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Intro

The trail leads alongside the Lake Thun via Därligen to Meielisalp above Leissigen. The hanging bridge over the Spissibach stream affords an enchanting panorama. The trail continues via Krattigen past Faulensee to Spiez on the most beautiful bay in Europe with its castle and vineyards.

Detour / Closure

There are detours or closures along this route, for more information see https://schweizmobil.ch/en/hiking-in-switzerland/route-26/stage-3

Description

Nestled between the turquoise waters of Lake Brienz and the deep blue shades of Lake Thun at the foot of the Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau mountains, Interlaken is a popular holiday resort and the gateway to the Bernese Oberland region. The third stage starts out at Interlaken West railway station. As well as being the longest stretch of the route, it also has the biggest climbs. By way of a warm-up, you follow the Interlaken Ship Canal until it meets Lake Thun. Your ascent begins just before Därligen, where a mix of paths, gravel tracks and roads takes you up to the Meielisalp. Once you get to this point, you’ll already have tackled half of the 700 metres you’ll be climbing in total. A few minutes later, you reach the suspension bridge at Leissigen with its panoramic views. An impressive 144 metres long, it crosses the Spissibach stream around 60 metres above sea level and affords a fantastic vista out over the exquisite Lake Thun.

Your ascent then continues across pasture and through woodland, after which you’ll be able to spot the sparkling Lake Brienz and enjoy more wonderful views. Your final climb ends just before Hellbode, so time for a well-earned rest. Descending towards Güetital along the lake shore, you come to Faulensee, which boasts an idyllic location complete with lakeside bathing area. Continuing along Lake Thun, the trail soon leads into the bay at Spiez. This spectacular stage ends at Spiez Castle – the unmistakeable symbol of the town – surrounded by the lake, vineyards and the pyramid-shaped Niesen mountain looming large in the distance.

An enjoyable tour includes the careful planning of the same. Please inform yourself in advance at the local information center about the route and weather conditions. Depending on the season and weather conditions, this route may be blocked or interrupted

Technical information

Show Technical information content
Start location
Interlaken
Destination
Spiez
Direction
One way
Altitude (meter above sea level)
900 m
Ascent
740 m
Descent
740 m
Distance
20 km
Duration
5 h 50 min
Duration back
5 h 50 min
Technical requirements
Easy
Physical requirements
Difficult
Season
April - October
Theme
With panoramic view, Over a suspension bridge, Along castles, Along Water, To an alp
More information https://schweizmobil.ch/en/hiking-in-switzerland/r...

Route

Panorama Rundweg Thunersee

Thun - Thun
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All stages

Map

SwitzerlandMobility Map: This element is not accessible for disabled people.

Quick Facts

Route number

Stage: 3/4

Distance

20 km

Duration

5 h 50 min

Ascent

740 m

Travel information: Interlaken

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