Interlaken

Interlaken, a name meaning 'between lakes' in Latin, is a town in the Bernese Oberland region of the Swiss Alps, situated on an alluvial plain known as Bödeli. It lies between the turquoise waters of Lake Brienz to the east and Lake Thun to the west, with the Aare River flowing through the town, connecting the two lakes. At 566 meters (1,857 feet) above sea level, Interlaken serves as a primary gateway to the surrounding mountains and lakes.

Interlaken is a center for adventure sports, offering a wide array of outdoor activities, from paragliding and skydiving to hiking and kayaking. Beyond the adrenaline, the town also provides opportunities for quiet moments, with scenic boat cruises on its lakes and pleasant strolls through its streets. Its central location makes it an ideal base for exploring the iconic Jungfrau region, home to the famous peaks of Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau.

From Monastery to Mountain Resort

Interlaken's origins trace back to a small settlement that formed around an Augustinian monastery. The monastery, first mentioned in 1133 when Holy Roman Emperor Lothair III took it under his protection, was built on imperial land on the left side of the Aare River. For centuries, the area surrounding the monastery was known as Aarmühle, meaning 'Mill on the Aare,' due to a mill that operated there. The monastery played a significant role in the region, controlling a bridge over the Aare and generating income from tolls. By the 13th century, its influence had expanded, holding authority over numerous churches, villages, and farms, making it the largest religious landholder in the Bernese Oberland.

The town's transformation into an international resort began around 1800, fueled by the romantic landscapes depicted by Swiss artists like Franz Niklaus König. Early festivals of Swiss culture, such as the Unspunnenfest in 1805 and 1808, further drew tourists to the area. Visitors initially sought the benefits of mountain air and spa treatments, leading to the opening of the large Kursaal spa in 1859. Improved transportation links, including steamship routes on Lake Thun (1835) and Lake Brienz (1839), and the Bödelibahn railway in 1872, made Interlaken more accessible. The name 'Interlaken' itself, derived from the Latin 'inter lacus' (between lakes), became widely used on maps in the 19th century and was officially adopted by the town in 1891, replacing Aarmühle.

The late 19th and early 20th centuries saw a surge in luxury hotel construction and the development of mountain railways, solidifying Interlaken's reputation. The Jungfrau Railway, a pioneering engineering feat, began construction in 1896 and reached the Jungfraujoch, Europe's highest railway station, in 1912. Similarly, the Harder Kulm Funicular opened in 1908, providing easy access to Interlaken's local mountain. Interlaken continued to evolve, becoming a center for winter sports and mountaineering, and even served as a refuge during World War II, providing humanitarian aid. Today, it remains a prominent destination, balancing its deep past with its role as a modern adventure capital.

Begin your exploration at the Höhematte Park, a large open meadow in the town center that offers unparalleled views of the Jungfrau massif. From here, take the Harder Kulm Funicular up to the 'Top of Interlaken' for sweeping vistas of both Lake Thun and Lake Brienz, as well as the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau peaks. The distinctive pagoda-style restaurant at the summit is a great spot for a meal with a view.

Delve into the region's natural wonders with a visit to the St. Beatus Caves, a mystical subterranean world of stalactites and stalagmites on the shores of Lake Thun. For a scenic water experience, consider a cruise on Lake Brienz or Lake Thun, both known for their clear turquoise waters, fed by glacial particles. The appealing village of Iseltwald, with its timbered houses, is a picturesque stop on Lake Brienz. For those seeking an alpine adventure, take a train journey to Kleine Scheidegg for closer views of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau, or continue to the Jungfraujoch, the 'Top of Europe,' for glacier landscapes and Europe's highest railway station.

Interlaken is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit depends on your preferred activities. For warm weather and a full range of outdoor adventures like hiking, paragliding, and water sports, the peak season from June to August is ideal, with average daytime temperatures between 20-25°C. However, this period also sees the largest crowds and higher accommodation prices.

For fewer crowds and pleasant weather, consider the shoulder seasons. Mid-April to mid-June and September to mid-October offer a beautiful landscape with blooming flowers in spring and lovely autumn foliage, making them excellent for hiking and sightseeing. Winter, from December to February, transforms Interlaken into a snow-globe village, perfect for skiing, snowboarding, and enjoying a festive atmosphere, especially around Christmas and New Year.

Interlaken is easily navigable on foot or by bicycle. The town also has a public bus service, with fares around 2.30 CHF, though most areas are easily walkable. If you're staying overnight, you'll receive an Interlaken Pass, which covers local bus transportation and offers various discounts. The two main train stations, Interlaken West and Interlaken Ost, are connected by the main shopping street, Höheweg, a 20-minute walk apart. Trains and buses frequently run between these stations.

Swiss tap water is safe to drink and comes from alpine springs, so bringing a reusable water bottle is recommended. Dining can be expensive, so consider cooking some of your meals to save money. When exploring the mountains, dress in layers, as temperatures drop significantly with altitude. Remember that nearly all shops close on Sundays, though restaurants and tourist attractions remain open.