17 Hidden Things to Do in Interlaken That Tourists Often Miss

Interlaken stands between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz.  This Swiss town has evolved beyond its reputation to become Switzerland’s adventure capital.  Most visitors barely explore the countless activities this destination offers.

Tourists usually head to the Harder Kulm viewpoint at 1,322 meters or take the iconic 2-hour trip to Jungfraujoch.  The region’s true appeal extends far beyond its 35 marked hiking trails and popular paragliding locations.  Nature enthusiasts can find hidden gems like the glacier-fed Trummelbach Falls tucked inside a mountain, while history buffs will appreciate Lake Thun’s centuries-old castles.

Adventurous travelers who step away from popular attractions will see Interlaken’s authentic side.  The town reveals secret sunset spots, hidden thermal springs, and genuine Swiss experiences that rarely appear in guidebooks.  These quieter spots give visitors a chance to experience this Swiss destination’s real charm without tourist crowds.

Hidden Local Cheese Factory Tours

Skip the tourist spots and head straight to local alpine dairies to get a unique Swiss experience through traditional cheese-making.  These lesser-known spots let you watch centuries-old cheese-making traditions up close.

Swiss Cheese Making Process

At the Justistal alpine cheese dairy, skilled artisans craft cheese in traditional copper cauldrons called “Chäschessi”.  Fresh milk from local cows starts the process. Natural rennet and cultures go in next.  The artisans cut and stir the curds with care before molding them into wheels that age in rustic cellars.

Cheese Tasting Experience

These tours let you sample various alpine cheeses with homemade jams, fresh bread and locally-smoked sausages.  The traditional Alpine breakfast at 8:45 AM has become a guest favorite that showcases the region’s dairy products.  You can also try unique activities like therapeutic whey foot baths.

Best Times to Visit

June through September offers the best cheese-making demonstrations, which happen on Tuesday mornings from 7:45 AM.  The process runs from 8:00 AM until noon as fresh milk arrives at the dairy.  The Aeschi-Allmend mountain dairy welcomes visitors every Thursday from mid-May to mid-September.

Local Cheese Making History

Roman historian Pliny the Elder first wrote about “Caseus Helveticus” – the Helvetians’ cheese – in the first century.  Alpine regions started making cheese as a way to keep milk from spoiling.  Hard cheese became popular in the 18th century because it lasted longer.  The Canton of Berne’s cheese exports reached 22,882 hundredweights by 1834, marking Switzerland’s golden age of cheese production.

These hidden dairy tours give you a rare look into Switzerland’s cheese-making heritage.  They provide hands-on experiences that many visitors miss while exploring Interlaken’s attractions.

Secret Sunset Spots Around Lake Brienz

Lake Brienz has several hidden spots where you can watch nature’s daily masterpiece away from tourist crowds.  These locations include secluded viewpoints and pristine lakeshores that give you breathtaking sunset views most travelers never discover.

Hidden Viewpoint Locations

Iseltwald, the only village on Lake Brienz’s left bank, creates an intimate setting to watch the sunset.  Gentle waves touch the shore while the sun paints magnificent colors over Interlaken and Harder Kulm.  Neuhaus, a quiet spot by the lake, lets you see unobstructed views of the sun as it sets behind the Swiss pyramid and Stockhorn mountain silhouettes.

A pavilion on the Kleine Rugen hill near Interlaken’s center shows panoramic sunset views.  You can reach this elevated viewpoint after a 20-minute walk from Interlaken West train station.  The benches there make it comfortable to watch nature’s evening show.

Photography Tips

The Höhematte park gives you perfect sunset shots with paragliders landing against mountains that slowly change from orange to pink.  Lake Thun’s Peninsula works great to capture silhouettes against the Swiss skyline.

Photographers can capture the iconic Seeburg Castle at Iseltwald with the vibrant evening sky as backdrop.  This 12th-century castle’s distinctive turrets and lush gardens create stunning compositions against turquoise waters.

