Wilderswil summer holidays

Holidays in Wilderswil

With easy access to Bernese Oberland’s massive array of activities and attractions, this lovely old village is spot on if you’re after a convenient base that’s far from the madding crowd. Not only are you at the entrance to the Lauterbrunnen and Grindelwald valleys, formed by the Lutschine River, you’re also only a few miles from the popular town of Interlaken. Use the rack and cog railways to reach the surrounding villages, lakes and mountains but don’t forget to explore closer to home – Wilderswil’s Pièce de résistance is the Schynige Platte Bahn, which takes you to some terrific walks, restaurants and vantage points.

Highlights: • Quieter alternative to Interlaken • 13th century Unspunnen ruins • Visit Gsteigwiler and Saxeten

Wilderswil Walking

Wilderswil’s often overlooked by hikers, who head straight for the higher altitude villages in the Jungfrau region like Wengen and Murren. You’ll find some great routes in the area and it’s no trouble to reach those on the mountains higher up – or even to drop down to some of the trails frequented by those staying in Interlaken. There are some fantastic walks along the banks of River Lutschine and Lake Brienz, not far below the village.

It’s not uncommon to feel like you have the mountains – and the cracking views down the lakes – all to yourself here! One of our favourite tracks is the one that starts at Saxeten with a massive incline up to Rengglipass, which is nearly 2000m above sea level. After you’ve properly enjoyed the countryside beneath you head off through Pochtenfall to Aeschiried, where you can easily jump on the train back to base. It’s nice and varied with that challenging beginning leading into more comfortable downhill stretches.

There’s a terrific shorter route that you can get to easily with a quick train to the Schynige Platte, where the flowers are spectacular. Make your way along to Oberberghorn and loop round to Louchernhorn; finish the stroll back at its start, at just 5.5km overall, it’s great if you’re with kids.

Wilderswil Cycling

Head away from Interlaken to get onto some of the lower mountains around those infamous peaks: the Jungfrau, Monch and Eiger. Climbing on some of the mountain trails with those imposing faces above you is an unforgettable experience. Head to the other side of Interlaken – you’ll find some great MTB routes around Lake Brienz’s northern banks.

Those who prefer something a little flatter can cycle in the opposite direction. The banks of Lake Thun are lined with some fantastic rides; work your way along the southern shore for the best trips. You can take it fairly easy because it’s so flat – or rack up the pace and get some real distance under your belt! If that sounds a bit strenuous, and you’d prefer a bit of a boost, you can always hire an E-bike. There are some great paths that are designed just for them – one starts in Interlaken and runs through Wilderswil and up the mountains – that’s where we like to get a bit of help from the motor! You’ll get a good look at some traditional local farms and there are some lovely lakeside stretches.