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Lake · Interlaken, Berna
Thunersee
Lake west of Interlaken, 17.5 km long, served by BLS boats from Interlaken West to Thun, with stops at the St. Beatus-Höhlen, in Spiez and in Oberhofen.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Thunersee
The Thunersee stretches 17.5 km between Interlaken and the town of Thun. Steamships have sailed it since 1835, and BLS operates a fleet that includes the Blümlisalp, a side-wheel steamship used part of the year.
Boats depart from a quay beside Interlaken West, connected to the lake by a channel. The full trip to Thun takes just over two hours, with stops in villages on both shores. You can get off and on at any stop with the same ticket.
On the north shore are the St. Beatus-Höhlen stop, Beatenbucht, where the Niederhorn cable car departs, and Oberhofen, with a waterside castle. On the south shore is Spiez, with its castle overlooking the bay. In total, five historic castles are near lake stops.
The regular season usually runs from April to November, with several boats per day. In winter, from December to March, there is a reduced timetable between Interlaken and Thun.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
From two hours to a full day, depending on stops.
Best time
From June to September there are more departures and the Blümlisalp steamship usually operates. On days with low clouds over the mountains, the lake is a good alternative to the ascent.
How to get there
The pier is next to Interlaken West. In Thun and Spiez, the piers are close to the railway stations, which makes returning by train convenient.
Tip
Combine boat outward and train back to save time. Tourist rail passes are often valid on the boats; check before boarding.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Thunersee
How long is the boat from Interlaken to Thun?
A little over two hours for the complete trip, with stops.
Do the Thunersee boats operate in winter?
Yes, with reduced service between Interlaken and Thun. The main season usually runs from April to November.
Can you go by boat to the St. Beatus-Höhlen?
Yes. There is a stop on the north shore, from which you walk up to the cave entrance.
Does the rail pass apply on the boat?
Tourist rail passes are often valid for or give discounts on the boats. Check the terms of your pass.