Interlaken, Switzerland: Exploring the Swiss Alps

With snow capped mountains and stunning turquoise lakes, Interlaken sets up a dramatic backdrop. Tucked away at the base of the Swiss Alps, this town is perfectly situated for exploring the rest of the Bernese Oberland Mountains. After traveling to so many congested and overpopulated cities, coming to the Alps is the perfect cure for clearing a busy mind.

Traveling to this destination feels like an absolute dream. It’s hard to even imagine there are places on this earth with such preserved and untouched beauty. The scenery is intense, yet still presents a unique and raw simplicity that is impossible to find in crowded cities. The days are short here. The sun slips behind the mountains and the cascading shadows of evening replaces the sunlight. You won’t be in a rush to hit all the touristy spots like you’re used to. Spend your time taking in the fresh air. As the seasons change, the town transforms from a hikers paradise to a winter wonderland. No matter what time of year you go, Interlaken will not fail to captivate you.

As you can see, I was extremely impressed with this town, as I’m sure you would be as well. But seriously, it would be hard not to be. Here is everything you need to know to plan your very own trip. Don’t be surprised when you find yourself being swept away by this beautiful place.

Background

When visiting Interlaken, the closest airport to fly into is Geneva. From there, you can take a 2 and a half hour train the rest of the way. It’s interesting that Switzerland has 4 official languages, but I never had a language barrier issue considering everyone spoke English. Although they are apart of the European Union, they have their own currency called the Swiss Franc which has an exchange rate of .99 to one U.S. dollar. You can still pay for things in Euros, but any change back will be given to you in Swiss Francs. Geographically, Interlaken is situated between two lakes, Lake Brienzersee and Lake Thunersee and is connected by the Aar River.

Where to Stay

If you are studying abroad, staying in a hostel is the way to go. Two popular hostels for student travelers would be the Balmer’s Herbage and the Backpackers Villa. Both of these are in great locations that are decently close to the train station.   If you wanted a true “Alpine Experience”, then stay in a hostel in one of the towns further into the Alps such as Gimmelwald or Lauterbrunnen. Both of these places would be a very unique and authentic experience, however keep in mind that you will be very limited on stores and dining options.

What to Eat

Every country has some type of food that they are known for. Here it is all about the cheese fondue… and it is amazing. This bubbling pot of cheesy goodness is traditionally served with pieces of crusty bread and baby potatoes. Not very figure friendly, but your taste buds will be very happy. A great restaurant in town to try is called Chalet, which I would highly recommend to get a fondue fix. I’m warning you now, it’s going to cost you at least 25 francs per person, but think about it, when are you ever going to be able to try authentic cheese fondue in the Swiss Alps again? Trust me, it’s worth it.

Cheese Fondue

Also, don’t you dare think about leaving Switzerland without consuming copious amounts of chocolate. There are specialty chocolate shops scattered throughout Interlaken, so don’t worry about finding a place. At a store called the Funky Chocolate Club you can even take a cooking class and make your own chocolate bars to take home.

When to go

The month you decide to go to Interlaken can drastically change what activities you participate in. I went the first weekend of November, which normally would be overcast and rainy.  Thankfully I got blue and sunny skies. From late October to December the Swiss Alps turns into a dead zone, The town becomes a lot less crowed and some restaurants are even closed for a few months. If you want to enjoy the hiking trails and outdoor activities, go during the months of June to September. If you are more interested in winter events, try going from December to March.  If you want to avoid the crowds, go when I did.

What to do

Hiking: A great hike from Interlaken that takes you to the most breathtaking view point is called Harder Kulm. This scenic hike takes about two and a half hours to get to the top. If you’re not into hiking, you can take a tram to the top during the popular months. The destination is a suspended platform that juts out of a steep mountainside. At the top of this hike is a restaurant where you can reward your hard earned and well-deserved efforts with an ice-cold beer. Don’t limit yourself to just this hike. There are endless hiking trails that twist and turn throughout this mountain range. Almost all of these hikes are just a tram or bus ride away from Interlaken.

Day Trip to Surrounding Villages: From Interlaken, you are just a train ride away from several Alpine Villages. For about 15 francs round trip, you can take a train ride to Lauterbrunnen. I would highly suggest stopping here and exploring this enchanting village.   Most of the rustic wooden cabins are sitting on farmland with open grassy fields. This village also has a towering waterfall which makes for an incredible view. From there you can hike or bus to Stechelberg and take the funicular to Gimmelwald.

Gimmelwald is the epitome of a remote Alpine Village. There are about two paved roads in the entire town. Countryside cottages are sporadically scattered along the rolling hills of the valley. Here you will be surround by a 360-degree view of pristine snow capped mountains. Daydream while listening to the symphony of cowbells ringing from the nearby mountainside. The sound of wind sweeping through the valley floor will clear your mind and re-center you. Can you tell this place did wonders for me? I was almost in denial that I was seeing such beauty, it seriously looked like a screensaver. The best part about this is Gimmelwald is just one of many alpine Villages. Do your research and see which one best suites you! Do not miss out on seeing the other villages outside of Interlaken. It just might be one of your favorite parts of your trip like it was for me.

Paragliding: If heights don’t faze you but skydiving is out of your league, paragliding is the perfect medium. The tour company Des Alps runs paragliding tours throughout the entire year. Although it has a steep price of 170 francs (not including the pictures), it is honestly worth it. This was a great activity to cross off my bucket list!

Trümmelbach Waterfalls: From Lauterbrunnen, you can pay 10 euro to see the Trümmelbach Waterfalls. Here you get to go inside a mountain and see 10 different glacier waterfalls that are quite spectacular.

Action Tours: If you are looking for an adrenaline rush, sign up for a canyoneering or repelling tour. Skydiving, hang gliding, or rafting excursions are also available.

Winter attractions: During the wintertime, there are still a lot of activities to partake in. While skiing and snowboarding is a given, you can also go night sledding. Always ask your hostels for recommendations.

Jungfraujoch: From Interlaken you can visit the tallest point of Europe. Come here to see spectacular views of the surrounding Alps. Jungfraujoch is the most popular but there are several different peaks that are easily accessible by trams, trains, and buses.

This destination reminds me of why I love traveling so much. It always surprises me when I find a destination that I truly believe is the most beautiful spot on this earth and a few weeks later some other place is on the top of my list.  Before coming here, Switzerland seemed like a fine place to go, but it wasn’t my top priority.  Now, I can’t imagine my study abroad experience being the same without it.  The more I travel, the more my destination preferences change.  I thought I had to see every big city in Europe, but for me, I personally have such a deeper appreciation for the small local villages.  These spots for me, is what traveling is all about.