Interlaken, located in the heart of Switzerland, is a paradise for thrill-seekers and nature lovers. Nestled between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz, this Alpine town is world-famous for adventure sports, breathtaking lakes, and outdoor activities. Whether you’re into paragliding, skydiving, skiing, or water adventures, Interlaken offers an unforgettable blend of adrenaline and natural beauty.
Paragliding over Interlaken is one of the most iconic activities. Floating above the town with views of the snow-capped Alps, turquoise lakes, and green valleys, you’ll see why Interlaken is a top destination for adventure sports.
For those who love extreme thrills, skydiving in Interlaken provides unmatched adrenaline. Jumping from an aircraft with the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau mountains as a backdrop is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Interlaken is also a gateway to some of the best ski resorts in Switzerland. In winter, visitors enjoy skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoe hiking, making it a true year-round adventure hub.
Lake Thun is perfect for sailing, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding. Surrounded by medieval castles and Alpine villages, it’s also a cultural highlight.
Known for its turquoise waters, Lake Brienz is ideal for boat cruises, fishing, and scenic walks. Many travelers enjoy taking a ferry ride to discover hidden villages along the shore.
River Rafting: Conquer the Lütschine River rapids.
Canyoning: Explore deep gorges and waterfalls.
Hiking: Trails lead to breathtaking viewpoints and Alpine meadows.
Mountain Biking: Trails for all levels from lakeside paths to steep Alpine tracks.
Climbing & Via Ferrata: Safe routes with spectacular mountain scenery.
Paragliding
Water sports on Lake Thun & Lake Brienz
Hiking & mountain biking
Skiing & snowboarding
Snowshoe trekking
Ice skating and sledding
The best time depends on your interests:
Summer (May–September): Great for hiking, paragliding, and water sports.
Winter (December–March): Perfect for skiing and snowboarding.
Interlaken offers a mix of luxury hotels, lake-view resorts, budget hostels, and mountain chalets. Many accommodations provide easy access to train stations, adventure sports centers, and boat docks.
Book adventure sports tickets in advance, especially in summer.
Carry layered clothing – weather changes quickly in the Alps.
Use the Swiss Travel Pass for trains, buses, and boats.
Many outdoor activities have age and health restrictions, so check before booking.
Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie, a family traveler, or a romantic couple, Interlaken adventure sports and lakes offer something for everyone. From heart-pumping skydiving to peaceful lake cruises, Interlaken captures the perfect balance of thrill and tranquility.
Interlaken, nestled in the Bernese Oberland of Switzerland, sits perfectly between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz. Known as the adventure capital of Europe, it attracts millions of travelers each year who come for adventure sports, stunning lakes, Alpine scenery, and cultural charm.
The name “Interlaken” literally means “between the lakes,” which describes its unique location. With the mighty Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau peaks towering above, the town offers a postcard-perfect setting for thrill-seekers, families, and honeymooners alike.
Before Interlaken became a global adventure hub, it was a peaceful monastery settlement in the 12th century. Over centuries, it developed into a tourist destination, attracting painters, poets, and mountaineers inspired by its majestic Alpine landscapes.
Today, Interlaken is famous worldwide for paragliding, skydiving, hiking, canyoning, and skiing, making it the perfect balance of tradition and modern adventure.
Unlike many Alpine destinations, Interlaken offers year-round adventure sports suitable for all ages and fitness levels. From gentle lake cruises to heart-racing skydives, Interlaken caters to both beginners and professionals.
Paragliding over Interlaken
Float above green valleys and blue lakes with the snow-covered Alps as your backdrop.
Skydiving from the Swiss Alps
Experience one of the most scenic skydives in the world.
White-water Rafting on Lütschine River
Perfect for summer, rafting offers adventure combined with breathtaking mountain views.
Canyoning
Climb, jump, and slide through waterfalls and gorges for a mix of adventure and exploration.
Hiking & Mountaineering
Hundreds of trails lead to panoramic views, alpine meadows, and hidden villages.
Famous for castle views, sailing, and fishing
Crystal-clear waters with reflections of Alpine peaks
Best for sunset cruises and medieval town exploration
Known for its turquoise-blue color
Perfect for kayaking, boat cruises, and photography
Surrounding villages like Iseltwald are must-visits
Stand-up paddleboarding (SUP)
Swimming during summer
Canoeing and scenic boat rides
Paragliding
Hiking and biking
Rafting and canyoning
Lake activities (kayaking, SUP, sailing)
Skiing and snowboarding in Grindelwald or Lauterbrunnen
Snowshoe trekking
Ice climbing and winter hiking
Sledding fun for families
Adventure sports in Interlaken vary in price depending on the season:
Paragliding: CHF 150–180 per person
Skydiving: CHF 395–450 per person
Rafting: CHF 100–120 per person
Canyoning: CHF 120–150 per person
Ski Pass (1 day): CHF 60–80
Most tour operators provide packages with transport, gear, and professional guides, ensuring a safe and unforgettable experience.
