Hiking holiday in the Bernese Oberland
In summary
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Sports
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Duration6 days
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LevelIntermediate
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DestinationEurope / Swiss
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AgeFrom 4 - 90 years
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CO₂-Emissions72.35 kg CO2
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Type of stayIndependent traveler
In a few words
Immerse yourself in an exceptional alpine experience in the heart of the Bernese Oberland . This hiking trip is designed for those passionate about wide-open spaces and unspoiled nature. Your route through the Swiss Alps reveals deep blue lakes , picturesque villages, and breathtaking panoramas.
The program offers a perfect balance between contemplative walking and more spectacular routes. You'll hike in front of the region's giants: the Eiger , the Mönch , and the Jungfrau , before traversing the ridges of the Brienzer Rothorn . Each day thus combines the pleasure of physical exertion with awe at the diverse landscapes .
Perfectly suited for train travel, this journey embraces a sustainable and seamless mobility approach. For your comfort, the carefully selected accommodations nestled between lake and mountains offer an ideal setting to recharge after your exertions.
Explore this mythical territory in an authentic way. This tour offers a unique opportunity to discover one of Europe's most beautiful playgrounds, combining logistical comfort with a wealth of experiences .
The highlights
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Hiking to Lake Oeschinen, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and voted "most beautiful lake in the Alps"
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The peaks of the Augsmatthorn, a feast for the eyes!
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The ascent to the Jungfraujoch, a UNESCO World Heritage Site (Europe's highest railway station)
Photos
Sport
Level
Hiking / Trekking
The expert's opinion
You regularly participate in sports and are able to walk 4 to 6 hours a day. Maximum 500 meters of elevation gain per hike during this trip.
In figures
Hiking
- Average duration/day: 2h30
- Average distance/day: 2 km
- Average daily elevation gain: 84 m
- Average daily descent: 84 m
Management
A complete travel journal, in digital format, will be provided to you upon booking.
Program
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Visit to Bern, visit to Thun, cruise on the lake and accommodation in Spiez
- Transportation Boat - 01h10 - 10km
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 2h
- Accommodation 3-star hotel
- Breakfast not included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
Arrive in Switzerland via Geneva or Basel, then take the train to Bern, the federal capital. Discover its UNESCO-listed old town, medieval arcades, cathedral, and the banks of the Aare River during a fun treasure hunt.
In the middle of the day, continue towards Thun, a charming town dominated by its medieval castle and offering a peaceful atmosphere facing the Bernese Alps.
Embark on a cruise ship to Spiez, a charming town nestled on the shores of Lake Thun.
Settle into a hotel by the lake and enjoy a sublime sunset.
Day 1 -
Visit to Spiez and hike to Niesen
- Transportation TER / Metro / Tram - 00h10 - 10km
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 2h
- Accommodation 3-star hotel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
The day begins in Spiez, a charming lakeside town where it is pleasant to stroll between the port, the terraced vineyards and the medieval castle.
You then set off to explore the Niesen, nicknamed the "Swiss pyramid". The funicular ride up is already a highlight, revealing spectacular panoramas of Lake Thun and the surrounding peaks.
At the summit, a 360° panorama unfolds before you. Take the time to enjoy this exceptional view and take a pleasant hike along the ridge trails, which are particularly photogenic.
At the end of the day, return by train to Spiez: swimming, paddleboarding or relaxation on the agenda!
Day 2 -
Hike to Lake Oeschinen, climb to Harder Kulm and settle in Wilderswil
- Transportation TER / Metro / Tram - 01h30 - 80km
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 4h30
- Distance 9 km
- Positive elevation gain 500 m
- Negative elevation 500 m
- Accommodation 3-star hotel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
This morning, take the train towards Kandersteg, gateway to one of the most beautiful natural sites in Switzerland.
After a cable car ride up, set off on a hike to Lake Oeschinen, a UNESCO World Heritage Site surrounded by rocky cliffs and alpine meadows. The lake's emerald waters and alpine panoramas offer a spectacular setting. Summer tobogganing and boat trips on the lake are also available.
At the end of the day, take the train to Interlaken and then the funicular up to Harder Kulm to admire the sunset over Lakes Thun and Brienz. An alphorn concert adds to the magic of this timeless moment (in summer).
After these wonderful discoveries, take a train and settle into a charming hotel in Wilderswil.
Day 3 -
Cruise on Lake Brienz and ascent of the Brienzer Rothorn
- Transportation TER / Metro / Tram - 01h - 40km
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 2h
- Accommodation 3-star hotel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
The day begins with a superb cruise on Lake Brienz, renowned for its turquoise waters and alpine scenery. From the boat, admire the traditional villages and waterfalls along the shores.