Best Times for Sunset Views

Current data shows sunset at 6:26 PM, but you should arrive 30 minutes earlier to get the best views.  The golden hour starts as the sun reaches 265° West.  The Harder Railway runs until 9 PM during summer evenings, so you can catch sunset from higher spots.

The Neuhaus nature reserve lets you see beautiful sunsets throughout the year.  Weather changes make this spot special, as approaching clouds create dramatic scenes.

Underground Military Bunker Museum

The mountains around Interlaken hide an incredible piece of Swiss military history – a network of underground bunkers that served as a vital defense system.  These old military installations give visitors an amazing look into Switzerland’s strategic past.

Historical Significance

The bunker system, constructed between 1941 and 1944, became the backbone of Switzerland’s National Redoubt strategy.  The fortifications protected railway junctions and blocked anyone from taking the strategic north-south Lötschberg pass through the Alps during World War II.  This complex network had artillery bunkers that looked just like regular farm buildings and connected through underground tunnels.

Guided Tour Details

The Faulensee artillery bunker near Lake Thun stands out as one of the best-preserved military sites.  Former Swiss military personnel lead two-hour tours that take you through a network of four artillery bunkers linked by tunnels.  Groups up to 10 people can book a tour for 90 CHF.  The site lets visitors explore genuine military equipment, ventilation systems and sleeping quarters that once housed hundreds of soldiers.

Opening Hours and Access

The bunker museum runs mostly through pre-arranged group tours.  You can reach the site from Interlaken in just 20 minutes by taking bus number 21 to the “Faulensee dorf” stop.  The well-preserved facility welcomes visitors year-round through advance bookings.

Behind these concrete walls, you’ll find how soldiers lived on tinned meat, biscuits and bouillon while staying alert with gas masks ready.  The tunnels still have their original communication centers, ammunition storage and artillery positions that protected Switzerland’s independence.

This museum shows a different view of World War II and Switzerland’s unique defense approach.  The underground complex tells a story of how clever architecture and planning helped keep Swiss neutrality during one of history’s most chaotic times.

Lesser-Known Alpine Gardens

The Schynige Platte Alpine Garden sits 1,967 meters above sea level as one of Interlaken’s hidden gems.  This botanical sanctuary, the first of its kind in the Alps, houses about 800 plant species native to Swiss mountains.

Rare Alpine Flora

A one-kilometer path winds through the garden, showcasing two-thirds of Switzerland’s alpine flora.  Nature lovers will find remarkable specimens like black lobelia, paradise lily and the iconic edelweiss thriving in their custom-built environments.  The garden recreates natural habitats through artificial terrains such as Urgesteinfeld and Kalkschutthalde, where specific species flourish.

Best Blooming Seasons

Summer brings an explosion of colors despite the short alpine growing season.  Soldanellas, crocuses, and stemless gentians pop up as the snow melts.  The garden comes alive with alpine roses, asters and arnica by mid-season.  Peak bloom showcases:

• Great yellow gentian
• Turk’s cap lily
• Blue thistle
• Silver thistle

Photography Opportunities

Photographers love the garden’s location with its breathtaking views of the Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau peaks.  June and July draw professional photographers who capture rare flowers against the dramatic mountain backdrop.  The garden paths climb about 40 meters and provide perfect spots to shoot both tiny blooms and sweeping vistas.

The Botanical Garden of Bern and the Institute for Plant Sciences collaborate to run this vital research center for high-altitude flora.  Alpine-botanical courses have been running here since 1932, helping scientists understand mountain ecosystems better.  Your railway ticket includes the garden’s entrance fee, making this hidden treasure available to nature lovers.

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Hidden Thermal Springs

Interlaken’s hidden thermal springs let visitors unwind in mineral-rich waters away from tourist hotspots.  These natural gems blend therapeutic benefits with breathtaking Alpine scenery.

