Best attractions and places to see around Interlaken include a diverse range of natural landscapes, cultural sites, and points of interest. Nestled in the Swiss Alps between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz, Interlaken serves as a base for exploring the surrounding Jungfrau Region. The area offers majestic natural features and historical landmarks. Visitors can explore a variety of attractions, from high-altitude views to historic sites.
Last updated: April 30, 2026
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Climbing Empire Pass westwards from Midway on the Guardsman Pass Scenic Backway offers a challenging but scenic ascent into Utah's Wasatch Mountains. Prepare for approximately 11-12 miles of sustained climbing, gaining over 3,000ft to reach the 8,740ft summit. The main climb averages around 5-6%, but features steeper sections, particularly on the initial winding climb out of Midway and in the final push towards the pass, where gradients can reach 8-10%. Along the way you'll enjoy the transition from aspen forests to stunning alpine meadows as you approach the top.
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This challenging climb begins in the picturesque Big Cottonwood Canyon, a stunning alpine valley nestled in the Wasatch Range, and ascends toward Guardsman Pass. The early stretch features a gentle grade, but as you progress, the road becomes steeper with tight, twisting corners that offer breathtaking views of the surrounding canyon. As you near the top, the scenery intensifies, revealing dramatic mountain vistas, with the climb culminating at Guardsman Pass, where the panorama stretches across the valley. The descent is equally thrilling but requires caution due to sharp turns and the potential for hikers or parked cars along the road.
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This challenging 8.8-mile climb begins with a moderate ascent and gradually steepens as you approach the summit, surrounded by dense forests of aspen trees. The route winds through lush, green terrain, offering glimpses of rugged mountain slopes and rocky outcrops as you gain elevation. As you near the top, the trees part to reveal stunning panoramic views of the high-altitude mountains, with the summit at Guardsman Pass offering a breathtaking perspective of the surrounding landscape.
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You get dramatic 360-degree views from the summit, especially to the east where the mountain drops away sharply beneath you. You can see all the way to the reservoir, and get great views of the incredibly dense trail network crisscrossing the slopes below.
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Expect lots of scree — and some dusty hiking on an old road — on the approach to Jupiter Peak. You may also share the peak with mountain bikers! But the surprisingly expansive views are worth it.
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The golf course has water fountains with bottle fillers, and there are clean restrooms. Various snacks and drinks are available also.Nice views from here.
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Interlaken is surrounded by stunning natural beauty. You can explore the turquoise waters of Lake Thun and Lake Brienz, visit the impressive Big Cottonwood Climb for dramatic mountain vistas, or experience the cascading Guardsman Pass with its dense forests and panoramic views. Don't miss the spectacular Aare Gorge or the famous Giessbach Falls.
Yes, Interlaken offers several historical and cultural attractions. You can explore the atmospheric ruins of Unspunnen Castle, visit the historic Interlaken Castle, or wander through the charming Unterseen Old Town with its historic buildings. The Tourismuseum in Unterseen provides insights into the region's 500-year history of tourism.
For breathtaking panoramic views, consider visiting Jungfraujoch – Top of Europe, which offers expansive glacier and peak views. Harder Kulm, known as 'the Top of Interlaken,' provides spectacular vistas of the lakes and surrounding mountains. Jupiter Peak also offers dramatic 360-degree views from its summit.
Interlaken is known as the 'Adventure Capital of Europe.' Beyond visiting attractions, you can enjoy activities like paragliding, skydiving, canyoning, and river rafting. For cycling enthusiasts, there are challenging routes like the Empire Pass Climb from Midway. You can find various cycling routes in the Cycling around Interlaken guide.
Absolutely! Families can enjoy Jungfrau Park, which explores world mysteries and offers activities for all ages. Heimwehfluh is a nostalgic 'adventure mountain' with views and activities popular with families. The St. Beatus Caves also offer an exciting exploration of illuminated chambers and underground streams.
The region offers a wide range of hiking trails. Schynige Platte is a natural paradise for hiking with stunning views. The Lauterbrunnen Valley is known for its waterfalls and is popular with hikers. You can find easy hiking options like Pine Creek Nature Trail in the Easy hikes around Interlaken guide.
The best time to visit Interlaken largely depends on your preferred activities. Summer (June to August) is ideal for hiking, water sports on the lakes, and adventure sports like paragliding. Spring and autumn offer milder weather, perfect for scenic walks and enjoying the changing foliage. Winter is excellent for snow sports and experiencing the festive atmosphere.
Many of Interlaken's mountain viewpoints are accessible by scenic transport. Jungfraujoch is reached by a historic cogwheel railway, while Harder Kulm is accessible via a funicular railway. Schynige Platte also has a historic cogwheel railway. These offer comfortable and picturesque journeys to the summits.
Interlaken hosts various cultural events, especially at the Kursaal Centre, which features concerts, theater performances, and folklore evenings. The Stadtkeller in Unterseen also hosts regular musical performances. You might also spot the Yash Chopra Statue, a tribute to the renowned Indian filmmaker, reflecting Interlaken's popularity as a filming location.
Visitors frequently praise the dramatic 360-degree views from summits like Jupiter Peak and the stunning alpine vistas encountered on challenging climbs such as Big Cottonwood Climb. The accessibility of facilities like those at Soldier Hollow Golf Course, offering water fountains and clean restrooms, also enhances the visitor experience.
Yes, there are several running trails available. You can find options ranging from easy to difficult, such as the Empire Pass Viewpoint loop or the Running loop from Midway. For more details and routes, check out the Running Trails around Interlaken guide.


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