Water sports

The Sealander is nothing if not versatile: as a small caravan, it is suitable for road use and, as an electric boat, it can also be used out on the water! It means you can spend many enjoyable hours out on Lake Thun in the magnificent natural setting of the Bernese Oberland, without the need for a boat licence.

It’s high-speed and action-packed: the ‘Jetboat’ tour on Lake Brienz has it all – thrills, water-borne fun, and 360-degree turns. Besides exciting anecdotes about the region as related by the captain, the trip includes wonderful panoramic views and a stop-off at the Giessbach Falls (available from spring 2021).

Fancy paddle-boarding across the glistening deep blue waters of Lake Thun or Lake Brienz with family or friends? The two lakes have plenty of trendy SUP boards, courses and guided tours on offer from various equipment hire outlets. Plus the wonderful natural backdrop and the delightful tucked-away coves are all included free of charge!

The blue-green Lake Oeschinen lies high above Kandersteg in a picturesque mountain setting. Fishing permits can be purchased on site, and there is also a rowing boat for hire. All you need to bring along is your own fishing tackle, a fishing rod, worms, and patience.

A rowing boat is the perfect way to enjoy the Lake Engstlen. The peace and quiet from inside the boat is simply heavenly, with the Swiss pines lining the lake in drapes of gentle green. This idyllic setting with a hotel and lots of options for hiking and fishing can be reached from Meiringen via the Gental valley.

In Nidau’s beautiful setting, the water-borne fun with your family and friends begins with the renting of canoes. After that, you have the option of paddling down the river as a group, exploring the ‘Häftli’ nature reserve with its species of rare birds along the way. The little town of Büren an der Aare is the final destination for this adventure.

The Aare river and its idyllic riverside landscape is delightful even if you choose not to get into the water. Ferries at various points offer an exciting crossing, with plenty of culinary treats awaiting you on the other side: for instance, the ‘Fähribeizli’ in Elfenau Park or the restaurant in the Zehendermätteli.

It might be something for experienced swimmers only, but it’s certainly an exciting adventure and good fun to do as a group. The ‘Aareböötle’ has a cult following and epitomises summer fun on the water! Choose from a range of routes, either with your own rubber dinghy or by renting one locally.

From late June to mid-September, the Lake Hornberg above Gstaad becomes Europe's highest wakeboarding hotspot. With equipment available for hire on site, everyone – from beginners to experts – can enjoy the lake, the beach bar, and the lounge set in the middle of this magnificent mountain panorama.

Too hot for you down in the valley? Then why not enjoy some stand-up paddle boarding on the idyllic Lake Arnen at Destination Gstaad. Simply rent the equipment you need at various stations or bring your own, book a guide, and off you go!