Natural Hot Springs Location

Several thermal springs dot the region with temperatures ranging from 28°C to 43°C.  Mineralbad & Spa Samedan stands out as the most remarkable spot near St. Moritz.  The spa features both indoor and outdoor pools.  You can enjoy these healing waters at various facilities that make a perfect retreat after a day of Interlaken sightseeing.

Health Benefits

These thermal springs pack remarkable health benefits through their unique mineral makeup.  The waters contain vital minerals such as:

• Magnesium – supports immune system function
• Sulfur – treats skin conditions and provides antibacterial properties
• Silica – improves collagen production
• Iron – vital for oxygen transportation
• Zinc – strengthens immune function

Studies show that regular thermal spring sessions help reduce blood pressure in patients with chronic heart conditions.  The warm mineral waters also block pain receptors and ease joint and muscle discomfort.

Visiting Tips

New visitors should remember these key guidelines:

• Optimal soaking duration: 2-3 hours to get the most therapeutic benefits
• Best visiting hours: Early morning or evening to avoid crowds
• Hydration: Drink plenty of water before and after soaking to prevent dehydration
• Medical consultation: Check with healthcare providers before visiting, especially when you have cardiovascular conditions

These thermal facilities come equipped with steam baths, saunas and relaxation areas.  Many spots offer wellness packages that combine thermal soaking with traditional spa treatments.  Remember that some facilities need advance bookings through their websites or local tourism offices.

Local Woodcarving Workshops

Brienz, a village near Interlaken, houses artisans who preserve Switzerland’s woodcarving legacy through workshops that date back to 1884.  The School of Woodcarving stands as Switzerland’s only institution dedicated to this traditional craft.

Traditional Swiss Crafts

The school’s 24 training positions for wood sculptors provide detailed education across specialties.  Students become skilled at creating intricate human figures, animals, and ornamental designs.  The institution has grown beyond traditional sculpture to include coopering, basket weaving, wickerwork and turning.  Visitors can see student works from practice pieces to final projects in the school’s showroom, which showcases this time-honored craft.

Workshop Schedule

Students work on their pieces Monday through Thursday from 8:00 AM to 11:30 AM and 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM, with Friday sessions ending at 3:00 PM.  The exhibition stays available throughout the academic year, except during public holidays and school breaks.  Groups can opt for guided tours at 100 CHF for up to 25 people and 200 CHF for groups of 26-50 participants.

Take-Home Souvenirs

Huggler Woodcarving Shop’s century-old legacy offers authentic carved pieces.  Their collection includes:

• Traditional costumed figurines
• Life-like animal sculptures
• Original Swiss nativity scenes designed by Hans Huggler-Wyss in 1915

Free tours along the main street let visitors watch artisans and painters at work.  The experience concludes at their store where guests can buy genuine Swiss-made woodcarvings, from delicate ornaments to substantial art pieces.  The Swiss Woodcarving Museum’s shop also features carefully selected products from local craftsmen.

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Secret Mountain Huts

The Swiss Alps around Interlaken hide traditional mountain huts that give adventurous travelers an authentic Alpine experience away from regular tourist spots.  These rustic retreats let you experience Switzerland’s mountain culture up close.

Off-the-beaten-path Locations

The Schäfler Mountain Hut, constructed in 1920, stands as one of the oldest mountain shelters in the Alpstein range.  The Glecksteinhütte SAC sits above Grindelwald on a green terrace that shows off amazing valley views.  These quiet hideaways run on solar power, showing their dedication to protecting the environment.

Overnight Stay Experience

Guests will find cozy rooms with basic comforts.  The huts have comfortable beds in private double rooms or shared bunk spaces.  You’ll wake up to a filling Alpine breakfast served between 7:15 AM and 9:00 AM.  The dedicated staff hikes supplies up the mountain and prepares traditional Swiss dishes throughout your stay.