Boat Cruises on Lake Thun & Brienz
Easy hikes around Harder Kulm (viewpoint accessible by funicular)
Picnic spots and playgrounds near the lakes
Chocolate and cheese tours to taste Swiss traditions
Walk along Höhematte Park for amazing mountain views
Visit Aare River bridges for scenic photography
Explore old town Unterseen
Hike short trails like Harder Kulm Panorama path
Interlaken isn’t just about daytime adventures; it also offers a vibrant nightlife.
Metro Bar – Popular for live music and drinks.
Hooters Interlaken – Casual dining and social spot.
Balmer’s Club – The oldest nightclub in Interlaken, great for backpackers.
Casino Interlaken – For entertainment lovers who enjoy games and shows.
Luxury Hotels: Victoria Jungfrau Grand Hotel
Mid-range Stays: Hotel Interlaken
Budget Travelers: Backpacker’s Villa Sonnenhof
Lake View Lodges: Cabins near Lake Brienz or Thun
Carry a Swiss Travel Pass for unlimited train and boat rides.
Wear layered clothing; weather changes quickly.
Book adventure activities online in peak season.
Always check age, health, and safety guidelines before booking extreme sports.
Jungfraujoch – Top of Europe
Lauterbrunnen Valley with 72 waterfalls
Grindelwald for skiing and hiking
Schynige Platte Railway for alpine flower gardens
Harder Kulm Viewpoint (funicular ride with panoramic views)
Interlaken is a perfect mix of adrenaline, nature, and Swiss culture. Whether you’re soaring in the sky, rafting through rivers, skiing on snowy slopes, or cruising on turquoise lakes, every moment is an unforgettable adventure.
For travelers looking for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in Switzerland, Interlaken should be at the top of the list.
“Skydiving over the Alps was the most thrilling experience of my life. The instructors made me feel completely safe.”
“Interlaken is the ultimate adventure capital. We tried canyoning and rafting, and both were unforgettable.”
“Our family loved the easy hiking trails and picnic spots around Lake Thun. Interlaken is great for kids too.”
“The food scene surprised me! Cheese fondue, rösti, and local chocolate made our evenings delightful.”
“Lake Brienz cruise was so peaceful. Interlaken perfectly balances adrenaline sports with natural beauty.”
“Watching the sunset from Harder Kulm was breathtaking. Interlaken is a paradise for photographers.”
“Skydiving in winter was unbelievable. The snowy Alps from above felt like a dream.”
“We joined a food and chocolate tour in Interlaken. It was delicious and gave us insights into Swiss culture.”
“Paragliding in Interlaken was the highlight of my Switzerland trip! The lakes and mountains looked magical from above.”
“Canyoning in Interlaken was challenging but so rewarding. The guides were friendly and professional.”
“Interlaken is more than adventure—it has charming old streets, great hotels, and wonderful markets.”
“I stayed for 5 days and tried paragliding, rafting, and hiking. Interlaken truly has it all for adventure lovers.”
Interlaken is best known for its adventure sports like paragliding, skydiving, rafting, and canyoning, as well as its scenic lakes Thun and Brienz surrounded by the Swiss Alps.
The most popular activities include paragliding, skydiving, canyoning, white-water rafting, hiking, skiing in winter, and boat cruises on Lake Thun and Lake Brienz.
Yes, paragliding in Interlaken is very safe when done with licensed operators. Professional pilots provide equipment, training, and ensure safety standards are followed.
Summer (May to September) is perfect for hiking, paragliding, and water sports, while winter (December to February) is ideal for skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoe trekking.
You can take direct trains from Zurich (around 2 hours) or Geneva (about 3 hours) to Interlaken. Car rentals and guided tours are also available.
Yes, families can enjoy boat rides, easy hiking trails, scenic train rides like Jungfraujoch, and picnic spots around Lake Thun and Lake Brienz.
Interlaken can be pricey, especially for adventure sports and luxury hotels. However, budget travelers can enjoy free hikes, lakeside walks, and affordable guesthouses.
Traditional Swiss dishes like cheese fondue, raclette, rösti, sausages, and chocolates are popular. Food tours and local markets are also worth exploring.
Yes, skydiving in Interlaken operates year-round, offering breathtaking views of snow-covered peaks during winter months.
Lake Thun is larger with castles and historic towns, while Lake Brienz is famous for its turquoise waters and peaceful villages like Iseltwald.
Yes, it is highly recommended to have travel insurance that covers adventure sports like skydiving, paragliding, and canyoning in Interlaken.
Yes, Interlaken has beginner-friendly canyoning routes and rafting trips suitable for first-timers with professional guides ensuring safety.
Harder Kulm, Schynige Platte, and Jungfraujoch are some of the best viewpoints offering panoramic views of lakes and mountains.
Yes, you can enjoy free hikes, lakeside walks, visit Unterseen old town, picnic by the lakes, and watch paragliders land at Höhematte Park.
2–3 days are enough for highlights, but 5–7 days allow you to enjoy multiple adventure sports, day trips, and cultural experiences.
