Summer in Interlaken: Top Things to Do
Summer is finally here! Snow has melted, the temperatures are climbing, and Interlaken is buzzing with life. It’s the perfect season for outdoor adventures, epic views, and chilling by the water. To help you make the most of your stay, we’ve put together a list of activities you won’t want to miss.
Adventure Sports
Interlaken is a mecca for adventure sports, offering everything from sky-high thrills to water-based excitement. Here’s a quick rundown of the must-try adrenaline activities:
In the Air:
- Parapente: Soar like a bird (or a slightly nervous human) for 15-20 minutes before landing gracefully in the middle of town.
- Hang Gliding: A more thrilling alternative—discover how a metal triangle can take you through the skies!
- Parachutisme: This one’s for the boldest adventurers. Choose your altitude, hop into a plane or helicopter, and take the plunge over Interlaken, Lauterbrunnen, or Grindelwald.
On the Water:
- Rafting: Challenge the rivers around Interlaken, with options up to level IV for the ultimate rush.
- Canyoning: Abseil, slide, and jump your way through narrow gorges. Some jumps go up to 12 meters!
Hiking in Interlaken
Swap the flip-flops for boots and hit the trails. Interlaken’s summer landscapes are made for hiking, from relaxing lakeside strolls to challenging mountain treks. Check out these top hiking hubs:
- Lauterbrunnen: Known as the “valley of 72 waterfalls”. Explore the flat valley floor or take a cable car up to trails like the Mountain View Trail or North Face Trail. Don’t forget to stop in Mürren or Gimmelwald for stunning views and a drink.
- Grindelwald: A hiker’s paradise with trails for every level. Head to First for the famous cliff walk, visit Bachalpsee Lake or tackle trails around the iconic Eiger mountain.
- Interlaken: From the iconic le Harder Kulm to lakefront strolls, you don’t need to venture far for stunning scenery.
Join the Hostel Vibe
Let’s be real—no trip is complete without some good hostel fun. At Balmers Hostel, the vibe is unmatched. We’ve got activities all week to keep you entertained, from sunset swims to trivia nights and hikes. Not your thing? No worries. Chill in the hammock room, soak in the jacuzzi after a long hike, or join an impromptu jam session.
At Balmers, you’ll make memories that last a lifetime and experience the true spirit of Interlaken.
Go for a Swim
Summer means it’s time to take a dip! Warning: the water’s chilly, but you’ll wake up faster than after a double espresso. Interlaken’s swimming spots are as scenic as they are refreshing.
- Neuhaus: Wide grassy areas perfect for lounging and sunsets, next to a peaceful nature reserve.
- Bönigen: Find sandy small beaches and slightly warmer waters in this charming lakeside village.
- Aare River: For a quick and chilly dip, head to the steps near Interlaken Ost Station.
Read our Meilleurs spots de baignade autour d’Interlaken
Kayaking
Why just sit by the lake when you can be on it? Kayaking is a must-try in Interlaken.
- Lac de Brienz: Rent a kayak from Hightide or join one of their guided tours to paddle along the turquoise waters. You’ll feel like you’re in a postcard.
- Lac de Thoune: Rent kayaks or SUPs at MountainSurf. Feeling adventurous? Paddle about 45 minutes along the shore for some cliff jumping!
Via Ferrata
If climbing a mountain while clipped to a cable sounds like your kind of fun, welcome to via Ferrata!
- Mürren: The most famous via Ferrata in the region. You’ll be suspended 600m above Lauterbrunnen Valley.
- Rotstock: A shorter climb near the Eiger, offering panoramic mountain views.
- Kandersteg: For the pros, this route climbs 550m. It’s steep, epic, and not to be underestimated.
Read our Via Ferrata around Interlaken – A complete guide
Float Down the River
Ever floated down a river to “commute”? Welcome to Switzerland. In Interlaken, you can do a short ride on the Aare, but for the full Swiss experience, head to Thun. Rent an inflatable, grab some snacks, and spend four hours floating down to Bern. Don’t worry—signs tell you when to get out.
Read River Floating Interlaken : le guide ultime des aventures estivales
Get the Local Food
You can’t leave without indulging in Swiss dairy heaven. In Switzerland, it’s all about cheese and chocolate.
- Cheese: Spot an honesty fridge on a hike? Stop and grab some fresh, locally made cheese. Back in town, go all out with a fondue feast—some restaurants even offer all-you-can-eat. Dangerous, but delicious.
- Atelier Chocolat: Hit up Funky Chocolate for a hands-on workshop where you’ll make (and eat) your very own creation.
Read Que manger lors d'un séjour en Suisse