Booking Information

Prices start at 463.04 USD per person and include guided hikes and overnight stays.  The huts need you to check in by 5:00 PM and leave by 8:00 AM the next day.  Here’s what you should know before booking:

• You must book ahead, especially when it’s June through September
• Bring sleeping bags for bunk beds (rent one for 5 CHF if needed)
• Your stay includes breakfast at no extra cost
• Kitchen closes at 5:30 PM for dinner

These mountain refuges don’t have regular hotel luxuries, so come prepared.  All the same, the stunning Alpine views and mountain sunrises make it worth it.  The core team speaks English, German, French and Italian to help international visitors feel at home.

Underground Wine Cellars

A remarkable Alpine wine cellar sits beneath the charming streets of Spiez, near Interlaken.  Visitors can get a close look at the region’s wine heritage here.  This special spot ranks as one of the highest-lying vineyards north of the Alps and produces wines that capture the pre-alpine area’s character.

Swiss Wine Tasting

The Alpine wine culture vineyard makes three distinct types of wine.  Lake wines bring fresh, fruity notes to the palate.  Mountain wines deliver elegant, refined flavors, while peak wines show rare and unique traits.  Lake Thun’s balanced climate works with carefully picked vine varieties and the warm southern Föhn wind to create perfect conditions.  These conditions help produce sophisticated reds and crisp whites.

Historical Cellar Tours

A traditional Simmentalerhaus houses the Museum of Local History and Viticulture that lights up local winegrowers’ story through time.  Guests can check out a complete cooper’s workshop where craftsmen once made wine barrels.  The old Trüel-Keller teaches visitors about the winemaker’s yearly cycle, cellar work and steps before bottling.

Wine and Cheese Pairings

The cellar offers carefully selected wine and cheese combinations.  Delicate Camembert pairs well with light-bodied wines like Pinot Grigio.  Full-bodied Cabernet Sauvignon matches perfectly with aged cheddar.  New visitors often start with Sauvignon Blanc and fresh goat cheese.  The wine’s citrus and mineral notes boost the cheese’s nutty and herbal flavors.

The wine trail features 12 interactive panels that show visitors the roots of Spiez wine.  Short films play through smartphone QR codes to show vineyard work methods.  This circular path gives stunning views of Lake Thun, Spiez castle and the Alps.  Strategically placed benches let guests rest and enjoy both scenery and wine.

Hidden Waterfall Trails

Beautiful waterfalls scatter across the landscape around Interlaken.  Several hidden trails guide adventurers to spectacular views that most tourists never discover.  The Giessbach Falls plunges 400 meters over 14 dramatic steps and stands out as one of these hidden natural treasures.

Trail Difficulty Levels

Waterfall trails suit different hiking abilities.  Easy walks stretch up to 11 kilometers with gentle climbs under 609 meters.  More challenging paths extend to 14 kilometers with steeper climbs that experienced hikers enjoy.  The Three Waterfalls Trail from Bönigen through Iseltwald to Brienz combines varied terrain that most fitness levels can handle.

Best Photography Spots

Giessbach Falls’ wooden bridges cross right behind the thundering cascades and create perfect photo spots.  Trümmelbach Falls lets photographers snap unique shots inside the mountain through rock-carved tunnels and platforms.  Mühlebach waterfall’s stunning views come from its 100-meter drop past the Planalpfluh tunnel as it bursts from the cliff’s gully.

Seasonal Access

Spring brings the best waterfall views when melting snow powers up the water flow.  Giessbach Falls looks most spectacular after rain or during spring thaw and creates refreshing mists.  Wet conditions make some trails slippery, so good shoes and careful steps are essential.

A quick 20-minute circular hike takes you around Giessbach Falls.  More adventurous hikers can climb 40 minutes to reach the hotel’s lookout point, Gippi, 200 meters above Lake Brienz.  Trails stay available from April through October and some paths light up for evening waterfall views.