Stop at Giessbach, funicular ride up to the Grand Hotel and discovery of the impressive waterfalls plunging into the lake.
In Brienz, stroll through the village, known for its beautiful flower-covered chalets, woodworking, and authentic atmosphere.
Continue your ascent to the Brienzer Rothorn aboard a historic steam train. At the summit, a breathtaking panorama unfolds, revealing the surrounding lakes and peaks and offering one of the most stunning views in the region. Enjoy a pleasant walk along the ridge trails before returning to Brienz by train.
Then head to Interlaken, then Wilderswil, and spend a second night at the same hotel.
Day 4 -
Visit to Lauterbrunnen, ascent of the Jungfrau and visit to Grindelwald
- Transportation TER / Metro / Tram - 02h - 70km
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 2h
- Accommodation 3-star hotel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
This morning, we headed to Lauterbrunnen, a fairy-tale valley bordered by cliffs and waterfalls, dominated by the spectacular Staubbachfall.
Continue by cogwheel train to Wengen, then take the cable car to Männlichen. From the summit, a magnificent panoramic hike of about 1.5 hours begins, leading to Kleine Scheidegg. The accessible trail winds its way between alpine pastures and glaciers, offering views of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau mountains.
At Kleine Scheidegg, board the Jungfraubahn train. The ascent winds through the heart of the mountains before reaching the Jungfraujoch (3,454 meters), the highest railway station in Europe. There, discover the Ice Palace, admire the view from the Sphinx Terrace, and gaze upon the magnificent Aletsch Glacier.
For the descent, go to Eigergletscher and then take the Eiger Express to Grindelwald.
Take a stroll through the village before returning to Wilderswil for a relaxing evening.
Day 5 -
Gorges of the Aare, Caves of Saint-Béatus and return to Geneva (or Basel)
- Transportation TER / Metro / Tram - 02h - 50km
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 2h
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
Take the train to Meiringen. The day begins with exploring the Aare Gorge, an impressive canyon carved by the river over millennia. The walkways allow for a spectacular immersion into the heart of the rock walls, between turquoise waters and natural plays of light.
Take a train to Interlaken and enjoy a stroll through the city centre if you haven't already.
Continue with a visit to the caves of Saint-Béatus, a fascinating network of galleries, waterfalls, stalactites and limestone formations overlooking Lake Thun.
At the end of the day, take the train back towards Geneva or Basel, crossing the Swiss landscapes one last time, your head full of Alpine memories shared with family or friends.
Day 6
Accommodation
The Boutique Hotel Riviera is a recently renovated establishment, ideally located on the shores of Lake Thun, in the Bay of Spiez. This boutique hotel offers a warm and elegant atmosphere, perfect for a romantic getaway or a family holiday.
The hotel boasts stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains, with Spiez Castle and its vineyards just a two-minute walk away. Its proximity to the train station and ferry terminals makes it an ideal base for exploring the region.
The Boutique Hotel Riviera offers a variety of rooms and apartments, suitable for all types of travelers.
Each accommodation is equipped with a flat-screen TV, a private bathroom and free Wi-Fi.
The Ristorante & Pizzeria Riviera offers authentic Italian cuisine in an elegant setting designed by a Milanese architectural firm. Guests can enjoy dishes such as fresh pasta, wood-fired pizzas, and a selection of fine wines.
Located in the peaceful village of Wilderswil, just minutes from Interlaken and its mythical lakes, the Alpenblick Hotel & Restaurant embodies an alpine address with authentic charm.
Nestled at the foot of the Bernese Oberland mountains, the hotel occupies a traditional building that harmoniously blends period woodwork, a warm atmosphere and contemporary comfort.
The tastefully decorated rooms offer a relaxing setting after a day of exploration. Some have a balcony with views of the Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau peaks, while the hotel's location ensures easy access to mountain activities or walks along the lakes.
On the culinary front, the establishment boasts an award-winning gourmet restaurant. The Gourmetstübli, a Michelin-starred establishment with 17 Gault-Millau points, offers exceptional, refined cuisine rooted in local produce. For a more relaxed atmosphere, the Dorfstube offers Swiss specialties in a convivial setting with a terrace and garden.
Thanks to its strategic location — less than a 10-minute walk from Wilderswil train station — and its thoughtful amenities such as free parking, Wi-Fi access and family rooms, the hotel is an excellent option for both relaxation enthusiasts and adventure-seeking mountain travelers.
Located in the peaceful village of Wilderswil, just minutes from Interlaken and its mythical lakes, the Alpenblick Hotel & Restaurant embodies an alpine address with authentic charm.
