Your Guide to Visiting Oeschinensee: Switzerland's Stunning Alpine Lake
Planning Your Trip to Oeschinensee
Oeschinensee is a teal-blue alpine lake located above Kandersteg in the Bernese Oberland region of Switzerland. It's accessible by train from Interlaken (1 hour), Bern (2 hours), or Zermatt/Lucerne (2.5 hours).
Getting There
From Interlaken, take the train to Spiez, then transfer to Kandersteg (total travel time: ~1 hour 5 minutes). Enjoy the scenic views over Lake Thun during your 20-minute layover in Spiez. Driving is also an option to Kandersteg, but the final ascent to Oeschinensee requires a gondola ride or a hike.
The gondola operates during summer and winter, with typical closures for maintenance in mid-March to mid-May and mid-October to mid-December. It runs from approximately 8:30/9:00 am to 5:00/6:00 pm, depending on the season.
Gondola Costs & Hiking Alternative
A round-trip gondola ticket costs 30 CHF for adults. The Swiss Half Fare Card and Swiss Travel Pass offer a 50% discount, while the Bernese Oberland Regional Pass provides full coverage. The Bernese Oberland Pass also includes free train travel to and from Kandersteg from Interlaken and other Jungfrau region towns. Children aged 6-15 receive a 50% discount or free travel with the Swiss Family Card, and children under 6 ride free. A day pass for dogs is available for 5 CHF. Tickets can be purchased at the gondola stations or via the SBB mobile app.
Hiking to Oeschinensee is a challenging but rewarding alternative, taking over an hour with a significant elevation gain of nearly 500 meters. This option allows you to visit when the gondola is closed.
Exploring Oeschinensee
Upon arrival, choose between walking directly to the lake (Trail 4, ~25 minutes downhill) or taking the thrilling 750-meter mountain coaster. An electric shuttle also runs from the gondola station to the Berghotel at the lake, operating from 11:00 am to 4:30/5:30 pm, but priority is given to travelers with reduced mobility.
Hiking Trails
Trail 8 offers a scenic 3-hour loop above the lake with stunning viewpoints. Trail signs are clear, but carrying a map or using the Swiss Topo app is recommended. Be prepared for a steep initial climb, but the panoramic lake views are worth the effort. Remember to bring plenty of water, as there are no refill points along the trail.
Activities at the Lake
Swimming in the refreshing (though often cool) lake is a popular activity. Rowboats and fishing boats are available for rent, and fishing permits can be purchased. Picnic spots abound, but camping is prohibited due to the area's protected status. Several mountain restaurants offer dining options, including Berghotel Oeschinensee, a family-run establishment serving local cuisine.
Beyond Oeschinensee
Oeschinensee is an ideal day trip from Interlaken or Grindelwald, and a worthwhile stop for travelers between the Jungfrau region and Zermatt or Italy. The Bernese Oberland Pass covers travel to Brig (near Zermatt) and even across the Italian border to Domodossola. Combine your Oeschinensee visit with a trip to Blausee, a nearby nature park with a glass-bottomed boat, alpacas, and a fish farm, just a 10-minute bus ride from Kandersteg.
Conclusion
Oeschinensee offers an unforgettable alpine experience, with breathtaking scenery, hiking trails, and a variety of activities. Plan your visit with this guide and prepare to be captivated by the beauty of this Swiss gem.