Local Farmers Markets

The authentic Swiss culture comes alive at Interlaken’s farmers markets, where local produce and traditional crafts tell stories far from tourist hotspots.  Visitors can experience the region’s rich agricultural heritage at these hidden gems.

Best Market Days

The organic farmers market runs every Saturday morning in a quiet square just off the main street.  Summer brings multiple stalls with fresh produce, while winter features a single large stall that keeps an impressive selection.  Visitors can find the Thun market on an island in the Aar river on Wednesdays and Saturdays.

Local Specialties

Seasonal organic produce and regional delicacies fill these market stalls. Shoppers will find fresh eggs, artisanal yogurt, homemade jams and local cheese.  The Höheweg promenade between Interlaken’s East and West stations lets visitors sample regional products.  Natural cosmetics and Bernese Oberland’s traditional arts and crafts are available here too.

Meeting Local Producers

These markets help create direct connections between visitors and local farmers.  Habkern’s small market has a personal touch – each family runs their own stall with handcrafted festive arrangements made from natural materials.  Alpine farmers bring their best products during summer months:

• Fresh alpine cheese made between June and September
• Whey cheese crafted using traditional methods
• Goat cheese from mountain pastures
• Homemade preserves and local honey

Locals make up most of the market crowd, which adds to its genuine atmosphere.  New visitors might notice short queues behind regular customers – a great chance to see local shopping habits.  The purpur organic grocery store in Interlaken offers another option to buy genuine Swiss produce, with local farm products and unique items you won’t find in chain stores.

These markets represent the region’s steadfast dedication to environmentally responsible agriculture and traditional farming.  Local producers keep their independence through direct sales while they preserve time-honored growing methods.

Ancient Mountain Chapels

Mountain chapels from centuries past sit on scenic spots around Interlaken.  These sacred buildings are quiet guardians of the region’s religious heritage.  Many visitors walk past these hidden gems that show Switzerland’s architectural and spiritual history.

Historical Significance

St. Peter’s Romanesque church, built in the 11th century, stands as one of the oldest churches in the Bernese Oberland.  The church’s parish used to cover the villages of Ringgenberg, Goldswil, Niederried, Unterseen and Habkern.  The Reformed Castle Church started as an Augustinian monastery in 1133.  Emperor Lothair’s protection helped the monastery thrive until it became the region’s largest religious property owner.

Architecture Details

St. Peter’s church ruins feature a distinctive Romanesque bell tower that catches everyone’s eye from far away.  The tower shows clear influences from Northern Italian “Campanile” building styles.  The Reformed Castle Church has Gothic cloister galleries in its old courtyard and an impressive steeple from the early 14th century.  This remarkable building complex earned its place as a Swiss heritage site of national importance.

Visiting Hours

The castle welcomes visitors all year round.  You can take your time exploring the Gothic cloister gallery and the chapel from 1452.  St. Peter’s church ruins are available through a lovely circular route that connects to Ringgenberg castle ruins through several paths.  These trails give amazing views of Lake Brienz and Interlaken, perfect to mix history with scenic hiking.

The chapels remind us of the strong trade connections between this area and northern Italy.  In fact, the buildings changed after the 1528 Reformation.  The monastery church’s choir turned into a granary and wine cellar in 1562-63.  Today, district offices work from these architectural treasures, but their historical features remain carefully preserved.

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Secret Photography Locations

Photography lovers will find amazing spots to capture Interlaken’s natural beauty from secret viewpoints.  These quiet locations away from tourist crowds are perfect for anyone with a camera, from beginners to pros.

Sunrise Spots

Harder Kulm viewpoint is a chance to get stunning shots, thanks to a funicular that runs from early hours.  The sun’s first light hits the peaks of Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau to create beautiful silhouettes in the morning sky.  Near Lake Thun, Rosafarbene Blüten lets photographers capture sparkling morning dew on meadow grass.

