Instagram-worthy shots to take here, so keep your cameras ready.
What to eat
Restaurant Hecht
Set in an entirely casual style, Restaurant Hecht offers some brilliant views of the lake along with delicious food. It specializes in Swiss and European cuisines and is known for seafood specialities. The nüsslisalat (Swiss green salad) with roasted chanterelles and grilled baby perch with boiled potatoes are worth the try.
Restaurant & Strandhotel Seeblick
This is another place where you can enjoy superb food and gorgeous views. Their wiener schnitzel and fish and chips are among the most popular. For dessert, you can try their excellent sachertorte (chocolate cake) or apple strudel with vanilla sauce. Do note that the restaurant does not permit sharing of plates so you can request for a smaller or larger portion of your chosen dish.
Pier 17
This one place is located adjacent to Oberhofen Castle and offers some of the most fantastic views of the lake. They even have a small playground to keep the little ones busy while you enjoy the food as well as the views. Pier 17’s pulled pork bagel and the hazelnut tart are among the favourites.
Travellers tips
Check the weather
Since this is an entirely outdoor activity, good weather is essential. Sunny weather is considered best for boating, but it still might be manageable even if it’s cloudy or drizzling. However, you can count out hiking in case of the latter.
Wear warm clothes
It’s advisable to carry along or wear warm clothes since it can get slightly chilly at the lake.
Carry light snacks
You won’t find any shops or cafes on the lake itself, all are some distance away. So, it’s best you pack a bite to eat lest you get peckish while hiking or exploring the shores. Don’t forget to bring water as well.
How to get there
Get a PanoramaCard or the Swiss Travel Pass
These will allow you to enjoy free public transportation in Thun and even some of the neighbouring places such as Spiez and Interlaken. PanoramaCards also make you eligible for discounts on certain lake cruises and other tours. Those staying in Thun for at least a night can get a PanoramaCard for free - hotels and other commercial accommodations make it available to guests. Else, the Swiss Travel Pass is also a sweet deal for free public transport (bus, train, and boat).
Train
If you’re not staying in Thun, you can take the Lake Thun railway line.
Car
Driving down is always an option. You’ll find a metered parking lot near the train station.
Lake Thun information
Lake Thun
Address: Bernese Oberland, Thun 3600, Switzerland
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Official website: Lake Thun
Department of tourism: Switzerland Tourism
Interlaken: Boat Day Pass on Lake Thun and Lake Brienz
History
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