Nestled at the foot of the Bernese Oberland mountains, the hotel occupies a traditional building that harmoniously blends period woodwork, a warm atmosphere and contemporary comfort.
The tastefully decorated rooms offer a relaxing setting after a day of exploration. Some have a balcony with views of the Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau peaks, while the hotel's location ensures easy access to mountain activities or walks along the lakes.
On the culinary front, the establishment boasts an award-winning gourmet restaurant. The Gourmetstübli, a Michelin-starred establishment with 17 Gault-Millau points, offers exceptional, refined cuisine rooted in local produce. For a more relaxed atmosphere, the Dorfstube offers Swiss specialties in a convivial setting with a terrace and garden.
Thanks to its strategic location — less than a 10-minute walk from Wilderswil train station — and its thoughtful amenities such as free parking, Wi-Fi access and family rooms, the hotel is an excellent option for both relaxation enthusiasts and adventure-seeking mountain travelers.
- garden
- terrace
- free wifi connection
- free parking
- 1 Michelin-starred gourmet restaurant
- 1 classic restaurant
Access
For this trip, you have the option of arriving directly in Geneva or Basel. From your arrival in Switzerland and from these cities, all transportation is included in your trip (including the return journey at the end of your stay).
If you prefer to go directly to the starting point on day 1, you can choose to arrive in Bern, with an end of stay in Interlaken on day 6.
This trip is entirely accessible by train, local bus, and boat. Switzerland's public transport network is particularly efficient, punctual, and interconnected, guaranteeing a smooth and stress-free journey.
Go to the starting point
From home, book a TGV train to Geneva or Basel. Once in Switzerland, all transport is included in your trip.
Price details
The price includes
- All train/bus/boat journeys in 2nd class for the entire stay
- Accommodation in double or family rooms
- All breakfasts
- The treasure hunt in Bern
- The Oeschinensee cable car
- The Harder Kulm funicular
- The Giessbach funicular
- The Brienzer Rothorn steam train
- The excursion to the Jungfraujoch
- The caves of Saint-Béatus
The price does not include
- Transportation from your place of residence to Geneva (or Basel) and vice versa
- Lunch and dinner
- Drinks, extras, personal expenses
- Options and extensions
- The Niesen funicular
- The entrance to the Aar gorges
- Anything not listed under "Price includes"
Options
- Paragliding flight in Interlaken : CHF182.96 / person
- Kayaking on Lake Brienz : CHF118.92 / person
- E-bike ride around Interlaken : CHF118.92 / person
- Flex fare and insurance
Practical information
Specific formalities
Specifics
Before your departure, check with the embassy or consulate regarding the entry and stay requirements for your destination country. You can also find this information on the France Diplomatie website ( https://www.diplomatie.gouv.fr/fr/dossiers-pays/ ).
In the case of flights with stopovers operated by different airlines, also check the entry requirements of the countries you are transiting through.
It is your responsibility to ensure you are in compliance, particularly regarding the validity of your identity documents (for example, some countries require your passport to be valid for at least six months after your return) , visa requirements, necessary vaccinations, and health recommendations. And don't forget to consider any customs restrictions and other potential requirements of your destination or transit country.
ℹ️ Information may change up to the departure date, remember to regularly check official websites.
Equipment
Equipment to bring
- hiking poles
Clothing to bring
- hiking outfits
- hiking shoes
- warm jacket for high altitudes (even in summer)
- cap/hat
- casual outfits
The Elsa team
Based in Corseaux, on the shores of Lake Geneva, our local partner has an agency entirely dedicated to Switzerland. It designs immersive experiences in the heart of spectacular landscapes and remarkable cultural richness.
Between crystal-clear lakes, iconic peaks, ancient glaciers, and authentic villages, Switzerland offers exceptional diversity within a compact territory. A true land of superlatives, it boasts over 65,000 kilometers of hiking trails, 358 ski resorts, and unique infrastructure: funiculars, cable cars, and cogwheel trains among the most spectacular in the world.
Specializing in rail travel, the agency leverages one of the world's finest train networks to offer seamless, sustainable, and scenic itineraries. Each trip is designed to allow for an in-depth exploration of the country, at the traveler's own pace and according to their preferences.
A small, personal agency, it transforms its passion for the mountains into active and authentic experiences for sporty travelers: hiking, snowshoeing, e-biking, and other outdoor activities. Group trips are led by certified mountain guides, guaranteeing safety, on-the-ground expertise, and immersion in the heart of the Swiss Alps.
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- You pay a 30% deposit today to reserve your stay.
- The balance (the remaining 70%) must be paid no later than 30 days before departure.
- ✅ Of an amount greater than €300.
- ✅ Whose departure is in more than 30 days.