Landscape Views

Light plays with shadows beautifully across Hinterburgseeli’s green landscapes. Lombachalp, known mostly for snowshoe tours, becomes a photographer’s dream with its peaceful natural settings.  Diemtigtal Nature Park has pure Alpine scenery waiting to be captured.

City Perspectives

Bonstettenpark next to Lake Thun shows the city from fresh angles, especially when winter frost creates magical scenes.  Höhematte park gives you the best city shots with paragliders flying against mountain backgrounds.  Lake Brienz’s north shore lets you frame amazing shots of Interlaken’s cityscape.

Most pro photographers come during June and July because the light hits differently.  Here are some key tips for newcomers:

• Get there 30 minutes before sunrise to catch the golden hour magic
• Bring a tripod for dawn shots in low light
• Put your subjects against light sources for dramatic silhouettes

Early birds will find these photo spots peaceful and empty, perfect to capture Interlaken’s magic.  Mountain inns turn quiet at night, making them ideal spots to photograph the moon and stars.

Hidden Rock Climbing Spots

Interlaken’s lesser-known rock climbing spots offer exciting adventures beyond the tourist hotspots.  Climbers of all skill levels can find amazing routes set against beautiful Alpine backdrops.

Difficulty Levels

The Lehn climbing area near Interlaken has routes that match every skill level.  Neuhaus gives new climbers simple routes to build confidence.  Granite walls at Grimsel Pass feature multi-pitch bolted routes that let climbers test their skills on single or multi-pitch climbs.

Equipment Rental

Swiss Alpine Guides makes renting gear simple with competitive rates.  A full climbing set costs 25 CHF per day and includes a harness, carabiner, abseil device and helmet.  Two-day rentals are 35 CHF. Daily rates for mountaineering boots are 20 CHF, while climbing helmets cost 5 CHF.

Guide Services

From April through September, mountain guides provide customized instruction.  Groups of five or more can join half-day sessions from 8:30 AM to noon at 150 CHF per person.  Full-day adventures run from 8:30 AM to 4:00 PM and cost 190 CHF per person.

Safety comes first with detailed briefings and equipment inspections.  New climbers learn simple techniques, safety protocols and proper gear use.  Expert climbers get guidance on challenging routes and advanced methods.

June to September offers the best climbing conditions.  The area’s limestone and granite walls provide excellent grip in the morning hours before the day heats up.  Local guide offices require climbers to register first since some spots need permits or guide accompaniment.

These secluded climbing spots feature pristine rock faces away from crowds.  Well-maintained safety equipment, fixed anchors and bolts ensure secure climbing for everyone regardless of their experience level.

Local Music Venues

Music lovers can find amazing hidden venues across Interlaken that showcase the region’s musical heritage.  These lesser-known spots bring Swiss culture to life through traditional folk shows and modern concerts.

Traditional Swiss Music

The Interlaken Classics festival, 65 years old in 2025, is the life-blood of classical music in the region.  The festival runs from March 30 to April 22 and features stellar performances that help young talent grow.  Summer Stage Interlaken brings weekly open-air concerts from June through September.  Local alphorn players, flag twirlers and jazz bands take the stage.

Performance Schedule

The Kursaal hosts evening shows all year round.  Theater Alte Oele lets visitors enjoy intimate performances in a historic building from September to December.  Every June, the Greenfield Festival reshapes the scene in Interlaken.

Ticket Information

Seats at Interlaken Classics cost between 40 and 90 CHF based on your priorities.  Summer Stage Interlaken makes traditional Swiss music available to everyone with free open-air shows.  The Greenfield Festival’s early bird passes begin at 151 CHF.

These venues lead the way:

• Kursaal – Historic venue featuring classical concerts
• Theater Alte Oele – Traditional Swiss music performances
• Interlaken Festival Hall – Large-scale musical productions

The Symphony of Nature exhibition at Zentrum Artos is a great way to get started.  It runs from February through April 2025.  You’ll hear both prominent artists and fresh talent who blend traditional and modern styles.  The Tea Concert series by Musikverein Interlaken Unterseen adds elegant afternoon entertainment.

