IRONMAN Switzerland Thun

Around 2000 international athletes are expected to travel to Thun for the world-famous long-distance triathlon. They'll begin by swimming 3.8 kilometres in Lake Thun. After that, they'll cycle 180 kilometres on racing bikes, on two loops around the local area. Finally, these tough elite athletes will run a marathon of 42.195 kilometres in three circuits through Thun. It's expected that about 50,000 sports fans will come to support the men and women in their incredible achievement.

Thun is the very heart of the Bernese Oberland. This Swiss town on the lake of the same name is charming and down-to-earth – and the majestic alpine trio of the Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau is always on the horizon. Thun's Old Town is home to some unique architectural gems, delightful boutiques, chic shops and bars with a great atmosphere. It's a lovely place to stroll about in and relax. Above it all, like the cherry on a cake, towers the mighty Thun Castle, the city's trademark. It's as if this magnificent scenery was specially created to be the setting for a first-class event such as IRONMAN Switzerland in Thun.

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