Interlaken – the perfect starting point for winter activities

As a non-skier, are you looking for a variety of winter activities? Linda tried some experiences in and around Interlaken for you.

Winter holidays are lovely – idyllic mountain villages, pleasant atmosphere, peaceful landscapes. For many, winter is the most popular time of year and everyone is drawn to the slopes in droves. But what opportunities for fun in the snow are there in Switzerland for non-skiers like me? The Interlaken tourist region offers a wide range of winter activities. Interlaken Youth Hostel is the best starting point for experiencing them. Let’s go!

Overnight stay at the youth hostel in an ideal location

It’s super practical – the youth hostel is located right next to Interlaken Ost railway station and, compared to other accommodation, is quite affordable. From here, both trains and buses run to various ski resorts, towns and ports for boat tours.

The youth hostel offers modern and affordable accommodation in Interlaken. © Michel van Grondel

Romantic Interlaken

A few steps from the youth hostel, I’m picked up by a carriage. Wrapped in cosy blankets, Ahmed and his horse Naoki take me on an hour-long ride through wintry Interlaken. The three of us are definitely turning heads. The other tourists wave to us as we ride by. I enjoy the long, sprawling village and all its facets with a sense of comfort and romance. A great tip: Voegeli Riding School – Interlaken – Carriage operations – Horse boarding – Horse trade

Ahmed and Naoki offer quite a special way to travel through Interlaken. © Linda Robel

Tips for Interlaken and the surrounding area

I was inspired by the region’s special winter deal offer and various information available directly at the railway station. After a delicious breakfast at the youth hostel, my adventure begins.

Relaxing, mystical and delicious

At the port in Interlaken West, I board the Schilthorn, a cruise ship from BLS. It’s about a two-hour trip to Thun. I take a seat in the gallery, where I enjoy a superb view thanks to the huge windows. For lunch, I treat myself to a tasty salad and a delicious lentil soup. Thanks to the fog, the backdrop appears mystical. I have seldom experienced such a calming atmosphere as on this winter boat tour.

During the relaxing boat trip, I enjoy the mystical backdrop of Lake Thun. © Linda Robel

Arriving in the medieval town of Thun, I stroll leisurely through the old town and enjoy the old half-timbered houses, the castle and the little shops before taking the direct train back to the youth hostel.

Now it’s time for some action

Right at the station, six other tourists and I are picked up by Eddi, and we head up into the mountains. First with a minibus, then with a nostalgic cable car. The view of the clear starry sky and the illuminated valley at an altitude of 1,500 metres are simply breathtaking. But the best is yet to come: Night sledging. Geared up with a headlamp and a sledge, we get some tips for the three-kilometre descent. And then it’s time: Full speed ahead! We start with a bit of space between us so that everyone can go at their own pace. It has me screaming and shouting. At the bottom of the hill, we are all happy smiles. Wow, that was fun!

I then get to know the other adventurers better over an appetizing fondue. The group is very international, making our discussions all the more exciting. Exhausted and happy, I fall into bed. What a great day!

Night sledging is so much fun! © Linda Robel

Winter joy and sunshine on the Niederhorn

I can’t wait. Very early and reinvigorated thanks to the sumptuous breakfast buffet, it’s time to set off. I take the bus to Beatenberg station. The journey alone was worth it. Up you go through the sea of fog. The clouds in the valley above Lake Thun, which I was sailing under yesterday, look magical from above.

The aerial cableway takes you up the Niederhorn to almost 2,000 metres in 20 minutes. I am greeted by the sun and a magnificent view of the mountains and the dense sea of fog.

The view of the sea of fog is breathtaking. © Linda Robel

I hike at a leisurely pace on the groomed hiking trails and enjoy the wonderful atmosphere under a blue sky. It’s striking that there are so few people out and about. Here and there there’s someone sledging or skiing, but otherwise it’s deserted. Have I discovered an insider tip?

Relaxed for everyone: A trail for skiing and snowboarding fans, one for people sledging and one for winter hiking enthusiasts. This way, no one will get in each other’s way. © Linda Robel

On arrival in Interlaken, I enjoy a typical Swiss lunch at Restaurant Stadthaus: Raclette rösti, yuuuum. I pass on dessert, and there’s a very good reason for that.

Funky Chocolate Club

Just a few minutes’ walk from the restaurant, I arrive at my personal paradise. I am greeted with a sign: Chocolate + me = happy. This is just the place for me. In an exciting 75-minute workshop, chocolatier Olivia tells me and my once again international group everything there is to know about Swiss chocolate production. I create my own edition, a gift for a loved one. And yes, you can snack on the side all the while. 😉

We create our own chocolate in a small group, snacking included. © Linda Robel

Definitely «until next time»

It’s a leisurely journey along the Aare River to the youth hostel, where I left my luggage. It’s time to say goodbye. But one thing I know for sure: Interlaken – I’ll be back! There’s so much to experience outside of winter sports, and two days simply aren’t enough!

My summary:

Interlaken and the region are definitely worthwhile even in winter. There are so many varied activities. The destination regularly offers specials in winter where you can purchase activities and mountain railway tickets at reduced prices – I can recommend this to everyone! This year’s campaign is called the Winter Deal

For me, the international exchange was also very valuable, with Ahmed from Cairo, Eddie from North India, Olivia from Poland and many other new acquaintances from all over the world!

Even more winter magic

We reveal our favourite places in the mountains.

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Action & adventure In the mountains

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