Underground Art Galleries

The Kunsthaus Interlaken serves as the life-blood of culture by showcasing four major exhibitions yearly.  These exhibitions feature regional, national and international artworks dating from the 19th century to modern times.  This artistic hub nestled in the city’s heart creates a refreshing alternative to Interlaken’s outdoor activities.

Local Artists

Strong bonds exist between the gallery and regional talent who capture the Bernese Oberland’s inspiring landscapes.  Swiss artists regularly display their paintings, sculptures and installations in the exhibition spaces.  Carefully curated collections help visitors learn about Interlaken’s majestic surroundings and their influence on generations of artists.

Exhibition Schedule

Visitors can explore the gallery Wednesday through Saturday (12:00 PM to 3:00 PM) and Sunday mornings (9:00 AM to 3:00 PM).  The venue hosts various events throughout the year, from solo exhibitions to thematic showcases.  The ambitious program features prominent artists from Switzerland and beyond.  Adult admission costs 8 CHF while concessions are 5 CHF. Concert and theater performances range from 20 to 35 CHF.

Art Workshops

Interactive experiences come alive through workshops and guided tours at the gallery.  Group visits cost 100 CHF for up to 25 participants, while larger groups of 26-50 people pay 200 CHF.  The gallery’s spacious 130-square-meter halls create perfect settings for creative sessions.  Professional artists lead these workshops to share techniques and help participants explore their artistic potential.

A dedicated performance space hosts concerts and theatrical productions year-round.  Summer brings outdoor evening performances with Alpine peaks as the backdrop.  This blend of visual arts, music, and theater makes the Kunsthaus a vibrant cultural center where visitors can experience Switzerland’s contemporary art scene.

Hidden Picnic Spots

Interlaken’s hidden spots welcome visitors to enjoy peaceful picnics against breathtaking natural backdrops.  These quiet locations stay off the tourist radar and create perfect settings for memorable outdoor meals.

Lakeside Locations

Weissenau nature reserve creates an ideal setting near Lake Thun where you can spread your blankets on grassy shores.  Bönigen’s lakeside promenade has picnic areas with benches that face Lake Brienz’s turquoise waters.  The Neuhaus shoreline between Interlaken and Thun gives you a peaceful spot that’s perfect for waterfront dining.

Mountain Views

Harder Kulm summit rewards you with a unique 360-degree view of emerald lakes and snow-capped peaks – the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau stand out.  Early birds can enjoy a mountain top breakfast at 4:00 AM that ends with a champagne picnic as the sun lights up the Alps.  Hohematte Park’s well-kept lawns and panoramic mountain views make spontaneous picnics a joy.

Best Times to Visit

The best experience awaits at Harder Kulm when you arrive by 5:30 AM to catch the golden sunrise with your morning meal.  This special event runs every Saturday from May through September and needs moderate fitness for a 1.5-hour uphill trek.  Lazy Rancho campsite’s summer BBQ spots next to their playground create a great family setting.

Essential picnic tips include:

• Bring half a liter of water per person
• Pack power bars or trail mix for energy
• Take extra layers since mountain temperatures change quickly
• Pack thermal wear for early morning trips

Grabenmühle area welcomes newcomers with dedicated picnic zones near a charming restaurant.  You’ll find BBQ spots where you can grill fresh fish caught from their well-stocked pond.

Secret Swiss Chocolate Workshops

The Funky Chocolate Club in Interlaken welcomes visitors to explore deeply into Swiss chocolate making through hands-on workshops.  This hidden gem, 9 years old, gives you an unmatched experience in premium chocolate crafting.

Chocolate Making Process

Participants put on aprons and chef’s hats in the “chocolate lab” to explore deeply the art of tempering chocolate.  Expert chocolatiers show proper techniques to melt, pour, and fill molds.  The workshop focuses on practical learning that lets everyone create their own chocolate masterpieces with premium ingredients.

