7 Reasons to Visit Interlaken This Winter (That Aren’t Skiing)
Skiing in the Swiss Alps is an activity that can be found on many people’s bucket lists. With incredible mountains, engaging scenery, and beautiful Alpine resorts, its not hard to see why. I recently headed out to scenic Interlaken, where I quickly discovered there’s more to Switzerland than just skiing. Here are my top 10 reasons to visit Interlaken, my new favorite winter wonderland.
1. Adventure Sports
Interlaken is one of the most amazing places to try an adventure sport. With its scenic mountains, lakes, and treelined vistas, activities such as skydiving, paragliding, hang gliding, and bungee jumping are even more incredible.
2. The Lakes
Interlaken translates to “between two lakes,” and let me assure you this is no misnomer. Interlaken is situated between two astonishingly clear and blue lakes, Lake Thun and Lake Brienz. The reflection of the mountains and alpine villages on the water is not to be missed.
3. Unforgettable Mountain Views
Both skiing enthusiasts and those who prefer to have two feet firmly on the ground will both enjoy the magnificent views of the Swiss alps to be found just a train and gondola ride from Interlaken. Mürren and Gimmelwald are two perfect places to experience breathtaking vistas.
4. Swiss Chocolate
What else is Switzerland famous for other than its banks, mountains, and ski resorts? Chocolate! Treat yourself to some delicious Swiss chocolate, and maybe even purchase a souvenir or two for your family (although I will warn you it may not make it home). To really enhance your experience, attend a chocolate tasting and learn more about the process of producing this delicacy. Before long you’ll understand why the average Swiss person consumes almost 20 pounds of chocolate a year!
5. Snow
What makes for great skiing? Fresh powder! Take advantage of the snow in Switzerland and play around. Throw some snowballs, build a snowman, go sledding (or night sledding for the adventurous), or just use the cold temperature as an excuse to have a hot chocolate.
6. Bern
Just a few hours from Interlaken lies Bern, Switzerland’s capital city. Its historic old town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here you can visit the famous Bern bear pits, which in modern times have been abandoned in favor of a more humane bear park that houses live bears, the city’s symbol.
7. Nature
Interlaken’s mountains, lakes, and extensive hiking and biking trails make it the perfect place to connect with nature. There is something beautiful to discover around every corner, with each view appearing more stunning than the last.
Is a trip to the Swiss Alps on your bucket list?