Tasting Sessions

A guided educational experience introduces participants to different chocolate profiles.  You’ll sample six unique chocolate varieties and learn to spot subtle flavor notes and quality markers.  The session lets you taste unlimited chocolate, creating a truly indulgent experience.

Workshop Booking

The club runs four daily sessions at 11:00 AM, 2:00 PM, 4:00 PM, and 6:00 PM.  Adults pay 75 CHF while children aged 4-12 years pay 65 CHF for the 75-minute experience.  Book ahead through their website since sessions often fill up quickly.

New visitors should come 10 minutes early.  Your chocolates need 60 minutes to cool before you can take them home.  The experience has:

• Professional instruction from certified chocolatiers
• All ingredients and equipment needed
• Gift packaging for finished products
• 5% discount voucher for store purchases

The club supports local artisans and stocks Fair Trade and organic certified chocolates.  People with dietary restrictions can choose from vegan, dairy-free, gluten-free and nut-free options.  Expert guidance combined with premium ingredients and hands-on practice makes these workshops a unique part of Interlaken’s hidden treasures.

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Enjoy the Things to Do in Interlaken

Interlaken’s true magic lies in seventeen special spots that go way beyond the reach and influence of regular tourist spots.  These places let you experience genuine Swiss life firsthand.  Adventure seekers can find traditional cheese-making spots, hidden sunset viewpoints and old military bunkers that tell fascinating stories about Swiss heritage.

Nature shows its finest side through quiet alpine gardens, secluded waterfall paths and peaceful thermal springs.  Local craftsmen keep their traditions alive in woodcarving studios, while cozy wine cellars and vibrant farmers’ markets bring regional flavors straight to you.

Ancient mountain chapels tell stories from centuries past and photographers can capture stunning Alpine views from secret spots.  Rock climbing spots away from the crowds challenge enthusiasts, while music venues fill the air with Swiss melodies year-round.

Small art galleries, peaceful picnic locations, and chocolate workshops make every season special.  Smart timing and planning help visitors get the most out of these hidden spots that show Switzerland’s adventure capital from a different point of view.

These seventeen hidden locations show that Interlaken has countless secrets waiting to be found.  Each spot offers its own unique way to experience real Swiss culture, nature and tradition.

FAQs

Q1. What are some hidden gems to explore in Interlaken?
Interlaken offers several lesser-known attractions, including secret sunset spots around Lake Brienz, hidden thermal springs and underground military bunker museums.  Visitors can also explore local cheese factories, participate in woodcarving workshops, or discover secluded mountain huts for a unique Swiss experience.

Q2. How many days should I spend in Interlaken?
While three days are generally recommended to explore Interlaken and its surroundings, extending your stay to a week or more allows you to discover hidden gems and engage in various activities.  This extra time enables you to experience both popular attractions and off-the-beaten-path locations at a leisurely pace.

Q3. What are some unique cultural experiences in Interlaken?
Interlaken offers distinctive cultural experiences such as visiting underground art galleries, attending local music venues for traditional Swiss performances, and exploring ancient mountain chapels.  You can also participate in secret Swiss chocolate workshops or visit local farmers markets to immerse yourself in the region’s culinary traditions.

Q4. Are there any hidden outdoor activities in Interlaken?
Yes, Interlaken boasts several hidden outdoor activities.  These include hiking on lesser-known alpine trails, exploring secret waterfall paths and discovering hidden rock climbing spots.  You can also find secluded picnic locations with stunning mountain views or participate in local woodcarving workshops for a unique outdoor experience.

Q5. What are some non-touristy things to do in Interlaken?
For a more local experience, consider visiting underground wine cellars for Swiss wine tasting, exploring lesser-known alpine gardens or attending local farmers markets.  You can also seek out hidden photography locations for unique views of the region, or participate in traditional Swiss craft workshops to engage with local culture away from the typical tourist spots.